Common Admission Test (CAT)
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most prestigious entrance exams in India for aspirants seeking admission into the top management institutes, including the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other elite B-schools. CAT is a gateway to a promising career in management and business administration. In this blog, we provide you with all the essential details about the exam, fee structure, eligibility, syllabus, and preparation strategies.
What is CAT?
CAT is a computer-based entrance test conducted annually by the IIMs on a rotational basis. The exam evaluates candidates on their proficiency in quantitative ability, verbal ability, reading comprehension, logical reasoning, and data interpretation.
Key Highlights of CAT Exam
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Common Admission Test (CAT) |
| Conducting Body | Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) |
| Exam Level | National |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based (CBT) |
| Frequency | Once a year |
| Languages | English |
| Application Fee | INR 2400 (General) and INR 1200 (Reserved categories) |
| Duration | 120 minutes (2 hours) |
| Sections | 3 (VARC, DILR, QA) |
| Total Questions | 66 (may vary slightly each year) |
| Marking Scheme | +3 for correct answer, -1 for incorrect answer (MCQs) |
Eligibility Criteria
To appear for CAT, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Educational Qualification:
- A bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD categories) from a recognized university.
- Final-year undergraduate students are also eligible.
- Age Limit:
- There is no age limit for the CAT exam.
Exam Pattern
The CAT exam consists of three sections, each testing a different skill set:
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allotted |
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) | ~24 | 40 minutes |
| Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) | ~20 | 40 minutes |
| Quantitative Ability (QA) | ~22 | 40 minutes |
Each section is timed separately, and candidates cannot switch between sections during the exam.
Application Process
- Registration:
- Visit the official CAT website.
- Register with your email ID and phone number to generate a user ID.
- Fill Application Form:
- Enter personal, academic, and work experience details.
- Choose preferred test cities (up to 6).
- Upload Documents:
- Recent passport-sized photograph and signature.
- Category certificate (if applicable).
- Pay Application Fee:
- Use credit/debit cards or net banking for payment.
Syllabus Overview
| Section | Topics Covered |
| VARC | Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary, Para jumbles |
| DILR | Data Interpretation (Graphs, Charts), Logical Puzzles |
| QA | Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number System |
Preparation Tips
- Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the topics and identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Create a Study Plan: Allocate time for each section and include regular practice.
- Take Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions to build stamina and improve time management.
- Focus on Accuracy: Aim for accuracy in solving questions to maximize your score.
- Use Study Materials: Utilize books, online courses, and previous year question papers.
Important Dates for CAT 2024 (Tentative)
| Event | Date |
| Notification Release | July 2024 |
| Registration Begins | August 2024 |
| Registration Closes | September 2024 |
| Admit Card Release | October 2024 |
| Exam Date | November 2024 |
| Result Declaration | January 2025 |
Fee Structure for Top MBA Colleges via CAT
| Institute Name | Average Fee (INR) | Average Placement Package (INR) |
| IIM Ahmedabad | 24-25 Lakhs | 32-35 Lakhs |
| IIM Bangalore | 23-24 Lakhs | 30-34 Lakhs |
| IIM Calcutta | 23-25 Lakhs | 30-33 Lakhs |
| FMS Delhi | 2 Lakhs | 25-27 Lakhs |
| SPJIMR Mumbai | 19-20 Lakhs | 27-30 Lakhs |
Conclusion
The CAT exam is a critical step toward securing admission to India’s premier management institutes. Success in CAT requires strategic preparation, consistent practice, and thorough knowledge of the exam structure. With the right approach, you can ace the CAT exam and move closer to your dream of a flourishing career in management. Start your journey today, and take the first step toward an enriching professional life.
