The common admission test (CAT) is an eminently favoured, national level exam,conducted to get admission into top Indian management institutes like the IIMs and other esteemed business schools. It is a Computer-based exam,commonly spanning two hours, which is conducted once in a year by any of the IIM,on a rotational basis.
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most competitive entrance exams in India, the CAT tests a candidate’s aptitude in three key areas: Quantitative Ability (QA), Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), each section being time-bound. What sets CAT apart is not just the difficulty level of the questions but also the intense competition, as lakhs of aspirants appear each year for a limited number of seats. Beyond just the raw score, the CAT employs a percentile system to rank candidates relative to each other. A high CAT percentile is only the first step.
Once the results of the CAT examination are declared, a new chapter begins in the journey of every aspiring management student. The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), along with several other esteemed business schools across the country, showing their unique shortlisting criteria, These criteria are far more than just numbers on a scorecard, they reflect the blend of academic history, sectional scores, work experience, and diverse factors.
For candidates, it is of both anticipation and reflection. Those who not only achieve a competitive CAT percentile but also align with the specific benchmarks set by each institute find themselves stepping into the next phase of the selection process.Most commonly, a Written Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD), and Personal Interview (PI). beyond the realm of aptitude and percentages, candidates must prove the depth of their thinking, the clarity of their expression, and the strength of their judgement.
Syllabus for CAT.
The CAT exam syllabus is designed to test a candidate’s overall aptitude, problem-solving skills, and ability to handle pressure.
The exam is divided into three main areas:
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
you’ll find reading passages followed by questions, along with grammar-based tasks like sentence rearrangement or finding errors. It checks how well you understand and analyze written English
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
The logical reasoning and data interpretation part involves puzzles, charts, graphs, and tables,you’ll need to identify patterns, work with numbers, and draw logical conclusions.
Quantitative Ability (QA)
The quantitative section covers topics from basic arithmetic to algebra, geometry, and modern math. You don’t need to be a math genius, but a clear understanding of concepts and quick calculation skills definitely help.
What is the exam structure ?
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Total Duration: 120 minutes (2 hours)
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Sections: 3 (with fixed order and no switching allowed)
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Marking Scheme:
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3 marks for each correct answer
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-1 mark for each wrong MCQ
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No negative marking for TITA (Type in the Answer) questions
What is the Section-wise distribution of time?
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VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension)
No. of Questions: 24
Time Allotted: 40 minutes
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DILR (Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning)
No. of Questions: 20
Time Allotted: 40 minutes -
QA (Quantitative Ability)
No. of Questions: 22
Time Allotted: 40 minutes
What is the cutoff for the CAT Exam ?
The CAT exam cutoff is the minimum percentile you need to score to get shortlisted by different IIMs. Each IIM has its own cutoff and also looks at sectional cutoffs (VARC, DILR, QA) along with the overall score. For general category students, the qualifying cutoff is usually lower, but to actually get a call for the next rounds (WAT/PI), you need a much higher percentile.
For the top IIMs like Ahmedabad, Bangalore and Calcutta, the qualifying cutoff is around 80 percentile overall with about 70 in each section, but in reality students usually need 99 percentile to get shortlisted.
For IIMs like Lucknow, Indore and Kozhikode, the qualifying cutoff is about 90 percentile overall, yet the safe range for a call is 97–98 percentile.
The newer IIMs such as Amritsar, Nagpur, Trichy, Raipur, Ranchi and Kashipur usually shortlist candidates above 94–96 percentile,
while IIMs like Udaipur, Vizag, Bodh Gaya and Sirmaur may consider students with 92–94 percentile.
So, while the qualifying cutoffs seem moderate, the actual cutoff to receive a call is much higher, aiming above 99 percentile for top IIMs, 97–98 for the next set, and 94 for newer IIMs is a good target.
What are the Do’s and Don’ts you should keep in mind ?
