CAT Exam 2024: Dates, Pattern, Syllabus, Tips, Eligibility, and Resources

CAT Exam Introduction:

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national-level management entrance exam conducted annually by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM). It is a gateway for admission to postgraduate management programs in various prestigious B-schools across India. The CAT exam assesses a candidate's quantitative ability, verbal ability, reading comprehension, data interpretation, and logical reasoning skills. This exam is crucial for aspirants aiming for a career in management and business administration.

Who should take it?

• Graduates aspiring to pursue MBA or PGDM programs.
• Working professionals seeking career advancement in management

CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria 2024:

Educational Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Must hold a recognised undergraduate degree from a university or institution.
• Minimum Marks: Typically requires at least 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST/PWD candidates).
• Final-Year Students: Eligible to apply, provided they complete their degree by the specified date.

Age Limit:

• No Upper Age Limit: There is no maximum age limit for appearing in the CAT exam.

Citizenship:

• Indian Nationals: Eligible.
• International Students: May apply if they meet the specific criteria of the participating institutes.

Work Experience:

• Not Mandatory: Work experience is not a requirement for eligibility but may be considered during the selection process by some institutes.

General Requirements:

• Regular Academic Records: Consistent academic performance is preferred, though not a strict requirement.
• Completion of All Requirements: Ensure all educational and professional qualifications are completed before the start of the program.

Other Considerations: Institute-Specific Requirements: Some participating institutes may have additional eligibility criteria, so it’s advisable to check the specific requirements of the institutes you are interested in.

CAT Exam Reservation Policy 2024:

Reservation Categories and Percentages

1. Scheduled Castes (SC) - Reservation: 15%
2. Scheduled Tribes (ST)- Reservation: 7.5%
3. Other Backward Classes - Non-Creamy Layer (OBC-NCL)- Reservation: 27%
4. Economically Weaker Sections (EWS)- Reservation: 10%
5. Persons with Disabilities (PwD)- Reservation: 5%
6. The PwD category includes:

1. • Low vision/blindness
   • Hearing impairment
   • Locomotor disability/cerebral palsy
   • Other disabilities specified by the Government of India

Key Points:

1. Document Verification

1. • Candidates seeking reservation under any category must upload valid certificates as per the format provided by the Government of India.
   • These documents will be verified during the interview/admission process.
     
     

2. Eligibility Criteria

2. • The eligibility criteria for each category must be met as defined by the Government of India.
   • Candidates must ensure they fall under the specified categories and possess the necessary documents to prove their eligibility.
     
     

3. Seat Allocation

3. • The seat allocation process in IIMs and other participating institutes follows the above reservation percentages.
   • The final admission is subject to the candidate meeting the qualifying cut-offs and other admission criteria set by individual institutes.
     
     

4. Category-wise Cut-off

4. • Different IIMs may have different cut-off percentiles for each reserved category.
   • Candidates must check the specific cut-off for their category and the respective IIMs they are applying to.
     
     

5. Special Provisions for PwD Candidates

5. • Extra time or scribe assistance may be provided during the CAT exam for eligible PwD candidates, as per the guidelines.

Steps to Apply for Reservation:

1. Select Category

1. • While filling out the CAT application form, select the appropriate reservation category (SC, ST, OBC-NCL, EWS, or PwD).
     
     

2. Upload Certificates

2. • Upload the necessary certificates in the prescribed format during the application process.
   • Ensure the certificates are valid and up-to-date as per government norms.
     
     

3. Verification

3. • Be prepared for document verification during the admission process at the respective IIMs or other institutes.
     
     

4. Comply with Guidelines

4. • Follow any additional guidelines provided by the exam authorities or the individual IIMs regarding reservation policies.

