If you have decided to take the CAT exam, you must be fully aware of its pattern, structure, and marking scheme. CAT exam is a prerequisite for admissions into various management colleges in India. Therefore, a strategic approach to crack the CAT exam is very important. Knowing the exam pattern will help you in your preparation.
This article will provide complete information about the CAT exam pattern , marking criteria, and important topics.
What is CAT?
Common Admission Test or CAT is a national test conducted in India to admit students to MBA/PGDM courses in different IIMs and other top management colleges. The examination is conducted by one of the IIMs every year.
CAT Exam Pattern: Latest Changes
- CAT 2024 Exam is scheduled for November 2024.
- There is no negative marking for Non-MCQs.
- The order of the sections starts with VARC followed by DILR and QA. Candidates cannot switch between sections.
- For CAT 2024, students will be notified about the changes in the exam window.
- Previously, the total number of questions in CAT was 100, and the total marks were 300.
- But in 2021, the number of questions was reduced to 76, and the total marks were 228. In 2022, the number of questions was further reduced to 66.
- IIM will also release a tutorial for the aspirants to understand the CAT 2024 exam pattern and question pattern. The tutorial will be available on their official website in October 2024.
- There is an on-screen calculator provided during the exam.
- CAT 2024 exam will be held in 150+ cities across the country.
CAT Eligibility
The candidate must hold three years of Bachelor's Degree. However, the final year students can also apply for this exam. Owing to recent changes caused by the pandemic, the criteria for appearing in CAT have become less rigorous than before. Candidates need to review the CAT eligibility criteria to avoid any last-minute hassle.
CAT Exam Pattern
The exam pattern of CAT has changed in the previous years due to the pandemic. Here is the description of the CAT exam pattern:
