IIFT 2024 exam will be held in online mode and will have four sections - Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension and General Awareness. Check out important section-wise preparation tips, best books and mock tests for IIFT exam.
IIFT entrance exam is conducted for admission to MBA International Business and Business Analytics courses offered by the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade. It is a test of candidate's Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation, Verbal Ability and General Knowledge. IIFT entrance exam is one of the tougher MBA entrance exams on par with the CAT, due to which why candidates have to put in extra hardwork in IIFT exam preparation. Every year, about 50,000 students appear for IIFT exam for admission to the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade’s MBA International Business programme. Out of 50,000 test takers just over 3,000 are selected for admission.
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There is a 90% more chance of getting best college recommendations by sharing preferences.IIFT 2024 exam will be conducted in the third week of December 2023. So, it is time to speed up IIFT exam preparation – deep dive into the topics and study them comprehensively. The syllabus and pattern of the exam will remain the same so candidates have a clear reference point to begin the preparation. Get hold of IIFT question papers and study material and get going. In this article, we have shared section-wise IIFT preparation tips, but first look at the exam pattern and test structure.
Q: Are CAT books enough to cover IIFT syllabus?
The topics under Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation and Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension are the same for both CAT and IIFT. The latter, however has an extra subject – General Awareness (For General Awareness preparation, candidates need to devote only one month before the exam). Since to topics are same in both exams, the books recommended for IIFT are same as for CAT. Candidates can prepare for both exams simultaneously but the preparation strategy has to be exam-specific for both. Candidates need to practice sample questions and mock tests for IIFT. Solving CAT mock tests or sample question will not be helpful for IIFT as the type and difficulty level of questions are very different from CAT. The exam pattern and marking scheme of IIFT are also different from CAT. So, even though the CAT and IIFT syllabus are the same the preparation has to be different from each other.
Q: Are recommended books enough to cover IIFT syllabus?
No, you can’t rely only on the recommended books for IIFT syllabus coverage. You need to invest time in secondary readings and guidebooks to have a better understanding of chapters and topics. Along with books, notes and study material, you need to join online study groups where you can join video lectures for various topics of IIFT. These video lectures will help you in understanding the topics better with examples. Apart from that, to cover the IIFT syllabus, you need to practice sample papers and mock tests. These sample test papers and mocks will help you in improving your problem solving skills in limited time and help you gain knowledge of which formula to apply on which type of questions. There is no particular limit to practicing mock tests for IIFT preparation as it depends on each candidate's ability and grip on the topics. However, on an average the candidates must practice at least 25-30 IIFT mock tests and sample papers for preparation.
Q: Which are the best books to refer for IIFT exam preparation?
IIFT Exam Pattern and Test Structure
IIFT exam has 110 questions to be solved in two hours. Unlike other MBA entrance exams, IIFT's VARC section carries maximum weightage (35 questions of three marks each), followed by LRDI (30 questions of three marks each) and QA (25 questions of three marks each). The GK section carries least weightage (20 questions of 1.5 marks each). Check highlights of IIFT exam pattern below:
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| IIFT Exam Features |
Details |
|---|---|
| Sections |
|
| Mode of examination |
Online |
| Total number of questions |
110 |
| Marks per question |
|
| Negative marking |
Yes (0.5 to 1 mark) |
| Total marks |
300 |
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The IIFT exam pattern provides enough clarity on how to strategise for the exam preparation and what should be the approach on exam day. So, let’s look at section-wise IIFT preparation plan 2024.
IIFT Preparation Tips for Quantitative Aptitude
The Quantitative Aptitude section of IIFT exam is usually moderate to difficult. Total number of questions in this section is 25. The questions are mostly concept driven, thus it is essential to have conceptual clarity viz. all the topics. Prepare the key concepts of Arithmetic, Algebra and Geometry and Modern Math. What is important to note while preparing for the QA section of IIFT is that, there are calculation intensive questions in this section thus, one needs to develop the habit of mental calculation. It is easier and faster than the onscreen calculator.
