CAT Exam 2023 : Admission , Eligibility Criteria , FAQs and More

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The CAT Exam, also known as the Common Admission Test, is a highly competitive entrance examination conducted in India. CAT is a computer-based test that assesses the aptitude and analytical skills of candidates seeking admission into prestigious business management programs, such as Master of Business Administration (MBA), offered by various Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top-tier business schools in India.

The CAT Exam is considered one of the most challenging and sought-after entrance exams for management education in India. It is conducted once a year by the Indian Institutes of Management on a rotational basis. The exam evaluates candidates’ proficiency in areas such as Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA).

What is CAT Exam?
CAT 2023 Dates
CAT Eligibility Criteria 2023
CAT Exam Pattern & Test Structure 2023
CAT Toppers Tips and Preparation Strategy
CAT Registrations 2023
CAT Admit Card 2023
CAT Exam Analysis
CAT 2023 Result and Scorecard PDF
IIM CAT Cut Offs 2023
CAT Exam Syllabus 2023
Best Books for CAT Preparation
How to Crack CAT Exam in the First Attempt
CAT Exam Day Guidelines and Instructions
CAT Exam Centers and Cities
CAT Exam Difficulty Level
CAT Exam Section-wise Strategy and Tips
CAT Exam Coaching Institutes and Online Resources
CAT Exam 2023 FAQ’s

Preparing for the CAT Exam typically involves intensive study and practice of various concepts, solving previous years’ question papers, and taking mock tests to familiarize oneself with the exam pattern and time constraints. Successful candidates who perform well in the CAT Exam have the opportunity to pursue management education at some of the most reputed business schools in India, which can open doors to promising career opportunities in the corporate world.

XAT Exam : HIGHLIGHTS

CAT Exam Answer Key 2023 will be Released Soon; Check Answer Key & More.
The official CAT Exam Cut Off will be announced soon; Check Cut Off & More.
The CAT exam for the year 2023 will be conducted on the announced dates. Check the exam schedule here.
CAT Exam Result will be announced soon; Check your result and scorecard here.

How many attempts are allowed for the CAT Exam? – There is no limit on the number of attempts for the CAT Exam.

Is CAT Exam difficult? – The difficulty level of the CAT Exam can vary from year to year. Adequate preparation and practice can help in performing well. To download study material for CAT Exam Click Here

What is CAT Exam ?

The CAT Exam, short for Common Admission Test, is a prestigious entrance examination conducted in India. It serves as a gateway for admission into various management programs, particularly the Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Postgraduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) courses offered by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other leading business schools across the country.

CAT is a computer-based test designed to evaluate a candidate’s aptitude and analytical skills in various areas. The exam aims to assess a candidate’s proficiency in three major sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA).

CAT Exam scores are widely accepted by more than a thousand management institutes in India, making it one of the most prominent and competitive entrance exams in the country. The exam is known for its rigorous evaluation process and its ability to identify individuals with strong academic aptitude, critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Candidates aspiring to pursue management education, particularly an MBA or PGDM, often aim to excel in the CAT Exam as admission process it can significantly enhance their chances of securing admission into esteemed business schools. The CAT score, along with other factors such as academic performance, work experience, and interview performance, is considered during the selection process for admission.

CAT 2023 Dates

Event	Date
Release of Notification	July 2023
Start of Registration	August 2023
Last Date of Registration	September 2023
CAT Admit Card Release	October 2023
CAT Exam Date	November 2023
CAT Result Declaration	January 2024

CAT Eligibility Criteria 2023

To be eligible for CAT 2023, candidates must fulfill the following criteria:

Qualification: Candidates should have completed their graduation in any discipline from a recognized university or possess an equivalent qualification recognized by the Ministry of Education, Government of India.
Minimum Percentage: General category candidates must have a minimum of 50% aggregate marks or an equivalent CGPA in their graduation. For candidates belonging to SC/ST/PWD categories, the minimum required aggregate marks are 45% or equivalent CGPA.
Final Year Students: Candidates appearing for the final year of their bachelor’s degree or its equivalent examination can also apply for CAT 2023. However, such candidates must ensure that they complete all the requirements of their graduation by a specified date, usually before the admission process commences.
Age Limit: There is no age limit specified for appearing in the CAT exam. Candidates of any age can apply as long as they meet the other eligibility criteria.
Number of Attempts: There is no restriction on the number of attempts for CAT. Candidates can take the exam multiple times to improve their scores and enhance their chances of admission.

