The CAT exam date, a highly anticipated event for aspiring MBA candidates, marks a crucial milestone in their academic and professional journey. Scheduled annually, the Common Admission Test (CAT) is a standardized test conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) to assess the candidates’ aptitude and skills for admission to various management programs. The announcement of the CAT exam date triggers intense preparation and focus, as candidates gear up to showcase their abilities in the fiercely competitive examination.This opportunity could serve as a platform for individuals to stand out and make a compelling case for why they are well-suited for a management education path. This might include highlighting academic achievements, leadership skills, teamwork, communication abilities, and any relevant work or volunteer experiences. The goal is likely to convince decision-makers that these individuals have the qualities necessary for success in a management education program.
CAT Exam 2024 Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| CAT Full Form | Common Admission Test (CAT) |
| Conducting Body | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow |
| CAT Exam Date | November last week, 2024 |
| Eligibility Criteria | Graduation with 50% aggregate (45% for SC/ST students) |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Marking Scheme | Negative marking of 1 mark for each wrong answer |
| Application Form Fees | INR 2,200 for General category, INR 1,100 for SC/ST/PwD |
| CAT Syllabus 2024 | Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), Quantitative Ability (QA) |
| CAT Official Website | https://iimcat.ac.in |
Important dates
| CAT Exam Event | Dates (Tentative) |
|---|---|
| CAT 2024 Notification Releases | July 2024 |
| CAT Registration begins | First week of August 2024 |
| CAT Registration ends | September 2024 |
| Application Correction Date | September 2024 |
| Release of CAT Admit Card | October 2024 |
| Exam Date | November 2024 |
| Announcement of Results | December 2024 |
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates to appear in CAT 2024 should fulfill the eligibility criteria. The eligibility criteria of CAT 2024 is mentioned below:
Bachelor’s Degree:
- A Bachelor’s degree from a UGC-recognized university is required.
- The eligible degrees include BSc, B.Tech, BE, B.Arch, Humanities, etc.
Minimum Percentage:
- A minimum of 50% score in the bachelor’s degree is required for General and OBC categories.
- A minimum of 45% is required for SC, ST, PWD/DA categories.
Professional Degrees:
- Candidates with professional degrees such as CA, CS, ICWA are eligible, with a minimum acceptable percentage.
Age Limit:
- There is no upper age limit specified, allowing individuals of any age to apply.
Working Professionals:
- Working professionals who have completed their bachelor’s degree and are seeking managerial positions can apply.
Work Experience:
- Work experience is preferred but not mandatory.
Final Year Students:
- Final-year bachelor’s degree students are eligible to apply for the CAT, but their final admission is subject to completing their bachelor’s degree.
CAT Exam 2024 Application Form
Anticipated release of CAT 2024 applications: Expected in the first week of August. Application procedure: Solely conducted online at iimcat.ac.in. Registration fee: Approximately Rs 2300 for general candidates and Rs 1150 for reserved categories. Payment is necessary to finalize the registration process. The specified fee amounts are provisional and may be subject to change. Applicants are required to complete the form on the official website. The online application process ensures simplicity and convenience for candidates. It is imperative to regularly check the official website for the most recent updates and notifications.
Expected Application Release:
- The CAT 2024 application is anticipated to be released in the first week of August.
Application Process:
- The application process will be exclusively online and can be completed on the official website iimcat.ac.in.
Registration Fee:
- The registration fee is approximately Rs 2300 for general category candidates.
- Reserved categories may have a reduced fee of Rs 1150.
- Payment is required to complete the registration.
Fee Disclaimer:
- The mentioned fee amounts are tentative and subject to change. Applicants should verify the current fees during the application period.
Form Submission:
- Candidates must fill out the application form on the official website to be considered for the CAT exam.
Online Application:
- The online application process is designed for ease and convenience for candidates.
Monitoring Official Website:
- It is crucial for applicants to regularly check the official website for the latest updates and notifications related to the CAT exam.
How to Fill CAT 2024 Application Form
– Visit the official CAT website during the registration period.
– Click on the ‘New Candidate Registration‘ to generate login credentials.
