Common Admission Test which is a computer based test, it is an examination for the graduate management program. This test is mainly taken in three sections which is Herbal Ability Reasoning Comprehension Data Interpretation Logical Reasoning and Quantity Ability Test. It is of 3 hours and 1 hour is given in each section.
कॉमन एडमिशन टेस्ट जोकि कंप्यूटर बेस्ड टेस्ट है यह ग्रैजुएट मैनेजमेंट प्रोग्राम के लिए लिया जाने वाला एग्जामिनेशन है यह टेस्ट मुख्य रूप से तीन सेक्शन में लिया जाता है जो हर्बल एबिलिटी रिजनिंग कंप्रीहेंशन डाटा इंटरप्रिटेशन लॉजिकल रीजनिंग और क्वांटिटी एबिलिटी टेस्ट लेती है यह एग्जामिनेशन मुख्य रूप से 3 घंटे की होती है और प्रत्येक सेक्शन में 1 घंटे का समय दिया जाता है
Key Points to Know before Applying for the CAT Exam
Key Points to Know before Applying for the CAT Exam: It is always better to know before you leap into the competitive domain of the CAT exam. Many candidates commit the mistake of following the trend and end up giving the CAT exam without proper knowledge.
It is better to do your homework before dedicating precious time of your youthful days to this exam. CAT is an aptitude-based test conducted for admission into Management studies.
Key Points to Know before Applying for the CAT Exam
More than 2 lakh aspirants give the CAT Exam each year, though only a few get the call from the top IIMs. Hence, it is advisable to know what you are getting into. Here are some crucial points to remember before applying for the CAT Exam.
A Brief into the CAT Exam:
The CAT Exam is an online computer-based test of 3 hours. The three major sections of the exam are Quant, DI & LR, and English and Reading Comprehension. A total of 100 questions are asked, a correct answer is awarded 3 marks, and a wrong answer is given a penalty of 1 mark. An online Calculator is also allowed during the examination.
Questions Asked in the CAT Exam are Application-Based
CAT exam is more of an aptitude examination that tests your problem-solving skills. One needs to have a strong basic understanding of fundamental concepts to clear the examination. You will have to learn how to apply concepts rather than just mugging up formulas and short tricks.
- Choose Wisely: From the preparation days till the exam day, you will have to develop the knack of choosing things wisely. When you begin your preparation, choosing the right CAT Books is important similarly in the examination hall, choosing the right questions is pivotal. It is crucial to avoid tricky and hard questions which aren’t your cup of tea. The same goes for your CAT study material- So, if you want to ace this examination, develop a knack for making wise decisions.
- Test of Accuracy”In the CAT exam, more than the attempts, accuracy matters. You can have a less percentile with more attempts and a high percentile with low attempts depending on your accuracy in the exam. Accuracy can’t be learned or acquired; it can be achieved only through practice. So, right from your preparation days, try to be focused on having high accuracy during the mock tests.
- Dynamic Marking Scheme of the Exam: The CAT exam doesn’t have a traditional marking scheme. It has a dynamic marking system that includes various factors like difficulty level, the number of people attempting a question, accuracy, etc. Most of the questions asked are in MCQ form and have a negative marking. But, non-MCQ questions do not have a negative marking. Of all the factors, accuracy is the most determining factor for getting a high percentile.
- Sectional Cut-offs for IIMs: Many candidates score a high percentile of 98+ but still don’t receive a call from the IIMs. The reason behind it is the sectional Cut-offs. It means you will have to pass the minimum sectional cut-offs and score a good percentile at the same time to get a call from the Top IIMs.
- Don’t Skip the Analysis of the Mock Tests: Half of your Cat preparation is mock tests themselves. But what is more important is to analyse those mock tests. Solving previous year’s papers and mock tests will give you a fair idea about the CAT Important Topics. You will need to master these important topics as well as work on your weaknesses. Try to take as many mocks as you can; once you have completed your syllabus.
Eligibility for CAT
The candidate must satisfy the below specified criteria:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree, with no less than 50% or equal CGPA (45% for Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Persons with Disability (PWD)/Differently Able (DA) classification)
- The degree should be granted by any of the universities consolidated by an act of the central or state statutory body in India or other instructive organizations built up by an act of Parliament or pronounced to be considered as a university under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956, or possess an equivalent qualification recognized by the Ministry of HRD, Government of India.
- Competitors appearing for the final year of bachelor’s degree/equivalent qualification examination and the individuals who have finished degree prerequisites and are anticipating results can likewise apply. If selected, such applicants will be permitted to join the program temporarily, only if they present a certificate most recent by June 30, 2020, from the principal/registrar of their college/institute (issued at the latest June 30, 2020) expressing that the competitor has finished every one of the prerequisites for acquiring four-year or three-year college education/identical capability on the date of the issue of the certificate.
CAT Exam Test Pattern and Duration
CAT is a computer-based test which consists of 3 sections:
- Verbal and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DI & LR)
- Quantitative Ability (QA)
1. Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements:
- Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for reserved categories).
- Final Year Students: Students in their final year of graduation are eligible to apply but must complete their degree before admission.
- No Age Limit: CAT does not have an upper age restriction, making it accessible to all aspirants.
2. Application Dates and Deadlines
- The CAT exam is usually conducted in November, and the registration opens around August/September.
- Keep track of application deadlines—late submissions are not accepted.
- Early registration allows time to plan your preparation without last-minute stress.
3. Registration Process
- Register on the official CAT website with a valid email and mobile number.
- Fill out personal, educational, and work experience details accurately.
- Upload scanned photograph and signature as per the specifications.
- Pay the application fee online (usually between ₹2,200 – ₹2,500).
4. Exam Pattern Overview
Understanding the CAT exam pattern before applying can help you plan preparation:
- Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes)
- Sections:
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Ability (QA)
- Mode: Computer-based test
- Scoring: Each correct answer carries 3 points; each incorrect multiple-choice answer carries a penalty of -1.
5. Choice of Test City
- During registration, select a preferred test city.
- While the CAT exam is conducted across India, having a nearby test center reduces travel stress.
- Keep backup options ready in case your preferred city is full.
6. Important Documents Needed
- Photograph and Signature (as per guidelines)
- Academic Certificates: Graduation mark sheets or provisional certificate
- Category Certificate (if applicable)
- Work Experience Certificate (if applying with experience)
7. Application Fee & Payment
- Fees can be paid online via credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI.
- Keep a screenshot of the payment confirmation for future reference.
8. Preparation Strategy After Applying
Once the application is submitted:
- Download and save the admit card when released.
- Plan a time-bound preparation schedule focusing on all three sections.
- Take mock tests regularly to gauge performance.
- Analyze mistakes and revise concepts consistently.
9. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incorrect personal details.
- Uploading non-compliant photos or signature.
- Missing deadlines for registration or fee payment.
- Ignoring exam pattern changes or official notifications.