The NMIMS NPAT 2026 (National Test for Programs After Twelfth) is one of the most popular undergraduate entrance exams in India. Conducted by SVKM’s Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), it serves as the entry gate to some of the most prestigious programs, such as:
- BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration)
- B.Com (Hons.)
- B.Sc. Finance
- B.Sc. Branding & Advertising
- B.A. Liberal Arts
- BBA International Business
Every year, thousands of students across India aspire to secure a seat at NMIMS campuses in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Indore, and other cities. What makes NPAT highly competitive is not just the reputation of NMIMS, but also the limited number of seats and high cut-offs at top campuses, such as NMIMS Mumbai’s BBA program.
Unlike other UG entrance exams that may test General Knowledge or subject-specific areas, NPAT focuses purely on aptitude skills—Quantitative Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability. With 120 multiple-choice questions to be solved in just 100 minutes, it is not merely a test of knowledge but also of speed, accuracy, and exam temperament.
Why is NPAT 2026 Important?
| Feature | Why it Matters |
| Gateway to NMIMS | Admission to flagship BBA/B.Com (Hons.)/B.Sc. Finance programs at one of India’s top private universities. |
| Equal Section Weightage | Tests all-round skills – Quant, Logic, Verbal – ensuring balanced preparation. |
| No Negative Marking | Encourages attempting all questions, boosting chances to score higher. |
| Speed-Oriented Exam | 120 Qs in 100 mins → less than 1 min per question, making time management crucial. |
| High Competition | Thousands of aspirants fight for limited seats; 97–99 percentile needed for NMIMS Mumbai. |
NPAT is a moderate difficulty exam, but the real challenge lies in managing time and maximising attempts. A student who knows how to balance speed and accuracy often secures a better percentile than someone who only focuses on concepts.
NPAT 2026 Exam Overview
The NMIMS NPAT 2026 is a national-level undergraduate entrance exam designed to evaluate a student’s aptitude in Quantitative Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability. Unlike other UG entrance tests, NPAT is known for its speed-driven nature—testing how quickly and accurately aspirants can solve aptitude questions under time pressure.
The exam is conducted online in a computer-based test (CBT) format. It is open to Class 12 students (appearing or passed) from any stream. Clearing NPAT 2026 opens the door to multiple NMIMS campuses across India, offering highly sought-after programs in management, finance, branding, and international business.
NPAT 2026 Exam Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Exam Name | NMIMS NPAT 2026 (National Test for Programs After Twelfth) |
| Conducting Body | SVKM’s NMIMS (Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies) |
| Exam Level | National UG Entrance Test |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Exam Duration | 100 minutes (1 hour 40 minutes) |
| Total Questions | 120 (Multiple Choice Questions) |
| Sections | 1. Quantitative Reasoning2. Logical Reasoning3. Verbal Reasoning |
| Marking Scheme | +1 for every correct answerNo negative marking |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate (but speed-intensive) |
| Eligibility | Class 12 appearing/passed (minimum % varies by program) |
| Programs Offered | BBA, B.Com (Hons.), B.Sc. Finance, Branding & Advertising, Liberal Arts, International Business, and more |
NPAT 2026 is not just about clearing cut-offs—it’s about maximising attempts in a limited time. Since all three sections carry equal weightage, aspirants must ensure balanced preparation across Quantitative Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning.
NPAT 2026 Paper Structure & Syllabus Snapshot
We have already covered the paper structure and syllabus in a few other blogs from our NPAT 2026 series. Please refer to the following links to explore those blogs.