Do’s
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Practice questions daily from all three sections – VARC, DILR and QA.
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Give full-length mocks regularly and analyze mistakes.
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Revise formulas, shortcuts, and vocabulary often.
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Focus on building strong basics before jumping to advanced questions.
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Manage time while solving – stick to sectional timings.
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Read newspapers, articles, and novels to improve reading speed and comprehension.
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Keep a formula/notes sheet handy for quick revision.
Don’ts
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Don’t skip sectional practice, as each section has its own cutoff.
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Avoid spending too much time on one difficult question.
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Don’t ignore mock test analysis; just taking tests is not enough.
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Don’t keep changing study material again and again – stick to limited sources.
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Don’t compare your preparation speed with others, focus on your own plan.
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Avoid last-minute cramming; revision and practice matter more.
How to score high in CAT EXAM ?
Managing your time well and staying positive are the most important factors for success in the CAT exam. With consistent effort and focused preparation, scoring well in CAT is definitely possible.solving more mock test papersTo score high in the CAT exam, you need the right mix of preparation, practice, and mindset. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
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Strengthen your basics: Clear concepts in Quant, DILR, and VARC before moving to advanced-level problems.
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Practice regularly: Solve a good variety of questions daily and focus on accuracy along with speed.
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Take mock tests: Attempt full-length mocks under exam-like conditions and analyze your performance to identify weak areas.
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Work on time management: Learn to leave tough questions and attempt easier ones first; maximize attempts within the 40 minutes per section.
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Focus on sectional balance: Since each section has its own cutoff, don’t ignore any one area.
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Read daily: Improve comprehension and speed by reading newspapers, editorials, and books.
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Revise smartly: Keep short notes and formula sheets handy for quick revision before the exam.
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Stay consistent and positive: Regular study with a calm mindset will help you perform your best.
Is the CAT Exam difficult ?
The CAT exam is often seen as difficult, not because its questions are beyond one’s ability, but because it tests much more than just knowledge. It is a game of time, pressure, and precision. The concepts asked in Quant, DILR, and VARC are usually from school-level mathematics and standard reasoning or comprehension, yet the challenge lies in solving them swiftly and accurately within a tight time frame. What makes CAT tough is its unpredictability,the mix of question types, the varying difficulty across sections, and the competition against thousands of equally ambitious aspirants. In truth, CAT is less a test of brilliance and more a test of patience, strategy, and presence of mind. With discipline and the right approach, what seems like a mountain slowly turns into a climbable path.
Why MBA ?
Imagine a student finishing graduation, standing at a crossroads, wondering what path to take. For many, the idea of pursuing an MBA shines like a promising journey. What attracts students most is not just the degree, but the opportunities it opens. An MBA is seen as a gateway to leadership roles, corporate success, and financial growth. The thought of sitting in classrooms where real-world business problems are discussed, case studies are solved, and industry leaders share experiences excites young minds.
For some, the attraction lies in the chance to switch careers,from engineering to finance, from science to management, or from a local business to the global market. For others, it is the idea of networking, meeting peers from diverse backgrounds, and building connections that last a lifetime. The international exposure, summer internships, and campus placements make the journey even more appealing.
An MBA is also linked with personal growth. Students see it as a chance to develop confidence, decision-making ability, and leadership skills. The promise of working in top companies, earning respect, and contributing to business growth turns the MBA into more than just an academic choice,it becomes a dream that shapes careers and ambitions.
For many, the CAT exam represents dreams of an MBA,better opportunities, and a new career path. They see it as a stepping stone to enter the country’s top management institutes. In the end, what students think and say about CAT is that it is not just an exam,it is a journey that tests their discipline, resilience, and determination to aim higher.
General Questions which comes in the mind of a student
Who can appear for CAT?
Graduates in any discipline with at least 50% marks (45% for reserved categories) are eligible. Final-year students can also apply.
Is there an age limit for CAT?