CAT Exam Highlights 2024:

CAT Exam Important Dates 2024:

• CAT 2024 Registration Start Date: August 2024
• CAT 2024 Registration End Date: September 2024
• CAT 2024 Late Registration Period: Late September 2024 (with additional fees)
• CAT 2024 Admit Card Release Date: October 2024
• CAT 2024 Exam Date: November 2024 (Exact date to be announced)
• CAT 2024 Result Declaration: January 2025
• CAT 2024 Scorecard Download: January 2025
• Selection Process for IIMs and Other Institutes: February - April 2025 (Varies by institute)
• Final Admission List Release: May - June 2025 (Varies by institute)

CAT Exam Syllabus 2024:

1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

• Reading Comprehension
  • Passages
  • Questions based on passages
• Verbal Ability
  • Para-jumbles
  • Para-summary
  • Sentence completion
  • Sentence correction
  • Odd sentence out

2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

• Data Interpretation
  • Graphs (Bar, Line, Pie)
  • Tables
  • Charts
  • Venn Diagrams
  • Caselets
• Logical Reasoning
  • Seating Arrangement
  • Puzzles
  • Blood Relations
  • Syllogisms
  • Direction Sense
  • Logical Sequences
  • Assumptions and Conclusions
  • Binary Logic

3. Quantitative Ability (QA)

• Arithmetic
  • Percentages
  • Profit and Loss
  • Interest (Simple and Compound)
  • Time, Speed, and Distance
  • Time and Work
  • Ratio and Proportion
  • Averages
  • Mixtures and Allegations
• Algebra
  • Linear Equations
  • Quadratic Equations
  • Inequalities
  • Progressions (AP, GP, HP)
  • Functions
  • Logarithms
• Geometry
  • Lines and Angles
  • Triangles
  • Circles
  • Polygons
  • Coordinate Geometry
  • Mensuration
• Number Systems
  • Divisibility
  • Factors
  • Multiples
  • Remainders
  • HCF and LCM
• Modern Mathematics
  • Permutations and Combinations
  • Probability
  • Set Theory
  • Venn Diagrams

CAT Exam Pattern 2024:

• Number of papers/sections: Three sections - VARC, DILR, and QA
• Types of questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and non-MCQs
• Duration of each paper/section: 40 minutes per section
• Marking scheme: +3 for correct answers, -1 for incorrect answers (for MCQs)
• Cutoff for IIMs: Varies each year, but generally above 90 percentile for top IIMs

Number of Papers/Sections

The CAT exam consists of three sections:

1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
3. Quantitative Ability (QA)

Types of Questions

• Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): These questions have four options, and the candidate must select the correct answer.
• Non-MCQs (TITA - Type in the Answer): These questions require the candidate to type the answer using the on-screen keyboard.

Duration of Each Paper/Section

• Total Exam Duration: 120 minutes (2 hours)
• Duration per Section: 40 minutes

Marking Scheme

• MCQs:
  • Correct Answer: +3 marks
  • Incorrect Answer: -1 mark
• Non-MCQs:
  • Correct Answer: +3 marks
  • No negative marking for incorrect answers

Cutoff for IIMs

The cutoff percentile for IIMs varies each year and depends on various factors such as the difficulty level of the exam, number of candidates appearing, and the number of available seats. Generally, top IIMs like IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, and IIM Calcutta have cutoffs above the 90 percentile, often nearing the 99 percentile for general category candidates. The cutoff is typically lower for reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC/PwD).

CAT Exam Strategies 2024

• Time Management: Allocate time wisely across sections. Practice time-bound tests.
• Question Analysis: Identify and attempt easier questions first. Do not spend too much time on any one question.
• Practice Exams: Regularly take mock exams and analyse your performance to identify weak areas.

Health and Well-being

• Sleep: Ensure 7-8 hours of sleep daily to stay refreshed and focused.
• Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein.
• Stress Management: Practice meditation, exercise regularly, and take short breaks to manage stress.

Day of the Exam

• Morning Routine: Have a light breakfast, stay hydrated, and review key formulas or notes.
• What to Bring: Admit card, valid ID proof, and necessary stationery.
• Mindset: Stay calm, confident, and focused. Avoid last-minute cramming.

Post-Exam Tips

• Review: Analyse your performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Next Steps: Relax, and then start preparing for the next phase, be it interviews or further studies.

Exam Success

Achieving success in the CAT exam requires dedication, consistent practice, and effective time management. Utilising the right resources and strategies can significantly enhance your chances of securing admission to a top management institute.

CAT Exam Preparation 2024:

Preparation Tips

1. Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus
   
   

1. • Exam Pattern:
     • Three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA).
     • Each section is timed separately (40 minutes per section).
     • Types of questions: MCQs and non-MCQs.
       
       
   • Syllabus:
     • VARC: Reading comprehension, para-jumbles, sentence completion, etc.
     • DILR: Graphs, tables, puzzles, seating arrangements, etc.
     • QA: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems, etc.
       
