Anticipating more user-friendly modifications in CAT 2024, the Common Admission Test (CAT) for MBA admissions in all 20 IIMs is slated for November 24, 2024 – the final Sunday of the month. IIM Calcutta will oversee CAT Exam 2024, introducing novel alterations to the test’s content and structure.
The evolution of changes within CAT may persist this year as well. The registration window for CAT 2024 is set to commence in the first week of August at iimcat.ac.in, remaining open for over 45 days. CAT 2024 is expected to be held in three slots on November 24. Each exam slot will have a duration of two hours. The CAT Registration 2024 Process is scheduled to commence in the first week of August 2024. Applicants holding a minimum of 50% marks in graduation are eligible to apply for CAT 2024
. The exam will be divided into three sections, with the total number of questions reduced to 66 from 100. Grammar-based questions are no longer part of the CAT Exam. CAT Question papers with answer keys are routinely released by IIMs after each exam. In addition to the 20 IIMs, other premier MBA colleges such as FMS, SPJIMR, IITs, and MDI will admit students for the MBA program in 2024 based on their CAT 2024 scores.
CAT 2024 stands as the largest MBA entrance exam for admission to 20 IIMs and over 1000 other top MBA colleges, including FMS Delhi, SPJIMR Mumbai, MDI Gurgaon, and IITs, among others. CAT scores will determine admission opportunities at more than 20,000 seats in top colleges for the 2024-25 batch. Experts and high scorers in CAT assert that while the exam is not overly challenging, success requires smart and timely preparation.
To attain a 99 percentile score in CAT, it is recommended to focus on an IQ-based preparation strategy rather than cramming extensive knowledge. Over 2 lakh candidates register for CAT every year. Last year saw more than 2.55 lakh candidates applying for CAT 2024, with around 2.30 lakh candidates appearing for the exam.
While the CAT 2024 exam dates are yet to be officially announced by IIMs, it is anticipated to take place on November 24, 2024. For comprehensive details about the CAT exam, including its definition, key features, important dates, revised exam pattern, changes in the syllabus, preparation tips, month-wise and week-wise preparation plans, top coaching institutes, MBA colleges accepting CAT 2024 scores, and the CAT exam centers in India, continue reading below.
What is CAT Exam?
CAT 2024, the requisite entrance examination for MBA admissions in all 20 IIMs, FMS Delhi, SPJIMR Mumbai, MDI Gurgaon, IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, IIT Kharagpur, NITIE Mumbai, and numerous other esteemed B-schools across India, is a pivotal step for aspirants. Over two lakh candidates participate in CAT annually, seeking entry into MBA programs provided by IIMs and other premier MBA institutions in the country. Key facets of the exam include:
- Computer-Based Format: Administered in over 155 test cities and 400+ test venues, CAT 2024 adopts a computer-based testing approach.
- Reduced Duration: Since 2020, the exam duration has been truncated to two hours, compared to the earlier three-hour format.
- Sections Breakdown: The exam encompasses three sections – Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability.
- Sectional Time Limits: Each section mandates completion within a designated time frame, ensuring a structured and time-bound approach.
- Exclusive Basis for Admission: The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) rely solely on CAT 2024 scores for admissions, excluding any other test scores.
In essence, CAT 2024 holds substantial importance as the primary gateway for securing coveted seats in premier MBA institutions, setting the stage for a competitive and standardized evaluation process.