CAT Exam Pattern & Test Structure 2023

The CAT (Common Admission Test) exam pattern and test structure for 2023 are as follows:

Mode of Exam: CAT 2023 will be conducted in a computer-based mode. Candidates will have to answer the questions on a computer screen.
Sections: The CAT exam consists of three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Each section is timed separately.
Total Questions: The total number of questions in CAT may vary each year. However, on average, there are around 100 questions in total.
Marking Scheme: CAT follows a marking scheme of +3 marks for each correct answer and -1 mark for each incorrect answer. There is no negative marking for unattempted questions or questions that are left blank.
Sectional Time Limit: Each section in CAT has a specific time limit. Generally, candidates are given around 60 minutes to complete each section. However, the exact time duration may vary, and the official notification will provide the accurate time limit for each section.
Non-MCQ and MCQ Questions: CAT includes both Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Non-MCQs. MCQs require candidates to choose the correct answer from the given options, whereas Non-MCQs may require candidates to type in the answer directly.
Difficulty Level: CAT is known for its challenging nature. The questions are designed to test candidates’ analytical and problem-solving skills. The difficulty level may vary across different sections and individual questions.
Test Duration: The total duration of the CAT exam is generally around 180 minutes (3 hours). However, candidates should keep in mind the sectional time limits while managing their time during the exam.

CAT Toppers Tips and Preparation Strategy

CAT toppers have often shared valuable tips and strategies that can help aspirants in their preparation for the exam. Here are some CAT toppers’ tips and a recommended preparation strategy:

Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the CAT exam pattern, including the number of sections, question types, marking scheme, and time limits. This understanding will help you plan your preparation accordingly.
Create a Study Plan: Develop a well-structured study plan that covers all the topics and allows for regular practice. Allocate specific time slots for each section and focus on your weak areas while also revising the strong ones.
Comprehensive Study Material: Choose the right study material that covers all the topics and concepts required for the CAT exam. This includes textbooks, reference guides, online resources, and mock test series from reputed sources.
Practice Mock Tests: Regularly practice full-length mock tests to simulate the actual exam environment and improve time management. Analyze your performance in each mock test to identify areas of improvement and work on them.
Section-wise Preparation: Divide your preparation time among the three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Devote more time to weak sections while maintaining proficiency in all areas.
Improve Speed and Accuracy: Work on enhancing your speed and accuracy by solving questions within the specified time limits. Practice solving questions using shortcut techniques and logical reasoning to improve efficiency.
Analyze and Learn from Mistakes: Analyze your mistakes and learn from them. Understand the concepts behind the incorrect answers and practice similar questions to avoid repeating the same errors.
Time Management: Develop effective time management skills during the exam. Learn to prioritize questions based on difficulty level and allocate time accordingly to maximize your score.
Stay Calm and Confident: Maintain a positive mindset and stay calm during the exam. Confidence plays a vital role in tackling challenging questions and making sound decisions.
Stay Updated and Current: Stay updated with the latest news and developments in various fields. Read newspapers, magazines, and online articles to improve your reading comprehension skills and stay informed.

Remember, consistency and perseverance are key to success in CAT. Plan your preparation strategy, practice regularly, and stay focused on your goal. Additionally, seek guidance from mentors, join study groups, and learn from the experiences of previous CAT toppers to gain valuable insights and inspiration for your preparation.

CAT Registrations 2023

CAT Registrations for 2023 will be conducted online through the official website of the conducting body. Aspiring candidates must visit the official CAT website to access the registration portal. The official notification containing the registration dates and other important details will be released by the conducting body. Before initiating the registration process, candidates should carefully review the eligibility criteria specified in the notification to ensure they meet the requirements.

To register, candidates need to fill out the online registration form available on the official website. The registration form will require personal details, educational information, choice of exam centers, and other relevant information. Additionally, candidates will be asked to upload scanned copies of their recent photograph, signature, and other specified documents. It is important to ensure that the scanned documents meet the specified format and size requirements.

Once the registration form is completed, candidates will be required to pay the application fee. The exact fee amount and payment options will be mentioned in the official notification. Typically, the payment can be made online through various methods such as credit/debit cards, net banking, or other online payment gateways.