       

2. Create a Study Plan

2. • Allocate specific times for each section based on your strengths and weaknesses.
   • Set daily, weekly, and monthly goals.
   • Include regular breaks to avoid burnout.
     
     

3. Use Quality Study Material

3. • Refer to standard books like Arun Sharma's series for QA, VARC, and DILR.
   • Use online resources and apps like BYJU'S, Unacademy, and Khan Academy.
   • Practice with previous years’ CAT papers and mock tests.
     
     

4. Join Coaching Classes (if needed)

4. • Consider joining reputed coaching institutes like TIME, IMS, or Career Launcher if you need structured guidance.
     
     

5. Regular Practice and Mock Tests

5. • Take regular mock tests to simulate exam conditions.
   • Analyse your performance in each mock test to identify areas of improvement.
     
   • Practise sectional tests to strengthen specific areas.
     
     

6. Time Management

6. • Practice managing time effectively during your study sessions and mock tests.
   • Focus on speed and accuracy.
   • Develop strategies for time allocation in each section during the exam.
     
     

7. Work on Weak Areas

7. • Identify and focus on your weak areas.
   • Seek help from mentors, teachers, or peers if you find certain topics challenging.
     
     

8. Stay Updated

8. • Keep yourself updated with current affairs, especially for the VARC section.
   • Read newspapers, magazines, and online articles regularly

9 Online courses:

• Byju's CAT preparation course
• Unacademy CAT prep classes

10. Best Coaching Centres in India for CAT

• T.I.M.E.
• IMS
• Career Launcher
• Byju's
• Unacademy

Books for CAT Exam 2024: -

CAT Exam Application Process 2024:

• Visit the Official CAT Website:

• Go to the official CAT exam website where the application form is available.
• Register Online:

• Create an Account: Click on the registration link and provide your personal details to create an account.
• Log In: Use your registered email ID and password to log in.
• Fill Out the Application Form:

• Personal Details: Enter your name, contact information, and other personal details.
• Educational Qualifications: Provide details about your academic background.
• Work Experience: Mention your work experience, if applicable.
• Upload Required: Documents:Photograph: Upload a scanned copy of your recent photograph, Signature: Upload a scanned copy of your signature.
• Choose Your Exam centre:Select your preferred test city from the available options.
• Pay the Application Fee:

• For General Category: The fee is approximately ₹2,300.
• For SC/ST/PWD Category: The fee is approximately ₹1,150.
• Payment Mode: Pay online using a credit/debit card or net banking.
• Review and Submit:

• Check Details: Review all the information you’ve entered to ensure accuracy.
• Submit: Click on the submit button to finalise your application.
• Download and Print Confirmation:

• Confirmation Page: Download and print the confirmation page for your records.
• Check for Updates:

• Admit Card Release: Regularly check the official website for updates on admit card release and other important notifications.

CAT Exam Documentation Process 2024:

1. Personal Details: Ensure you have your personal identification details ready, such as your full name, date of birth, and contact information.
   
   
2. Educational Qualifications: Collect your academic certificates and mark sheets. This includes:

• • • Bachelor’s degree or provisional certificate
    • Mark sheets for all semesters/years
    • Certificates of any additional qualifications (if applicable)
      
      

3. Work Experience: If applicable, gather documents related to your work experience, including:

• • • Experience certificates
    • Employment letters
    • Pay slips
      
      

4. Scanned Copies of Photograph and Signature:

• • Photograph:
    • Take a recent passport-sized photograph (typically 30mm x 45mm).
    • Ensure the photograph is in JPEG format, with the recommended size (usually between 20KB to 50KB).
  • Signature:
    • Sign on a white paper in blue or black ink.
    • Scan the signature and save it as a JPEG file (usually between 10KB to 30KB).
      
      

5. Online Registration:

• • Visit the Official CAT Website: Navigate to the official CAT exam website for the application process.
  • Create an Account: Register by providing your basic personal information to create a user account.
    
    

6. Fill Out the Application Form:

• • Enter Personal Details: Input your name, date of birth, gender, contact information, and address.
  • Educational Details: Provide information about your academic qualifications. Upload scanned copies of your degree certificates and mark sheets.
  • Work Experience: If applicable, enter your work experience details and upload relevant documents.
    
