Getting into a top business school may be your goal if you aim to study business management. To get there, you need to take the CAT exam. In 2023, a record 3.3 lakh candidates registered for the exam, all eyeing a spot in the MBA programs.
Amidst this tough competition, knowing bits and pieces about the CAT exam can help you stand out with a good score. So, continue reading this guide to get ready for the exam in 3 months. Learn more about CAT exam eligibility, exam patterns, and more to develop better study strategies.
Connect with an Expert for Detailed Insights
Request a call →What is CAT exam?
CAT, or Common Admission Test, is a popular national exam. Each year, the Indian Institute of Management conducts it. This exam shortlists candidates who want to pursue management. After passing it, you can enter top business schools in India to pursue an MBA program with a specialization of your preference.
CAT Exam: Eligibility Criteria
Knowing the CAT's eligibility criteria is imperative to understand if you can take this exam. Here are the eligibility criteria:
- The candidate should have a bachelor's degree. They must pass with at least 50%.
- Candidates can only take the exam in English.
- If you are in the final year of your graduation, you can take the exam.
You can start preparation if you meet the CAT exam eligibility criteria. You must know that this exam offers unlimited attempts. Also, the CAT grades come with one-year validity. So, if you cannot take the exam in a year, you can try next year.
CAT Exam Pattern
After 2020, a few changes have been brought about in the CAT exam pattern. So, candidates considering taking the exam this year should know the new exam pattern. It helps them prepare in a better way.
Aspects |
CAT 2024 |
| Examination slots | Three |
| Sectional time limit | 40 minutes |
| Examination duration | 120 minutes |
| Total number of questions | 76 |
| Number of questions in VARC | 26 |
| Number of questions in QA | 26 |
| Number of questions in DILR | 24 |
| Total marks | 228 |
Preparation Tactics: Crack the CAT Exam in 3 months
Let's be honest; you must concentrate more on your preparation strategy three months before the CAT exam. With proper techniques, your preparation may become better. This way, you can score higher.
- ### Know the syllabus and exam pattern
Paying attention to the CAT exam pattern and the syllabus is a basic rule. It will help you understand how IIM structures the exam. Knowing the syllabus can help you learn more about the popular topics it covers. Generally, there are three sections: VARC, QA, and DILR.
- ### Make a study plan
Once you know the syllabus and pattern, make a proper study plan. It will work like a roadmap for CAT exam preparation. Divide and note down the syllabus to set a specific time for each topic. Never do overboard when planning for your study plan, and be realistic.
- ### Get the right study materials
Having the right study materials is important for CAT preparation. Invest in valuable books, check online resources, and pick study materials from reliable sources. Look for materials that cover a detailed syllabus. They must include mock tests and CAT exam question papers from previous years.
- ### Identify your weak and strong areas
It is very important to understand your strong and weak areas. Take online mock tests to identify these. Put your efforts and time into weak areas and revise the strong areas regularly. This can help you get the most out of your study time and increase your chances of success.
- ### Attempt mock exams
No one can overstate the importance of attempting mock tests for successful CAT preparation. These mock tests help you understand the actual exam environment. So, take regular mock tests to improve your accuracy and speed.
- ### Divide preparation into three months
Divide your CAT exam preparation into three months. It is a smart strategy to ensure thorough syllabus coverage. Use the first month to understand the basic concepts and cover syllabus. In the second month, pay attention to problems, weak areas, and tests. You can use the third month to do revisions and test-taking strategies.
- ### Time management is important
Managing time is also vital for successful CAT preparation. Set a specific time and try to complete a section within that time. Also, allocate specific time for each subject and topic to cover the syllabus. You should know that you need to give more time to the difficult questions. So, plan ahead how you can tackle that part in the examination.
Connect with an Expert for Detailed Insights
EnrolL Now →Conclusion
You can crack the CAT exam on the first attempt with the right strategies and dedication. So, stay consistent, follow the mentioned strategies, and do your best. Check the CAT exam pattern and syllabus to pass with confidence.
If you are unsure about going the traditional way to acquire your MBA, worry not! You can still get your dream degree without taking the strenuous CAT exam. Enroll in the online MBA course of Amity University Online. They offer flexible learning with structured MBA programs.
Check Out Our Top Online Degree Programs
| UG Programs | PG Programs |
| BBA | MBA |
| BCA | MCA |
| Bcom | MA |
| BA | Mcom |
| BAJMC | MAJMC |