- NPAT Exam Pattern 2026: Paper Structure, Marking Scheme & Duration
- NPAT Syllabus 2026: Section-Wise Topics, Key Areas & Question Types
NPAT 2026 Campus-Wise Program Seats
NMIMS offers multiple undergraduate programs across its campuses, with certain courses requiring Mathematics as a mandatory subject in Class 12. The table below shows the seat distribution for 2026 across different NMIMS campuses:
| Location | BBA | B.Com | B.Com (A&F) | B.Sc Fin | BBA Finance | BBA Fintech | B.Sc Eco | BA Liberal Studies | BBA (B&A) | BBA (IB) | BBMM |
| Maths Mandatory | Maths Not Mandatory | ||||||||||
| Tenure | 4 Years | 3 Years | |||||||||
| Mumbai | 800 | 300 | – | 300 | 60 | 60 | 180 | 120 | 240 | 240 | 240 |
| Navi-Mumbai | 180 | 60 | – | 60 | – | – | 60 | – | – | – | – |
| Bengaluru | 240 | 120 | – | 60 | – | – | 60 | – | – | – | – |
| Hyderabad | 60 | 60 | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Indore | 180 | 60 | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Dhule | 60 | – | 60 | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Chandigarh | 120 | 60 | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
NPAT 2026 Preparation Strategy (General + Section-Wise)
Cracking NPAT 2026 is not just about knowing concepts—it’s about solving questions fast, accurately, and under pressure. Since the exam is speed-intensive, aspirants must align their preparation with the exam’s unique structure.
A. General Preparation Strategy
- Know the Syllabus Thoroughly
- Focus on high-weightage topics:
- Quant: Arithmetic, Algebra, Data Interpretation
- Logical: Series, Puzzles, Syllogisms
- Verbal: Grammar, Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension
- Avoid wasting time on rarely asked topics.
- Focus on high-weightage topics:
- Build Speed with Accuracy
- Practice questions with a timer to simulate the pressure of an exam.
- Train yourself to solve easy questions in <45 seconds.
- Mock Tests & Analysis
- Attempt 15–20 full-length mocks before the exam.
- After each mock:
- Analyse wrong answers.
- Track accuracy.
- Revisit weak topics.
- Revision Cycles
- Maintain formula sheets for Quant.
- Revise grammar rules weekly.
- Re-attempt puzzles/RCs you got wrong earlier.
B. Section-Specific Strategies
1. Quantitative Reasoning
- What to Focus On:
- Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratios, Time-Speed, Profit & Loss)
- Algebra (Equations, Sequences)
- Data Interpretation (Caselets, Graphs, Tables)
- Geometry & Trigonometry basics
- Smart Prep Tips:
- Revise NCERT Class 9–12 basics.
- Practice 10–15 word problems daily.
- Keep a formula & shortcuts notebook for last-minute revision.
2. Logical Reasoning
- What to Focus On:
- Puzzles (seating, arrangements, directions, blood relations)
- Series (number, letter, figure-based)
- Syllogisms & Venn Diagrams
- Data Sufficiency & DI
- Smart Prep Tips:
- Solve 2 puzzles daily.
- Practice previous NPAT-style reasoning sets.
- Strengthen the basics of syllogisms and series patterns.
3. Verbal Reasoning
- What to Focus On:
- Grammar (error spotting, sentence correction)
- Vocabulary (synonyms, antonyms, contextual usage)
- Reading Comprehension (inference, tone, central idea)
- Para-jumbles & sequencing ideas
- Smart Prep Tips:
- Learn 10–15 new words daily.
- Read newspaper editorials for RC speed.
- Revise grammar from Wren & Martin.
Pro Tip from Toppers
Divide your last 30 days into:
- 20 days → revision of formulas, grammar rules, puzzle types
- 10 days → intensive mock practice + full analysis
This ensures concept clarity + exam temperament.
Time Management Strategy for NPAT 2026
With 120 questions to solve in just 100 minutes, NPAT 2026 is a speed game. That gives you less than 1 minute per question. Even if you understand the concepts, without a well-planned time allocation, you risk leaving questions unanswered.
