Associate Content Manager | Updated On - Apr 10, 2024
CAT Latest Notifications
CAT, full form Common Admission Test, is conducted by the IIMs, the premier b-schools of India, for admission to the MBA programs. The exam takes place every year on the last Sunday of November. Continuing with this trend, IIM will conduct CAT 2024 exam on November 24, 2024 in 3 slots.
MBA admission through CAT is a 3 stage process- you appear for the 2-hour long CAT exam, declaration of CAT result and cut offs by the IIMs and other participating colleges, and WAT-PI rounds and final shortlist of eligible candidates. Clearing CAT is not easy, the 66 questions asked in the exam are challenging. Not only is the exam difficult, the competition level is very high with more than 2 lakh students appearing for admission to around 5100 MBA seats in the 21 IIMs. It requires a well-planned and meticulously designed preparation strategy of at least 3-4 months to get to the 90+ percentile range.
From the experiences shared by past test-takers with our team, what is even more difficult is getting into the 21 IIMs as the CAT cut off for most of these colleges range from 95-99+ percentile. IIM selection process not only takes into account the CAT scores, but also the past work experience and academic performance.
Well, if you can’t get into the IIMs, you can try in more than 1000 popular MBA colleges in India that accept CAT exam scores for admission. These include the likes of FMS Delhi, IIT Delhi, IIT Madras, IIT Bombay, IMI Delhi, Welingkar Mumbai, IMT Nagpur, GIM Goa, MDI Gurgaon, and SP Jain. IITs have been accepting CAT scores for MBA admissions since 2011.
In this article, find all that you should know about CAT exam and MBA admissions through the exam scores.
Evolution of CAT Exam
CAT exam has its origins in the year 1976 when the Committee of Directors at the 3 IIMs- Calcutta, Bangalore and Ahmedabad started discussions about holding a common test for admission to their management programs. As an outcome of the discussion, the first CAT exam was held in 1977. Since then, a lot has changed and the number of IIMs has substantially increased to 21, IIM Mumbai being the latest addition. Let us look into the evolution of CAT exam since 1977 to what it is today.
Today we know CAT as an online computer-based test. However, this was not the case till 2009 when CAT used to be conducted in pen-paper mode. From 2009-2013, CAT online exam was managed by the firm Prometric after which due to technical inefficiency, the responsibility was transferred to TCS. Tata Consultancy Services is taking care of all the technical arrangements till date.
CAT continued as a 100 question examination for more than a decade until 2020, when significant changes were introduced in CAT exam pattern owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, the number of questions were reduced to just 76 and the time duration to 2 hours. This was further reduced to 66 questions in 2021 and the same is in force today. As a result, CAT 2024 comprises 66 questions to be attempted in 2 hours.
Check CAT Previous Year Question Papers
CAT 2024 Exam Date and Notification
Interestingly, CAT is not conducted by one particular IIM. Every year, CAT is conducted on a rotational basis by one of the 6 older IIMs, namely, IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, IIM Indore, IIM Lucknow, and IIM Kozhikode. This year, it is highly likely that IIM Calcutta will be conducting CAT 2024. Last year, IIM Lucknow was responsible for conducting CAT 2023.
CAT notification and press release for the 2024 exam will be released in the last week of July 2024. The schedule of CAT exam is very predictable due to similar trends in the last few years. So, you can expect CAT 2024 notification by July 31, 2024, CAT registration to begin from August 2 or 3, the exam to be held on November 24, and the result to be announced by the last week of December 2024.
CAT 2024 Eligibility Criteria for Gen/ SC/ ST/ OBC
Anyone with a graduation in any stream or discipline with minimum 50% marks (45% for the SC/ ST/ PwD category) can apply for CAT exam. There is neither an age cap nor a restriction on the number of attempts given previously. For those who are appearing for the last semester exams this year or are awaiting the final results can also apply. However, for such candidates, documents proving the aforesaid CAT eligibility norms have to be submitted prior to the admission deadlines.
