Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national-level entrance exam for admission to MBA programs at 21 Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top business schools in India. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the CAT 2024 exam:
Table of Contents
Registration Form
DownloadCAT Exam 2024 Key Dates
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is your gateway to top MBA programs in India. But staying on top of important dates is crucial for success. Here’s a visual reminder of key dates for CAT 2024:
Mark your calendars!
July 30-31, 2024: Official Notification Released! Get ready for the official announcement with all the details you need.
First week of August 2024: Registration Starts! Don’t delay! Begin your application journey as soon as registrations open.
Third week of September 2024: Registration Deadline! Last chance to apply! Make sure you submit your forms before the deadline.
November 24, 2024: Exam Day! Give it your all on this big day! Remember, your preparation and dedication pay off here.
Stay ahead of the game!
- Regularly check the official CAT website: https://iimcat.ac.in/: https://iimcat.ac.in/ for updates and announcements.
- Set reminders for key dates: Don’t let important deadlines slip your mind.
- Plan your preparation accordingly: Use these dates as milestones to track your progress.
Remember, timely preparation and awareness of key dates can significantly boost your chances of cracking the CAT. So, keep this information handy and stay focused on your journey to top MBA programs!
CAT Exam Pattern 2024
| Section | Number of Questions | Duration | Marking Scheme |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 24 | 60 minutes | +3 for correct, -1 for incorrect, 0 for unattempted |
| Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 20 | 60 minutes | +3 for correct, -1 for incorrect, 0 for unattempted |
| Quantitative Ability (QA) | 22 | 60 minutes | +3 for correct, -1 for incorrect, 0 for unattempted |
| Total | 66 | 180 minutes (3 hours) | Maximum Score: 198 |
Key Points:
- Computer-based test (CBT): The exam is conducted online at designated test centers.
- Multiple-choice questions (MCQs): All questions have four answer options.
- No sectional time limit: You can manage time across sections as per your preference.
- Negative marking: Incorrect answers carry a penalty, so answer strategically.
- Total marks: 198 (66 questions x 3 marks each)
- No separate cutoff for sections: The overall percentile determines your selection.
Additional Information:
- Non-MCQ based questions (TITA): A few questions may be in a different format, such as type-in-the-answer (TITA) or choose-multiple-answers (CMA).
- On-screen calculator: A basic on-screen calculator will be available during the QA section.
Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation. Familiarize yourself with the sections, question types, and marking scheme to plan your strategy accordingly.
CAT Exam Eligibility
| Category | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Qualification | Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university with at least 50% marks (45% for reserved categories) |
| Age | No upper age limit |
| Number of attempts | No limit on the number of attempts |
| Academic gap | No restriction on academic gap |
| Work experience | Not mandatory, but can be an advantage for some IIMs |
Additional Points:
- Final year students: Can apply if they are graduating by July 31, 2025.
- Students awaiting results: Can apply if they are confident of meeting the eligibility criteria.
- Non-Indian citizens: Can apply, but admission to IIMs is subject to government regulations.
- Persons with Disabilities (PwD): Eligible for certain relaxations in the eligibility criteria.
Refer to the official CAT website for the most updated and accurate eligibility information.
CAT Exam 2024 Application Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1.Registration | – Create an account on the official CAT website: https://iimcat.ac.in/: https://iimcat.ac.in/ – Fill in personal, educational, and contact details – Choose a password and security question – Upload scanned copies of photograph and signature |
| 2. Application Form | – Fill in academic details, work experience, and other relevant information – Select preferred test cities and exam slots (subject to availability) – Choose the programs you’re interested in applying to – Pay the application fee using online payment methods |
| 3. Admit Card Download | – Admit cards will be available for download on the CAT website around 10 days before the exam – Check for any errors in the admit card and contact authorities for corrections if needed |
| 4. Exam Day | – Carry the admit card and valid photo ID to the exam center – Adhere to exam guidelines and instructions – Answer questions carefully, considering negative marking – Utilize the on-screen calculator for the QA section |
| 5. Result | – Results will be declared tentatively in the first week of January 2025 – Check your scores and percentile on the CAT website – Download the scorecard for further admission processes |
CAT Exam 2024 Preparation Tips
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Start Early: | Begin your preparation at least 6-8 months in advance to build a strong foundation. |
| Understand the Exam Pattern: | Familiarize yourself with the sections, question types, marking scheme, and time allocation. |
| Know Your Strengths and Weaknesses: | Assess your abilities in each section and focus on areas that need improvement. |
| Create a Study Plan: | Allocate time for each section and stick to a consistent study schedule. |
| Choose the Right Study Materials: | Select resources like books, online courses, and mock tests that align with your learning style. |
| Practice Regularly: | Solve practice questions and mock tests to improve speed, accuracy, and test-taking strategies. |
| Analyze Your Performance: | Review your performance in mocks to identify areas for improvement and make adjustments. |
| Time Management: | Develop time management skills to effectively handle the exam’s time constraints. |
| Focus on Accuracy: | Prioritize accuracy over speed, considering the negative marking scheme. |
| Strengthen Your Basics: | Build a strong foundation in core concepts of English language, mathematics, and reasoning. |
| Enhance Reading Comprehension: | Read diverse materials to improve reading speed, comprehension, and vocabulary. |
| Practice Data Interpretation: | Improve your ability to analyze data, charts, and graphs effectively. |
| Work on Logical Reasoning: | Develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills to tackle logical reasoning questions. |
| Brush Up on Quantitative Aptitude: | Revisit basic math concepts and practice solving quantitative problems quickly. |
| Take Mock Tests Regularly: | Simulate the exam environment, track progress, and build confidence. |
| Stay Healthy and Motivated: | Maintain a healthy lifestyle, manage stress, and stay motivated throughout your preparation journey. |
| Seek Guidance (Optional): | Consider joining a coaching institute or online course for structured guidance and support. |
| Stay Updated: | Keep an eye on the official CAT website for announcements and updates. |
Registration Form
DownloadCAT Exam 2024 Additional Resources
CAT Exam 2024 preparation:
Official Resources:
- CAT website: https://iimcat.ac.in/: https://iimcat.ac.in/
- Previous year papers: Available for download on the CAT website.
