The CAT official notification is out. You should check the CAT eligibility criteria 2023 and begin your preparations.
CAT Exam Overview
CAT is a centralized exam, conducted on a national level by IIMs on a rotational basis. It offers admission to top IIMs and other B-schools across India.
S.No. | Aspect | Details |
Name | CAT (Common Admission Test) | |
Conducting Body | Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) (On Rotational Basis) | |
Exam Level | National | |
Exam Frequency | Once a year, Annually | |
Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) | |
Sections | 3: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude | |
Number of Questions | 66 Questions | |
Question Type | MCQ-Type QuestionsTITA-Type Questions | |
Total Marks | 198 Marks | |
CAT Marking Scheme | 3 marks for each correct answer, -1 mark for each incorrect answer (for multiple-choice questions) | |
CAT Duration | 2 Hours (120 Minutes) | |
CAT Eligibility Criteria | Bachelor’s degree with minimum 50% aggregate marks (varies for reserved categories) | |
CAT Syllabus | Verbal Ability and Reading ComprehensionQuantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, | |
CAT Exam Date | 26 November 2023 | |
CAT Application Process | Online registration and application submission through the official CAT website | |
CAT Admissions | CAT scores are accepted by various management institutes across India for admission to their MBA and PGDM programs | |
CAT Validity of Score | The validity of CAT results is one year. |
Why is it important to check CAT Eligibility Criteria?
There are several reasons why you should check the CAT eligibility criteria before applying for the exam.
- To avoid wasting time and money. The CAT exam is competitive and requires a lot of preparation. If you do not meet the eligibility criteria, you will not be able to take the exam, even if you have paid the application fee.
- To be aware of the requirements for eligibility. The eligibility criteria are different for different categories of candidates. By checking the eligibility criteria, you will know what you need to do to be eligible to take the exam. For example, if you are a final-year student, you will need to provide a provisional certificate from your university to prove that you will have completed your graduation by the time of admission to the MBA program.
- To plan your preparation accordingly. Once you know the eligibility criteria, you can start planning your preparation accordingly. For example, if you need to improve your quantitative aptitude, you can focus on that area of your preparation.
Here are the steps on how to check the CAT eligibility criteria:
- Go to the official CAT website: https://iimcat.ac.in/
- Click on the “Eligibility” tab.
- Read the eligibility criteria carefully.
- If you have any questions, contact the CAT helpdesk.
CAT Eligibility Criteria 2023
The CAT eligibility criteria are announced along with the CAT official notification. It includes all the minimum criteria that one must fulfil to be eligible for admission through CAT.
CAT Eligibility Criteria |
Minimum Educational QualificationBachelor’s Degree: Completed a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized university/institution. |
Minimum Percentage: A minimum aggregate percentage of 50% or equivalent CGPA is required. However, specific percentages may vary for different categories (e.g., SC/ST/OBC/PWD). |
Final Year Students: Final year students are also eligible to apply, provided they complete their graduation requirements by the specified deadline. |
Age Limit: There is no specific age limit for appearing in the CAT examination. |
Nationality: Both foreigners and Indian nationals have the option to apply. |
Reservation: Applicable reservation rules and guidelines are followed for candidates from SC, ST, OBC, EWS, PWD, and other reserved categories as per the Government of India regulations. |
Number of Attempts: There is no cap on how many times you can try. Candidates can appear for CAT as many times as they wish. |
Pro tips to make the best of your CAT preparation journey
- Know the CAT syllabus and pattern thoroughly. This will help you understand what topics you need to focus on and how much time you need to spend on each section.
- Create a study plan and stick to it. This will help you stay on track and make sure you are covering all the material you need to cover.
- Set realistic goals for yourself. Don’t try to do too much too soon, or you will get burned out. start with modest objectives and progressively raise them as you get closer to the exam.
- Find a study partner or join a CAT preparation course. You’ll be more motivated and responsible as a result.
- Practice, practice, practice! The more you practice, the better you will become at answering CAT questions. Take as many mock tests as you can, and analyze your results to see where you need to improve.
- Manage your time effectively. The CAT is a timed exam, so it is important to be able to manage your time wisely. You should practise answering questions in a timed environment to become accustomed to the pressure.
- Don’t forget to take breaks. It is important to take breaks when you are studying so that you can stay refreshed and focused. Get up and move around every 20-30 minutes, and take a longer break every 2-3 hours.
Additional advice that you might find useful is provided below:
- Read newspapers and magazines regularly to improve your vocabulary and reading comprehension skills.
- Solve puzzles and brain teasers to improve your logical reasoning skills.
- Use online resources to practice CAT questions. Some many websites and apps offer CAT practice questions.
- Get enough sleep and eat healthy foods. You’ll be able to concentrate and stay motivated while studying if you take care of your sleeping and eating habits.
- Take care of your mental health. The CAT can be a stressful exam, so it is important to find ways to manage your stress. Exercise, meditation, and yoga are all helpful ways to reduce stress.
I hope these tips help you make the most of your CAT preparation journey. Good luck!