CAT 2024: Number of Students Registered and Appeared
CAT 2024 will see around 3.4 lakh registered students. Last year, we saw a jump of 30% from 2022. 3.28 lakh students registered for CAT 2023 out of which 2.88 lakh gave the exam. In the last 2 decades, never have all the registered students appeared for CAT. On an average, 87-88% registered students give CAT every year. So, for 2024, it is expected that around 3 lakh students will give the CAT exam for MBA.
CAT 2024 Registration, Application Form Details
Registration for the CAT exam is simple. The entire process of registering for CAT is online starting from new candidate profile creation to application fee payment. You will be provided with the CAT 2024 application form link on iimcat.ac.in in the month of August.
IIM CAT application form will prompt you to fill in your personal, past work experience and academic details followed by the uploading of the scanned images of your recent photograph and signature. CAT 2024 will be conducted in 155 cities across India. You have to provide your 6 preferred cities of examination in order of preference in the application form. IIM will make all the possible efforts to allot the first preference depending on the availability of the centers.
Applications submitted without the payment of the fees will not be accepted. SC/ ST/ PwD applicants have to pay half the fees paid by the other categories.
CAT 2024 Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme
As informed above, CAT 2024 total questions are 66. Now, let us see how these 66 questions are distributed and what is the CAT exam marking scheme.
| Section | Number of Questions | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Aptitude | 22 | 66 |
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension | 24 | 72 |
| Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation | 20 | 60 |
| Total | 66 | 198 |
Not all questions in CAT are MCQs. The ratio of MCQs to non-MCQs in CAT exam is approximately 3:1. Non-MCQs, also called TITA questions in CAT are the ones for which no answer choices are provided and you are supposed to type in your answer.
Is there negative marking in CAT?: This is a frequently asked query by most CAT aspirants. The answer to this is yes, CAT exam indeed has a negative marking as for every wrong answer, you lose 1 mark.
Good Attempt in CAT
Moving on with addressing another important query of students; how many questions constitute a good attempt in CAT? Ideally, you need to score well in each section of the exam to qualify for admission as IIMs release sectional cut offs. We have provided a detailed expert analysis of how many questions you should aim for in each section. 85-90% accuracy is the key in maintaining your score.
| Section | 90+ Percentile | 95+ Percentile | 99+ Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Aptitude | 8-9 | 10-11 | 11-13 |
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension | 9-10 | 11-12 | 14-15 |
| Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation | 6-7 | 9-10 | 10-11 |
| Total | 23-25 | 28-30 | 35-36 |
Note: What do you mean by CAT percentile? CAT percentile is different from percentage. While percentage is an absolute measure of your scores on a scale of 0-100, CAT percentile is a relative measure of your performance with respect to every other candidate who takes the exam. For example, if your score in CAT exam is 100 out of 198, then your percentage is (100/198)*100, i.e. 50.5%. Comparing your score with other test-takers’ scores, if your score of 100 is more than 95% of the candidates, then your CAT percentile is 95. Check CAT Score vs Percentile
Syllabus for CAT Exam 2024
CAT exam is an aptitude test to test the numerical ability, english language comprehension, and logical deduction abilities of the test-takers. CAT syllabus for VARC, DILR, and Quantitative Aptitude can be checked here.
CAT Paper Analysis: Is CAT a tough exam?
CAT is among the toughest entrance exams in India. Maximum questions are challenging, both conceptually and numerically. The Quant and DI sections are calculation intensive and the RC passages are difficult to comprehend in one read.
If we look at the logical reasoning sets asked in the exam, games and tournaments happen to be the toughest to attempt. Similarly, the Algebra portion in CAT quant is reportedly tougher than Arithmetic and Number System. Check CAT Topic-wise Weightage
Limited time of 40 minutes for each section adds on to the difficulty level. Just memorizing the formulas is not enough to manage time and efficiency on the exam date. It is important to check out for the shortcut methods and tricks through online youtube channels of top institutes and coachings for gaining a competitive edge.