Suggested Time Allocation (100-Minute Plan)
| Section | Suggested Time | Strategy |
| Quantitative Reasoning | ~35 minutes | Start with easy Arithmetic/Algebra, leave lengthy DI & Trigonometry for later. |
| Logical Reasoning | ~35 minutes | Attempt direct series & reasoning first, skip time-heavy puzzles initially. |
| Verbal Reasoning | ~30 minutes | Quickly solve Grammar & Vocabulary, then move to Reading Comprehension (~15 mins). |
| Buffer/Review | ~5 minutes | Revisit skipped questions and make educated guesses (no negative marking). |
Sample Exam-Day Flow (100 Minutes)
- 0–10 mins: Warm-up with quick Verbal Qs (grammar/vocab) to build momentum.
- 10–45 mins: Switch to Quant → attempt easy/moderate problems, mark lengthy DI/geometry for later.
- 45–80 mins: Logical Reasoning → solve series & quick sets first, mark puzzles for review.
- 80–95 mins: Reading Comprehension + remaining Verbal Qs.
- 95–100 mins: Final blitz → revisit marked Qs, make intelligent guesses.
Smart Time Management Tips
- Mark & Move Strategy: Don’t spend more than 90 seconds on a single question.
- High Attempt Rate: Target 100–110 attempts for a 97+ percentile.
- Use Verbal as Speed Booster: Grammar & vocab take less time—save those minutes for Quant & LR.
- No Negative Marking Advantage: Attempt every question, even if unsure.
Key Insight: Since NPAT has no sectional cut-offs, you can maximise your total score by leveraging your strong areas. But neglecting one section will lower your percentile due to equal weightage.
Expert Tips from NPAT Toppers
NPAT is less about solving all 120 questions perfectly and more about attempting 100+ questions smartly with high accuracy. Here are some tried-and-tested topper strategies you can use:
1. Attempt 100–110 Questions Strategically
- Most toppers aim for 100–110 serious attempts within 100 minutes.
- They don’t try to be perfectionists—they focus on maximising both attempts and accuracy.
- Rule of thumb: If a question takes more than 90 seconds to answer, mark it for review and proceed.
2. Use the “Mark & Move” Rule
- Don’t get stuck on lengthy DI caselets, tricky algebra, or puzzle-heavy LR sets.
- Instead, mark them and return later if time allows.
- This ensures you don’t waste precious minutes on 1–2 questions.
3. Leverage Verbal as a Speed Booster
- Since Grammar & Vocabulary questions can be solved in 15–20 seconds each, toppers use Verbal to save time.
- The saved minutes are invested in time-heavy Quant & LR sections.
- Example: Spot the error, fill in the blank, or vocab questions → solved in less than 30 seconds.
4. Make Educated Guesses (No Negative Marking Advantage)
- Toppers attempt all 120 questions—even if some are guesses.
- Educated guesses (after eliminating 1–2 wrong options) increase raw scores significantly.
5. Mock Tests = Game Changer
- Top scorers solve 15–20 full-length mocks before the actual exam.
- After every mock, they spend double the time analysing mistakes.
- Focus areas:
- Accuracy trends across sections
- Weak topics (e.g., time & work, syllogisms, RC inference)
- Time wasted per question type
6. Stay Calm Under Pressure
- NPAT is speed-intensive, and panic leads to silly mistakes.
- Toppers build exam temperament by practising under strict 100-minute timers.
- Many also start mocks with easier Verbal questions to build momentum and confidence.
Topper’s Tip Box
“Most NPAT toppers follow this 3-step rule: Attempt all easy & moderate questions first, mark the tough ones, and use the last 5–7 minutes for a quick review. Their secret? Max attempts + smart time splits = 99+ percentile.”
Key Insight: NPAT toppers don’t strive for perfection—they aim to be fast, accurate, and smart. Adopting this mindset is what separates a 90th percentile candidate from a 99th percentile scorer.
Best Books for NPAT 2026 Preparation
The right choice of study resources can significantly impact your NPAT 2026 preparation. While standard books build fundamentals, Tarkashastra’s NPAT-specific material ensures focused practice aligned with the latest exam pattern.
Below is a section-wise list of recommended books, including both popular authors and Tarkashastra’s resources.
