SNAP (Symbiosis National Aptitude Test) is a national-level entrance exam for admission to postgraduate programs offered by the institutes of Symbiosis International (Deemed University). The exam tests the aptitude and skills of the candidates in areas such as general English, quantitative, analytical reasoning and current affairs. The test is held annually in December, and the results are announced in January. 

The test scores are used for admissions to various programs such as MBA, M.Tech, M.Sc, M.A and more. The selection process also includes a group exercise and a personal interview round. The final selection is based on the candidate's performance in the SNAP test, group exercise, personal interview, and past academic performance.

Here are the 10 Things You Should Know About SNAP:

• SNAP is considered one of the most important entrance exams for management, law, engineering, health sciences, and media and communication postgraduate programs. The test is designed to evaluate the candidates' aptitude and skills and identify the candidates who have the potential to excel in the chosen program. The test is also considered a benchmark for the quality of the candidates and the institutes use the test scores to select the most suitable candidates for the program.
• The test is held in December, and the results are usually announced in January. The test is generally held on a Sunday, and the candidates must be at the test centre at least an hour before the test. The candidates must bring their admit card and valid ID proof to the test centre. The test centre is allotted to the candidate per the preference mentioned during registration.
• SNAP is a computer-based test with questions in multiple-choice format, and the test duration is 120 minutes. The test is designed to be challenging, and the candidates have to manage their time well during the test. The candidates are not allowed to carry any electronic devices, calculators, or any other material to the test centre. The test centre is equipped with all the necessary resources, and the candidates can use the resources provided at the test centre.
• The test consists of four sections: General English, Quantitative, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency, Analytical & Logical Reasoning, and Current Affairs. Each section tests the candidate's skills and aptitude for the chosen program. The General English section tests the candidate's English grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension proficiency. The Quantitative section tests the candidate's mathematical skills, while the Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency section tests the candidate's ability to interpret and analyse data. The Analytical & Logical Reasoning section tests the candidate's ability to analyse and solve problems, and the Current Affairs section tests the candidate's knowledge of current events.
• The test has 150 questions, and the test takers are awarded 1 mark for each correct answer, with a negative marking of 25% for each wrong answer. The test is designed to be challenging, and the candidates must prepare well in advance to perform well. The test is designed to evaluate the candidate's skills and aptitude and not to test their knowledge.
• SNAP scores are used for admissions to postgraduate programs in management, law, engineering, health sciences, and media and communication offered by the institutes of Symbiosis International (Deemed University). The scores are valid for one year, and the candidates must apply separately to the institute of their choice for admission. The candidates must submit the required documents and pay the application fee to the institute of their choice.
• The cut-off for SNAP is generally around 50-55% for the General category, whereas, for the reserved category, it is generally around 45-50%. The cut-off for each institute may vary depending on the number of candidates appearing for the test and the number of seats available in the institute. The cut-off for each program may also vary depending on the number of candidates appearing for the examination and the number of seats available.
• Candidates must have a bachelor's degree from a recognised university with at least 50% marks in aggregate. Candidates in their final year of graduation can also apply for the test, but they must produce proof of graduation at the time of admission. The candidates must submit the required documents and pay the application fee to the institute of their choice.
• After the test, the candidates are shortlisted for the next round of the selection process, which includes a group exercise and a personal interview. The group exercise tests the candidate's ability to work in a team, communication skills, problem-solving ability and leadership potential. The personal interview is designed to test the candidate's communication skills, aptitude for the chosen program, personality, and overall suitability. A panel of experts from the respective institutes usually conducts these rounds.
• The final selection is based on the candidate's performance in the SNAP test, group exercise, personal interview, and past academic performance. The weightage given to each component may vary depending on the institute and the program. The final selection list is usually announced a few weeks after the personal interview. The selected candidates must pay the fee and submit the required documents to complete the admission process.

In conclusion, SNAP is a challenging and competitive entrance exam that tests candidates' skills, aptitude, and potential for the chosen program. The test is conducted to select the most suitable candidates for the postgraduate programs offered by Symbiosis International. The test scores are considered a benchmark for the quality of the candidates, and the institutes use the test scores to select the most suitable candidates for the program.

Tips to ace SNAP

• Start preparing early: Create a study schedule and prepare well in advance. This will give you ample time to review all the topics and practice as many mock tests as possible.
• Understand the exam pattern and syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern, the number of questions, marks, and the test duration. Also, understand the syllabus for the test and focus on the critical topics.
• Practice with sample papers and mock tests: Practice with sample papers and mock tests to get a feel of the actual test and identify areas where you need to improve.
• Improve your vocabulary: The General English section tests your English grammar, language, and comprehension proficiency. Improve your vocabulary by reading newspapers, magazines, and novels.
• Brush up on your math skills: The Quantitative section tests your mathematical skills. Brush up on your math skills by practising math problems from various sources.
• Time management: The test lasts 120 minutes, so it's essential to manage your time well during the test. Practice with mock tests to improve your time management skills.
• Be aware of current affairs: The Current Affairs section tests your knowledge of current events. Stay updated with the latest news and events by reading newspapers and watching the news.
• Stay relaxed and focused: On the test day, it's essential to stay relaxed and attentive. Get a good night's sleep before the test and reach the test centre well in advance.
• Be confident: Belief in your abilities, stay positive and be confident. Remember, you have prepared well for the test and are ready to face the challenge.
• Take the group exercise and personal interview seriously: The selection process includes a group exercise and a personal interview round. Prepare well for these rounds and give your best performance.