Check CAT Paper Analysis of Previous Years
How to Prepare for CAT 2024?
There is no sureshot strategy to prepare for CAT and get a guaranteed 99+ percentile. Based on the overall reviews and strategies shared by the toppers and experts, there are however a few insights that should not be missed.
Quantitative Aptitude- Being calculation intensive, Quant preparation for CAT requires regular practice. Arun Sharma and Nishit K Sinha CAT books are a must irrespective of whether your math is strong or weak. Arithmetic topics of focus are p&l, time & speed, work & time, SI/ CI, mixtures, averages and percentages.
Logical Reasoning- Practice is the key to preparing for CAT logical reasoning. Over the years, 4 types of sets have gained prominence in CAT. These include Games and Tournaments, Arrangements, Team Formation, and Blood Relations. Devote maximum time on practicing questions from these topics from previous year papers, online quizzes, reference books, and coaching center materials.
Data Interpretation- Like the LR section, DI is also practice-based. The more you practice, the higher the chances of scoring good. Particularly recommended is solving diverse questions of varying difficulty. Many experts suggest starting with the PYQs of the last 4 years to get hold of the question solving strategy.
Reading Comprehension- Regarded by many as the most challenging part of CAT, preparation for attempting RCs with 100% accuracy is not easy. Moreover, RCs have the highest weightage in CAT exam with 16 questions. The best way to be prepared for answering the reading comprehension questions is to solve all the passages asked in the last 10-15 years. Reading speed plays a vital role, so make it a habit to read at least 2-3 articles online.
Verbal Ability- This part is dominated by 3 types of questions- parajumbles, para completion, and para summary. The best strategy for these is to first check 15-20 solved examples. This provided the idea of how to approach these questions.
Mock Tests and PYQs- Do not miss out on CAT mock tests and PYQs at any cost. Without attempting previous year papers and mock tests, your chances of getting a high percentile score are low. Solving previous year CAT question papers of at least 5-6 years are unavoidable.
Download Free CAT Study Material
Topper Tips for CAT 2024 Preparation
First hand experience of CAT toppers is the best source of gathering inputs for preparation. Here we share what the toppers in CAT exam previous years have to say about the strategy and exam day management.
Nikhil Jha CAT 2023 99.99 Percentile- ‘I first attempted a mock test to get hold of the paper structure and then accordingly devised a study plan. This helps in clear strategy planning and execution. For the VARC section, I preferred to join T.I.M.E coaching institute for regular practice.’
Aditya Singh CAT 2022 99.9 Percentile recalls applying the BANET principle for eliminating the incorrect options while attempting the RC passages. BANET stands for Broad in relation to the question, Alien to the passage, Narrow to the passage, Extreme in relation to the author's view, True to the passage but not the question.
Parul Arora CAT 2022 99.93 Percentile narrates her experience with the CAT exam emphasizing the importance of PYQs and mock tests in getting a high score. ‘Spending 2-3 hours on the analysis of the mocks is equally important’, says Parul. She highly recommends joining a coaching institute to be regular in preparation.
CAT 2024 Cut off for IIM
Often, students get confused with what constitutes CAT cut off for IIM. This is primarily due to 2 types of cutoffs released by the IIMs. First, the IIMs announce the qualifying cut off for CAT which makes you eligible for applying at the institute. Then, based on the applications and selection parameters, IIMs release the shortlist. The percentile of the shortlisted candidates constitutes the final CAT Cut off for IIMs. The final CAT Cut off is way higher than the qualifying percentile.
