Common Admission Test 2023

Overview

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a prominent national-level business aptitude test administered by Indian Institutes of business (IIMs) for admission to MBA programmes. It is also approved by over 1,200 business schools in India. Every year, around two lakh people apply for the CAT test.

The CAT test evaluates students in three areas: verbal ability and reading comprehension (VARC), data interpretation and logical reasoning (DILR), and quantitative ability (QA). The exam’s difficulty level is moderate to high, making it a difficult yet necessary step for individuals wishing to pursue an MBA or comparable programmes.

Candidates who wish to pursue an MBA in the 2024 academic year must take the CAT test. The CAT results are used for admission to MBA programmes, Executive MBA programmes, PhD programmes, and FPM programmes at IIMs and other B-Schools.

What is CAT?

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a prestigious national-level aptitude test conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for admission to MBA programs. It is recognized by more than 1,200 business schools across India. Every year, approximately two lakh aspirants appear for the CAT test.

What Does CAT Evaluate?

CAT evaluates candidates in three crucial areas:

  1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
  2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
  3. Quantitative Ability (QA)

The difficulty level of the CAT exam ranges from moderate to high, making it a challenging yet essential step for individuals aspiring to pursue an MBA or similar programs.

Who Should Take CAT?

Candidates aiming to pursue an MBA in the academic year 2024 must take the CAT test. CAT results are used for admissions to MBA, Executive MBA, PhD, and FPM programs at IIMs and various other B-Schools.

CAT 2023 Details:

  • CAT 2023 will be conducted by IIM Lucknow.
  • Registration is expected to start in August and conclude in September.
  • The test is likely to be held in November 2023.

Exam Structure:

  • The CAT test comprises 66 questions divided into three sessions on the same day.
  • The total duration of the exam is 120 minutes, with 40 minutes allotted to each section.
  • The test is computer-based and includes both multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and non-MCQs.

Eligibility Criteria

 To be eligible for CAT, applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST applicants). Candidates in the final year of their bachelor’s degree can also apply.

CAT Syllabus

The CAT syllabus covers a wide range of topics, including:

  • Reading Comprehension
  • Data Interpretation
  • Logical Reasoning
  • Number System
  • Algebra
  • Arithmetic
  • Geometry
  • Mensuration

Preparation Strategy

Candidates can opt for coaching classes or self-study using various online resources, books, and study groups. Mock exams play a crucial role in effective preparation.

Success with Dedication

CAT is renowned for its rigorous examination process and is considered more challenging than many other MBA admission tests. However, with focused preparation, hard work, and consistent practice, candidates can achieve high percentiles and secure admission to top management colleges.

Frequently Asked
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CAT, or the Common Admission Test, is a national-level aptitude test conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for admission to MBA programs.

The CAT exam evaluates candidates in three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA).

Applicants should have completed a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST applicants) or be in their final year of bachelor’s studies.

Candidates can prepare through coaching classes, online resources, books, and mock exams. Mock exams are particularly helpful for practice.

Yes, CAT is known for its rigorous examination process and is considered more challenging than many other MBA admission tests. However, with dedicated preparation, candidates can achieve success.

CAT plays a significant role in the careers of ambitious management professionals in India. It opens doors to top MBA programs and lucrative career opportunities.