– Complete the application form by entering personal, academic, and contact details.
– Upload required documents such as photograph and signature in the specified format.
– Select your choice of management programs and exam centers.
– Pay the application fee online using various payment options provided.
– Review the entered information carefully before submitting the form.
– Download and print the confirmation page for future reference.
– Ensure all steps are completed within the given deadline for successful registration.
CAT 2024 Admit Card
The admit card for the CAT 2024 exam is a crucial document that all MBA aspirants must carry on the day of the examination. Candidates need to be aware of the following important details regarding their admit card.
- Only registered candidates can download the CAT 2024 admit card.
- Candidates can access and download their admit card from the official website of IIM CAT, iimcat.ac.in, by logging in with their ID and password.
- The admit card will contain details such as the test centre, exam date, and other important information related to the exam.
- The CAT admit card is a mandatory document that must be carried out on the day of the examination.
- Candidates should ensure that all the information mentioned on the admit card is correct. In case of any discrepancies, they should contact the authorities immediately
CAT Exam Pattern
| CAT Exam Pattern | Details |
|---|---|
| Sections | Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), Quantitative Aptitude (QA) |
| Time Duration per Section | 40 minutes |
| Total Exam Duration | 120 minutes (2 hours) |
| Total Number of Questions | 66 |
| Total Marks | 198 |
| Language of Question Paper | English |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Non-MCQs |
| Marking Scheme | 3 marks for each correct answer |
| -1 mark for each incorrect answer (MCQs) | |
| No negative marking for Non-MCQs |
CAT 2024 Syllabus
- CAT is a business aptitude exam that tests candidates on their analytical, critical thinking abilities. The CAT exam syllabus comprises 3 sections viz. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA).
| CAT Syllabus 2024 | Sections | No of Questions | Time Allotted (in min) | Important Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 24 | 40 | Reading comprehension, para jumbles, para summary, verbal reasoning, etc | |
| Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 20 | 40 | Charts, graphs, arrangements, blood relations, puzzles, etc | |
| Quantitative Aptitude (QA) | 22 | 40 | Algebra, arithmetic, number systems, geometry, permutations, and combinations, mensuration, etc. | |
| Total | 66 | 120 |
How to prepare for CAT 2024?
CAT, the Common Admission Test,is renowned as one of the most challenging MBA entrance exams. To prepare effectively for the CAT 2024 exam, candidates can follow these tips:
- Create a personalized study strategy: Divide the syllabus into sections and allocate time accordingly.
- Assess your strengths and weaknesses: Focus on improving weaker areas while maintaining your strengths.
- Choose your mode of preparation: Decide between self-study or coaching classes and use reliable resources.
- Emphasise mock exams: Take regular mock tests to assess your progress and improve time management.
- Practice with previous year’s papers: Solve past papers to understand the exam pattern and build confidence.
- Stay updated with current affairs: Stay informed about current events for the general awareness section.
- Manage your time effectively: Set realistic study goals and stick to a schedule.
- Seek guidance and support: Connect with mentors or CAT toppers for advice and motivation.
- Stay focused and motivated: Maintain a positive mindset and believe in your abilities.
- Regularly revise and practice: Review concepts, practice questions, and stay committed to your study plan.
FAQ's
CAT, or the Common Admission Test, is a highly competitive entrance exam for admission into prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top B-schools. It’s important for MBA aspirants as it evaluates candidates on various skills essential for management education and offers a gateway to esteemed management programs.
To apply for CAT, visit the official CAT website during the registration period. Fill out the application form, upload required documents, and pay the registration fee online. Make sure to review and submit the form within the specified deadline.
CAT exam comprises three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Each section has a time limit, and the exam includes both Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Non-MCQs.
CAT follows a +3, -1 marking scheme. Each correct answer earns 3 marks, and each incorrect answer results in a deduction of 1 mark. However, there is no negative marking for Non-MCQs.
Effective CAT preparation involves understanding the exam pattern, creating a study plan, practicing past papers, taking mock tests, and revising regularly. Focus on strengthening your weaker areas and time management.