A. NPAT Reference Books for Quantitative & Numerical Ability
The Quantitative Reasoning section (40 questions) is often considered the most time-consuming. Strong basics, formula clarity, and shortcuts are essential.
| NPAT Books for Quantitative Aptitude | Publisher / Author | Topics Covered |
| Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | R.S. Aggarwal | Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratios, Profit & Loss, Time-Speed-Distance, Time & Work), Algebra, Number System, Statistics, Probability, Geometry, Trigonometry |
| Magical Book on Quicker Maths | M. Tyra | Shortcuts and faster calculation tricks |
| Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | Abhijit Gupta | Application-based arithmetic & algebra problems |
| Quantitative Aptitude for CAT (Higher Maths) | Arun Sharma | Higher-level math concepts for advanced prep |
| NCERT Mathematics (Class 9–12) | NCERT | Builds strong fundamentals in Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry & Trigonometry |
| Tarkashastra NPAT Quantitative Reasoning Material | Tarkashastra Academy | 7 dedicated booklets covering Arithmetic, Algebra, DI, Geometry, Statistics & Probability with 2000+ practice Qs |
B. NPAT Preparation Books for Reasoning & General Intelligence
The Logical Reasoning section (40 questions) tests puzzles, data interpretation, and analytical reasoning. With consistent practice, this section can become a high scorer.
| Best Book to Prepare for NPAT Reasoning | Publisher / Author | Topics Covered |
| A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal | Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving, Verbal Logic |
| Analytical Reasoning | M.K. Pandey | Puzzles, seating arrangements, analytical reasoning |
| A New Approach to Reasoning: Verbal & Non-Verbal | B.S. Sijwalii & Indu Sijwalii | Venn Diagrams, Data Sufficiency, Series, Spatial Reasoning |
| Tarkashastra NPAT Logical Reasoning Material | Tarkashastra Academy | Sectional booklets with NPAT-style puzzles, series, coding-decoding, DI caselets, 1500+ reasoning sets |
C. NPAT Preparation Books for English (Verbal Ability)
The Verbal Reasoning section (40 questions) is usually the easiest and fastest to attempt, making it a score booster.
| NPAT Books for Verbal Ability | Publisher / Author | Topics Covered |
| Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis | Vocabulary building, synonyms/antonyms, contextual usage |
| Objective General English (1st Edition) | R.S. Aggarwal | Grammar (Error spotting, sentence correction, applied grammar) |
| Proficiency in Reading Comprehension Simplifying the Passage for You | Ajay Singh | RC strategies for inference, tone, theme-based Qs |
| High School English Grammar & Composition | Wren & Martin | Fundamental grammar rules (tenses, prepositions, modifiers, connectives) |
| Tarkashastra NPAT Verbal Ability Material | Tarkashastra Academy | RC practice sets, grammar drills, 1000+ vocab exercises, sectional mocks |
D. Why These Books Work
- Concept Builders: NCERTs, Wren & Martin, RS Aggarwal books for strong foundations.
- Speed Boosters: M. Tyra’s Quicker Maths & Norman Lewis’ Word Power Made Easy.
- Practice-Oriented: Tarkashastra NPAT modules, Ajay Singh’s RC book, and sectional tests mimic real exam difficulty.
E. Tarkashastra’s NPAT Study Resources
Along with standard books, Tarkashastra provides exam-focused materials:
- NPAT-specific Study Packs (E-books + Hard Copy) aligned with the 2026 syllabus.
- 10,000+ Practice Questions with detailed solutions.
- 20+ Full-Length Mock Tests + Sectional Tests on NPAT pattern.
- Mentor-led Doubt Sessions by NMIMS alumni.
- Shortcut Formula Sheets & Strategy Guides to optimise speed.
Pro Tip: Don’t overload yourself with too many books. Pick one book per section (Quant, Reasoning, Verbal) + a mock test series. Revise them consistently instead of switching books close to the exam.
