PLMAT Entrance Exam Guide: Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Admission Test

The PLMAT is the official entrance exam for Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM). It is known for its strict time limits and comprehensive coverage across 5 distinct sections.

Exam Format & Time Limits

The PLMAT is exceptionally fast-paced, containing exactly 190 items to be answered in roughly 110 minutes.

I. Communication Arts (English)

• Format: 50 items / 20 mins
• Coverage: Correct Grammar Usage, Vocabulary, Idiomatic Expressions, Word Analogy, Reading Comprehension.

II. Integrated Science

• Format: 40 items / 25 mins
• Coverage: General Science (Cells, Law of Universal Gravitation), Physics (Newtonian Mechanics, Optics, Wave/Motion/Acoustics, Thermo, Electromagnetism), and Chemistry (Analysis & Application).

III. Integrated Mathematics

• Format: 40 items / 40 mins
• Coverage: Basic Operation, Statistics, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Verbal Problem Analysis, and Unit Circle. You only have 1 minute per question here!

IV. Communication Arts (Filipino)

• Format: 30 items / 15 mins
• Coverage: Wastong Gamit ng Salita, Istruktura ng Pangungusap, Pagtukoy sa Salitang Ugat, Idioma at Talasalitaan, Pagsunod-sunod ng Talata, and Pag-unawa sa Binasa.

V. Abstract Reasoning

• Format: 30 items / 10 mins
• Note: This is often considered the hardest section due to the extreme time pressure (20 seconds per question). You must practice mental image manipulation and sequencing.

Preparation Strategy

1. Time Pressure Training

You do not have the luxury of dwelling on difficult questions. You must practice with a timer. Aim to solve Math problems in under a minute and Abstract Reasoning questions in 15 seconds.

2. Do Not Ignore Filipino

Many students focus solely on Math and Science, but the 30-item Filipino section requires deep vocabulary (malalalim na salita at salawikain) and structural grammar knowledge.

3. Master Abstract Manipulation

For the abstract reasoning portion, practice rotating objects in your mind and identifying the next figure in complex sequences.