The CAT EXAM is not just a test of academic knowledge; it is a transformative journey that prepares you for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the world of management. With thorough preparation, dedication, and the right mindset, you can conquer the CAT EXAM and unlock a world of possibilities. Read more career blogs at college49
what does CAT Exam mean?
The CAT EXAM stands for Common Admission Test and is conducted in India.t is a highly competitive entrance examination for admission into prestigious management institutes, including the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). The CAT EXAM is a computer-based test. The scores obtained in the CAT EXAM are considered crucial for admission into management programs. A high CAT score can open doors to excellent career opportunities and lucrative job offers.
The CAT EXAM has a rigorous nature and is known for its high level of competition. To be eligible for the CAT EXAM, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university or educational institution. The minimum aggregate score required is 50% for general category candidates and 45% for reserved categories. Final-year students awaiting their results are also eligible to apply. There is no specific age limit for appearing in the CAT EXAM.
CAT Exam Date
The CAT EXAM is typically held once a year. The exact date of the CAT EXAM can vary from year to year, as it is determined by the conducting authority. The CAT EXAM is usually scheduled during the months of November or December.
To stay updated with the latest information regarding the CAT EXAM, including the specific date for a particular year, it is recommended to visit the official CAT EXAM website or keep an eye on official notifications and announcements from the conducting authority.
Candidates aspiring to appear for the CAT EXAM should regularly check the official website and stay informed about important dates, registration timelines, and other relevant details. It is crucial to adhere to the deadlines and ensure the timely completion of all the required procedures to avoid missing out on the opportunity to take the exam.
CAT Exam Registration
CAT Exam Registration is the process through which candidates apply to appear for the CAT Exam. It is essential for candidates to complete the registration process accurately and within the specified timeline to ensure their eligibility for the CAT Exam. It is advisable to review the official website for an explanation of the CAT Exam Registration process:-
- Official Website
- Registration Period
- Create an Account
- Fill in the Application Form
- Select Test Centers
- Upload Documents
- Pay the Application Fee
- Confirmation and Admit Card
- Adhere to Guideline
- Exam Day
| Events | Upcoming Dates (Expected) |
| Registration | August 2023 |
| Last date of registration | September 2023 |
| Correction form | September 2023 |
| Admit card | October 2023 |
| Mock test | November 2023 |
| Exam | November26,2023 |
| Answer key Challenge | December 2023 |
| Result Declared | December 2023 |
CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for the CAT EXAM are the set of requirements that candidates need to fulfill in order to be eligible to appear for the exam. Here is a detailed explanation of the CAT EXAM eligibility criteria:
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university/institution |
| Minimum Percentage | General category : Minimum 50% aggregate score in the bachelor’s degree |
| Reserved categories (SC, ST, PwD): Minimum 45% aggregate score | |
| Final Year Students | Candidates in their final year of graduation can also apply |
| CGPA Conversion | CGPA must be converted to an equivalent percentage as per university/institution guidelines |
| Age Limit | No specific age limit for appearing in the CAT EXAM |
| Foreign Candidates | Foreign candidates with foreign undergraduate degrees can apply |
| They must fulfill the eligibility criteria set by participating institutes |
CAT Exam syllabus
The CAT Exam syllabus covers various areas to assess the aptitude and skills of candidates. Here’s an overview of the CAT Exam syllabus:
| Subjects | Dtails |
|---|---|
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) | Reading Comprehension, Verbal Reasoning, Vocabulary, Grammar and Usage, Para Jumbles, Sentence Completion, Critical Reasoning, |
| Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) | Tables, Bar Graphs, Line Charts, Pie Charts, Caselets, Data Sufficiency, Data Arrangement, Venn Diagrams, Clocks and Calendars, Seating Arrangement, Blood Relations, Syllogisms |
| Quantitative Ability (QA) | Number Systems, Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration, Probability, Permutation, and Combination, Time, Speed, Distance, Time and Work, Percentages, Profit and Loss, Ratio and Proportion |
It is advisable for candidates to refer to the official CAT Exam website or the information provided by the conducting authority for a detailed and comprehensive syllabus. Additionally, it is recommended to study from reliable and recommended CAT preparation materials to ensure thorough coverage of the syllabus.
CAT Exam Cut Off
It’s important to note that CAT Exam Cut Offs can vary each year based on multiple factors. Candidates are advised to regularly check the official websites of the participating institutes for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding cut-offs and selection criteria. Achieving a score above the cut-off is crucial to increase the chances of securing admission to desired management programs.
| Institute | General Category | OBC Category | SC Category | ST Category |
| IIM Ahmedabad | 99.5 | 97.5 | 90 | 85 |
| IIM Bangalore | 99.3 | 97 | 89 | 84 |
| IIM Calcutta | 99 | 96.5 | 88 | 83 |
| IIM Lucknow | 98.5 | 96 | 87 | 82 |
| IIM Indore | 98 | 95.5 | 86 | 81 |
| XLRI Jamshedpur | 97.5 | 95 | 85 | 80 |
| FMS Delhi | 97 | 94.5 | 84 | 79 |
| SPJIMR Mumbai | 96.5 | 94 | 83 | 78 |
| MDI Gurgaon | 96 | 93.5 | 82 | 77 |
| IIFT Delhi | 95.5 | 93 | 81 | 76 |
The cut-off scores can vary from year to year and institute to institute. Candidates should refer to the official websites of the participating institutes for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the CAT Exam Cut Offs.
CAT Exam Tips
- Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the CAT Exam Pattern, including the number of sections, duration, and marking scheme. This will help you plan your preparation effectively.
- Create a Study Plan: Develop a well-structured study plan that covers all the sections of the CAT Exam. Allocate specific time for each topic and ensure regular practice.
