The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially released the Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) 2026 Answer Key on the official website today. Candidates will be able to find the direct link to download the provisional answer key at cmat.nta.nic.in. Along with the answer key, NTA has released the response sheet as well. In case the student is not satisfied with the answers provided, they can also challenge the answer key. The objection window to challenge the CMAT 2026 answer key is open till February 2, 2026. Students must pay a non-refundable fee of Rs. 200 to challenge the answer key.
The CMAT 2026, conducted by the NTA, was held on January 25, 2026 in a single shift from 09:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The exam is conducted in a computer-based test (CBT) format. The candidates can access the CMAT Answer Key 2026 by entering the required login credentials in the login window. The score for CMAT 2026 can be calculated by using the response sheet and the CMAT marking scheme. For every correct answer, four (4) marks are awarded, and for every incorrect answer, one (1) mark is deducted. It is important to note that after the answer key challenge process is over, the NTA releases the final answer key and the CMAT Result 2026.
CMAT Answer Key 2026: How to challenge?
The NTA allows the students to raise objections with regard to the answers provided in the CMAT Answer Key 2026, in case of dissatisfaction. The steps mentioned below can be followed to challenge the answer key.
Step 1. Log in to the official website using the credentials.
Step 2. Find and access the CMAT 2026 answer key section on the website.
Step 3. Select the questions for which you believe there might be an error in the answer key.
Step 4. If possible, attach supporting documents, references, or any other evidence that can back your claim of discrepancy.
Step 5. Review all the details you’ve entered, including your explanations and supporting documents. Once you’re satisfied, submit your challenge.
Step 6. A nominal fee of INR 200 is required to challenge the answer key. Ensure that you make the payment to proceed with your challenge.
Step 7. After submitting your challenge and payment, you will receive a confirmation of your challenge submission along with a reference number.
It must be noted that the examination authority will review your challenge along with the evidence provided. They will make a decision based on the merits of your challenge. If your challenge is accepted and the answer key is updated, a final corrected answer key will be released.
CMAT 2026 Answer Key: Steps to download response sheet
As mentioned earlier, NTA has released the response sheet of the candidate along with the answer key. Candidates can follow the steps mentioned below to download the same.
Step 1. Visit the CMAT 2026 website.
Step 2. Click on the ‘CMAT answer key’ tab.
Step 3. Enter CMAT application ID and password/date of birth.
Step 4. The CMAT answer key/response sheet will be displayed.
Step 5. Click on the download icon and save as PDF.
For further updates, candidates must visit the official website regularly.
