CAT 2023 Exam

CAT 2023 Exam Overview

Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most popular and competitive entrance exams in India for admission to various management programs offered by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top business schools. CAT exam tests the candidates' aptitude, logical reasoning, data interpretation, and verbal ability skills. CAT exam is conducted once a year, usually in November or December, and attracts lakhs of aspirants who compete for a limited number of seats.

Importance of CAT Exam

CAT exam is important for several reasons. First, it is a gateway to some of the most prestigious and sought-after management institutes in the country, such as IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, and others. These institutes offer world-class education, faculty, infrastructure, and placement opportunities to their students. Second, CAT exam is also accepted by many other reputed business schools, such as FMS Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, SPJIMR Mumbai, and others, which offer high-quality management education and career prospects. Third, CAT exam is a benchmark of one's aptitude and potential for a career in management. It tests candidates' ability to analyze, interpret, and solve complex problems in a time-bound manner. It also assesses candidates' communication and language skills, which are essential for any manager. Fourth, CAT exam is a challenge that motivates the candidates to prepare well and improve their knowledge and skills. It helps them to develop a disciplined and focused approach towards their studies and goals.

CAT 2023 Overview

CAT 2023 Timeline and Registration

CAT 2023- Exam Pattern

• CAT 2023 exam pattern is expected to be similar to the previous year, with three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA).
• Each section has 26 questions, with a total of 78 questions in the exam.
• The duration of the exam is 120 minutes, with 40 minutes for each section.
• The candidates have to attempt the sections in a fixed order, starting with VARC, followed by DILR, and ending with QA.
• CAT 2023 exam pattern also includes both multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and non-multiple-choice questions (non-MCQs). The MCQs have four options, out of which one is correct. The non-MCQs require the candidates to type the answer in a text box.
• For each correct answer, candidates will receive 3 marks.
• There is negative marking for the MCQs, with -1 mark for each incorrect answer. There is no negative marking for the non-MCQs.
• The CAT 2023 exam pattern is designed to test the candidates' aptitude, skills, and knowledge across various domains and topics.

Questions asked in Different Sections of CAT 2022

Below are the number of questions asked in different sections of CAT 2022 exam.

CAT 2023- Changes in the past years

CAT exam pattern has undergone several changes in the past years, making it one of the most unpredictable and dynamic tests in the country. Here are some of the major changes that have been observed in the CAT exam pattern in the last 5 years:

2020 & 2021

In 2020 and 2021, the CAT exam duration was reduced from 180 minutes to 120 minutes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The number of questions was also reduced from 100 to 76 in 2020 and 66 in 2021. The sectional time limit was reduced from 60 minutes to 40 minutes for each section. The number of slots was increased from two to three to accommodate more candidates with social distancing norms.

2015

In 2015, the CAT exam pattern was changed from two sections to three sections, namely Quantitative Ability (QA), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC). The number of questions was increased from 60 to 100, with 34 questions in QA and VARC, and 32 questions in DILR. The sectional time limit was introduced for the first time, with 60 minutes for each section.

2014

In 2014, the CAT exam pattern was changed from a paper-based test to a computer-based test. The number of questions was increased from 60 to 100, with 50 questions in each section. The sections were Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation (QA & DI), and Logical Reasoning and Verbal Ability (LR & VA). The duration of the exam was increased from 140 minutes to 170 minutes.

Other Changes

In addition to these changes, the CAT exam pattern has also introduced different types of questions, such as Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with negative marking, and Non-Multiple Choice Questions (Non-MCQs) without negative marking. The difficulty level of the exam has also varied from year to year, depending on the number and type of questions, and the performance of the candidates.

The CAT exam pattern is known for its surprise element and unpredictability, which makes it challenging for the aspirants to prepare for it. However, by analyzing the past trends and patterns, one can get an idea of what to expect in the upcoming exam and devise a suitable strategy accordingly.

CAT 2023 Eligibility

To be eligible for the CAT exam, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• They must have a bachelor's degree or equivalent from a recognized university or institute with at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA for general category and NC-OBC candidates, and 45% marks or equivalent CGPA for SC/ST and PwD candidates.
• They must have completed or be in the final year of their bachelor's degree program at the time of registration. Final year students must submit a certificate from their principal or registrar stating that they have completed all the requirements for obtaining the degree by the specified date.
• There isn't any age limit or work experience requirement to apply for the CAT exam.
• Candidates who have a professional degree such as CA/CS/ICWA/FCAI are also eligible for the CAT exam if they have obtained at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA for general category and NC-OBC candidates, and 45% marks or equivalent CGPA for SC/ST and PwD candidates.
• The CAT exam also follows a reservation policy as per the Government of India norms for admission to IIMs and other participating institutes. The reservation policy is as follows:
  • 15% of seats are reserved for Scheduled Caste (SC) candidates
  • 7.5% of seats are reserved for Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates
  • 27% of seats are reserved for Non-Creamy Other Backward Classes (NC-OBC) candidates
  • 10% of seats are reserved for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) candidates
  • 5% of seats are reserved for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) candidates
• Candidates who belong to any of the reserved categories must submit valid documents to support their claim at the time of admission. Candidates who do not belong to any of the reserved categories are considered under the general category.