- Focus on Basics: Build a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts of Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability, and Logical Reasoning. Strengthen your understanding of key topics and practice-related questions.
- Time Management: Time management is crucial during the exam. Practice solving questions within the stipulated time limit to improve your speed and accuracy.
- Mock Tests and Practice Papers: Take regular mock tests and solve previous years’ question papers. This will familiarize you with the exam format, improve your time management skills, and identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Sectional Preparation: Devote sufficient time to each section. Identify your weak areas and work on improving them. Practice different types of questions to enhance your problem-solving skills.
- Learn from Mistakes: Analyze your mock test performance and learn from your mistakes. Understand the concepts you struggled with and revise them thoroughly.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Stay updated with current affairs and read newspapers or magazines regularly. This will help you improve your reading comprehension and stay informed about the latest events.
- Regular Revision: Schedule regular revision sessions to consolidate your learning. Revise important formulas, vocabulary, and shortcuts to keep them fresh in your mind.
- Stay Positive and Confident: Believe in yourself and stay positive throughout your preparation journey. Confidence plays a vital role in performing well in the exam.
Recommended Books for CAT Exam:
- “How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT” by Arun Sharma
- “Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT” by Nishit Sinha
- “Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT” by Nishit Sinha
- “Word Power Made Easy” by Norman Lewis
- “A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning” by R.S. Aggarwal
- “Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations” by R.S. Aggarwal
- “High School English Grammar & Composition” by Wren & Martin
- “How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for the CAT” by Arun Sharma
- “How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT” by Arun Sharma
- “The Pearson Guide to Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning for the CAT” by Nishit K. Sinha.
- Remember, these are just a few recommendations, and there are many other books and study materials available. Choose the ones that suit your learning style and complement your preparation strategy.
CAT Exam question papers
To prepare effectively for the CAT Exam, it is essential to practice solving previous years’ question papers and follow a well-rounded preparation strategy. Here’s a guide to accessing CAT Exam question papers and preparing for the exam:
- Official CAT Website: Visit the official CAT Exam website (iimcat.ac.in) to access official resources and question papers. The website provides information on exam updates, notifications, and links to previous years’ question papers.
- Coaching Institutes and Study Material: Many coaching institutes and online platforms offer CAT preparation materials, including question papers from previous years. These resources can be valuable in understanding the exam pattern and gaining exposure to different types of questions.
- Online Platforms and Forums: Explore online platforms and CAT preparation forums where aspirants share their experiences and provide access to question papers. These platforms may have downloadable question papers or links to external sources.
- Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests to simulate the actual exam environment. Several online portals offer CAT mock tests that closely resemble the exam pattern. Analyze your performance in these tests to identify areas of improvement.
CAT Exam Pattern & Test Structure 2023
| Section | Number of Questions | Duration (in minutes) |
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 34 | 60 |
| Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 32 | 60 |
| Quantitative Ability (QA) | 34 | 60 |
| Total | 100 | 180 |
Note: The number of questions and duration mentioned in the table are subject to change as per the official CAT Exam notification for the year 2023. Candidates are advised to refer to the official CAT Exam website or the information provided by the conducting authority for the most accurate and up-to-date details regarding the exam pattern and test structure.
CAT 2023 Exam Highlights
Here are the highlights of CAT 2023 for MBA aspirants who are planning to appear for the exam this year. Take a look at the table below:
| CAT Exam Particulars | CAT 2023 Details |
| CAT Full Form | Common Admission Test (CAT) |
| Conducting Institute | IIM Bangalore |
| Exam Frequency | Once a year |
| CAT Exam Date | November 26, 2023 |
| CAT Exam Timings | Session 1: 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM Session 2: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM Session 3: 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM |
| CAT Exam Fees | INR 2,300 (General category) and INR 1,150 (Reserved category) |
| Eligibility Criteria | Graduation with 50% aggregate (45% for SC/ST students) |
| Courses Offered | MBA/PGDM |
| CAT syllabus | Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)Quantitative Ability (QA) |
| CAT pattern | Computer Based Test (CBT) with MCQs and non-MCQs |
| No. of test cities | 150 |
| CAT exam website | https://iimcat.ac.in |
| Exam helpdesk no. | 1-800-210-1088 (Toll Free) |
1. What is the CAT Exam?
The CAT (Common Admission Test) is a national-level management entrance exam conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for admission to various postgraduate management programs.
2. Who is eligible to appear for the CAT Exam?
Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum percentage as specified by the participating institutes. There is no age limit or specific stream requirement.
3. How can I register for the CAT Exam?
To register for the CAT Exam, candidates need to visit the official CAT website and complete the online registration process. They need to provide personal details, academic information, upload required documents, and pay the registration fee as applicable.
4. How is the CAT Exam scored?
The CAT Exam is scored on a percentile basis. Each correct answer carries a specific score, while there is a penalty for incorrect answers (negative marking). The raw scores are then converted into percentiles, indicating the candidate’s performance relative to other test-taker
5. What is the validity of CAT Exam scores?
The CAT Exam scores are generally valid for one year. The scores obtained in a particular year can be used for admissions to management programs in that year or the subsequent year, as specified by the participating institutes.
6. How can I prepare for the CAT Exam?
Effective CAT Exam preparation involves understanding the exam pattern, and syllabus, and focusing on regular practice. Candidates should solve previous years’ question papers, take mock tests, study relevant books, and utilize online resources. It is also recommended to enroll in a coaching program or seek guidance from mentors for structured preparation.
7. What are the top B-Schools that accept CAT scores?
CAT scores are accepted by various prestigious B-Schools across India, including the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), Management Development Institute (MDI), Xavier School of Management (XLRI), and many more. The list of participating institutes is updated each year, and candidates should refer to the official CAT website for complete and updated information
