Table of Contents
CMAT syllabus 2026 is set by the NTA authorities. There are a total of four sections in the CMAT 2026 syllabus namely Language Comprehension, Quantitative Techniques, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, and General Awareness. Each section consists of 20 questions in the exam and carries 80 marks each.
The exam officials have added a new section called Innovation and Entrepreneurship. This section has 20 questions, just like the other sections. Each question carried 4 marks. The ones who opted for this section will be given 30 minutes extra to attempt the entire question paper. The exam will be held in Jan 2026. You are advised to also follow the CMAT Exam Pattern 2026 for each section to understand better. The CMAT syllabus pdf link is available on the website for you to download.
CMAT Syllabus Highlights
CMAT exam syllabus 2026 was earlier divided into four sections: Language Comprehension, Quantitative Techniques, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, and General Awareness. However, the conducting authorities have also introduced a new subject called Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
You should go through the complete syllabus before starting the preparation. The highlights of the sections involved in the CMAT exam syllabus are as follows:
- Each of the 5 sections has 20 questions.
- Questions are simple.
- Negative marking is applicable.
| Sections | No. of Questions |
|---|---|
| Data Interpretation and Quantitative Techniques | 20 |
| Logical Reasoning | 20 |
| Language Comprehension | 20 |
| General Awareness | 20 |
| Innovation and Entrepreneurship (Optional) | 20 |
Topic Wise CMAT Syllabus for MBA
You must go through the CMAT 2026 Syllabus topic-wise to be aware of the topics and concepts for preparation. The topics and necessary concepts to be studied are based on previous years' analysis. Also, attempt CMAT Mock Tests 2026 to come across different forms of questions in the exam.
The number of questions that are being asked in each section is equal, and the total marks allotted for each section are also the same. The CMAT subjects are given below in detail.
CMAT General Awareness Syllabus
Aspirants for the CMAT exam are suggested to read newspapers and watch news channels that keep them updated on current affairs. CMAT General Awareness Syllabus is given in the table below:
| Topics | |
|---|---|
| Personalities | Indian constitution |
| Geography | History |
| Science in daily life | Literature |
| Sports | Culture |
| Business, National and International events | Economy |
| Politics | National and International Economy - Current Affairs |
CMAT Data Interpretation and Quantitative Techniques Syllabus
The Quantitative Aptitude questions are simple. The major topics involved in this section are as follows:
Quantitative Aptitude
Topics covered under the CMAT exam syllabus 2026 for Quantitative Aptitude are highlighted below:
- Arithmetic-Ratio, mixtures, work, average percentage, Time & Speed, Profit and loss, interest, basic statistics
- Number properties
- Probability
- Counting principles
- Geometry
- Algebra
- Derivatives (Maxima-Minima)
Data Interpretation
The types of questions which will be a part of the Data Interpretation section are given below.
- Table and pie chart
- Bar diagrams and graphs
- Charts
Highlights of the CMAT Syllabus for Data Interpretation and Quantitative techniques are tabulated below:
| Topics | |
|---|---|
| Time-Speed-Distance | Algebra |
| Allegations and mixtures | Pipes and cisterns |
| Tabulation | Decimals |
| Linear equations | Simple and compound interties |
| Geometry | Menstruation |
| Quadratic equations | Work and time |
| Inequations ratio and proportion | Permutation and combination |
| Percentage | Line |
| Partnership | Bar Chart |
| Averages | Pie Chart |
| Fractions | Graph |
| Profit and Loss | Number Systems |
CMAT Logical Reasoning Syllabus
This section is a mix of topics from arrangements like linear, seating, sequencing, and arranging with conditions to coding. The logical Reasoning section is mainly to test the Reasoning abilities and your skills regarding the logical aspects. You should be well prepared and should develop their logical reasoning skills and abilities by going through the important topics associated with the CMAT Syllabus 2026 of this section.
The most important types of questions that can be asked from the Logical Reasoning CMAT Syllabus 2026 for the Exam are given below.