    

7. Upload Documents:

• • Photograph: Upload the scanned photograph as per the specifications provided.
  • Signature: Upload the scanned signature as per the guidelines.
    
    

8. Choose Exam centre:

• • Select your preferred test city from the available options.
    
    

9. Payment of Application Fee:

• • General Category Fee: Approximately ₹2,300.
  • SC/ST/PWD Category Fee: Approximately ₹1,150.
  • Payment Mode: Complete the payment using a credit/debit card or net banking. Ensure the transaction is successful and get a receipt.
    
    

10. Review Application:

• • Verify Details: Double-check all entered details and uploaded documents for accuracy.
  • Make Corrections: If necessary, correct any errors before final submission.
    
    

11. Submit Application:

• • Final Submission: Submit your application form online after ensuring all details and documents are correctly filled and uploaded.
    
    

12. Download Confirmation Page:

• • Save and Print: After submission, download and print the confirmation page for your records.
    
    

13. Monitor Updates:

• • Admit Card Release: Check the official CAT website regularly for updates on admit card availability and other important notifications.

CAT Exam Registration 2024:

Important Dates:

• Registration Start Date: Typically in August
• Registration End Date: Usually in September
• Correction Window: A short period in September

Registration Process

• Step 1: Visit the Official Website
  • Go to https://iimcat.ac.in.
    
    
• Step 2: Create a Profile
  • Click on the 'New Candidate Registration' link.
  • Enter your name, date of birth, email address, and mobile number.
  • Receive and verify your User ID and Password via email/SMS.
    
    
• Step 3: Log In
  • Use the User ID and Password to log in to the portal.
    
    
• Step 4: Fill the Application Form
  • Personal Details: Name, date of birth, category, nationality.
  • Academic Details: Educational qualifications (10th, 12th, graduation, and post-graduation details).
  • Work Experience: Details of any professional work experience.
    
    
• Step 5: Select Programs and IIMs
  • Choose the IIM programs you wish to apply for.
  • Select test cities in order of preference.
    
    
• Step 6: Upload Documents
  • Photograph: Recent passport-sized photograph (within specified dimensions and size).
  • Signature: Scanned signature (within specified dimensions and size).
  • Other Documents: Category certificate (if applicable), PwD certificate (if applicable).
    
    
• Step 7: Pay Application Fee
  • General/EWS/OBC Candidates: Approx. INR 2300
  • SC/ST/PwD Candidates: Approx. INR 1150
  • Payment can be made online via credit card, debit card, net banking, or UPI.
    
    
• Step 8: Submit Application
  • Review the filled application form.
  • Click on the 'Submit' button.

Post-Registration:

• Confirmation: Receive a confirmation email and SMS upon successful submission.
• Application Form Printout: Take a printout of the completed application form for future reference.

Correction Window:

• Edit Details: During the correction window, you can edit certain details such as photograph, signature, and test city preferences.

Important Tips:

• Early Registration: Register early to avoid last-minute issues.
• Accurate Details: Ensure all details are accurate and match your official documents.
• Document Specifications: Follow the guidelines for uploading documents to avoid rejections.

CAT Exam Admit Card 2024:

1. Release Date: The CAT 2024 admit card is typically released in October. The exact date will be announced on the official CAT website.

2. How to Download the Admit Card:

Step 1: Visit the Official CAT Website

• Go to the official CAT website (https://iimcat.ac.in).

Step 2: Log In

• Click on the 'Login' button.
• Enter your CAT User ID and Password.

Step 3: Access the Admit Card

• After logging in, you will see a link to download the admit card.
• Click on the 'Download Admit Card' link.

Step 4: Download and Print

• Your CAT 2024 admit card will be displayed on the screen.
• Download the admit card and take a printout. Ensure the printout is clear and all details are visible.

3. Details Mentioned on the Admit Card

• Candidate’s Name
• CAT Registration Number
• Date of Birth
• Category
• Test Day Instructions
• Photograph and Signature
• Exam Date and Time
• Exam Centre Address
• Emergency Contact Number

4. Important Instructions

• Verify Details: Check all the details on the admit card. If there are any discrepancies, contact the CAT help desk immediately.
• Photo ID: Along with the admit card, carry a valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License).
• Reporting Time: Reach the exam centre at least an hour before the reporting time mentioned on the admit card.
• Prohibited Items: Do not carry any electronic gadgets, calculators, watches, or any other prohibited items to the exam centre.
• COVID-19 Guidelines: Follow the COVID-19 guidelines (if applicable) as specified by the exam authorities.

