The Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP) is one of the most popular MBA entrance exams in India for admission to the prestigious Symbiosis institutes. With its speed-based format, short duration, and high ROI colleges, SNAP has become a strong alternative to CAT and NMAT for MBA aspirants.
If you are planning to appear for SNAP 2026, this complete guide covers the latest exam pattern, detailed syllabus, preparation strategy, expected cut-offs, and top colleges – everything you need to plan your preparation smartly.
What is SNAP?
SNAP is a national-level computer-based MBA entrance exam conducted by Symbiosis International (Deemed University) for admission to its management programmes. The exam is known for:
- Short duration
- Focus on speed and accuracy
- Multiple attempts (best score considered)
This makes it a student-friendly but highly competitive exam.
SNAP 2026 Exam Highlights
- Exam Mode: Computer-Based Test
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Total Questions: 60
- Total Marks: 60
- Attempts: Up to 3 (best score considered)
- Marking Scheme: +1 for correct, -0.25 for incorrect
- Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
- Sectional Cut-off: No sectional cut-off (overall score matters)
SNAP 2026 Exam Pattern
|
Section |
Questions |
Marks |
|
General English |
15 |
15 |
|
Analytical & Logical Reasoning |
25 |
25 |
|
Quantitative, DI & DS |
20 |
20 |
|
Total |
60 |
60 |
Key Features:
- No sectional time restriction
- Questions are mixed (you can attempt in any order)
- Logical Reasoning has the highest weightage
- Speed is the biggest challenge
SNAP 2026 Syllabus (Section-wise)
Unlike CAT, SNAP tests fundamental concepts with high speed, so clarity of basics is more important than advanced difficulty.
1. General English
This section checks your command over functional English.
Important Topics:
- Grammar & error spotting
- Vocabulary (synonyms, antonyms, idioms)
- Sentence correction
- Para jumbles
- Fill in the blanks
- Reading comprehension (short passages)
The focus is on accuracy and quick comprehension, not lengthy RCs.
2. Analytical & Logical Reasoning (Most Scoring Section)
This is the highest weightage and most decisive section.
Important Topics:
- Coding–decoding
- Number & letter series
- Blood relations
- Directions
- Puzzles & seating arrangement
- Syllogisms
- Analogies
- Critical reasoning
- Visual reasoning
A strong performance here can significantly increase your percentile.
3. Quantitative Ability, DI & DS
SNAP quant is arithmetic-dominated and calculation-based.
Important Topics:
- Percentages
- Ratio & proportion
- Profit & loss
- Time & work
- Averages
- Simple & compound interest
- Basic algebra
- Geometry & mensuration
- Probability & permutation–combination
- Data interpretation (graphs, pie charts, tables)
Arithmetic contributes around 60–70% of the quant section.
SNAP 2026 Selection Process
Clearing SNAP is only the first step.
After the result:
1. Shortlisting based on SNAP score
2. GE (Group Exercise)
3. PI (Personal Interview)
4. WAT (Written Ability Test)
Each institute releases its own cut-off and conducts its own final selection round.
Top Colleges Accepting SNAP Scores
Here are the leading Symbiosis institutes with their expected cut-offs and average packages:
|
College |
Expected Cut-off |
Avg. CTC (₹ LPA) |
|
SIBM Pune |
96–98 percentile |
28+ |
|
SCMHRD Pune |
96–97 percentile |
23+ |
|
SIIB Pune |
90–94 percentile |
13+ |
|
SIBM Bengaluru |
~90 percentile |
11+ |
|
SIOM Nashik |
85–87 percentile |
12+ |
|
SIMS Pune |
75–80 percentile |
16+ |
|
SCIT Pune |
74–76 percentile |
14+ |
|
SIDTM Pune |
80–83 percentile |
13+ |
|
SICSR Pune |
80–83 percentile |
6–7 |
These institutes offer excellent ROI, industry exposure, and strong placement records.
What is a Good SNAP Score?
While the percentile varies every year, the general trend is:
- 40+ marks: 99+ percentile
- 37–39 marks: 95–98 percentile
- 33–36 marks: 90–94 percentile
- 30+ marks: 80+ percentile
A score of 38+ is considered a safe score for top colleges.
SNAP 2026 Preparation Strategy
1. Understand the Speed Factor
SNAP is not about solving tough questions—it is about solving easy questions very fast.
Your goal should be:
- Attempt: 40–45 questions
- Accuracy: 85–90%
2. Section-wise Strategy
Logical Reasoning
- Start with standalone questions
- Skip lengthy puzzles initially
- Target: 14–16 correct
Quant
- Focus on arithmetic
- Pick sitters first
- Avoid lengthy DI sets
English
- Vocabulary + grammar = quick scoring
- Do not spend too much time on one question
3. Mock Test is the Game Changer
Since SNAP is a time-pressured exam, mocks are non-negotiable.
While attempting mocks:
- Fix your order of attempt
- Learn question selection
- Analyse mistakes deeply
4. Smart Attempt Strategy
In SNAP:
- Selection matters more than solving ability
- Leaving questions is a smart move
- Avoid blind guessing due to negative marking
5. Last 30-Day Preparation Plan
- Daily 1 full mock
- Revise arithmetic formulas
- Practice 2 LR sets daily
- Revise vocabulary regularly
SNAP vs. CAT – Why SNAP is Different?
- Shorter exam (60 minutes)
- Easier questions
- No sectional time limit
- More speed-based
- Multiple attempts
This makes SNAP ideal for students who:
- Are strong in basics
- Have good speed
- Prefer a low-stress exam format
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Spending too much time on one question
- Ignoring LR practice
- Not taking enough mocks
- Over-attempting and losing marks in negative marking
- Starting preparation too late
Final 5 Preparation Tips for SNAP 2026
- Build strong arithmetic fundamentals
- Make Logical Reasoning your strongest section
- Practice vocabulary daily
- Take 25–30 full mocks before the exam
- Focus on accuracy over attempts
Conclusion
SNAP 2026 is a high-speed, high-reward MBA entrance exam that opens the doors to top Symbiosis institutes like SIBM Pune and SCMHRD.
With the right strategy, consistent mock practice, and smart question selection, you can achieve a 99+ percentile even with moderate preparation time.
If your goal is a top private MBA college with excellent placements and ROI, SNAP should definitely be on your target list.