CAT Exam: Gateway to IIMs & Top B-Schools

Your Complete Guide to the Common Admission Test

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national-level management entrance exam, conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) on a rotational basis. Currently, IIM Kozhikode is administering the CAT exam. CAT is the key to not just the 20 IIMs, but also to over 1,200 top business schools across India, including FMS Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, SPJIMR Mumbai, IMT Ghaziabad, several IITs, and more.

The CAT tests candidates in three main areas: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). The level of difficulty ranges from moderate to high, making CAT preparation essential for serious MBA aspirants in India.

CAT Exam Highlights

FeatureDetails
Exam NameCAT (Common Admission Test)
Conducting BodyIndian Institutes of Management (Currently: IIM Kozhikode)
Exam LevelNational
Mode of ExamComputer-Based (CBT)
FrequencyOnce yearly (typically in late November)
EligibilityBachelor's Degree with minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD)
Accepted By20 IIMs + 1200+ B-Schools
Official Websitewww.iimcat.ac.in
Score Validity1 Year

Latest CAT Exam Pattern

SectionDurationNo. of QuestionsQuestion Types
VARC40 minutes24MCQs + TITA
DILR40 minutes22MCQs + TITA
QA40 minutes22MCQs + TITA
Total120 minutes68Objective + Subjective
Important Notes:
  • TITA (Type In The Answer): Requires candidates to directly type numerical/text answers (no negative marking for TITA)
  • Marking Scheme: +3 for correct answer, -1 for incorrect MCQ, 0 for unattempted or TITA
  • Recent Change: Total questions have increased from 66 to 68 with DILR now featuring 22 questions

Why Take CAT?

Career Benefits & Opportunities

  • Entry to India's top management institutes (IIMs and others)
  • Gateway to high-paying careers in business, consulting, finance, analytics, and more
  • Opportunities for specializations such as marketing, HR, operations, IT, entrepreneurship, and analytics
  • Recognized not only by IIMs but by all leading B-Schools in India
  • Used for MBA, Executive MBA, FPM, and PhD admissions

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CAT Frequently Asked Questions

What is CAT, and who conducts it?
CAT is a national-level test for management admissions, conducted by IIMs on a rotational basis. Currently, IIM Kozhikode is administering the exam.
What are the sections in CAT?
CAT consists of three sections: VARC (Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension), DILR (Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning), and QA (Quantitative Ability). Each section is timed independently for 40 minutes.
What is the eligibility criteria?
Candidates must have a Bachelor's degree with 50% marks (45% for reserved categories). Final year students are also eligible to apply.
How can I prepare for CAT effectively?
Blend thorough concept learning, regular practice, mock testing, and expert mentorship for best results. Focus on building strong fundamentals and developing test-taking strategies.
Is CAT harder than other MBA admission tests?
Yes, CAT is widely considered the most competitive MBA entrance exam in India, testing candidates at moderate to high difficulty levels across all three sections.
How important is CAT for MBA aspirants in India?
CAT remains the single most important qualification for admission to top MBA and management programmes in India, opening doors to 20 IIMs and over 1,200 leading business schools.