The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) has announced an extra chance for students to take the NMAT by GMAC exam. This special phase is part of the NMAT 2025 exam cycle, but the exams will take place in **January 2026**. This is good news for students who want to get into MBA or PGDM courses but need another attempt at the NMAT exam.
The registration for this additional phase will open on **January 5, 2026**, and close on **January 10, 2026**. The actual NMAT exams during this phase will be held from **January 13 to January 17, 2026**.
What is the NMAT by GMAC Exam?
The NMAT by GMAC is an important entrance examination for admission to various MBA and PGDM programs in top colleges across India and some international institutions. It is known for giving candidates multiple attempts (usually up to three) to achieve their best score. This additional phase provides another opportunity for those who have not yet used all their allowed attempts or wish to improve their score.
Key Dates for NMAT Additional Phase 2026
Here are the important dates for the NMAT by GMAC additional phase:
| Event | Dates |
| Registration Starts | **January 5, 2026** |
| Last Day to Register | **January 10, 2026** |
| Exam Scheduling Starts | **January 5, 2026** |
| Last Day to Schedule Exam | **January 10, 2026** |
| Exam Dates | **January 13 to January 17, 2026** |
Who Can Apply for This Special Phase?
This additional phase is for students who have not yet used all their three allowed attempts for the NMAT by GMAC exam during the main test window. The main exam window usually runs from October to December. If you still have an attempt left, you can use it in this January 2026 phase.
However, it is important to note that students who have already taken the NMAT exam three times between **November 5 and December 19** of the previous year are not eligible to apply for this additional phase. This rule ensures that the opportunity is given to those who still have attempts remaining.
How to Apply and Exam Fee
Applying for the NMAT by GMAC additional phase is a straightforward process. You will need to complete your registration and book your exam slot within the specified dates.
- Visit the official NMAT by GMAC website.
- Complete the online application form with all your personal and academic details.
- Pay the exam fee of **INR 3,000**. This fee covers both your registration and the booking of your exam slot.
- After paying the fee, you must choose your preferred exam date and time from the available slots.
Exam slots for this additional phase are limited. They will be given out on a **first-come, first-served** basis. This means you should register and book your slot as early as possible to get your desired date and time.
Important Check Before Applying
Before you apply for the NMAT by GMAC additional phase, you must check the specific eligibility rules and selection criteria of the colleges you are interested in. Different colleges that accept NMAT scores might have their own requirements. Making sure you meet these conditions before applying is crucial for your admission chances.
What's Next?
Once you complete your NMAT exam, your scores will be considered by various colleges for their MBA and PGDM admissions for the academic year starting in 2026. This additional phase gives you one more opportunity to achieve a good score and strengthen your application to your desired management programs.
