CAT Exam 2023: The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2023, a highly anticipated event for MBA aspirants, has set off on its registration phase, commencing on the official website, iimcat.ac.in. For prospective candidates aspiring to undertake this challenging journey, we present a detailed overview covering vital aspects of CAT 2023, ranging from registration to syllabus, and previous year question papers.
In this blog, we’ll discuss all the important things like IIM Selection Process, Fees, Syllabus, and Previous Year Question Papers, and all that you need to know to clear the upcoming CAT 2023 exam!
The journey for CAT 2023 aspirants begins with the commencement of the registration process on August 2, 2023, and will continue until September 13, 2023. The registration can be completed on the official website, iimcat.ac.in. Prospective candidates must fulfill the eligibility criteria for CAT 2023 to successfully complete the application process.
In CAT 2023, the registration fees have been revised, reflecting an increase. General category candidates are now required to pay INR 2400 as the application fee, while SC/ST/PwD candidates need to pay INR 1200.
The CAT exam, conducted by IIM Lucknow, is a pivotal event for MBA aspirants, serving as a gateway to esteemed management institutes. Renowned for its competitiveness, the CAT exam evaluates candidates based on verbal ability, quantitative ability, data interpretation, and logical reasoning skills.
Scheduled for November 26, 2023, the CAT 2023 exam is a computer-based test, conducted on the last Sunday of November. The results are anticipated to be declared in January 2024. The CAT form was made available on August 2, 2023, and aspirants must be well-versed with the exam pattern and syllabus as they prepare for this crucial exam.
The CAT 2023 exam pattern is expected to closely resemble that of the preceding years, encompassing three primary sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Each section presents a time constraint of 40 minutes, amounting to a total examination duration of 120 minutes.
The question types in CAT 2023 will encompass a blend of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Non-MCQs, which require candidates to provide their answers directly (Type In The Answer, TITA). The marking scheme is straightforward: +3 marks for every correct response and a penalty of -1 mark for each incorrect answer, with no marks for unattempted questions.
The CAT 2023 syllabus is characterized by its broad and comprehensive nature. Unlike some other entrance exams, IIMs do not prescribe a specific syllabus. The exam primarily draws questions from fundamental math and English topics typically covered during middle school. This open-ended approach emphasizes a candidate’s overall aptitude and problem-solving abilities.
Prospective candidates can refer to the table below for key highlights of CAT 2023.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Release of Notification | July 30, 2023 (Out) |
| Application Process Begin | August 02, 2023 |
| Last Date of Submission | September 13, 2023 |
| Admit Card Release | October 25, 2023 |
| Exam Date | November 26, 2023 |
| Result | January 2024 (Tentative) |
The CAT exam 2023 serves as the gateway to the MBA program at top IIMs and other management colleges. The selection process for admission to IIMs is multifaceted, and candidates need to be well-informed about its components:
1. CAT 2023 Results and Shortlisting: The CAT 2023 results are expected in the second week of January 2024. The list of candidates selected for the next level of the selection process will be published on the respective IIMs’ websites.
2. Additional Assessment Criteria: Each IIM follows its own criteria for shortlisting candidates, which may involve assessments like the Written Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD), and Personal Interviews (PI).
3. Importance of CAT Exam Performance: CAT 2023 exam performance holds significant importance in the admission process. IIMs also consider additional factors such as previous academic records, work experience, gender, academic diversity, and other similar inputs.
4. Qualifying Degree and Documentation: Shortlisted candidates need to present their original certificates and mark sheets as proof of meeting the educational criteria.
The CAT percentile scores for both the overall and individual sections of the CAT exam 2023 are calculated using a specific procedure. Let’s take the Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section as an example to illustrate the percentile score calculation process:
The application process for CAT 2023 is a critical step for candidates aspiring to appear for the exam. The process involves a few essential steps for successful registration:
1. Generate a Unique User ID and Password: Individuals must register to create a unique User ID and Password.
2. Log In and Fill the CAT Form: Log in with the generated User ID and Password to fill in the CAT form.
3. Submit the Application Form: Submit the application form after entering details and making online payments to complete the registration and application process.
