•  Content Writer : Ashmeet Bhalla
• 23-05-2024

The CAT exam 2024 is scheduled for November 24, 2024. It will be conducted in three shifts across 155 cities in India. Prospective candidates should begin their preparation immediately. Here is all the essential information for CAT 2024.

About CAT

The CAT (Common Admission Test) is an annually conducted competitive entrance exam in India, serving as the gateway to esteemed management programs offered by Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other prestigious business schools. To be eligible, candidates must possess a bachelor's degree with a minimum of 50% marks or equivalent CGPA. The exam typically comprises three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA), spanning a duration of 3 hours. Performance is gauged through a scoring system where correct answers accrue points and incorrect ones result in negative marking. 

CAT scores, coupled with other factors like academic background, work experience, and performance in subsequent selection rounds, determine admission into business schools. Preparation entails rigorous study of quantitative techniques, logical reasoning, reading comprehension, and verbal ability, often supplemented by coaching classes, online resources, and mock tests. Given its competitive nature, candidates must strategize meticulously to stand out in this fiercely contested arena.

CAT Exam Pattern 2024

The CAT exam is a 120-minute, MCQ-based test where candidates must answer 66 questions from the sections VARC, DILR, and QA. Below are the key features of the CAT 2024 exam pattern:

• The exam is conducted in three sessions.
• Each session lasts 120 minutes.
• There is a sectional time limit of 40 minutes per section.
• The three sections of the exam are VARC, DILR, and QA.
• Each correct answer earns 3 marks.
• Each incorrect answer results in a 1-mark deduction.
• There is no negative marking for non-MCQs and skipped questions.
• The total number of questions is 66.
• The exam is scored out of 198 marks.
• Attempting all the questions is not mandatory.

CAT 2024 Registration Process

The official CAT exam 2024 registration date is tentatively in August. However, from last year’s CAT 2023 registration process candidates can follow these steps to register for CAT 2024, visit the official website of IIM Calcutta. Follow these steps to fill out the application form:

• Click on 'new registration' and provide your name, date of birth, nationality, phone number, and email ID.
• Complete the CAPTCHA verification and verify registration with the OTP received on your phone.
• Log in with the CAT 2024 ID shared via email to access the application form.
• Enter your personal and academic details.
• Upload a recent passport-size photo and a scanned signature.
• Select your preferred IIMs, courses, and test cities.
• Pay the CAT application fee using credit/debit card or net banking.

CAT 2024 Syllabus

• Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

Reading Comprehension, Para Jumbles, Para Summary and Odd Sentence Out

• Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

Set Theory (Variables), Set Theory + Puzzles, Puzzles with Additional Data, Coding-Decoding and Series

• Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

Number System, Algebra, Arithmetic, Geometry and Mensuration

CAT 2024 Admit Card 

The CAT admit card is a mandatory document for the entrance exam and is issued only to registered candidates. Follow these steps to download the CAT 2024 admit card:

• Visit the CAT website at iimcat.ac.in.
• Click on the 'login' tab and enter your CAT 2024 application number and password.
• Navigate to the 'admit card' section.
• Click on 'download' to obtain your admit card.

The CAT Exam 2024 promises to be a pivotal opportunity for aspiring MBA candidates. With a clear understanding of the exam pattern, a streamlined registration process, an in-depth syllabus, and a timely release of admit cards, candidates can effectively prepare and strategize for success. Stay informed, adhere to the deadlines, and dedicate your efforts to thorough preparation. Best of luck to all the aspirants aiming to secure their place in top business schools!