The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2024, one of the most challenging and prestigious entrance exams for MBA/PGDM admissions in India, is set to be conducted in November 2024. IIM Calcutta is likely to be the organizing body for this year’s exam. Every year, the eligibility criteria for CAT are released by the official CAT conducting authorities, and it is essential for aspirants to ensure they meet these criteria to apply and appear for the exam.
Key Highlights of CAT 2024
CAT is a CBT conducted annually by the IIMs. It serves as a gateway to 21 IIMs and thousands of other top B-schools across India. With over two lakh aspirants each year, the competition is intense due to limited admission seats and high cut-offs.
CAT 2024 Eligibility Criteria
Academic Qualifications
| Criteria | Details |
| Bachelor’s Degree | Minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD) from a acknowledged university. |
| Final Year Students | Can apply conditionally with a completion certificate from their institution by a specified date. |
| Professional Degrees | Completed CA, CS, ICWA, FIAI with the required percentage. |
Marks Calculation
| Criteria | Details |
| Percentage Calculation | Based on university criteria. If CGPA is used, convert to percentage as per university guidelines. |
Selection Verification
| Criteria | Details |
| Verification | Eligibility may be verified at any stage of the selection process. |
| Communication | Maintaining a valid G mail and mobile number is required. |
| Reservation Criteria | |
| Category | Reserved Seats (%) |
| Scheduled Castes (SC) | 15% |
| Scheduled Tribes (ST) | 7.50% |
| Other Backward Classes (NC-OBC) | 27% |
| Economically Weaker Section (EWS) | Up to 10% |
| Persons with Disability (PwD) | 5% |
Age Limits
There are no age restrictions for taking the CAT exam, allowing candidates of any age to appear.
Work Experience
While the CAT eligibility criteria do not specify any necessary work experience; some B-schools do consider work experience during the admission process.
Number of Attempts
There is no limit to the number of times you can appear for CAT in a lifetime.
Important Points for CAT 2024 Aspirants
Registration Process
| Steps | Details |
| Registration | Provide basic information under “New Candidate Registration” on the official website. |
| Login ID and Password | Receive after verification. |
| Application Form | Fill in necessary details, choose interview city and preferred test cities. |
| Document Upload | Signature, Passport size photograph, category certificate (if applicable). |
| Fee Payment | Pay the application fee online. |
| Review and Submit | Ensure all data is correct before giving the application. |
CAT 2024 Exam Pattern
| Criteria | Details |
| Mode – | Computer-based |
| Medium – | English |
| Slots – | 3 |
| Total Questions | 66 |
| Sections | VARC: 24 questions, DILR: 20 questions, QA: 22 questions |
| Time Allotted | 120 minutes (40 minutes per section) |
| Question Types | MCQs and TITA (Type in The Answer) |
| Marking Scheme | 3 ,-1 and 0 for TITA |
CAT 2024 Syllabus
| Section | Topics |
| VARC | Reading comprehension, grammar, verbal logic, para jumbles, etc. |
| DILR | Seating arrangements, Venn diagrams, puzzles, data sufficiency, etc. |
| QA | Geometry, algebra, number systems, time and work, etc. |
Application Process
| Steps | Details |
| Registration | Provide basic information under “New Candidate Registration” on the official website. |
| Login ID and Password | Receive after verification. |
| Application Form | Fill in necessary details, choose interview city and preferred test cities. |
| Document Upload | Signature, Passport size photograph, category certificate (if applicable). |
| Fee Payment | Pay the application fee online. |
| Review and Submit | Correction of information is important |
Admit Card
| Criteria | Details |
| Release Date | Expected in October 2024. |
| Download | Download from official website |
| Answer Key and Results | |
| Criteria | Details |
| Answer Key Release | 8-10 days after the exam. |
| Results | Expected around December 2024 or January 2025. |
| Preparation Tips | |
| Tips | Details |
| Understand the Exam Pattern | Familiarize yourself with the CAT format. |
| Early Start | Begin process at least a year before. |
| Structured Study Plan | Develop a study timetable, focusing on weaker sections. |
| Conceptual Clarity | Emphasize understanding fundamental concepts, especially in QA. |
| Regular Practice | Solve past papers and take mock tests. |
| Stay Updated | Regularly see the official website for updates. |
FAQs Regarding CAT Eligibility 2024
| Question | Answer |
| Validity of CAT Score | The CAT scorecard is valid for one year. |
| Final Year Students | Final-year students can apply for CAT. |
| Purpose | CAT scores are used for MBA/PGDM admissions. |
| Eligibility Determination | IIMs decide the eligibility criteria. |
| Class 12 Marks | Not considered for CAT eligibility. |
| Post-Graduate Candidates | Eligible to apply for CAT. |
| Direct Admission | Some IIMs offer five-year integrated programs post-class 12. |
| Alternative Exams | GMAT scores are also accepted by IIMs. |
| Foreign B-Schools | Some foreign institutes accept CAT scores. |
| Backlogs | Candidates with backlogs can apply but must clear them before admission. |
| Undergraduate Requirement | Candidates must be graduates or in the final year of graduation. |
| Passing Marks | No specific passing marks, but high cut-offs for top B-schools. |
| First Attempt | Many candidates clear CAT in their first attempt with dedicated preparation. |
By understanding and meeting the eligibility criteria, aspirants can better prepare for the CAT 2024 exam and enhance their chances of gaining admission to their dream B-school. Stay informed and start your preparations early to ensure success.