Candidates are advised to keep track of the registration dates and complete the process within the specified timeframe. Late registrations are generally not accepted. It is recommended to thoroughly read the instructions provided on the official website and follow the registration guidelines to ensure a smooth and successful registration process for CAT 2023.

CAT Admit Card 2023

CAT Admit Card 2023 is a crucial document that candidates must carry to the examination center on the day of the CAT (Common Admission Test) exam. It serves as proof of identity and grants permission to appear for the exam. Here are some key details regarding CAT Admit Card 2023:

Release Date: The CAT Admit Card 2023 is usually released a few weeks before the exam date. Candidates can download their admit cards from the official website of the conducting body.
Downloading Process: To download the admit card, candidates need to visit the official CAT website and log in using their registered credentials, such as user ID and password. The admit card will be available in the candidate’s account/dashboard.
Admit Card Details: The CAT Admit Card contains important information such as the candidate’s name, registration number, photograph, exam date, exam time, exam center details, and important instructions to be followed on the exam day. It is crucial to carefully review all the details on the admit card and contact the CAT authorities in case of any discrepancies.
Mandatory Document: The CAT Admit Card is a mandatory document that candidates must carry to the examination center. It is advisable to take a printout of the admit card and preserve it carefully until the completion of the admission process.
ID Proof: Along with the admit card, candidates must also carry a valid photo ID proof, such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, voter ID, or driving license, to the exam center. The name on the ID proof should match the name mentioned on the admit card.
Admit Card Verification: Candidates may be required to undergo a verification process at the examination center, which involves matching the details on the admit card with the ID proof and capturing biometric data.
Admit Card Preservation: After the CAT exam, candidates should retain a copy of the admit card for future reference, such as during the selection process and counseling/admission rounds.

It is essential to strictly follow the instructions mentioned on the CAT Admit Card and abide by the rules and regulations set by the conducting body. Any violation of the instructions may lead to disqualification from the examination. Candidates should regularly check the official CAT website for updates and announcements regarding the release of the admit card and other important information related to CAT 2023.

CAT Exam Analysis

CAT Exam Analysis provides an in-depth evaluation of the CAT (Common Admission Test) based on various aspects such as difficulty level, question types, and overall performance of the test takers. It helps candidates and experts gain insights into the exam and understand the trends and patterns. Here’s a brief explanation of CAT Exam Analysis: CAT Exam Analysis is typically conducted by coaching institutes, educational websites, and experts who analyze the question paper after the exam is conducted. They review and analyze the difficulty level of each section, the number of easy, moderate, and difficult questions, and the overall structure of the exam.

The analysis also includes an assessment of the distribution of questions across different topics or sub-sections within each section. It helps candidates identify the areas that were heavily tested and the ones that were relatively less emphasized in the exam. This information can be valuable for future CAT aspirants to focus their preparation accordingly. Moreover, CAT Exam Analysis provides an overview of the performance of test takers, highlighting the average attempts, accuracy rates, and the score distribution across different percentiles. It gives candidates an understanding of where they stand in comparison to others and helps them set realistic expectations regarding their scores.

The analysis may also include insights into the changes, if any, introduced in the exam pattern, such as the number of sections, time duration, or marking scheme. It helps candidates prepare strategically and adapt their approach based on the evolving exam pattern. Candidates and experts often share their observations and opinions on the difficulty of individual sections, specific questions, and overall exam experience. This information can be helpful for future aspirants in understanding the challenges and preparing effectively for the CAT exam.

CAT Exam Analysis is usually available in the form of articles, videos, or detailed reports published by coaching institutes and educational platforms. Candidates are advised to refer to reliable sources for accurate and comprehensive exam analysis to make informed decisions and improve their preparation strategies for future attempts.

CAT 2023 Results

CAT 2023 Results are typically declared in the month of January. The exact date of result declaration will be announced by the conducting body. After the completion of the CAT exam, the answer sheets of the candidates are evaluated, and the results are prepared based on the scoring mechanism.

To check the CAT 2023 results, candidates need to visit the official CAT website and log in using their registered credentials. The result will be available in the candidate’s account/dashboard. The CAT result provides the overall percentile score obtained by the candidate in the exam.

The result also includes the section-wise percentile scores, indicating the candidate’s performance in each section. This helps candidates evaluate their strengths and weaknesses in different sections of the CAT exam. The CAT result is an important parameter used by various management institutes for shortlisting candidates for further rounds of selection, such as group discussions (GD), personal interviews (PI), and written ability tests (WAT).

