IGNOU - OPENMAT

Eligibility Criteria for IGNOU OPENMAT Exam

• Educational Qualification: Candidate must have a bachelor's degree from a recognized university or institution. There is no specified minimum percentage or grade, but the degree should be recognized by IGNOU.
• Age Limit: There is no age limit prescribed for appearing in the IGNOU OPENMAT exam.
• Nationality: The exam is primarily for Indian nationals. However, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCI), and foreign nationals can also apply, adhering to specific rules set by IGNOU.

IGNOU OPENMAT Exam Pattern

• Mode of Exam: Offline (Pen and Paper-based test)
• Number of Questions: Total of 200 multiple choice questions (MCQs)
• Marking Scheme: Each question carries 1 mark, no negative marking.
• Subjects Covered:
  • General English
  • Reasoning
  • Quantitative Aptitude
  • General Awareness
  • Computer Knowledge
• Exam Duration: 3 hours
• Exam Frequency: Generally conducted twice a year - January and July
• Notification Release: Official notifications are usually released 2-3 months prior to the exam on the official website.

Syllabus for IGNOU OPENMAT Exam

• General English: Vocabulary, Grammar, Comprehension, Sentence Correction, Synonyms & Antonyms, Spotting Errors, Para Jumbles
• Reasoning: Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, Analytical Reasoning, Logical Deductions, Blood Relations, Series, Coding-Decoding
• Quantitative Aptitude: Number Systems, Simplification, Ratio & Proportion, Percentage, Profit & Loss, Time, Speed & Distance, Average, Data Interpretation, Algebra, Geometry, Time & Work
• General Awareness: Current Affairs (National & International), Indian Economy, History, Geography, Polity, Science & Technology, Sports
• Computer Knowledge: Basics of Computers, Internet, MS Office, Programming Concepts, Cyber Security Basics

Other Important Information about IGNOU OPENMAT

Application Process

1. Visit the official IGNOU website and navigate to the OPENMAT examination section.
2. Register yourself by creating a login ID and password if you are a new user.
3. Fill in the online application form with correct personal, educational, and contact details.
4. Upload scanned copies of required documents such as photograph and signature as per specifications.
5. Pay the application fee through available online payment modes (credit/debit card, net banking).
6. Submit the application form and take a printout of the confirmation page for future reference.
7. Offline applications (if available) can be submitted at designated IGNOU centers or regional study centers following the official guidelines.

Courses Offered

• Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDIM)
• MBA in various specializations through IGNOU Study Centers across India
• Other management-related diploma and certificate programs

Facts about the Entrance Exam

• OPENMAT stands for OPEN Management Admission Test.
• It is a gateway for admission to IGNOU's management programs.
• The exam tests aptitude and awareness important for management studies.
• Scores are valid for admission in sessions starting immediately after the exam.

Admit Card

• Admit cards are released online about 2 weeks before the exam date.
• Download admit card from the official website using your login credentials.
• Carry a printed copy of the admit card along with a valid photo ID to the exam center.
• Check all details on the admit card carefully and report discrepancies immediately.

Results & Cut-Offs

• Results are declared on the official IGNOU website, typically within 3-4 weeks after the exam.
• Download the scorecard using your credentials.
• Cut-off marks vary each session based on number of candidates and performance but generally range from 40% to 50% aggregate score.
• Shortlisted candidates are called for counseling or further admission steps.

Preparation Tips

• Understand the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly before starting preparation.
• Practice previous years' solved question papers and mock tests regularly.
• Focus on time management to complete questions within the allotted time.
• Refer to recommended books such as:
  • "Quantitative Aptitude" by R.S. Aggarwal
  • "A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning" by R.S. Aggarwal
  • "Objective General English" by S.P. Bakshi
  • Regularly read newspapers and magazines for General Awareness.
• Join online forums and coaching (if needed) for doubt clearing and updated preparation strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Q: Is there any age limit for OPENMAT?
   A: No, there is no age limit.
2. Q: Can final year students apply?
   A: Yes, final year degree students can apply but admission is subject to passing the qualifying exam.
3. Q: Is OPENMAT conducted online?
   A: No, the exam is conducted offline as a pen and paper test.
4. Q: How many times is the exam conducted?
   A: Twice a year, generally in January and July.
5. Q: What documents are required at the exam center?
   A: Admit card and valid photo ID proof.
6. Q: How to prepare for the exam?
   A: Understand syllabus, practice mock tests, and review recommended books.