No, there is no upper or lower age limit to appear for the exam.
What is the CAT exam fee?
The new registration fee is generally around ₹2,600 for General/OBC and ₹1,300 for SC/ST/PwD categories.
What subjects are tested in CAT?
It has three sections – Quantitative Ability (QA), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC).
What is the exam duration and format?
The exam is computer-based, lasts 2 hours, with 3 sections of 40 minutes each. There are multiple-choice and type-in-the-answer questions.
Is CAT really worth giving?
Yes, for students aiming for top B-schools in India, a high CAT score can open doors to IIMs, scholarships, great placements, and a strong career path.
What are the benefits of doing an MBA through CAT?
Leadership skills, career growth, higher salary potential, networking opportunities, and exposure to real-world business scenarios.
How many attempts can I take?
There is no limit; you can appear for CAT as many times as you wish.
History of CAT exam
The story of the CAT exam begins in 1950s India, when the idea of a centralized management entrance test was first imagined. Initially, admission to IIMs was based on academic scores and personal interviews, but as more students showed interest in management education, the need for a fair, standardized test became clear. The first official CAT was held in the 1950s–1980s era in a very simple paper-based format, primarily testing basic quantitative and verbal skills.
Over time, CAT evolved along with technology. In 2009, it became a computer-based test, marking a major shift in how students prepared and took the exam. The exam pattern also changed over the years to include three main sections: Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension. Newer types of questions like “Type In The Answer” (TITA) were added to better assess analytical skills.
Today, CAT is not just an exam,it is a gateway to India’s top B-schools, including the IIMs and many other prestigious institutions. Thousands of students across the country prepare for months, learning strategy, speed, and accuracy. From a simple paper test to a national-level computer-based challenge, CAT’s journey reflects India’s growing focus on quality management education and merit-based selection, making it both historic and highly respected.For candidates, it is a moment of both anticipation and reflection. Those who not only achieve a competitive CAT percentile but also align with the specific benchmarks set by each institute find themselves stepping into the next phase of the selection process. It is in these interactions that the true potential of a future leader begins to unfold, and where the dream of walking through the halls of an IIM starts to feel achingly close to reality.
Top IIMs in india:
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Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad
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Indian Institute of Management Bangalore
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Indian Institute of Management Calcutta
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Indian Institute of Management Indore
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Indian Institute of Management Lucknow
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Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode
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Indian Institute of Management Mumbai
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Indian Institute of Management Rohtak
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Indian Institute of Management Amritsar
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Indian Institute of Management Bodh Gaya
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Indian Institute of Management Jammu
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Indian Institute of Management Kashipur
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Indian Institute of Management Nagpur
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Indian Institute of Management Raipur
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Indian Institute of Management Ranchi
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Indian Institute of Management Sambalpur
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Indian Institute of Management Shillong
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Indian Institute of Management Sirmaur
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Indian Institute of Management Tiruchirappalli
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Indian Institute of Management Udaipur
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Indian Institute of Management Visakhapatnam
Top colleges /B-schools for business management studies
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Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad
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Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore
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Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode
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Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi
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Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta
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Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Mumbai
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Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow.
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Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore.
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XLRI—Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur
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Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay
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Indian School of Business (ISB), Hyderabad and Mohali
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Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), University of Delhi
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Management Development Institute (MDI), Gurugram.
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Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM), Pune
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S. P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR), Mumbai
Top 20 colleges by NIRF Ranking 2024:
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Indian Institute of Technology Madras
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Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru
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Indian Institute of Technology Bombay
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Indian Institute of Technology Delhi
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Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur
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Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur
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All India Institute of Medical Sciences Delhi
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Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee
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Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati
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Jawaharlal Nehru University
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Banaras Hindu University
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Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad
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Jamia Millia Islamia
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Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal
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University of Delhi
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Aligarh Muslim University
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Jadavpur University
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Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham
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Vellore Institute of Technology
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Anna University