- Questions based on Reasoning Abilities
- Statements oriented questions
- Questions related to different kinds of Series
- Diagrammatic questions
Topics involved in the CMAT Syllabus 2026 for Logical Reasoning are tabulated below:
| Topics | |
|---|---|
| Causes and effects | Statements assumptions |
| Symbols | Sequencing |
| Number series | Matrix arrangement |
| Inferences | Linear awareness |
| Non-verbal reasoning | Blood relationships |
| Analogy | Analytic reasoning |
| Statement arguments | Direction and Distance Test |
| Coding and decoding | Venn Diagram |
| Ranking | - |
CMAT Language Comprehension Syllabus
The Verbal Ability section in the CMAT 2026 Syllabus is defined as Language Comprehension. It covers a comprehensive English test that includes the test of grammar, tenses, vocabulary, jumbled paragraphs, and reading comprehension. This section is also commonly referred to as the English syllabus. Key topics in the Language Comprehension CMAT 2026 Syllabus are as follows:
- Usage of Articles
- Non-finite
- Dangling Modifiers
- Usage of Nouns & Pronouns, Adjectives, Adverbs, Prepositions –regular and followed, Verbs, Syntax, Subject-verb Agreement, Simple, continuous, Perfect tenses, and Conditional-unreal past.
- Jumbled paragraphs
This section gives shorter comprehension passages with 500-600 words and not too difficult passages. There is no fixed rule on framing questions based on reading comprehension passages, which is followed by at least 4-5 questions each. Questions from the CMAT 2026 Syllabus could be any of the following types:
- Questions based on an inference drawn
- Questions based on a central idea of the passage
- Candidates need to answer questions based on phrases, idioms
- Applicants need to answer questions related to expression in the passage.
Highlights of Topics involved in the Language Comprehension CMAT 2026 Syllabus are tabulated below:
| Topics | |
|---|---|
| Sentence correction |
Synonyms and antonyms
|
| One-word substitutes | Grammar |
| Paragraph completion | Usage errors |
| Reading comprehension (RC) |
Jumbled paragraphs
|
| Sentence improvements |
Idioms and phrases
|
CMAT Innovation and Entrepreneurship Syllabus (Optional Subject)
This is a newly added subject to the CMAT syllabus. If the candidates wish to attempt this section, they will have to specify it while filling out their application forms. The section will have 25 questions. just like all the other sections. You will have to prepare the following topics to attempt this section:
CMAT Syllabus for Innovation
- Concepts of innovation management terminology
- The innovation adoption of the life cycle at the individual level
- Creativity and its stimulation
- Three types of idea management systems
- Product Portfolio
- A short note on innovation strategy
- Management of innovation projects
CMAT Entrepreneurship Syllabus
The 2026 Syllabus for Entrepreneurship in CMAT exam includes the following mentioned topics.
The Entrepreneurial Development
- Evolution of the concept of entrepreneur
- Concepts of entrepreneurship development
- Entrepreneurial culture
- Entrepreneur vs intrapreneur/ manager/ entrepreneurship
- Attributes and characteristics of a successful entrepreneur
- Role of entrepreneurs in the Indian economy and developing economies
Creating Entrepreneurial Venture
- The procedure of business planning
- Identifying problems and opportunities
- Environmental analysis - searching and scanning
- Basic government procedures to be complied with
- Describing business idea
Project Management
- Estimating and financing funds requirement - schemes offered by various financial institutions like IDBI, SIDBI, ICICI, SFCs, and commercial banks.
- Venture capital funding
- Technical, personnel, financial, marketing, and management feasibility
Entrepreneurship Development and Government
- Role of state government and central government in promoting entrepreneurship
- Role of other agencies in entrepreneurship development
Best Books for CMAT Preparation
Along with knowing the CMAT Syllabus 2026, it is also very important for you to prepare for the exam with the help of certain CMAT syllabus books 2026 and materials, specified for all the topics.
