Common Admission Test (CAT): Everything you need to know before applying

The CAT (Common Admission Test) is an extremely sought-after national-level admission examination in India designed to assess applicants’ aptitude and competencies for MBA (Master of Business Administration) or equivalent programs. It is held annually on a rotating schedule by the IIMs (Indian Institutes of Management). This test evaluates candidates’ abilities in areas such as quantitative aptitude, verbal ability, data interpretation, and logical reasoning. A high CAT score boosts one’s chances of admission to prestigious management educational institutions opening a pathway to rewarding job prospects and personal development in the arena of business management. 

Overview of the CAT exam

Particulars	Details
Name of the Exam	CAT (Common Admission Test)
CAT IIM Website	https://iimcat.ac.in/
Exam Pattern	Online Computer Based Test (CBT)
Medium of Exam	English
Exam Duration	2 hours
Exam Fee	INR 2300 (General Categories)INR 1150 (Reserved Categories)
Exam Eligibility	Bachelor’s degree with 50% aggregate
Total Questions	66
Question Type	MCQs and Non-MCQs
Number of Sections	3

Also read: CAT exam pattern

Eligibility for the CAT exam

Graduation in any field is required to take the CAT exam. Read on for further information on CAT exam eligibility criteria:

• Candidates should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum of 50% aggregate or comparable CGPA (45% aggregate for SC, ST, and PWD/DA categories).

• The bachelor’s degree course can be standard or distance learning, but it must be a 3-year plan.

• Aspirants who have earned a professional qualification (CA/CS/ICWA/FCAI) with the necessary percentage are also eligible for the CAT.

• Candidates in their last year of a bachelor’s degree awaiting their results are also eligible to appear for the CAT 2023 exam.

Check out: Reasons why MBA is best through Online Manipal

CAT exam pattern

The CAT examination pattern and test method will be officially announced alongside the CAT 2023 examination schedule and notification. 

As per the authorized CAT Exam Pattern, there are three exam portions:

• VARC
• DILR
• QA

Last year’s exam had 66 questions with a total time limit of 120 minutes and a sectional time limit of 40 minutes. The CAT Exam Pattern is designed in such a way that officials may easily analyze candidates’ logical and mathematical abilities. As a result, if you intend to sit for an upcoming exam, you must become acquainted with the CAT Exam Pattern 2023.

Particulars	Details
Total Questions	66
Total Marks	198
Exam Duration	2 hours
Name of Sections	Quantitative AptitudeVerbal Ability & Reading ComprehensionLogical Reasoning & Data Interpretation
Exam Marking Method	3 for Correct Answer-1 for Incorrect Answer0 for Unattempted Question

Also read: Is an MBA worth it for working professionals

CAT exam preparation tips

CAT preparation is the blend of theory and practice. You must prepare for the CAT with diligence and a structured strategy to maximize your probability of success. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the CAT exam:

• Create a study plan: 

Create a well-organized study plan outlining your goals for every day, week, and month. Set aside time for every section of the test and dedicate plenty of time for revision, practice, and mock exams. Adhering to a study schedule can assist you in retaining discipline and ensure thorough coverage of the syllabus.

• Master the fundamentals:

Sharpen your foundational knowledge in key fields, including mathematics, logical thinking, data interpretation, and language abilities. Identify your talents and shortcomings, and then work on strengthening your weakest spots via targeted practice. Use reliable study resources and tools to enhance your comprehension of key ideas.

• Analyze and Learn from mistakes: 

Analyze your performance thoroughly after each practice session. Determine the types of issues that posed complications and go over the solutions to grasp the underlying principles and strategies. Learn from what went wrong and devise effective tactics to prevent them from happening again during later practice sessions.

• Improve time managementsSkills: 

Time management is critical in the CAT exam since it assesses not only your competence but also your capacity to solve problems in a limited period. Develop effective ways for promptly comprehending and responding to queries while retaining accuracy. Regular practice and mock tests may assist you in fine-tuning your time management skills.

Also read: How to prepare for the CAT exam?

Can you get an MBA admission without a CAT score?

It is crucial to know that not all top universities demand CAT scores or equivalent entrance examinations for MBA enrollment. This provides an option for individuals who did not obtain a favorable CAT percentile or were unable to attempt the exam to gain admission to reputable MBA programs. Many elite institutions such as Manipal University Jaipur(MUJ) and Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) now offer online MBA programs that accept candidates without a CAT score as long as they meet the university’s eligibility requirements. 

Also read: Online MBA doesn’t require CAT or MAT scores

Eligibility for online MBA from Manipal University Jaipur

The eligibility criteria for an online MBA from MUJ include the following:

• Candidates must have a 10+2+3-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or institution or any comparable degree recognized by AIU (Association of Indian Universities).

• Candidates should have a graduation grade point average of at least 50% (45% for reserved categories).

• Candidates have to pass the online aptitude test administered by Manipal University Jaipur as per the application procedure.

• Candidates with a valid score (40 percentile) on any aptitude test (CAT/MAT/CMAT/XAT/GMAT) do not need to take the aforementioned test.

Also read: Why is MBA still one of the best courses after a BBA?

Eligibility for online MBA from Manipal Academy of Higher Education

The eligibility criteria for an online MBA from MAHE include the following:

• Candidates must hold a 10+2 +3-year bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or institution or a similar degree acknowledged by AIU (Association of Indian Universities).

• Applicants must possess a graduating grade point average of at least 50%.

• Aspirants must have at least one year of experience working in reputable organizations.

Why enroll for an online MBA on Online Manipal?

Enrolling in an online MBA program through Online Manipal provides various appealing perks for prospective individuals looking to hone their business acumen and advance their careers. Students can conveniently integrate their studies alongside current professional and personal obligations owing to the program’s excellent flexibility. The rigorous curriculum established by industry experts provides students with the fundamental knowledge and skills needed to manage an ever-changing and demanding business landscape. 

Collaborative virtual classes encourage stimulating interactions with a diversified cohort while additionally offering great networking opportunities. Furthermore, Online Manipal’s advanced educational platform (LMS) offers participants access to a multitude of materials, such as immersive modules, and professional faculty supervision, assuring a thorough and holistic learning experience. Individuals who choose to study an online MBA through Online Manipal might get a distinguished certification from reputed Universities that allow them to flourish in the field of their choice.

Also read: Got a low CAT score? You can still pursue an online MBA from a reputed college

Conclusion

The CAT acts as a springboard for aspiring learners to get admission to top-tier business schools across the nation. The aforementioned tips for the CAT exam should be followed if you intend to take the CAT admission exam. So, aspiring MBA students should recognize the significance of the CAT and rigorously prepare to improve their chances of admission to their dream management institution. To enroll in an MBA program without CAT, check out Online Manipal.
Also read: MBA without CAT: Top CAT exam alternatives in 2022 & 2023