5. Common Issues and Solutions

• Forgot User ID/Password: Use the ‘Forgot User ID/Password’ link on the login page to retrieve your credentials.
• Browser Issues: Ensure you are using the latest version of your browser. Clear your cache and cookies if you face any issues.
• Printing Problems: Make sure the printer has enough ink and the paper is of good quality to avoid any printing issues.

6. Contacting the Helpdesk

If you face any issues while downloading the admit card or find any discrepancies, contact the CAT helpdesk:

• Email: cathelpdesk@iimcat.ac.in
• Phone: The helpline numbers provided on the official website (available during working hours).

CAT Answer Key, Results, Merit List, Cut-off 2024

1. CAT 2024 Answer Key

Release Date:

• The provisional answer key is usually released within a week after the exam date, typically in early December.

How to Download:

1. Visit the Official CAT Website: Go to https://iimcat.ac.in.
2. Log In: Use your CAT User ID and Password to log in.
3. Download Answer Key: Find and click on the link for the "CAT 2024 Answer Key". Download the answer key and the response sheet.

Raising Objections:

• If you find discrepancies or errors in the answer key, you can raise objections within the specified period.
• Submit your objections online through the official website, providing detailed explanations and supporting documents.

2. CAT Exam Results 2024

Result Announcement Date:

• The results are typically announced in the first week of January.

How to Check Results:

1. Visit the Official CAT Website: Go to https://iimcat.ac.in.
2. Log In: Use your CAT User ID and Password to log in.
3. Download Scorecard: Click on the "CAT 2024 Result" link to view and download your scorecard.

Details on Scorecard:

• Scaled scores for each section (VARC, DILR, QA)
• Overall scaled score
• Percentile score for each section and overall

3. CAT Exam Merit List 2024

Preparation of Merit List:

• Each IIM prepares its own merit list based on CAT scores, academic performance, work experience, and other criteria.
• The weightage for each parameter varies across different IIMs.

Release Date:

• The merit lists are generally released a few weeks after the result announcement, around January-February.

Accessing the Merit List:

• Check the official websites of the respective IIMs you have applied to.

4. CAT Exam Cut-off 2024

Factors Influencing Cut-off:

• Number of applicants
• Difficulty level of the exam
• Number of seats available
• Previous year’s cut-off trends

Expected Cut-off Ranges:

• Top IIMs (IIM Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta): Generally above 95-99 percentile
• Mid-tier IIMs: Around 90-95 percentile
• Newer IIMs: Around 85-90 percentile

Category-wise Cut-off:

• General: Typically higher cut-off
• OBC, SC, ST, PwD: Lower cut-off as per the reservation policy

Sectional Cut-off:

• Candidates need to clear both overall and sectional cut-offs to qualify for the next round (WAT/PI).

Overall Summary:

• Answer Key: Released in early December, with an objection window.
• Results: Announced in early January, available on the official CAT website.
• Merit List: Prepared by each IIM, released in January-February.
• Cut-off: Varies by IIM, with top IIMs typically having a higher cut-off.

CAT Exam Centres in India

CAT is conducted in multiple cities across India, including major metros and several smaller towns to ensure accessibility for candidates from all regions.

North India

• Chandigarh: 2 centres
• Delhi: 8-10 centres
• Faridabad: 2 centres
• Ghaziabad: 3 centres
• Gurgaon: 3 centres
• Jaipur: 4 centres
• Jammu: 1 centre
• Jodhpur: 1 centre
• Lucknow: 4 centres
• Ludhiana: 2 centres
• Noida: 5 centres
• Patiala: 1 centre
• Varanasi: 2 centres

South India

• Bangalore: 8-10 centres
• Chennai: 6-8 centres
• Coimbatore: 2 centres
• Hyderabad: 8-10 centres
• Kochi: 3 centres
• Kozhikode: 1 centre
• Madurai: 2 centres
• Mangalore: 1 centre
• Mysore: 2 centres
• Thiruvananthapuram: 2 centres
• Vijayawada: 2 centres
• Visakhapatnam: 2 centres