Preparation with the help of reference materials and books, along with knowing the CMAT Entrance Exam syllabus, helps you get to know more about the topics and they will be accordingly able to score high in the exam.
Best Books for CMAT Language Comprehension Syllabus
The best reference materials and books listed for Language Comprehension CMAT Syllabus 2026 are given below in the form of a table. You can make a note of the same. In addition to going through the top books for CMAT, you are advised to practice CMAT previous year question papers for better reference.
| Name of the Book | Author |
|---|---|
| The Pearson Guide to Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning for the CAT | Nishit K Sinha |
| How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT | Arun Sharma (McGraw Hill Education |
| A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning | Dr R S Aggarwal |
| Trishna’s Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning for the CAT and Other MBA Examinations | TIME |
Best Books for CMAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus
The best reference materials and books listed for covering the CMAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus is given below in the form of a table. You can make a note of the same, for the preparation.
| Name of the Book | Author |
|---|---|
| Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | Abhijit Guha (McGraw Hill Education) |
| Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT Common Admission Tests for Admission Into IIMs | Sarvesh K Verma (Arihant) |
| How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Arun Sharma (McGraw Hill Education) |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Dr RS Aggarwal |
| NCERT Mathematics Books for Standard 8, 9 and 10 | NCERT |
Best Books for CMAT Logical Reasoning Syllabus
The best reference materials and books listed for covering the CMAT Reasoning Syllabus are given below in the form of a table. You can make a note of the same.
| Name of the Book | Author |
|---|---|
| Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT | Nishit K Sinha (Pearson) |
| How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT | Arun Sharma (McGraw Hill Education) |
Candidates should go through the above-given reference books and prepare under the CMAT Syllabus for good results.
Best Books for CMAT General Awareness Syllabus
You should go through the above-given reference books and prepare by the CMAT Syllabus 2026 for good results. The list of best reference materials and books for preparing the CMAT General Awareness Syllabus 2026 is given below in the form of a table.
| Name of the Book | Author |
|---|---|
| Business Today | Business World |
| Economic Times | The Financial Times |
| The Hindu | Financial Express |
| Wall Street Journal | Hindu Business Line |
| Management Compass Career Launcher | Competition Success Review |
CMAT Exam Pattern
You must have good knowledge about the CMAT Exam Pattern to prepare and strategize for the exam. You can have a look at this table below for reference and know how to crack the exam.
| Sections | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 20 | 80 |
| Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation | 20 | 80 |
| Language Comprehension | 20 | 80 |
| Logical Reasoning | 20 | 80 |
| Innovation and Entreprenuership | 20 | 80 |
| Total | 100 | 400 |
Since all the individual sections are given an equal weighting of marks, you should make sure to give equal importance while preparing for all the subjects under the CMAT 2026 Syllabus.
FAQs on CMAT Syllabus
Q: What are the sections in CMAT syallbus 2026?
There are five sections in CMAT 2026 syllabus namely Language Comprehension, Quantitative Techniques, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, and General Awareness & Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Each section will consists of 20 questions in the exam.
Q: What are the topics to be studied in the Language Comprehension in the CMAT syllabus 2026?
In the CMAT syllabus 2026 Language comprehension section, you must study Usage of Articles, Non-finite, Dangling Modifiers, Jumbled paragraphs. Further, candidates must also go through Usage on Nouns & Pronouns, Adjectives, Adverbs, Prepositions –regular and followed, Verbs, Syntax, Subject-verb Agreement, Simple, continuous etc.
Q: What are the topics to be studied in the Quantitative Techniques in the CMAT syllabus 2026?
In the CMAT 2026 syallbus for Quantitative Techniques, you must study Arithmetic-Ratio, mixtures, work, average percentage, Time & Speed, Profit and loss, interest, basic statistics. Besides, they should also practice Number properties, Probability, Counting principles, Geometry, Algebra & Derivatives (Maxima-Minima) for the exam.