3-Month & 1-Month NPAT Study Plan
Whether you start early or just a month before the exam, a structured study plan can maximise your NPAT 2026 score. Here’s a practical 3-month plan for consistent aspirants and a 1-month crash plan for those who are late starters.
A. 3-Month Study Plan for NPAT 2026
Month 1: Concept Building
- Cover the entire syllabus once (Quant, Logical, Verbal).
- Daily practice:
- Quant → 20–25 sums (Arithmetic focus)
- Logic → 2 puzzles + series
- Verbal → 10 new vocab words + 1 RC passage
- Revise NCERT Class 9–12 basics for Quant.
Month 2: Practice + Sectional Tests
- Start solving topic-wise sectional tests.
- Focus on weak areas identified in practice.
- Introduce shortcuts for calculations (Quicker Maths).
- Daily practice:
- Quant → mix of Arithmetic + Algebra + DI
- Logic → seating arrangement, syllogisms
- Verbal → error spotting + para-jumbles
Month 3: Mocks + Revision
- Solve at least 10–12 full-length mocks.
- Analyse mistakes thoroughly (accuracy %, time per question).
- Revise formula sheets and grammar notes.
- Focus on time allocation strategy (35+35+30 mins split).
B. 1-Month Crash Plan for NPAT 2026
Days 1–10 → Quick Syllabus Revision
- Revise important Quant topics (Percentages, Ratios, Algebra, DI).
- Practice puzzles, series, and syllogisms for LR.
- Revise grammar rules & vocab for Verbal.
Days 11–20 → Intensive Practice
- Solve 2–3 sectional tests daily (under timed conditions).
- Maintain an error log to track repeated mistakes.
- Daily targets:
- 20 Quant questions
- 2 Logical puzzles
- 1 RC passage
Days 21–30 → Mock Marathon + Final Prep
- Take 1 full-length mock every alternate day.
- Revise formula + vocab lists daily.
- Use last week for speed practice + review of marked weak areas.
C. Quick Recap Study Plan
| Timeline | Focus Area | Daily Practice |
| 3 Months | Syllabus + Practice + Mocks | 2–3 hrs concepts (M1), 3–4 hrs sectional practice (M2), 1 mock/day (M3) |
| 1 Month | Revision + Mocks | 2 sectional tests/day, 1 mock every 2 days, daily formula + vocab revision |
Pro Tip: Even in the crash plan, don’t skip mocks—they build exam temperament more than anything else.
Conclusion
The NPAT 2026 exam is more than just an aptitude test—it’s a challenge of speed, accuracy, and thoughtful decision-making. With 120 questions in 100 minutes, success depends on how well you can balance all three sections, manage your time effectively, and remain calm under pressure.
If you:
- Know the syllabus inside out
- Practice consistently with mocks
- Avoid common prep mistakes
- Follow a structured study plan
…then securing a 97–99 percentile and admission to top NMIMS campuses, such as Mumbai, Bengaluru, or Hyderabad, is absolutely achievable.
Remember: Consistency beats intensity.
Even 2–3 focused hours of daily preparation, combined with the right resources and strategy, can transform your performance.
Your Next Step: Don’t prepare blindly. Get guided by mentors who have been there, cracked it, and know the NPAT inside and out.
At Tarkashastra, you get:
- NPAT-specific study packs (E-books + Hard Copy)
- 10,000+ practice questions & 10+ mocks
- Personalised mentorship from experts & NMIMS alumni
- Time management strategies tailored for NPAT 2026
Start your NPAT 2026 journey with us today – because your NMIMS dream deserves nothing less than the best preparation!
NPAT 2026 Preparation FAQs
1. How should I start preparing for NPAT 2026?
Begin with a clear understanding of the syllabus and exam pattern, then create a study plan that focuses equally on the Quantitative, Logical, and Verbal sections. Start with NCERT basics, practice daily, and gradually progress to mock tests.