CAT Exam 2024 Important Dates
Below are the crucial dates for CAT 2024, encompassing the CAT notification date, CAT exam date, and various other key activities associated with the CAT examination in 2024:
CAT 2024 Exam Date | Sunday, November 24, 2024 |
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CAT Entrance exam sessions | Likely to be Conducted in 3 sessions – Morning, Afternoon & Evening on same day |
Which IIM will conduct CAT 2024? | IIM Calcutta |
CAT 2024 Testing Mode | Computer based exam but not an online exam |
When to Check for CAT 2024 Notification | July 2024 |
Details to Check in CAT 2024 Notification | CAT Exam details, Application fee, Registration dates, MBA courses by IIMs through CAT 2024 |
Top MBA Colleges Accepting CAT 2024 for MBA admission 2024 | 20 IIMs, FMS, MDI, SPJIMR, IITs, IMI, IMT& 1000 other MBA colleges in India |
How to Apply for CAT 2024? | Application process is online only |
CAT Official Website for CAT 2024 Form Filling | IIMCAT.AC.IN |
CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria 2024
Here are the key considerations defining the eligibility criteria for CAT 2024:
- An aspirant with a minimum of 50% marks in their graduation is eligible to participate in CAT 2024.
- Final-year graduation students are also eligible to take CAT 2024 conducted by IIM.
- There is no upper age limit for application and participation in CAT 2024.
Feel free to read and verify your eligibility for the CAT exam.
CAT Exam 2024 Registration & Application: CAT 2024 Form Filling Process
The CAT 2024 registration process is exclusively conducted online. To initiate your registration and application for CAT 2024, you must utilize the official CAT website. The CAT 2024 registration fee is set at Rs. 2400/- for General candidates and Rs. 1200/- for SC/ST/PWD candidates. Payment of the CAT exam fee is to be made through online channels.
The application window for CAT 2024 commences in the first week of August, coinciding with the release of the CAT Notification 2024. Completing the CAT 2024 registration and application involves three fundamental steps:
- Login to CAT Website: Access iimcat.ac.in, and create your profile.
- Fill Registration & Application Form: Provide the required details in the registration and application forms.
- Online Payment of CAT Registration Fee: Conclude the process by making the CAT registration fee payment through online means.
CAT Exam Registration Trends
CAT 2022 witnessed a registration surge, with over 2.55 lakh candidates enrolling for the exam. Comparatively, in 2021, 2.29 lakh candidates applied for CAT, and in 2020, the number exceeded 2.27 lakh applicants. The escalating volume of CAT registrations underscores the intensifying competition, necessitating candidates to achieve high scores for consideration by the top three IIMs and other leading MBA institutions.
While the trends in CAT registrations initially depicted a decline from 2010, a significant shift occurred in 2013. Since then, the registration count has consistently risen, indicating a restoration of confidence among CAT aspirants. This surge is indicative of their optimism regarding enhanced career prospects post-MBA/PGP from an IIM or another esteemed B-school.
CAT Year | Candidate Registrations | % Increase/Decrease |
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2022 | 2.55 (estimated) | 11% |
2021 | 2.3 | 0.9% |
2020 | 2.28 | -6.6% |
2019 | 2.44 | 1.2% |
2018 | 2.41 | 4.3% |
2017 | 2.31 | -0.4% |
2016 | 2.32 | 5.9% |
2015 | 2.19 | 11.2% |
2014 | 1.97 | 1.0% |
2013 | 1.95 | -8.9% |
2012 | 2.14 | 4.4% |
2011 | 2.05 | — |
CAT Exam 2024: Key Features & Highlights
Here are the essential attributes of the IIM CAT 2024 examination, covering aspects such as the CAT full form, notification, CAT 2024 exam dates, eligibility criteria, exam structure, and various other pertinent details:
Important Highlights | |
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CAT Full Form | Common Admission Test,conducted on yearly basis for MBA admission by one of the 6 older IIMs |
CAT Exam Date 2024 | November 24, 2024 |
CAT Entrance exam sessions | Likely to be Conducted in 3 sessions – Morning, Afternoon&Evening on the same day |
CAT 2024 Conducting Institutes | IIM Lucknow. IIMs are the CAT-conducting Institutes |
CAT Entrance Exam Mode | Computer-based exam but not an online exam |
When to Check for CAT 2024 Notification | From July 31, 2024 onwards, and in Newspapers |