The application fees for CAT 2023 vary based on categories. Candidates can check the category-wise application fee for the CAT exam 2023 in the table below:
| Category | Application Fees (INR) |
|---|---|
| General | 2400 |
| OBC/EWS | 2400 |
| SC | 1200 |
| ST | 1200 |
| PwD | 1200 |
The CAT eligibility criteria encompass educational qualifications and other parameters. The criteria are established by the conducting body and are essential for candidates to fulfill to be eligible for the exam. There is no age limit to apply for the CAT exam 2023.
| Qualification | Required Pass Percentage | Required Affiliation |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering Degree – B.Tech/ B.E. | 50% (45% for SC, ST, and PWD candidates) | Recognized by MHRD/AICTE |
| Bachelor’s Degree from any University | 50% (45% for SC, ST, and PWD candidates) | Recognized by UGC |
| Students in their final year of Bachelor’s degree | 50% (45% for SC, ST, and PWD candidates) | Continuing graduation from University recognized by MHRD/AICTE or UGC |
The CAT 2023 exam pattern is anticipated to closely mirror the structure of the preceding two years. It comprises three distinct sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC),
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Each of these sections comes with a strict time constraint of 40 minutes, resulting in a total examination duration of 120 minutes.
In terms of question types, the CAT 2023 exam pattern will encompass a blend of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) as well as Non-MCQs, which require candidates to provide their answers directly (Type In The Answer, TITA).
The CAT marking scheme adheres to a straightforward formula: +3 marks are awarded for each correct response, while a penalty of -1 mark is levied for every incorrect answer. Unattempted questions carry no marks.
The CAT notification for 2023 clarifies that there is no prescribed syllabus for the exam. However, candidates aiming to take this test should be aware that the CAT syllabus primarily encompasses concepts from secondary-level education, typically ranging from 10th to 12th-grade topics. Despite being based on secondary-level content, the CAT question paper’s difficulty level is remarkably high, reflecting the intense competition among test-takers.
To prepare for CAT 2023, aspiring candidates must acquaint themselves with the fundamental concepts of the topics covered in the secondary-level curriculum. The table below provides an overview of the essential topics for all the sections:
CAT admit card is a crucial document for candidates appearing in the exam. The admit card is expected to be released by IIM Lucknow a few weeks prior to the exam. Only candidates who have successfully completed the application process will receive the admit card. Here’s how you can download your admit card:
CAT cutoff is the minimum score required to be considered for admission to a particular management program or institution. The cutoff varies each year and is determined by factors such as the number of applicants, the difficulty of the exam, and the number of seats available. Aiming for a score higher than the cutoff is essential to increase your chances of getting admitted to your preferred program or institution. Here are the expected CAT cutoffs for various IIMs in 2023:
| IIMs | Qualifying CAT cut-offs |
|---|---|
| IIM Ahmedabad | 85 |
| IIM Bangalore | 85 |
| IIM Calcutta | 85 |
| IIM Lucknow | 90 |
| IIM Indore | 90 |
| IIM Kozhikode | 85 |
| IIM Amritsar | 90 |
| IIM Nagpur | 85 |
| IIM Sambalpur | 93 |
| IIM Trichy | 93 |
| IIM Raipur | 93 |
| IIM Ranchi | 90 |
| IIM Kashipur | 94 |
| IIM Vizag | 80 |
| IIM Udaipur | 93 |
| IIM Bodhgaya | 93 |
| IIM Shillong | 75 |
| IIM Sirmaur | 92 |
| IIM Rohtak | 95 |
| IIM Jammu | 93 |
For candidates aspiring to appear in CAT 2023, having an understanding of the seat availability in various IIMs across India is crucial. The table below provides an overview of the seat intake in all IIMs for the year 2023:
| IIM Name | Seat Intake |
|---|---|
| IIM Ahmedabad | 385 |
