Colleges Accepting NMAT Score: Best B-Schools to Target in 2025

Introduction to Colleges Accepting NMAT Score

Many MBA aspirants choose NMAT because it offers flexibility, multiple attempts, and access to a wide network of business schools. With the ability to pick your exam date and improve your score, NMAT has become one of the most student-friendly entrance tests in India. As a result, the number of colleges accepting NMAT scores has steadily increased, giving applicants more choices across budgets, cities, and specialisations.

Why NMAT is a preferred MBA entrance test

NMAT is designed to be flexible, adaptive, and less stressful. Its multiple-attempt policy and focus on speed and logic make it approachable for both freshers and working professionals.

Number of colleges accepting NMAT

More than 70 colleges across India accept NMAT scores, ensuring students have multiple pathways into MBA and PGDM programs.

Types of programs offered through NMAT

NMAT scores are used for admissions into MBA, PGDM, MMS, and specialised programs in areas such as Analytics, Marketing, Finance, International Business, and HR—allowing aspirants to choose programs aligned with their long-term goals.

What Is the NMAT Exam?

The NMAT exam is a national-level MBA entrance test known for its flexibility and candidate-friendly format. Unlike most competitive exams that restrict students to fixed dates, NMAT allows candidates to choose their exam slot, exam centre, and even retake the test if they want to improve their score.

NMAT evaluates three essential skills—Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Skills, and Language Proficiency—making it suitable for candidates with varied academic backgrounds. Because of its moderate difficulty level, NMAT is especially popular among aspirants aiming for industry-oriented business schools.

Conducted by GMAC

The exam is administered by GMAC, the same global organisation behind the GMAT. This adds credibility, security, and international-standard testing practices.

Flexible testing window

One of NMAT’s biggest advantages is its long testing window. Students can choose the date that fits best with their preparation and can even reschedule if required.

Scoring pattern

NMAT uses a scaled scoring system between 36–360, ensuring fairness across different slots. Each attempt receives an independent score, and students decide which score to send to colleges.

Who should apply?

NMAT is ideal for:

• Aspirants who want multiple attempts
• Working professionals
• Students comfortable with speed-based exams
• Candidates targeting modern, industry-focused B-schools

NMAT Score Accepting Colleges in India – Overview (2025)

Institutes accepting NMAT scores cater to a wide range of student profiles—freshers, experienced professionals, and candidates planning career transitions. Many of these colleges follow corporate-focused learning models, case-study pedagogy, and practical internships, which appeal to students looking for industry immersion.

Total count

More than 70 reputable institutes accept NMAT scores, including private universities, autonomous PGDM schools, and specialised management institutes.

Key regions

Most NMAT-accepting colleges are located in:

• Mumbai – led by NMIMS and strong PGDM schools
• Delhi NCR – known for corporate access
• Bangalore – ideal for tech + management roles
• Pune – academic hub with strong mid-tier colleges
• Hyderabad – mix of universities and corporate-backed B-schools

Top Colleges Accepting NMAT Score (Fees, Cutoff, ROI)

Top NMAT-accepting colleges range from premium universities to mid-tier PGDM institutes with exceptional ROI. For many of them, NMAT aligns well with managerial aptitude and practical skills.

Comparison Table: Top NMAT Colleges (Fees, Cutoff, ROI)

NMAT Colleges in Mumbai – Best Options

Mumbai remains a top destination for management education due to its corporate environment, finance industry, and abundant internship opportunities.

Tier-1 vs Tier-2 NMAT Colleges

Tier-1 colleges include NMIMS Mumbai and K J Somaiya (profile-based). Tier-2 options include ITM Business School, SIES, and Chetana’s Institutions. Tier-1 campuses command higher fees and cutoffs, whereas Tier-2 schools offer competitive placements with excellent ROI.

Course offerings

These colleges provide specialisations in:

• Marketing
• Finance
• HR
• BFSI
• Analytics
• Retail
• International Business

Why Mumbai is ideal

Students studying in Mumbai benefit from:

• Strong corporate exposure
• Guest lectures from industry leaders
• Live projects and internships
• Proximity to BFSI, consulting, and media companies

NMAT Cutoff-Wise College List (Score Bands)

Cutoff Comparison Table

230+ Score Range

Ideal for highly competitive institutes like NMIMS Mumbai. Candidates must also present strong academics and personality traits.