Details in CAT Notification 2024 | CAT Exam details, Application fee, Registration dates, IIMs & their management programs through CAT |
Maximum Age Limit to appear in IIM CAT | No Age Limit, Graduates with 50% marks can apply |
Number of Questions in CAT 2024 | 66 questions divided in 3 sections |
CAT Exam Time Duration on CAT 2024 Exam Date | 2 hours for each Slot |
Sectional Time limit | 40 minutes for 1 section |
Name of sections and number of questions | VARC-24 Questions; DILR-20 questions; Quant-22 questions |
Expected Difficulty level | Moderate to Difficult |
Order of Sections | Pre-fixed, no change allowed |
Top MBA Colleges Accepting CAT 2024 for MBA Admission 2024 | 20 IIMs, FMS, MDI, SPJIMR, IITs, IMI, IMT& 1000 other MBA colleges in India |
CAT Exam Fees 2024 | Rs.2300/- |
How to Apply | The application process is online only |
CAT Official Website for CAT 2024 Form Filling | IIMCAT.AC.IN |
IIMs’ Application Fee | No Separate Application Fee to apply for IIM. Registration Fee covers application fee of all 20 IIMs |
CAT Exam Pattern 2024: Key Changes & Revised Structure
The CAT exam, since 2015, has adhered to a consistent pattern, with the last two years likely setting the template for CAT 2024. The continuity encompasses aspects of time duration, the number of questions, and the section structure:
- 120-Minute Exam: CAT 2024 is a computer-delivered test lasting 2 hours, emphasizing that it is not an online exam.
- 66 Questions: Mirroring the previous year, CAT 2024 will feature 66 questions distributed across three sections: VARC, DILR, and Quantitative Ability. This represents a shift from the earlier format of 100 questions divided into three sections.
- 18-20 No Penalty Questions: Out of the total 66 questions, 18 or more will not incur negative marking. CAT 2024 employs a combination of MCQs and non-MCQs, with the latter exempt from negative marking. In instances where a non-MCQ entails negative marking, certain MCQs are converted into no-negative-marking questions.
- 48-50 CAT Questions with Negative Marking: CAT 2024 will include over 48 MCQ-type questions, each carrying a penalty of 1/3 negative marking.
- CAT Cut-off Requirement by IIMs: IIMs necessitate a minimum qualifying score ranging from 70 to 90 percentile in each of the three sections of CAT 2024 to shortlist candidates for the final admission round.
- IIM Shortlisting Criteria: Beyond high scores in the three sections, candidates with a robust academic profile, diverse experiences, and work history are given preference for admission into IIMs.
CAT Pattern 2024: Revised Structure of Question Paper
The table provided below outlines the sequence of sections, the quantity and type of questions in each section, and differentiates questions with and without negative marking for the two-hour exam:
CAT 2024 exam components | MCQs (With negative marking) | Non-MCQs (TITA Qs Without negative marking) | Total Questions |
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Section-1: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) (Time limit: 40 Minutes) | 19 | 5 | 24 |
Section-2: Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) (Time Limit: 40 Minutes) | 15 | 5 | 20 |
Section-3: Quantitative Ability (QA) (Time Limit: 40 Minutes) | 14 | 8 | 22 |
Total (Overall) (Time limit: 120 Minutes) | 48 | 18 | 66 |
VARC in CAT with Highest Weightage
As indicated earlier, the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section in CAT carries the highest weightage. Your performance in this section can significantly impact your percentile, either elevating it or bringing it down, as explained below:
CAT Previous Year Exam Analysis
The CAT 2024 overall exam difficulty level was assessed as moderate. Noteworthy changes included a reduction in the total number of questions to 66 from the previous year’s 76, comprising 48 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and 18 Non-MCQs. The CAT exam was categorized into three sections – VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension), DILR (Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning), and Quantitative Ability.
- In Section-1 (VARC), there were a total of 24 questions, consisting of 19 MCQs and 5 Non-MCQs. This section comprised 4 Reading Comprehension (RC) passages with a cumulative 16 questions. The overall difficulty level of VARC was assessed as moderate.