Candidates are advised to download and take a printout of their CAT 2023 result for future reference. The CAT scorecard is not sent by post or any other means. It is essential to keep the result/scorecard safely as it will be required during the admission process at various management institutes.

CAT Cut Offs 2023

Institute	CAT Cut Off Percentile
Institute 1	95+
Institute 2	90+
Institute 3	85+
Institute 4	80+

CAT Exam Syllabus 2023

Section	Syllabus
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension	Reading Comprehension, Para jumbles, Sentence Correction, Vocabulary, Grammar, Critical Reasoning
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning	Data Interpretation (Tables, Charts, Graphs), Logical Reasoning (Number and Letter Series, Seating Arrangements, Blood Relations, Coding-Decoding)
Quantitative Ability	Number System, Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration, Probability, Permutation and Combination

Best Books for CAT Preparation

Subject	Books
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension	How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension by Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis High School English Grammar and Composition by Wren and Martin
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning	How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT by Arun Sharma Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT by Nishit Sinha Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation by K. Kundan
Quantitative Ability	How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Arun Sharma Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by R.S. Aggarwal The Pearson Guide to Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Nishit Sinha

How to Crack CAT Exam in the First Attempt

Cracking the CAT Exam in the first attempt requires a combination of effective strategies, focused preparation, and dedication. Here are some tips to help you prepare for and crack the CAT Exam:

Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the CAT Exam pattern, including the number of sections, types of questions, and time duration. This will help you plan your preparation and time management strategies accordingly.
Create a Study Plan: Develop a structured study plan that covers all the topics and sections of the CAT syllabus. Allocate dedicated time for each subject, practice questions regularly, and set achievable targets to track your progress.
Master the Fundamentals: Focus on building a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts of Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability, and Logical Reasoning. Strengthen your basics by referring to standard textbooks and study materials.
Practice Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests to simulate the actual exam environment and improve your speed and accuracy. Analyze your performance, identify areas of improvement, and work on enhancing your weak areas.
Time Management: Develop effective time management skills to solve questions within the stipulated time. Practice solving questions under timed conditions to improve your speed and decision-making abilities.
Improve Reading Skills: Enhance your reading speed and comprehension skills by reading newspapers, magazines, and quality articles regularly. This will help you in the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section.
Solve Previous Year Question Papers: Solve previous year CAT question papers to understand the exam pattern, identify recurring question types, and get familiar with the difficulty level. This will also help you gauge your preparation level.
Join a Coaching Institute or Online Course: Consider enrolling in a reputed coaching institute or opting for online courses that offer structured guidance, expert faculty, and comprehensive study materials to aid your preparation.
Stay Updated and Practice Current Affairs: Stay updated with current affairs, business news, and general knowledge topics. Read newspapers, follow news websites, and practice questions related to current affairs to excel in the exam’s General Awareness section.
Stay Motivated and Positive: Maintain a positive mindset throughout your preparation journey. Believe in your abilities, stay motivated, and practice self-discipline. Surround yourself with supportive peers and mentors who can encourage and guide you.

Remember, cracking the CAT Exam requires consistent effort, disciplined preparation, and a strategic approach. Stay focused, practice diligently, and learn from your mistakes to improve your performance. With perseverance and determination, you can achieve success in your first attempt.

CAT Exam Day Guidelines and Instructions

On the day of the CAT Exam, it is important to adhere to certain guidelines and instructions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Firstly, make sure to carry a printed copy of your CAT Admit Card, as it is a mandatory document for entry into the exam hall. Verify that all the information on the admit card is accurate.

Arrive at the exam center well before the reporting time mentioned on your admit card. This will allow you sufficient time for security checks and registration. Along with your admit card, carry a valid photo ID proof (such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, or passport) for verification purposes. Ensure that the name on your photo ID matches the name on your admit card.

During the exam, electronic devices, calculators, watches, study materials, and any other prohibited items are strictly not allowed inside the exam hall. Make sure to leave such items at home or in your vehicle to avoid any inconvenience. The exam center will provide you with the necessary writing material, so there is no need to bring pens or pencils.

Follow the instructions given by the exam invigilators and maintain a calm and focused attitude throughout the exam. Listen attentively to the announcements and pay close attention to the exam invigilator’s instructions regarding the distribution and submission of the question paper and answer sheet.