East India

• Bhubaneswar: 3 centres
• Dhanbad: 1 centre
• Guwahati: 2 centres
• Jamshedpur: 1 centre
• Kolkata: 8-10 centres
• Patna: 3 centres
• Ranchi: 2 centres
• Shillong: 1 centre

West India

• Ahmedabad: 5 centres
• Aurangabad: 2 centres
• Bhopal: 4 centres
• Gandhinagar: 1 centre
• Indore: 4 centres
• Mumbai: 12-15 centres
• Nagpur: 3 centres
• Nashik: 2 centres
• Pune: 8-10 centres
• Rajkot: 1 centre
• Surat: 3 centres
• Vadodara: 3 centres

Central India

• Bhilai: 1 centre
• Bhopal: 4 centres
• Gwalior: 2 centres
• Jabalpur: 2 centres
• Raipur: 2 centres

Other Notable Cities

• Dehradun: 2 centres
• Shimla: 1 centre
• Panaji: 1 centre
• Amritsar: 2 centres
• Kanpur: 3 centres
• Agra: 2 centres
• Allahabad: 2 centres
• Gorakhpur: 1 centre
• Bareilly: 1 centre
• Meerut: 2 centres
• Rourkela: 1 centre
• Bilaspur: 1 centre
• Udaipur: 1 centre
• Imphal: 1 centre

For more information check official CAT website

CAT Exam College Selection, Process, and Admissions 2024

1. CAT Exam College Selection Process

When selecting colleges for CAT, consider the following:

1. Institute Reputation and Rankings:

1. • IIMs (Indian Institutes of Management): Top choices include IIM Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and Calcutta. These institutes are highly reputed and offer strong programs.
   • Non-IIMs: Look at top B-schools like FMS Delhi, XLRI Jamshedpur, SPJIMR Mumbai, and MDI Gurgaon.

2. Program Specialisations:

2. • Evaluate the specialisations and courses offered by each institute.
   • Check if the programs align with your career goals.

3. Placement Records:

3. • Review the placement statistics, average salary packages, and job profiles of recent graduates.

4. Location and Campus Facilities:

4. • Consider the location and campus facilities like libraries, hostels, and infrastructure.

5. Fees and Financial Aid:

5. • Compare tuition fees and look into available scholarships or financial aid options.

6. Alumni Network and Industry Connections:

6. • A strong alumni network can provide valuable connections and career opportunities.

2. CAT Exam Application Process 2024

Step 1: Register for CAT

• Timeline: Register between August and September.
• Process: Visit the official CAT website (https://iimcat.ac.in) to fill out the registration form.
• Documents Required: Personal details, academic records, and a valid ID proof.

Step 2: Select Programs and Institutes

• During registration, select the IIMs and other B-schools you wish to apply to.
• Non-IIMs might require separate applications, so check their websites for specific details.

Step 3: Take the CAT Exam

• Date: The exam typically takes place in November.
• Process: Follow the instructions for the exam day as mentioned in the admit card.

Step 4: Check Results

• Timeline: Results are usually announced in early January.
• Process: Log in to the CAT website using your credentials to view your score and percentile.

3. Admission Process

Step 1: Shortlisting

• Criteria: Institutes shortlist candidates based on CAT scores, academic records, and sometimes work experience.
• Process: Shortlisted candidates are invited for further rounds like WAT (Written Ability Test), GD (Group Discussion), and PI (Personal Interview).

Step 2: Written Ability Test (WAT)

• Purpose: Assesses writing skills and ability to articulate thoughts on a given topic.
• Process: Write an essay or response based on a prompt provided.

Step 3: Group Discussion (GD)

• Purpose: Evaluates communication, leadership, and teamwork skills.
• Process: Participate in a discussion on a topic with other candidates.

Step 4: Personal Interview (PI)

• Purpose: Assesses personality, academic background, work experience, and suitability for management education.
• Process: Attend an interview with a panel of experts.

Step 5: Final Selection

• Criteria: Selection is based on a composite score, which includes CAT score, WAT/GD/PI performance, academic records, and work experience.
• Process: Institutes release final admission lists.

4. Composite Score Calculation

CAT Exam Weightage Distribution:

• CAT Score: 25-50%
• WAT/GD: 10-15%
• PI: 20-30%
• Academic Profile: 10-20%
  • 10th and 12th grades
  • Graduation marks
• Work Experience: 5-10%
• Diversity Factors: 5-10%

Calculation:

• Each institute has its own formula for calculating the composite score, combining these elements based on their weightages.