- Section-2 (DILR) encompassed 20 questions, with 15 MCQs and 5 Non-MCQs. It included 2 Logical Reasoning (LR) sets, each followed by 6 questions, and 2 Data Interpretation (DI) sets, each followed by 4 questions.
- Section-3 (Quantitative Ability) involved a total of 22 questions, with 14 MCQs and 8 Non-MCQs. The Arithmetic category featured the highest number of questions at 9, followed by Algebra and Geometry with 5 and 3 questions, respectively. The difficulty level for this section was deemed moderate.
Achieving a 99 percentile in the exam corresponded to a raw score of 90.
CAT 2024 Exam Syllabus: Overall and Section-wise syllabus
While the IIMs do not provide a predefined syllabus, the CAT exam comprehensively evaluates candidates in Verbal Ability and reading Comprehension, Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation, and logical Reasoning. Over the last five years, significant alterations have been made to the CAT exam syllabus. Key modifications in the CAT Syllabus for 2024 include:
- Diverse Question Types: The syllabus has been revamped, featuring a variety of question types, including a combination of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Non-MCQs.
- Introduction of No Penalty Questions: A notable shift is the inclusion of 25-30% of questions without negative marking, adding a new dynamic to the exam.
- Emphasis on Reading Comprehension: The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section has witnessed substantial changes, with an increased focus on Reading Comprehension-based questions compared to Verbal Ability questions.
- Alterations in Quantitative Ability: Changes have been introduced in the Quantitative Ability section, particularly with a heightened emphasis on Arithmetic questions.
These modifications reflect an evolving CAT syllabus, designed to assess candidates more comprehensively and adapt to the evolving landscape of aptitude testing. 8.1 CAT Syllabus Section-Wise
Sectional Division | Overview of Topics in the CAT Syllabus 2024 | Weightage in exam |
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Quantitative Ability (QA) | Arithmetic, Modern Math, Number System Algebra, Mensuration, Trigonometry, Geometry | 34-36% |
Data Interpretation& Logical Reasoning (DILR) | Data Charts, Data Tables, Bar Graphs, Venn Diagrams, Seating arrangement, Team formation, Clocks & Calendars | 30-32% |
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) | Long & Short Passages Jumbled Paragraphs; Para-summary Picking the Out of context sentence from a jumbled paragraph | 32-34% |
CAT Exam Preparation Books for VARC, DILR, Quant
The optimal books for CAT preparation must align with the evolving pattern of the IIM CAT exam. Given the annual introduction of diverse question types, it becomes imperative for preparation materials to stay current. In recent years, CAT has undergone comprehensive modifications, challenging the relevance of many CAT preparation books currently available in the market.
However, the recommended CAT preparation books presented here stand out as they are regularly updated to integrate changes in the anticipated question types for the CAT exam. When selecting the finest books for CAT preparation, it’s crucial to ensure that these resources are well-acquainted with the altered exam pattern and the associated level of difficulty.
Here are a few key considerations for evaluating CAT preparation books:
- Conceptual Clarity: The books should offer a clear and in-depth conceptual understanding of the relevant CAT topics.
- Comprehensive Exercises: They should provide a wealth of exercises, practice questions, and mocks after each topic, facilitating thorough practice.
- Customizable Focus: Effective CAT books should cater to individual needs by offering a variety of practice questions to address weak areas.
- Latest Edition: Opt for the latest edition of CAT preparation books, as they not only incorporate the updated exam pattern but also reflect any changes in the syllabus.
Ensuring these criteria are met in the chosen CAT preparation books enhances the effectiveness of your study materials and contributes to a more targeted and successful preparation strategy.
Section-Wise 10 Best books for CAT Preparation
Whether you’re pursuing self-preparation for CAT or benefiting from the guidance of a CAT coaching institute, having access to the most recent editions of CAT preparation books, as outlined below according to sections, can significantly enhance your conceptual understanding, offer abundant practice questions, and aid in tackling sample papers.