200–230 Score Range

Good range for NMIMS Bangalore/Hyderabad and flagship programs at ITM. These colleges offer strong placements and modern pedagogy.

160–200 Score Range

Suitable for emerging business schools offering good ROI, practical curriculum, and decent placements.

NMAT Accepting Colleges by Fees

Fees Comparison Table

Under ₹5 lakh

Affordable options, mostly state or smaller private universities.

Under ₹10 lakh

Ideal balance of fees, placements, and infrastructure.

ROI-Based Evaluation

A college with ₹8–10 lakh fees and ₹6–9 LPA average package often gives better ROI than an expensive Tier-1 college with marginally higher salaries.

NMAT Colleges Offering MBA/PGDM Specialisations

Specialisation Table

Each specialisation caters to specific career paths—from BFSI roles to analytics-driven industries and international markets.

NMAT Colleges Without GD/PI or With Relaxed Criteria

Comparison Table

Some institutes simplify admissions to make the process more convenient, especially for candidates applying late or with strong academic profiles.

NMAT Colleges With Best Placement Records

Placement Comparison Table

Top recruiters include Deloitte, EY, KPMG, Amazon, HDFC Bank, Accenture, and ICICI.

Why ITM Business School Is a Top Choice for NMAT Aspirants

ITM is widely preferred by NMAT candidates who want a mix of industry exposure, modern curriculum, and strong placements.

NMAT Score Requirement

Most ITM MBA programs consider NMAT scores in the 180–200 range.

Admission Process

• Online application
• PI and micro-presentation
• Profile evaluation

Campus Advantages

• Vibrant student clubs
• Live projects
• Industry visits
• Mumbai corporate proximity

Placement Overview

• Average package: ₹9 LPA
• Highest: ₹22 LPA

How to Choose the Best NMAT College

A strategic approach helps you select the right institute:

Accreditation, Placements, ROI

Check NAAC/NBA ratings, consistent placement records, and salary-to-fee ratio.

Industry Exposure

Choose colleges offering internships, corporate projects, and industry certifications.

Alumni Network

Strong alumni networks provide mentorship and career avenues.

NMAT Admission Process

Scorecard Download

Candidates download their NMAT scorecard from the GMAC portal once results are released.

Applying to Colleges

Students shortlist colleges based on their score and apply using individual institute portals.

Shortlisting

Shortlisting considers NMAT score, academics, profile, and sometimes work experience.

Final Selection

Colleges use PI, micro-presentations, and profile-based assessments to finalise admissions.

Here is an expanded conclusion for Colleges Accepting NMAT Score, written in a clear, humanised style with pointers:

Conclusion

Colleges accepting NMAT scores give aspirants a wide, flexible, and practical pathway into quality MBA/PGDM programs. With more than 70 institutes participating, you’re not restricted to one city, one budget range, or one type of program. Instead, NMAT allows you to match your score with opportunities that genuinely align with your goals.

Key takeaways to remember:

• NMAT offers variety - from Tier-1 universities like NMIMS to strong ROI-driven PGDM colleges across India.
• Multiple specialisations including Marketing, Finance, Analytics, HR, Operations, and International Business make it suitable for diverse career plans.
• Score ranges create clear pathways — whether you are above 230, between 200–230, or in the 160–200 band, there are viable and reputable colleges available.
• Fees and ROI differ widely, so compare cost vs placement outcomes before finalising your choices.
• Industry exposure and location matter, especially in hubs like Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bangalore, Pune, and Hyderabad.
• Your personal profile and interview skills can significantly strengthen your chances even if your score is moderate.

In the end, the “best” NMAT college is the one that aligns with your ambitions, budget, learning preferences, and long-term career direction. With thoughtful planning and an informed shortlist, your NMAT score can unlock strong MBA opportunities and set the foundation for a successful management career.

FAQs on Colleges Accepting NMAT Score

What is a good NMAT score for top colleges?

A score above 225 is competitive for NMIMS-tier institutes.

How many colleges accept NMAT in India?

Over 70+ colleges accept NMAT scores.

Does ITM accept NMAT?

Yes, ITM accepts NMAT for PGDM admissions.

Is NMAT difficult?

It is considered moderate and speed-based.

Is NMAT easier than CAT?

Yes, NMAT is generally more student-friendly.

Are there sectional cutoffs?

Most NMAT colleges do not impose strict sectional cutoffs.

Can I apply to multiple colleges with one score?

Yes, your NMAT score can be shared with multiple institutes.