CAT
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national-level management entrance exam in India, conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) on a rotational basis.
About CAT
The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) on a rotational basis. The CAT exam is essential for admission into MBA/PGDM programs at the IIMs and many other prestigious business schools in India. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the CAT exam, covering eligibility, exam structure, syllabus, and preparation tips.
Eligibility Criteria
a. Educational Qualification
- Bachelor’s Degree: Candidates must have completed a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
- Minimum Marks: General category candidates need a minimum of 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST/PWD candidates).
- Final Year Students: Candidates in the final year of their bachelor’s degree can also apply, provided they meet the qualification requirements upon result declaration.
b. Age Limit
- There is no age limit to appear for the CAT exam.
Exam Structure
The CAT exam is a computer-based test (CBT) held once a year, typically in November. The test is divided into three sections, each assessing different skill sets.
Exam Pattern
- Total Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes).
- Number of Sections: 3
- Total Questions: 66 (number of questions can vary each year)
- Types of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Non-MCQs (Type In The Answer – TITA).
Syllabus
Although CAT does not have a prescribed syllabus, it follows certain topic patterns. Here’s an overview of each section:
a. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Topics Covered: Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary, Para Jumbles, Sentence Correction, and Para Summary.
- Focus: Tests reading speed, comprehension skills, grammar, and vocabulary.
b. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Topics Covered: Data Interpretation (Tables, Graphs, Charts), Logical Puzzles, Seating Arrangement, Blood Relations, Series, and Venn Diagrams.
- Focus: Measures logical thinking, problem-solving skills, and data analysis.
c. Quantitative Ability (QA)
- Topics Covered: Arithmetic (Ratios, Percentages, Time & Work), Algebra (Equations, Progressions), Geometry, Trigonometry, Number Systems, and Probability.
- Focus: Assesses mathematical ability and numerical skills, often at the high school level.
Application Process
- CAT Result: Results are declared as a percentile score, which indicates the candidate’s performance relative to other test-takers.
- IIM Shortlisting: Based on CAT scores, candidates are shortlisted for the selection process, which typically includes:
- Written Ability Test (WAT)
- Group Discussion (GD)
- Personal Interview (PI)
Final Selection: Each IIM and participating B-school considers CAT scores, academic records, work experience, and performance in the WAT-GD-PI round.
Benefits of Qualifying CAT
- Admission to Prestigious B-Schools: CAT is a gateway to the IIMs and other top business schools in India.
- Career Opportunities: Graduates from IIMs and other CAT-accepting institutions often secure high-paying management positions.
- Global Recognition: An MBA from a top Indian B-school is highly valued both in India and internationally.