- Home
- MBA without CAT
MBA without CAT: your options in 2026–27
Missed CAT or not happy with your score? These exams and routes are still open.
You can get into a good MBA without CAT through XAT (reported last date 6 Dec 2026), SNAP (25 Nov 2026), NMAT (testing until 20 Dec 2026), MAT (December 2026) or CMAT (7 Feb 2027), or through state exams such as MAH MBA CET. If you are working, an online MBA needs no entrance exam at most universities.
Exams other than CAT
| Exam | Form closes | Exam | Opens doors to |
|---|---|---|---|
| XAT 2027 | 6 Dec 2026 (reported) | 3 Jan 2027 | XLRI Jamshedpur and Delhi and more |
| SNAP 2026 | 25 Nov 2026 | 13, 19 and 26 Dec 2026 | Symbiosis institutes including SIBM Pune and more |
| NMAT 2026 | 10 Oct 2026 | 2 Nov – 20 Dec 2026 (testing window) | NMIMS (Mumbai and more |
| MAT Dec 2026 | 14 Dec (paper) / 21 Dec 2026 (computer) | 20 Dec (paper) / 27 Dec 2026 (computer) | 600+ AICTE-approved institutes and more |
| CMAT 2027 | Expected Nov 2026 | 7 Feb 2027 | AICTE-approved institutes and more |
State-level routes
Several states run their own MBA entrance tests (for example MAH MBA CET in Maharashtra and KMAT in Karnataka). These lead to state-quota seats in government and private colleges.
Online MBA: no entrance test
UGC-entitled universities admit on graduation marks for January and July sessions. Fees run from ₹52,000 to ₹2,25,000. Compare fees.
Practise now
XAT mock · SNAP mock · MAT mock · CMAT mock
FAQ
Which is the best exam after CAT?
XAT and SNAP lead to the strongest private schools. MAT and CMAT widen your options.
Can I do an MBA without any entrance exam?
Yes: most UGC-entitled online MBAs admit on graduation marks.
Stuck between colleges? Ask a counsellor.
Tell us your score, budget or question. A counsellor replies on WhatsApp in working hours with fee sheets and cut-offs, not a sales pitch.