Which Postgraduate Entrance Exam is Right for You? A Stream-Wise Breakdown
Picking the right exam for postgraduate study is more than paperwork; it can set the course for your career. Because India hosts an array of discipline-specific entrance tests, many learners feel lost when trying to match a single exam to their degree and future plans.
To cut through the confusion, this guide sorts the main postgraduate tests by stream, letting you see at a glance which one fits your undergraduate subject and ambitions.
1. Management & Business Studies
Those hoping to enter an MBA or PGDM class will discover a range of nationwide entrance exams that open doors to elite business schools.
Popular Exams:
- CAT (Common Admission Test)
- XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test)
- MAT (Management Aptitude Test)
- CMAT (Common Management Admission Test)
- NMAT (Narsee Monjee Management Aptitude Test)
Best For: Graduates in commerce, business, engineering, or liberal arts who seek rigorous management training and strong industry links.
Pro Tip: GIBS Business School in Bangalore accepts scores from all the above tests for its PGDM, giving applicants breathing room to choose.
2. Science & Research
Students completing a B.Sc. or similar degree who plan to enter an M.Sc. or a project-led postgraduate course should keep the following entrance tests on their radar:
Popular Exams:
- IIT JAM (Joint Admission Test for M.Sc.)
- CSIR-UGC NET
- JEST (Joint Entrance Screening Test)
Best For: Anyone aiming for a research role, teaching post, or career in academia focused on pure science.
3. Engineering & Technology
Entry to master’s programs like M.E. or M.Tech varies by college, so you will encounter several dedicated tests.
Popular Exams:
- GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering)
- IIIT-H PGEE
- BITS HD Admission Test
Best For: B.E. or B.Tech holders who wish to dive into R&D, sharpen technical skills, or begin a Ph.D.
Pro Tip: Remember, a strong GATE score can also unlock PSU jobs and fellowship grant letters.
4. Law
If you have an L.L.B. or integrated course and want a sharper legal focus, the following papers suit post-graduate plans:
Popular Exams:
- CLAT PG (Common Law Admission Test – PG)
- AILET PG
- LSAT India
Best For: Candidates leaning toward corporate practice, international cases, or teaching law at the university level.
5. Medicine & Health Sciences
Doctors hoping to specialise after an M.B.B.S. face entrance exams that probe clinical skill and wide medical knowledge.
Popular Exams:
Best For: MBBS or AYUSH graduates aiming for hands-on clinical work, surgery, or teaching future doctors.
6. Psychology, Social Work & Humanities
This stream leads to careers in counseling, classroom teaching, and shaping public policy.
Popular Exams:
- CUET-PG
- TISSNET
- JNUEE- now part of CUET-PG
Best For: Students with a BA, BSW, or similar degree who want applied psychology, community work, or research.
7. Economics & Commerce
For jobs in economics, finance, and business, these entrance tests matter:
Popular Exams:
- DUET
- CUET-PG
- ISI Admission Test
- IIT JAM Economics
Best For: B.Com, BBA, BA Economics, or math majors seeking roles in data analysis, investing, or policy-making.
8. Design, Media & Fine Arts
The creative economy is booming, opening more doors for graduate talent.
Popular Exams:
- CEED
- NID DAT PG
- IIFT screening for Int. Biz and Marketing
Best For: B.Des, BFA, or similar creators heading toward UX/UI, media, branding, or communication design.
9. Education
Students dreaming of becoming teachers or shaping school policy should keep the following tests on their radar.
Popular Exams:
- CUET-PG
- TISSNET
- IGNOU Entrance Test
Best For: Graduates are ready to deepen their expertise through an M.Ed., an MA in Education, or a similar degree.
10. International Entrance Exams (For Studying Abroad)
Most learners packing their bags for overseas classes will sit at least one global exam.
Popular Exams:
- GRE
- GMAT
- IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE
- LSAT/GRE Law
Best For:
Applicants aiming for an overseas MS, MBA, LLM, or MA qualification.
How to Choose the Right Postgraduate Entrance Exam
To pick wisely, weigh these points:
- Field of Interest: Match the test with your chosen discipline.
- Career Aspirations: Ask whether you see yourself in research, teaching, business, or launching a start-up.
- Institution Preference: Check your dream colleges’ list for the required or preferred entrance papers.
- Exam Format: Choose a style-question set that suits your comfort level and timing skills.
- Availability of Resources: Opt for tests backed by mock papers, guides, classes, and peers who can support you.
Conclusion: Choosing The Path That Fits Your Postgraduate Plans
Picking the entrance exam that matches your postgraduate dreams is about more than just sitting a paper- it’s about steering your career where you want it to go. Whether your eyes are on business, science, law, or design, each arena comes with its own hurdles and opportunities. Be clear with yourself, dig into the details, then study with purpose.
The choice you make today could unlock satisfying work for many tomorrows.
Why GIBS Business School, Bangalore, Deserves Your Attention
For would-be managers, GIBS Business School in Bangalore—recognized among the Top 10 PGDM colleges in Bangalore—offers a robust PGDM program with dual specializations tailored for today’s dynamic and ever-evolving business environment.
You can secure your seat through whichever test fits your schedule- CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, or NMAT-giving you the breathing room to focus on your strongest score. In-Class learning is enriched by:
- Finishing School (CPMP)
- Innovation, Research & Entrepreneurship (IRE) School
- School of Artificial Intelligence
That blend places GIBS among India’s most forward-looking management colleges. Learn more at www.gibs.edu.in