We study the [Formula: see text] cosmological models under the self-similarity hypothesis. We determine the exact form that each physical and geometrical quantity may take in order that the field equations (FE) admit exact self-similar (SS) solutions through the matter collineation approach. We study two models: the case [Formula: see text] and the case [Formula: see text]. In each case, we state general theorems which determine completely the form of the unknown functions [Formula: see text] such that the FE admit SS solutions. We also state some corollaries as limiting cases. These results are quite general and valid for any homogeneous SS metric[Formula: see text] In this way, we are able to generate new cosmological scenarios. As examples, we study two cases by finding exact solutions to these particular models.