CAT Preparation Books for VARC
- How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT’- by Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT by Nishit K Sinha
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension by Ajay Singh
- Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis
CAT Preparation Books for DILR
- How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT by Arun Sharma (Published by McGraw Hill)
- How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for CAT by Arun Sharma (Published by McGraw Hill)
- Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT by Nishit K. Sinha
- CAT Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning by Gautam Puri, Publisher Career Launcher
Preparation Books for QA
- How to prepare for Quantitative for the CAT by Arun Sharma, published by MGH Education
- Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT by Nishit K Sinha
- Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT by Sarvesh K Verma
- CAT Preparation with Top CAT Coaching Institutes Dedicating a few months to focused preparation can empower you to excel in the CAT exam, given its demand for ‘Smart Preparation.’ Consider enrolling in coaching programs for their provision of expert guidance. The essential elements of CAT preparation in collaboration with CAT coaching include:
10.1 Benefits of CAT 2024 Preparation with CAT Coaching
- CAT coaching institutes play a crucial role in facilitating a systematic and focused preparation for CAT, ensuring you stay on track without deviation.
- Top CAT coaching institutes prioritize smart and intensive preparation for CAT 2024, aiming to optimize time utilization and minimize wastage.
- These institutes offer various CAT preparation modules, ranging from 1 year to 2 months, providing tailored options to help you achieve a high score in the exam.
- For those requiring a solid foundation and conceptual clarity before engaging in practice sessions, CAT coaching centers recommend initiating CAT preparation with a 6-month time margin.
- Top CAT Coaching Centers in India The selection of a CAT coaching mode is contingent on factors such as your interest, time availability, financial considerations, and your current level of preparation for the CAT 2024 exam. Here is an overview of the leading CAT coaching institutes, outlining their key centers and the coaching options they provide:
Top CAT 2024 Coaching Institutes | Classroom or Online Coaching | City-wise CAT Preparation Center Location |
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TIME | Both | Delhi, Noida, Lucknow, Chennai, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Gurgaon among total 100+ centres |
Career Launcher | Both | Delhi, Noida, Lucknow, Chennai, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Gurgaon among 80+ centres |
IMS | Both | Delhi, Lucknow, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Lucknow among 50+ centres |
Byju’s | Online | Online Coaching via Tablet anywhere in India and abroad |
2IIM.com | Online | Online coaching course with videos, quizzes, practice tests, and slideshows. Classroom coaching in Chennai only |
MBAGURU | Both | Centers across Delhi located in CP, Rajouri Garden, Pitampura, Kailash Colony |
Arun Sharma’s Mindworkzz | Both | Mindworkzz has 3 centres in C P, Delhi, and offers online coaching as well |
Endeavor | Both | Lucknow, Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai, Pune among 20+ centers across India |
BullsEye | Online | Offers Online Coaching |
Tathagat | Classroom coaching | Centres located in Delhi, Noida |
Alchemist | Classroom coaching | CP-Delhi, North Delhi, West Delhi and Gurgaon |
Read Also – KEAM 2024: Application Form, Exam Dates, Eligibility, Pattern |
Conclusion
The CAT exam pattern is designed to assess candidates’ quantitative aptitude, verbal ability, and logical reasoning skills. The exam is highly competitive, and a good understanding of the exam pattern is essential for success. In this blog, we have discussed the following aspects of the CAT exam pattern:
- Number of sections: The CAT exam has three sections: Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability, and Data Interpretation and logical Reasoning.
- Types of questions: Each section of the CAT exam has a mix of objective and subjective questions.
- Marking scheme: Each correct answer is awarded 3 marks, and each incorrect answer is penalized by 1 mark.
- Total time: The CAT exam is a computer-based test of 3 hours duration.
We hope this blog has given you a good overview of the CAT exam pattern. To prepare effectively for the exam, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the different types of questions asked in each section and practice solving them regularly. You should also develop a time management strategy to ensure that you are able to complete all sections of the exam within the allotted time.