| IIM Bangalore | 412 |
| IIM Calcutta | 462 |
| IIM Lucknow | 436 |
| IIM Indore | 550 |
| IIM Kozhikode | 353 |
| IIM Shillong | 120 |
| IIM Ranchi | 155 |
| IIM Rohtak | 180 |
| IIM Trichy | 180 |
| IIM Udaipur | 180 |
| IIM Raipur | 210 |
| IIM Kashipur | 210 |
| IIM Amritsar | 60 |
| IIM Nagpur | 60 |
| IIM Sambalpur | 140 |
| IIM Bodhgaya | 60 |
| IIM Sirmaur | 60 |
| IIM Vizag | 60 |
| IIM Jammu | 45 |
Apart from the 20 IIMs, several other esteemed institutions accept CAT scores for admission into various management programs. The table below presents a list of top B-schools in India along with the expected CAT 2023 score for securing admissions:
| List of B-schools | CAT Cutoff 2023 |
|---|---|
| FMS | 98.20 Percentile |
| DMS, IIT Delhi | 98+ Percentile |
| LIBA Chennai | 90+ Percentile |
| SJMSOM, IIT Bombay | 99+ Percentile |
| IMT Ghaziabad | 90+ Percentile |
| MDI Gurgaon | 95+ Percentile |
| NITIE Mumbai | 95+ Percentile |
| SPJIMR | 85+ Percentile |
| XIMB | 90+ Percentile |
| DMS, IIT Madras | 95+ Percentile |
| TAPMI Manipal | 85+ Percentile |
CAT results are released in the form of percentile scores. Observing previous years’ result release pattern, it can be expected that
the results for CAT 2023 will be released in January 2024. Candidates who appear for the exam will be able to check the CAT 2023 results using their login credentials.
## CAT 2023: Preparation Strategy
The CAT exam is one of the most competitive examinations in the country, demanding thorough preparation. A well-structured preparation strategy aligned with individual strengths and weaknesses is crucial for success. Here’s a step-by-step approach to kickstart your CAT exam preparation:
1. Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the syllabus and exam pattern. Familiarize yourself with the sections and their weightage.
2. Time Management and Mock Tests: Create a “Time Management” strategy to cover each section adequately. Regularly practice CAT mock tests to acclimatize yourself with the exam format.
3. Disciplined Timetable: Formulate a disciplined timetable, dedicating sufficient time to each section, ensuring balanced preparation.
4. Regular Practice and Analysis: Regularly practice problems from different topics and analyze your performance. Understand your strengths and weaknesses and work on them accordingly.
5. Seek Guidance: If needed, seek guidance from mentors or coaching institutes to help streamline your preparation.
6. Stay Updated: Stay updated with current affairs and relevant news to excel in the general awareness section.
By adhering to these steps, you’ll be on the right track for a successful CAT exam.
Here are some commonly asked questions related to CAT 2023:
Q1: When do I submit my CAT 2023 application?
The CAT 2023 official notification is expected to be released in July 2023, and the CAT 2023 application process is expected to start in August 2023 and will continue until September 2023.
Q2: Is 3 months sufficient for the CAT?
No, three months are very less to prepare for the CAT exam. The entrance exam is highly competitive and requires thorough preparation for at least 8-12 months. Students must follow a disciplinary timetable to cover each and every topic comprehensively.
Q3: How long is the CAT score valid?
The CAT score is only valid for one year.
Q4: What is the exam pattern of the CAT exam?
The CAT exam consists of 3 sections: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Quantitative Aptitude. A total of 66-70 questions are asked in the CAT exam.
Q5: How many questions are asked in the CAT exam?
The number of questions in the CAT exam is not fixed and can vary each year. In the previous year’s CAT question paper, there were 66 questions. When IIM Lucknow releases the CAT mock test, students will get an idea of the approximate number of questions they might expect in the exam.
For more information and updates, candidates are advised to visit the official CAT 2023 website and regularly check for updates.
Good luck with your CAT 2023 preparation!
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