2. How many months are enough to prepare for NPAT 2026?
Ideally, 3–4 months of focused preparation, including concept clarity, sectional practice, and 15–20 full-length mock tests, are sufficient for optimal preparation. A 1-month crash plan with intensive mocks also works if you’ve covered basics earlier.
3. Is NPAT 2026 tough compared to IPMAT or SET?
NPAT is considered moderate in difficulty, but it is more speed-intensive. IPMAT has more challenging, higher-level Math, while SET includes GK. NPAT focuses purely on aptitude—Quant, Logic, and Verbal.
4. How many questions should I attempt in NPAT to score in the 99th percentile?
Toppers usually attempt 100–110 questions with high accuracy. Since there’s no negative marking, attempt all 120 by making educated guesses.
5. What is the best time management strategy for NPAT 2026?
Follow a 100-minute plan:
- Quantitative Reasoning → 35 mins
- Logical Reasoning → 35 mins
- Verbal Reasoning → 30 mins
- Buffer/Review → 5 mins
6. How many mock tests should I take before NPAT 2026?
You should attempt at least 15–20 full-length mock tests along with sectional tests. Post-mock analysis is as critical as taking the test itself.
7. Which are the best books for NPAT Quantitative Reasoning?
The best books for NPAT Quantitative Reasoning include Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal, Magical Book on Quicker Maths by M. Tyra, Abhijit Gupta’s Quantitative Aptitude, and NCERT Mathematics (Class 9–12) for basics. For advanced concepts, Arun Sharma’s Quantitative Aptitude for CAT is useful. Along with these, Tarkashastra’s NPAT Quantitative Reasoning modules—with 2000+ practice questions, Arithmetic, Algebra, DI, Geometry, and Probability booklets—are highly recommended for exam-focused preparation.
8. What are the best books for NPAT Logical Reasoning?
For NPAT Logical Reasoning, the most recommended books are A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal, Analytical Reasoning by M.K. Pandey, and A New Approach to Reasoning: Verbal & Non-Verbal by B.S. Sijwalii & Indu Sijwalii. Alongside these, Tarkashastra’s NPAT Logical Reasoning modules with NPAT-style puzzles, series, coding-decoding, and 1500+ practice sets are excellent for focused practice.
9. Which books help in NPAT Verbal Ability preparation?
For NPAT Verbal Ability, the best resources are Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis, Objective General English by R.S. Aggarwal, High School English Grammar & Composition by Wren & Martin, and Proficiency in Reading Comprehension by Ajay Singh. Along with these, Tarkashastra’s NPAT Verbal Ability modules—covering RC practice sets, grammar drills, and 1000+ vocabulary exercises—are highly effective for exam-focused preparation.
10. Can I prepare for NPAT along with Class 12 boards?
Yes. Since NPAT Quant topics overlap with NCERT Math, you can prepare for both simultaneously. A 2–3 hour daily NPAT routine alongside board studies works well.
11. Is coaching necessary for NPAT 2026?
Not compulsory, but structured coaching provides mock tests, mentorship, and strategies that save time and boost efficiency. Self-study works if you’re disciplined and consistent.
12. What percentile is required for NMIMS Mumbai BBA?
Generally, students need to score around the 97th–99th percentile (95+ correct answers) for admission to NMIMS Mumbai’s BBA or B.Com (Hons.) programs.
13. How can I improve my speed for NPAT 2026?
Practice timed sectional tests daily, solve 10–15 word problems (Quant), 2 puzzles (LR), and 1 RC passage (Verbal). Use shortcut techniques for calculations and apply the Mark & Move rule during practice.
14. Can I crack NPAT in 1 month?
Yes, if you dedicate 4–5 hours daily to focused revision, vocabulary drills, puzzle practice, and full-length mocks. Follow a 1-month crash plan with 10–12 mocks.
15. What are the common mistakes to avoid during NPAT prep?
- Over-focusing on one section
- Ignoring mock tests until late
- Practising without a timer
- Neglecting vocab & formula revision
- Getting stuck on 1–2 tricky questions