Candidates should note that the CAT exam eligibility criteria are only for appearing in the exam and do not guarantee admission to any IIM or other participating institute. Each institute has its own selection criteria and cut-off scores based on various factors such as academic performance, work experience, diversity, etc. Candidates should check the official websites of their preferred institutes to know their specific eligibility criteria and admission process.

CAT 2023 Syllabus

CAT exam syllabus is a comprehensive guide for those candidates who want to prepare for Common Admission Test (CAT), which is a national-level entrance exam for admission to various management programs in India. CAT exam syllabus covers three main sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Each section has different topics and subtopics that test candidates' skills and aptitude in various domains.

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension

VARC section tests candidates' ability to read, comprehend, analyze, and interpret different types of texts, such as passages, paragraphs, sentences, and words. VARC section also assesses candidates' grammar, vocabulary, and verbal reasoning skills. VARC section consists of 26 questions, out of which 18 are based on reading comprehension passages and 8 are based on verbal ability topics. Total time allotted for this section is 60 minutes.

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension

• Para Jumbles (with and without options)
• Para Summary
• Odd One Out
• Reading Comprehension
• Para Completion

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning

DILR section tests candidates' ability to interpret, analyze, and solve various types of data sets, such as tables, graphs, charts, caselets, etc. DILR section also assesses candidates' logical reasoning skills, such as identifying patterns, relationships, sequences, etc. DILR section consists of 24 questions, out of which 12 are based on data interpretation topics and 12 are based on logical reasoning topics. Total time allotted for this section is 60 minutes.

Data Interpretation

• Tables
• Data Caselets – Reasoning-Based DI
• Column Graphs
• Bar Graphs
• Venn Diagrams
• Line Charts
• Pie Charts
• Scatter Plot
• Radar Chart
• Routes and Network
• Bubble Chart

Logical Reasoning

• Binary Logic
• Games and Tournaments
• Arrangements
• Team Formations
• Order and Ranking

Quantitative Ability

QA section tests candidates' ability to solve various types of mathematical problems, such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number system, modern math, etc. QA section also assesses candidates' quantitative reasoning skills, such as applying formulas, concepts, and techniques to solve problems. QA section consists of 26 questions, out of which 18 are multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and 8 are non-MCQs or type in the answer (TITA) questions. Total time allotted for this section is 60 minutes.

Number System

• LCM and HCF
• Divisibility Rules
• Base Change
• Finding Units place and tens place of a number
• Cyclicity
• Remainders
• Prime Factorisation
• Factorials
• Indices and Surds

Arithmetic

• Time, Distance and Speed
• Time and Work, Pipes and Cisterns
• Simple Interest and Compound Interest
• Ratios, Proportions and Variations
• Percentages and Averages
• Profit and Loss, Discount
• Mixtures and Alligations

Geometry and Mensuration

• Circles
• Triangles
• Polygons
• Coordinate geometry
• Lines and Angles
• Trigonometry
• Cone
• Cylinder
• Sphere
• Cube/Cuboid
• Prism Pyramid

Algebra

• Inequalities and Modulus
• Functions and Groups
• Linear and Quadratic Equations
• Polynomials
• Logarithms
• Algebraic Identities
• Maxima and Minima

Modern Mathematics

• Permutations and Combinations
• Probability
• Set Theory & Venn Diagram
• Binomial Theorem
• Arithmetic progression, Geometric progression, Harmonic progression

CAT exam syllabus is based on the middle school level math and English topics. However, the difficulty level of the questions is high and questions are designed to be tricky and challenging. Therefore, candidates need to have a thorough understanding of concepts and a good practice of solving different types of questions. CAT exam syllabus is not fixed or predefined by IIMs, who conduct this exam every year. Therefore, candidates need to be updated with the latest CAT exam syllabus and prepare accordingly.

CAT 2023- Application Form

• To apply for CAT exam, candidates need to fill an online application form on the official website of the CAT exam. The application form requires the candidates to provide their personal details, academic qualifications, work experience, preferred exam cities and payment of application fee. The application fee for the CAT exam is Rs. 2200 for general category candidates and Rs. 1100 for reserved category candidates. The application fee can be paid through online modes such as credit card, debit card, net banking or UPI.
• CAT exam application form also requires the candidates to upload scanned images of their photograph, signature, category certificate (if applicable) and PwD certificate (if applicable). The photograph should be a recent passport size color photo with a white background and the signature should be in black ink on a white paper. Category certificate and PwD certificate should be in PDF format and should not exceed 300 KB in size.
• CAT exam application form can be edited or corrected until the last date of submission. However, some fields such as name, date of birth, email id, phone number and category cannot be changed once submitted. Therefore, candidates are advised to fill the application form carefully and check all the details before submitting it. CAT exam application form can be submitted only once and multiple applications will be rejected.