- Sample papers: Released a few weeks before the exam on the CAT website.
- Information bulletins: Provide details about the exam pattern, eligibility, etc.
Books and Study Materials:
- Arun Sharma books: Popular for Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation.
- Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis: Helps improve vocabulary.
- Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal: Covers various reasoning question types.
- McGraw Hill CAT books: Comprehensive study material for all sections.
- Online resources: Several websites offer free and paid study materials including video lessons, practice questions, and mock tests.
Coaching Institutes and Online Courses:
- TIME: Established coaching institute with online and offline courses.
- IMS: Another well-known institute offering CAT preparation options.
- Career Launcher: Provides comprehensive study materials and mock tests.
- Byju’s CAT Online: A popular online platform for CAT preparation.
- Unacademy CAT: Another excellent online platform with high-quality courses.
Other Resources:
- CAT Facebook groups: Online communities for CAT aspirants to discuss doubts, share strategies, and support each other.
- YouTube channels: Several channels offer free CAT preparation videos by experts.
- Blogs: Popular blogs by CAT veterans share valuable insights and tips.
Remember: The best resources are the ones that work for you. Experiment, explore different options, and find what fits your learning style and needs.
CAT Exam 2024 Remember
CAT Exam 2024 preparation:
Key Dates:
- Registration starts: First week of August 2024
- Registration deadline: Third week of September 2024
- Exam date: November 24, 2024
- Official Notification: July 30-31, 2024
Preparation Tips:
- Start early and create a study plan.
- Know your strengths and weaknesses.
- Choose the right study materials and practice regularly.
- Focus on accuracy and time management.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle and stay motivated.
Additional Resources:
- Official CAT website: https://iimcat.ac.in/:
- https://iimcat.ac.in/:
- https://iimcat.ac.in/: https://iimcat.ac.in/
- Books and study materials: Arun Sharma, Word Power Made Easy, etc.
- Coaching institutes and online courses: TIME, IMS, Byju’s CAT, etc.
- Online communities and resources: Facebook groups, YouTube channels, blogs.
Don’t forget to:
- Stay updated with the official website for announcements.
- Believe in yourself and your preparation!
Remember, I’m here to help you every step of the way. Feel free to ask me any further questions about the CAT Exam 2024
Top Colleges CAT 2024
| College Name | Location | NIRF Ranking 2023 | Specialisations | Average Placement (2023) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM Ahmedabad) | Ahmedabad | 1 | General Management, Finance, Marketing, Operations, Information Systems | ₹28.18 LPA |
| Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM Bangalore) | Bangalore | 2 | General Management, Finance, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Information Systems | ₹27.46 LPA |
| Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIM Calcutta) | Kolkata | 3 | General Management, Finance, Marketing, Operations, Human Resources | ₹29.47 LPA |
| Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), University of Delhi | Delhi | 4 | General Management, Marketing, Finance, Operations | ₹25.68 LPA |
| Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIM Lucknow) | Lucknow | 5 | General Management, Finance, Marketing, Operations, Information Systems | ₹25.68 LPA |
| Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIM Kozhikode) | Kozhikode | 6 | General Management, Finance, Marketing, Operations, Information Systems | ₹25.55 LPA |
| Indian Institute of Management Indore (IIM Indore) | Indore | 7 | General Management, Finance, Marketing, Operations, Information Systems | ₹25.01 LPA |
| XLRI – Xavier School of Management | Jamshedpur | 8 | General Management, Human Resources, Business Analytics | ₹25.49 LPA |
| SP Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) | Mumbai | 9 | General Management, Finance, Marketing, Operations, Information Systems | ₹24.54 LPA |
| Indian Institute of Management Udaipur (IIM Udaipur) | Udaipur | 10 | General Management, Finance, Marketing, Operations, Information Systems | ₹22.46 LPA |
- NIRF Ranking: National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) ranks Indian institutions based on various parameters.
- Placements: Average placement figures provide an indication of job prospects.
- Specialisations: Each college has areas of expertise and niche programs.
- Consider your interests, career goals, location preferences, and fees when making your choice.
- Conduct thorough research and visit college websites for detailed information.