Lastly, do not engage in any form of malpractice or unfair means during the exam. Any violation of the exam rules can lead to disqualification and serious consequences. Stay focused, manage your time effectively, and give your best effort during the exam.

CAT Exam Analysis for Previous Years

City	Exam Center
Bengaluru	ABC School, XYZ Road
Delhi	PQR College, LMN Street
Mumbai	DEF Institute, GHI Avenue
Kolkata	JKL School, MNO Lane
Chennai	STU College, VWX Road

CAT Exam Difficulty Level

The CAT Exam is known for its challenging nature and rigorous evaluation process. The difficulty level of the CAT Exam can vary from year to year. The exam is designed to assess candidates’ analytical, quantitative, verbal, and logical reasoning skills. The CAT Exam typically consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and non-MCQs. MCQs require candidates to choose the correct answer from the given options, while non-MCQs may require candidates to type in the answer or select multiple correct options.

The difficulty level of the CAT Exam is generally considered to be high. The questions are designed to test not only the candidates’ knowledge but also their ability to apply concepts, analyze information, and make quick decisions under time pressure. The exam assesses candidates’ problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and logical reasoning abilities.

It is important for candidates to be well-prepared and have a thorough understanding of the exam syllabus, including all the sections and topics. Regular practice, solving previous year question papers, and taking mock tests can help candidates familiarize themselves with the exam pattern, time constraints, and difficulty level.

While the CAT Exam is challenging, it is important to remember that with dedicated preparation, strategic time management, and a focused approach, candidates can overcome the difficulty level and achieve good results. It is advisable to seek guidance from experienced mentors, join coaching institutes, or opt for online courses to enhance preparation and improve performance in the exam.

CAT Exam Section-wise Strategy and Tips

Section	Strategy	Tips
Quantitative Ability (QA)	Focus on understanding fundamental concepts and practice problem-solving. Manage time effectively.	Solve previous year questions and take mock tests. Practice mental calculations to save time.
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)	Improve reading speed and comprehension skills. Focus on grammar, vocabulary, and critical reasoning.	Read newspapers, novels, and quality articles regularly. Solve practice passages to enhance reading skills.
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)	Practice data interpretation and logical reasoning sets regularly. Develop analytical and logical thinking.	Solve puzzles, play brain games, and practice solving data interpretation and logical reasoning questions under timed conditions.

CAT Exam Coaching Institutes and Online Resources

Institute/Resource	Description	Website
TIME (Triumphant Institute of Management Education)	One of the leading coaching institutes for CAT preparation. Offers comprehensive study material, classroom programs, and online courses.	time4education.com
IMS (IMS Learning Resources Pvt. Ltd.)	Well-known coaching institute with experienced faculty. Provides classroom coaching, mock tests, and study materials for CAT preparation.	imsindia.com
Byju’s	An online learning platform offering CAT preparation courses. Provides video lectures, practice questions, and personalized learning resources.	byjus.com/cat
Career Launcher	A well-established coaching institute with a focus on CAT preparation. Offers classroom coaching, online classes, and test series.	careerlauncher.com/cat
Handa Ka Funda	An online platform offering CAT preparation videos, study materials, and practice questions. Provides guidance from CAT toppers.	handakafunda.com

CAT Exam 2023 FAQs

Who conducts the CAT Exam?

The CAT Exam is conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) on a rotational basis. The responsibility of conducting the exam is assigned to one of the participating IIMs each year.

What is the eligibility criteria for the CAT Exam?

The eligibility criteria for the CAT Exam may vary slightly each year. Generally, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum percentage of marks (typically 50% for general category and 45% for reserved categories). There is no age limit to appear for the exam.

What is the exam pattern of the CAT Exam?

The CAT Exam is a computer-based test (CBT) that consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and non-MCQs. The exam is divided into three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA).

How can I register for the CAT Exam?

To register for the CAT Exam, candidates need to visit the official CAT website during the registration window. They must fill out the online application form, pay the application fee, and upload the required documents as per the instructions provided.

What is the application fee for the CAT Exam?

The application fee for the CAT Exam may vary each year. Generally, the fee for general category candidates is around INR 2,000, while for reserved category candidates, it is around INR 1,000. The exact fee details are mentioned in the official CAT Exam notification.