CAT 2023- Application Process

To apply for CAT exam, you need to follow these steps:

• Register on the official CAT website with your personal and academic details.
• Pay the application fee online using a credit card, debit card, net banking, or UPI.
• Fill the application form with your preferred test city, exam slot, and program choices.
• Upload your scanned photograph, signature, and documents such as category certificate, PwD certificate, etc.
• Submit the application form and download the confirmation page for future reference.
• Download the admit card from CAT website once it is available and print it out.
• Appear for CAT exam on the scheduled date and time at the allotted test center.

CAT 2023 Admit Card

CAT admit card is a document that contains essential information about your identity, exam centre, exam date, exam slot, and exam instructions. Without CAT admit card, you will not be allowed to enter the exam hall and take the test. Therefore, it is crucial to download and print your CAT admit card well in advance and carry it with you on the exam day.

CAT 2023 exam is scheduled for November 26, 2023, and will be conducted by IIM Lucknow in three sessions across 155 test cities in India. CAT 2023 admit card will be released by IIM Lucknow on October 25, 2023, on the official website iimcat.ac.in. You can download your CAT admit card by logging in with your CAT login ID and password. You should check all the details mentioned on your CAT admit card carefully and report any discrepancies to the CAT helpline number 1800-2090-830.

The CAT admit card will have the following details:

• Your name, photograph, signature, and category
• Your CAT registration number and application number
• Your preferred test city and test centre address
• Your exam date and slot
• Your reporting time and gate closing time
• Your Google map link to locate your test centre
• Your emergency contact number
• Your test system number
• Your exam instructions and COVID-19 guidelines

You should also carry one valid photo ID proof along with your CAT admit card to the test centre for verification. The acceptable photo ID proofs are:

• Aadhaar Card
• Driving License
• PAN Card
• Passport
• Voter ID Card
• College ID Card

You should also follow the exam instructions and COVID-19 guidelines mentioned on your CAT admit card to ensure a smooth and safe testing experience. Some of the important instructions are:

• You should reach the test centre at least one hour before your exam slot.
• You should wear a mask at all times and maintain social distancing.
• You should carry your own sanitizer, pen, pencil, and eraser.
• You should not carry any electronic devices, calculators, watches, or any other prohibited items to the test centre.
• You should follow the instructions of the invigilators and avoid any unfair means.

CAT 2023- Programmes Offered by IIMs

Below is the list of different programmes offered by IIMs in the country. Have a look:

CAT 2023- Results

• If you are one of the thousands of students who took CAT exam this year, you might be eagerly waiting for your results. CAT exam is one of the most competitive and prestigious entrance tests for management courses in India. It is conducted by Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and scores are accepted by over 1000 institutions across the country.
• CAT exam results are usually declared in the first week of January. The official website of CAT has not yet announced the exact date of the results, but it is expected to be around mid-January. You can check your results online by logging in with your user ID and password on CAT website.
• CAT exam results are based on three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Each section has a scaled score ranging from 0 to 300, and a percentile rank indicating your relative performance among all the test takers. The overall score is the sum of the scaled scores of the three sections, and the overall percentile rank is based on the overall score.
• CAT exam results are used by the IIMs and other institutions to shortlist candidates for further rounds of selection, such as Written Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD), and Personal Interview (PI). Weightage given to each component varies from institution to institution, but generally, CAT score has a high impact on your chances of getting admission.
• CAT exam results are also valid for one year, which means you can apply to different institutions in the same academic year. However, you cannot retake CAT exam in the same year, so you have to make the best use of your score. You should research the eligibility criteria, cut-off marks, and admission process of the institutions you are interested in, and apply accordingly.
• CAT exam results are a reflection of your hard work and preparation, but they are not the only factor that determines your success. You should also focus on improving your communication skills, general awareness, and personality traits, as these are equally important for getting admission to your dream college.

CAT 2023- Previous Year Cut-offs

CAT 2023 Cut-Offs are the minimum percentile that candidates need to score in order to qualify for the next stage of the admission process. The Cut-Offs vary depending on the category of the candidates, the difficulty level of the exam, and the number of seats available in the participating institutes. Candidates who meet or exceed the Cut-Offs will be shortlisted for the Written Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds. We are provding you with the previous years' Cut-Offs below:

CAT 2022- Cut-Offs

IIM Bodh Gaya Cut-offs 2020 for male candidates

IIM Bodh Gaya Cut-offs 2020 for female candidates

CAT 2018- Cut-Offs

 IIM Ahmedabad CAT Cut-offs (2017, 2016)

IIM Bangalore CAT Cut-offs (2017, 2016)

IIM Kozhikode CAT Cut-Offs (2017, 2016)

IIM Indore CAT Cut-offs (2017, 2016)

IIM Trichy CAT Cut-offs (2017, 2016)

IIM Raipur CAT Cut-offs (2017, 2016)

IIM Rohtak CAT Cut-offs (2017, 2016)

IIM Udaipur CAT Cut-Offs (2017, 2016)

IIM Sirmaur CAT Cut-Offs (2017, 2016)

IIM Nagpur CAT Cut-Offs (2017, 2016)

IIM Vishakhapatnam CAT Cut-Offs (2017, 2016)

IIM Amritsar CAT Cut-Offs (2017, 2016)

IIM Sambalpur CAT Cut-Offs (2017, 2016)