5. Admission Offer and Acceptance

Step 1: Admission Offers

• Process: Offers are made based on the final selection list and communicated via email and the institute’s website.

Step 2: Acceptance of Offer

• Process: Accept the offer by paying the acceptance fee as per the given deadline.
• Verification: Some institutes may require final document verification before confirming admission.

Step 3: Joining the Program

• Process: Attend orientation sessions and complete the admission formalities as specified by the institute.

List of Colleges Accepting CAT Scores for Admission 2024

Several prestigious business schools and institutes in India accept CAT scores for their management programs, aside from the IIMs. Here’s a list of notable colleges where CAT scores are used for admission:

IIMs Cutoff for CAT 2024: -

** the cutoff might vary according to the final cutoff of the IIMs**

Top IITs Accepting CAT 2024 Scores:-

CAT Exam Cutoff for Non-IIMs 2024

CAT Exam Admission Procedure- 

• Application Process: These institutes may have their own application processes and deadlines. Ensure you check their respective websites for detailed information.
• Eligibility Criteria: Verify specific eligibility criteria for each program, as they may vary.
• Cut-off Scores: Each institute may have different cut-off scores and weightage for CAT scores in their selection process.

Make sure to visit the official websites of these institutes for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding their programs, application deadlines, and admission procedures.

Conclusion

In summary, the CAT exam is a critical step for aspiring management professionals. By understanding the exam pattern, preparing effectively, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, candidates can maximise their chances of success.

FAQs

1. What is the full form of CAT?

The full form of CAT is the Common Admission Test.

2. When is CAT 2024 scheduled to be held?

 CAT 2024 is typically scheduled for November. The exact date will be announced on the official CAT website.

3. What is the eligibility criteria for CAT 2024

Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD) from a recognised university. Final-year students are also eligible to apply.

4. How can I apply for CAT 2024?

 Applications for CAT 2024 can be submitted online through the official CAT website (https://iimcat.ac.in). The registration process usually begins in August.

5. What is the exam pattern for CAT 2024?

The CAT exam consists of three sections:

• • Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
  • Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
  • Quantitative Ability (QA) Each section is allotted 40 minutes, and the exam is conducted in a computer-based format.

6. What is the syllabus for CAT 2024?

• • VARC: Reading comprehension, para-jumbles, sentence correction, and critical reasoning.
  • DILR: Tables, graphs, puzzles, seating arrangements, and logical problems.
  • QA: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems, and modern mathematics.

7. How many times can I take the CAT Exam?

 There is no limit on the number of times you can appear for CAT. Candidates can attempt the exam as many times as they wish.

8. What is the application fee for CAT 2024?

The application fee for CAT 2024 is generally around INR 2200 for General/OBC candidates and INR 1100 for SC/ST/PwD candidates. Fees are subject to change, so check the official website for the latest information.

9. What are the important dates for CAT 2024?

• • Registration Start Date: August
  • Registration End Date: September
  • Admit Card Release Date: October
  • Exam Date: November (exact date to be announced)
  • Result Announcement: Early January 2025

10. How can I prepare for CAT 2024?

  Preparation tips include:

• • Understand the exam pattern and syllabus.
  • Create a structured study plan.
  • Use quality study materials and practice regularly with mock tests.
  • Join coaching classes if needed.
  • Focus on time management and problem-solving skills.

11. What is the minimum percentile required for admission to IIMs?

 The minimum percentile required varies by IIM and program. Typically, a percentile of 90 and above is competitive for top IIMs, but it can vary.

12. How is the CAT score used in the admission process?

CAT scores are used for shortlisting candidates for further rounds such as Written Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD), and Personal Interview (PI). Each institute has its own criteria for shortlisting and final selection.

13. Can international students apply for CAT?

 No, CAT is specifically for Indian students. International students should look into other exams such as GMAT for admission to Indian B-schools.

14. What are the common mistakes to avoid while preparing for CAT?

        Common mistakes include:

• • Not following a study plan.
  • Ignoring weak areas.
  • Neglecting regular practice and mock tests.
  • Underestimating the importance of time management.

15. What should I do if I have a problem with my CAT admit card?
If there is an issue with your admit card, contact the CAT helpdesk or visit the official CAT website for guidance on resolving the issue.

Also Read: CMAT 2025