Comprehensive Guide to CAT 2024: Everything You Need to Know

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most prestigious management entrance exams in India, conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). CAT 2024 is set to take place on Sunday, November 24, 2024, across multiple sessions. This exam serves as a gateway to various management programs offered by the IIMs and other top B-schools in the country. In this blog, we will cover all the critical aspects of CAT 2024, from eligibility criteria to the registration process, exam structure, and more.

To be eligible for CAT 2024, candidates must hold a Bachelor’s Degree with at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA (45% for SC, ST, and PwD candidates). The degree must be awarded by a recognized university as per the UGC Act. Candidates in the final year of their Bachelor’s degree or those awaiting results can also apply, provided they submit a certificate from their institution confirming that they have completed all the requirements for obtaining the degree. It’s important to note that mere fulfillment of the minimum eligibility criteria does not guarantee shortlisting by IIMs.

CAT 2024 follows the reservation policies mandated by the Government of India. 15% of the seats are reserved for Scheduled Caste (SC) candidates, 7.5% for Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates, 27% for Other Backward Classes (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates, and up to 10% for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) candidates. Additionally, 5% of the seats are reserved for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwD). Candidates applying under reserved categories must meet the minimum eligibility requirements specific to their category.

The registration for CAT 2024 opens at 10:00 AM on August 1, 2024, and closes at 5:00 PM on September 13, 2024. Candidates can register online by selecting five test cities of their preference. The registration fee is ₹1250 for SC, ST, and PwD candidates, and ₹2500 for all other candidates. The fee is non-refundable and must be paid online during registration. Candidates are advised to ensure that they fulfill the eligibility criteria before registering, as no changes will be allowed once the registration is completed.

CAT 2024 will be conducted in approximately 170 test cities across India. The specific test center will be mentioned on the admit card, which can be downloaded from November 5, 2024, until the exam date. IIMs reserve the right to add or remove test centers based on the situation. Candidates are encouraged to choose their test cities carefully during registration to avoid any last-minute issues.

CAT 2024 is a computer-based test that evaluates candidates on three major sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). The exam duration is 3 hours, with each section allocated 1 hour. The exam is conducted in English, and candidates must answer multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and non-MCQs. There is a penalty for incorrect answers, with a deduction of 1/4th of the marks for each wrong answer.

The CAT 2024 score is a critical component in the selection process for IIMs and other B-schools. The scorecards will be accessible on the CAT website, and candidates may also receive their results via SMS. The results are expected to be declared by the second week of January 2025. The CAT 2024 score is valid until December 31, 2025, after which it will no longer be accessible.

Each IIM follows its own selection process, which includes the CAT score as a key component. In addition to the CAT score, IIMs may consider candidates' previous academic performance, relevant work experience, and other factors during the selection process. Candidates must refer to the specific admission policies of individual IIMs to understand the selection criteria in detail.

For any queries related to CAT 2024, candidates can contact the help desk at 1800 210 0175 or visit the official website at www.iimcat.ac.in. Candidates are advised to keep their email ID and mobile number active throughout the selection process for receiving important updates.

CAT 2024 is a critical step for aspirants looking to secure a seat in the top management institutes in India. With proper preparation and a clear understanding of the exam structure, candidates can maximize their chances of success. This comprehensive guide provides all the necessary information to navigate the CAT 2024 process effectively.