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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.
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