What to Expect in the NMIMS Written Ability Test (WAT)?

Ritoprasad Kundu

Updated On: September 11, 2025 02:44 PM

The WAT NMIMS is an important criterion for selecting students after clearing the NMAT entrance exam. WAT aim to bring clarity in the thought process along with improving writing skills, logical structuring of passage and the ability to express your opinions. 


 
What to Expect in the NMIMS Written Ability Test (WAT)?

NMIMS WAT is an important part of the selection process for students who are aspiring to take admissions in Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies. Aspirants who clear the NMAT entrance exam are able to appear for the written ability test in the second stage of shortlisted candidates. The WAT is an essay writing exam which aims to bring clarity in the thought process along with improving writing skills, logical structuring of passage and the ability to express your opinions.

Usually in this written ability test, the authorities will test your writing skills in various topics related to social issues, science and technology, current events, abstract ideas, business environment, economic issues etc. In this exam, the most important part of your selection will be constructive opinion giving relevant examples along with proper structure and flow of ideas. What will set you apart from the rest is your logical flow, critical thinking and your perspective on the topic. The expectations behind the NMIMS written ability test is to test your awareness of the issue, analytical mind and ability to connect ideas to real world context.

Also Read: How Critical is Gender Diversity Factor in NMIMS Admission?

WAT NMIMS Format and Structure

You can check the test format and structure from the below table.

Particulars

Details

Format

Short essay-type response

Word Limit

250 - 300

Time Limit

15 to 20 minutes

Also Read: How to Prepare for Group Discussion at NMIMS MBA Interview?

Past Year Essay Topics of NMIMS WAT

Here are the past year essay topics of WAT.

  • Explain the working of landline telephones to someone born in 2005
  • Imported fruit flooding Indian fruit market
  • Cloud computing and its future
  • Social media addiction as a necessary evil
  • Driverless tech investment: futile or future?
  • Reduction in demand for hotels during COVID
  • Digital divide and its societal impact
  • Misinformation via social media and regulation
  • Retirement homes: stigma & affordability in India
  • Challenges and sustenance of the gig economy
  • Influencer marketing and the gig economy
  • Generation Z influenced by social media: pros vs cons
  • Metaverse: boon or bane to society
  • Country GDP vs. agricultural R&D spending—how India can leverage its agriculture sector

Expected Essay Topics for NMIMS Written Ability Test

Check the expected topics for WAT.

  • Technology cannot replace manpower.
  • Dreams which should not let India sleep
  • Work from home vs. return to office – what’s the future?
  • E-commerce vs. traditional retail – who will win?
  • Sustainable business practices: necessity or choice?
  • “Less is more” – is minimalism the way forward?
  • Data privacy vs. national security.
  • Women in leadership: Breaking barriers or token representation?
  • India at 100: Vision for 2047.
  • The role of startups in shaping India’s future economy.

Evaluation Criteria of NMIMS WAT

You can check the basis of evaluation of WAT NMIMS from the below table.

Basis of Evaluation

Details

Coherence and organization

How well the essay progresses logically from introduction to conclusion.

Analytical Ability and Critical Thinking

Your capacity to analyze a topic from multiple perspectives, consider opposing viewpoints, and provide a reasoned conclusion.

Managerial Acumen

Your problem-solving skills and how you would approach a business or management-related situation.

Current awareness

Awareness of social, business, and political issues enhances content quality.

Communication Skills

Even in an MCQ format, the questions are designed to test your understanding of complex scenarios and your ability to choose the most logical and well-reasoned answer. For the interview, strong verbal communication is essential.

Also Read: Advantages of NMIMS Online MBA vs Regular MBA

Changes in NMIMS Written Ability Test

The change has been listed in the below table.

Particulars

Details

Key Change

The NMIMS MBA Selection Process has been updated. The traditional Written Ability Test (WAT) and the Watson Glaser test have been replaced by a "Competency Assessment.”

Weightage

The Competency Assessment has the highest weightage in the selection process, at 50%.

Format

The Competency Assessment is a computer-based test (CBT) with Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs).

Sections

  • Verbal Ability: 9 questions
  • Mental Ability: 6 questions
  • Managerial Ability: 5 questions

Purpose

The new format aims to evaluate a candidate's practical decision-making and problem-solving skills, which are crucial for success in the business world.

What this means for you

While you won't be writing a full essay in the traditional WAT format, the skills of critical thinking, logical reasoning, and understanding of current affairs are still highly relevant. The Competency Assessment is likely to include scenario-based questions that test these exact abilities.

For more information on WAT NMIMS write to us through our Common Application Form . You can also drop your queries on our QnA zone . You can also speak to our academic counsellors on one to one basis by dialling our toll free number 1800-572-9877.

Are you feeling lost and unsure about what career path to take after completing 12th standard?

Say goodbye to confusion and hello to a bright future!

news_cta
/articles/what-to-expect-in-the-nmims-written-ability-test-wat/
View All Questions

Related Questions

Are LPU Online courses good? How can I take admission?

-Sumukhi DiwanUpdated on September 02, 2025 11:57 PM
  • 38 Answers
Aston, Student / Alumni

Yes, LPU's online courses are well-regarded for their industry-aligned curriculum and flexible learning format. To take admission, you can visit the official LPU Online website, choose your desired program, check the eligibility criteria, and complete the online application process. The university provides comprehensive support throughout your academic journey.

READ MORE...

I need to apply for LPU certificate. Please help!

-NikitaUpdated on September 02, 2025 03:45 PM
  • 25 Answers
sampreetkaur, Student / Alumni

IF you want to apply for a certificate at LPU, the process is simple and student friendly. you can apply online through UMS or contact the registrar office for guidance. LPU always ensures quick support, making it easy for students to get their certificates on time without hassle.

READ MORE...

My name is K. Tejakshaya, my category is SC, and my rank is 57,537.

-kukkala tejakshayaUpdated on August 22, 2025 05:51 PM
  • 1 Answer
Aarushi Jain, Content Team

Dear Student, 

Could you please confirm which entrance exam you are referring to? Since your details mention a rank of 57,537 under the SC category with the name K. Tejakshaya, it could belong to different examinations. Knowing the exact exam will help me provide accurate guidance on the counselling process, admission opportunities, and the possibilities available for your specific rank and category. This will ensure that the information I share with you is precise and truly useful for your situation.

READ MORE...

Do you have a question? Ask us.

  • Typical response between 24-48 hours

  • Get personalized response

  • Free of Cost

  • Access to community

Recent Articles

Recent News

Subscribe to CollegeDekho News

By proceeding ahead you expressly agree to the CollegeDekho terms of use and privacy policy

Top 10 Management Colleges in India

View All