| IIM | Qualifying Cut off | Final Cut off |
|---|---|---|
| IIM Ahmedabad | 80 | 99+ |
| IIM Bangalore | 85 | 99+ |
| IIM Kozhikode | 85 | 98+ |
| IIM Calcutta | 85 | 99+ |
| IIM Lucknow | 90 | 98+ |
| IIM Mumbai | 85 | 97+ |
| IIM Indore | 90 | 97+ |
| IIM Raipur | 92 | 94+ |
| IIM Rohtak | 95 | 95+ |
| IIM Udaipur | 92 | 92+ |
CAT 2024: IIM Admission Process
Admission criteria for IIMs goes beyond the CAT score. Other parameters like work experience, graduation and class 12th /10th marks, gender & academic profile (engineering/ non-engineering) play a significant role. Make sure you are aware of the admission criteria of each IIM before applying.
CAT is the top choice among MBA aspirants when it comes to management entrance exams in India. It is the only gateway to MBA in IIMs. If you also dream of getting into one of the IIMs, then make sure you stay updated with all the details of CAT exam. You can find all the latest updates and news related to the CAT 2024 exam on this page.
CAT 2024 FAQs
Ques. How many attempts are there in CAT 2024 for IIMs?
Ans. There is no age limit to take the CAT 2024 examination. However, you should satisfy the CAT 2024 eligibility criteria i.e. a graduation degree with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for SC/ ST/ PwD) from a recognized university.
Ques. I score 82 percentile in CAT 2023. Can I get admission into any IIMs?
Ans. IIMs have a cutoff generally above the 90 percentile in CAT. With 82 percentile, you can go for other top B-schools in India such as XIME Bangalore, Prin. L N Welingkar Institute of Management Development & Research, Delhi School of Management, etc.
Ques. What is the 80 percentile in CAT?
Ans. 80 percentile in CAT means your overall CAT score is between 36 to 39. To score between 36-39 in CAT, you have to score between 18-20 in the VARC section, 11-13 in the DILR section, and 11-13 in the Quants section.
Ques. When should I start preparing for CAT 2024?
Ans. The ideal time to start preparing for CAT 2024 is from January. This way you’ll have ample amount of time to practice and take CAT 2024 Mock Tests. Students also start their preparation in May or June.
Ques. Which IIM sets the toughest CAT paper?
Ans. As per the analysis, CAT 2023, conducted by IIM Lucknow, was the toughest of all the CAT examinations. Also, the largest number of registrations that took place were during the CAT 2023 exam only.
Ques. Is CAT tougher than GMAT?
Ans. Both CAT and GMAT examinations are moderate to difficult in difficulty level. Yet, GMAT is easier to crack as it has a definite syllabus. You can attempt both CAT and GMAT multiple times.
Ques. What is the cut-off percentile for IIM Ahmedabad?
Ans. The cut-off for IIM Ahmedabad ranges between 99.5 to 99.8. If you have a good background, like 80+ percentage in class 10th, class 12th, and graduation, then 99.5+ is a decent percentile to get an interview call from IIM Ahmedabad.
Ques. I belong to the NC- OBC category. How much reservation will I get in CAT 2024?
Ans. CAT provides category-wise reservations to its candidates. For an NC-OBC candidate, CAT provides 27% reservation, while for SC and ST candidates, the reservation percent is 15 and 7.5 respectively.
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
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The CAT 2024 exam is scheduled to take place on November 24, 2024, in three sessions at more than 400 exam centres across 137 Indian cities. The first week of August 2024 is anticipated to be the start of registration, which will conclude in the third or fourth week of September 2024.
In order to get ready for the CAT exam, you can:
Yes. You are eligible to apply for MBA. You can apply to top B-School by appearing for the CAT exam. Eligibility for CAT is Graduates with 50% marks can apply and there is no age limit.
