What is CAT exam

Unlocking the CAT Exam: A Comprehensive Guide to India's Premier MBA Entrance Test - Everything You Need to Know About CAT 2023 and How to Ace It?

What is CAT?

CAT Exam Pattern 2023: Key Features

• Difficulty Level : CAT is considered one of the most challenging entrance tests due to limited admission seats and a high number of test-takers.
• Evaluation Criteria : CAT assesses candidates' decision-making, time management, and ability to handle complexity. These traits gauge their suitability for management education and managerial roles.

Also Read: CAT Exam Pattern

CAT Exam Structure:

• Duration : The CAT 2023 exam has a total duration of 120 minutes (2 hours).
• Type in The Answer (TITA) : TITA questions were introduced in 2015. The number of TITA questions varies, and there is no negative marking for incorrect answers.
• Non-MCQ Questions : In recent years, approximately 25-33% of the questions have been non-MCQ (TITA) type.
• Marking Scheme : Each correctly answered MCQ question earns 3 marks, while there is a penalty of 1 mark for each incorrectly answered MCQ question.
• Sectional Time Limits : The order of the sections in the CAT exam is fixed, and students get 40 minutes for each section. Due to these sectional time limits, students cannot switch sections.

CAT Syllabus 2023

• Quantitative Section : This part emphasizes fundamental mathematical concepts, including arithmetic, number systems, algebra, mensuration, geometry, and modern mathematics. Arithmetic questions are predominant, followed by algebra questions.
• VARC Section : The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section typically consists of reading comprehension passages, accounting for nearly 70% of the questions. Other important question types include Para-jumbles, Para-Summary, and some verbal reasoning, sentence completion, fill-in-the-blanks, etc.
• DI-LR Section : The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning section involves caselets, tables, charts, graphs, and common reasoning topics such as arrangements, syllogism, blood relations, etc.
• Non-MCQs : Non-MCQ (Type in The Answer) questions are present in all three sections of the CAT syllabus and cover similar topics as MCQs.

CAT Notification & Registration 2023

CAT 2023: Important Dates

CAT 2023: Registration Process

• Visit the official website and click on the 'Register Now' option to create your login credentials. Input the required information such as your Name, Date of Birth, Email Address, and more.
• You will receive an email and SMS containing your login credentials.
• Log in using your user ID and Password in the next step. Afterward, complete your CAT application form and upload the necessary scanned documents.
• Make sure to click 'Save & Continue' before proceeding to the next step. You can also complete the CAT application form in multiple sessions by logging in again.
• In addition to your personal and academic details, provide information about your work experience if it applies to you. You also need to select your preferred programs/institutes (IIMs) and choose interview cities from the provided options.
• Finally, make the payment for the CAT application fee using Net Banking, Credit/Debit Card, or other available payment methods. Once the fee is paid, you won't be able to make any changes to the form, so double-check all information before submitting and making the payment.

CAT Admit Card 2023

CAT Exam Day – Do’s and Don’ts

• Admit card: Ensure that you have two hard copies of your admit card, each with your photo affixed on it.
• Identity Proof: You must carry a photo identification document (such as an employer ID, PAN card, Aadhaar card, driver's license, passport, or Voter ID).

Things forbidden at the CAT center:

• Calculator, watch, phone, tablet, or any other electronic item
• Metallic jewellery/ accessories
• Bags/ Jackets/ clothes with pockets/ Closed footwear
• Eatables/ beverages

CAT Answer Key 2023

• Log in with your CAT user ID and password on the official website.
• Click on 'CAT 2023 answer key' and select 'download' to save it as a PDF.

CAT Result 2023

• Visit the official website and locate the 'CAT scorecard/result' section.
• Enter your CAT application number and password.
• Select the 'scorecard' option and download your CAT 2023 score report.

CAT Exam Centres 2023

CAT Eligibility Criteria 2023

• Candidates should have successfully obtained a Bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized university or board. Students in their final year of graduation are also eligible to take the CAT exam.
• Candidates must have secured a minimum of 50% in their bachelor's degree or its equivalent.

Top Colleges Accepting CAT Score 2023

Also Read: Top MBA Colleges Accepting CAT Score in 2023

CAT Cut-off 2023

Factors that influence B-school admission include:

• The total number of CAT 2023 test-takers
• The difficulty level of the CAT exam
• The available admission seats at the B-school
• The ranking and reputation of the B-school

Preparation Tips for CAT 2023

1. Create concise notes containing important formulas and shortcuts for last-minute revisions.
2. Cultivate a daily reading habit with newspapers, books, magazines, etc.
3. Keep a vocabulary journal or use flashcards for new words you learn daily to enhance your word bank.
4. Periodically practice topic-specific and sectional tests, tracking improvements in speed and accuracy.
5. Identify your strengths and weaknesses and devise a strategy to address your weaker areas.
6. After mastering all necessary topics, begin practicing full-length mock tests and analyze your performance.
7. Adapt your test-taking strategy as needed based on your experiences during mock tests, considering that different strategies work for different candidates.
8. Remember to take regular breaks during your study routine to maintain motivation and focus.

Best Books for CAT 2023

CAT 2024

What is CAT FAQs