Please check the link for CAT question paper 2023 https://collegedunia.com/exams/cat/question-paper-2023
To prepare effectively for the Common Admission Test (CAT), which is one of India’s most challenging entrance exams for management programs, follow these essential steps:
Understand the Exam Structure and Syllabus:
Assess Your Current Knowledge Level:
Build a Theoretical Foundation:
Practice and Mock Tests:
Review Past Years’ Papers:
The CAT 2023 question paper is available for download on Collegedunia. CAT 2023 was conducted on November 26, 2023, in three shifts. You can find the question paper for slot 1, slot 2, and slot 3 along with the answer key and solutions.
You can access the CAT 2023 question paper and solutions using the following links:
With a 59% overall score in CAT, you still have options for admission to management colleges. While some top-tier institutes may have stringent cutoffs, many other reputable B-schools consider candidates with slightly lower scores. Research colleges and their cutoffs, apply to a mix of institutions, and highlight your strengths in your application. Prepare for group discussions and personal interviews. Consider work experience if you have any. Dropping a year is a significant decision; weigh the pros and cons carefully. Consult a career counselor for personalized advice. Remember that CAT scores are just one aspect of your profile; your overall application, including academic background, extracurriculars, and interview performance, plays a crucial role. Evaluate your options, stay positive, and make an informed decision.
The time required to crack the Common Admission Test (CAT) varies based on individual circumstances and dedication. Here are some general guidelines:
Average Student:
Starting from Scratch:
Consistent Effort:
Expert Strategies:
In summary, allocate at least 6 months for focused CAT preparation. Customize your study plan based on your strengths, weaknesses, and available time.
Based on the information you’ve provided, here’s the eligibility assessment for CAT:
Educational Qualification:
CAT Percentile:
You meet the educational qualification requirements.
Conclusion: Yes, you are eligible to apply for CAT.
With your 77 percentile in CAT and an NMAT score of 217, you have several options for MBA colleges. Let’s explore some of the top colleges you can consider based on your scores:
Colleges Accepting CAT 70-80 Percentile:
Colleges Accepting NMAT Scores:
Other Considerations:
With a CAT percentile of 86.68 and the specified sectional cutoffs, you have several options for MBA colleges, including some IITs. Let’s explore both the IITs and other reputable B-schools where you can consider applying:
IITs offer MBA courses based on CAT scores. Here are some IITs you can consider:
Additionally, IISc Bangalore provides a Master of Management program.
Apart from IITs, consider applying to other top B-schools that accept CAT scores. Some recommendations include:
With a CAT percentile of 85.4, you have several options for MBA colleges, including some IIMs and other reputable B-schools. Let’s explore both:
IIMs:
Other Reputable B-Schools:
Apart from IIMs, consider applying to other top B-schools that accept CAT scores:
With your CAT percentile of 85.4, you are eligible to apply for admission to several IIMs (Indian Institutes of Management). Let’s explore the eligibility criteria and some IIMs where you can consider applying:
IIM Eligibility Criteria:
IIMs Accepting CAT Scores:
Application Process:
You can find previous year CAT question papers on Collegedunia. Here are the available question papers:
These question papers will help you practice and prepare effectively for the CAT exam.
CAT does not have any specific eligibility criteria regarding work experience. You are free to fill out the form and write the exam, even if you have a 1-year gap in work experience. Whether or not your work experience will be counted depends on the specific admission criteria of the B-schools you apply to. Some B-schools give weightage to candidates with quality work experience in their respective fields. It’s essential to check the admission policies of the individual colleges you are interested in.
We do not have information about coaching classes for CAT preparation but you can check here to get some preparation tips for CAT exam. CAT Preparation
You may check here to see the previous years’ question papers for CAT. CAT 2023 Question Paper
You can check the official website of the college to know about fee detail as fee often vary from college to college. IIM Fee Structure in top IIMs for MBA ranges from INR 15,00,000 to INR 28,00,000.
The CAT result 2023 will be available only at the official website of IIMCAT for download. Test takers will be able to check their result and download the scorecard by using their CAT login IDs.
The class schedule and the mode of education completely depends on the college you get. You can check the official website of the college to know about fee details as well as the class schedule.