Also, practice sectional mock tests and sample questions of IIFT exam to develop the skill of choosing the right question to solve in the actual exam. This is critical because IIFT exam has negative marking and limited time. Also Read: IIFT Preparation 2024 - How to Crack Quantitative Aptitude
Best Books for IIFT Quantitative Aptitude
To prepare for IIFT exam, candidates must take help from the books recommended by experts and toppers. Given below are some of the best books for IIFT preparation.
| Book Name |
Author/ Publisher |
|---|---|
| How to prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT |
Arun Sharma |
| Quantum CAT |
Sarvesh K Verma |
| The Pearson Guide To Quantitative Aptitude And Data Interpretation |
Nishit Sinha |
| Quantitative Aptitude |
R.S. Aggarwal |
| Quantitative Aptitude For Competitive Examinations |
Abhijit Guha |
IIFT Preparation Tips for VARC
Scoring good marks in the Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) section of IIFT exam requires good reading speed and strong English Grammar. Just memorizing vocabulary will not help you. Understand the origin and usage of words so that you can place them as required. For Grammar and Verbal Ability, the best option is to practice sample questions. This section has the maximum number of questions (35) in the entire IIFT question paper.
The IIFT question paper 2024 is likely to have three to four Reading Comprehension passages ranging from Literature to Science. Thus, it is advisable to include all variety of readings in your daily plan. A strong base in English comprehension and grammar is enough to help you sail through the exam.
Also Read: IIFT Preparation 2024 - How to crack VARC
Best Books for IIFT VARC
Given below are the books you can refer for preparation of IIFT VARC section:
| IIFT Books |
Author/ Publisher |
|---|---|
| The Pearson Guide to Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning |
Nishant Sinha |
| Word Power Made Easy |
Norman Lewis |
| High School English Grammar & Composition |
Wren & Martin |
| 30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary |
Wilfred Funk and Norman Lewis |
| Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning |
R. S. Aggarwal |
IIFT Preparation Tips for DILR
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) section is all about practice. To prepare for this section of IIFT exam 2024, focus on solving a variety of reasoning and data interpretation questions, not once but at least three times. LRDI section has 30 questions. In DI section, focus on pie charts, bar graphs, data tables, line charts & combinations and in LR section, practice questions on arrangements, family trees and complex data situations.
Also Read: IIFT Preparation 2024 - Tips to crack DI and Reasoning
Best Books for IIFT DILR
Given below is the list of DILR books for IIFT exam preparation:
| IIFT Books |
Author/ Publisher |
|---|---|
| How to Prepare For Logical Reasoning For CAT |
Arun Sharma |
| Verbal Ability And Logical Reasoning For The CAT |
Nishit K. Sinha |
| Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning |
R. S. Aggarwal |
| Data Interpretation for The CAT |
Arun Sharma |
| Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT & other MBA exams |
Nishit K Sinha |
| Data interpretation and Logical Reasoning for CAT |
Pearson |
IIFT Preparation: General Knowledge
The GK section of IIFT exam usually consists of static GK. Last year, this section was of moderate difficulty. Since this section has less weightage than the other three sections (20 questions of 1.5 marks each), you can choose to prepare for it after completing Quantitative Aptitude, VARC and LRDI sections. Pay due attention to current affairs of the year and topics such as history, geography, economics, political system, global economy, etc. for static General Knowledge.
Also Read: Last Month IIFT Exam Preparation Strategy
Best Study Material for GK
- Manorama Year Book
- India Year Book
- Newspapers such as The Hindu, Indian Express, Financial Express, Economic Times
- Magazines such as Business Today, Business India, Outlook, Business World, Forbes
| DILR Questions with Answers for Practice | VARC Questions with Answers for Practice | Quantitative Aptitude Questions with Answers for Practice |
IIFT Mock Test
IIFT Mock Test will help you to get an idea about the type of questions asked, the exam pattern and marking scheme. After taking the test, you can immediately check your score. You can also download the Question Paper along with answers and their explanations for Free. Click below to start the free online test now.
Free IIFT Exam Mock TestRead More:
IIFT Preparation FAQs
Q: What is the best time to start IIFT exam preparation?
A: The best time to start IIFT exam preparation is 6-9 month before the test date. However, candidates can also crack the test by preparing for 3 months, of they do it in a planned and focused manner. The candidates must start early as the syllabus of IIFT exam is vast and tough. They will need a few months to complete the syllabus after which they will need considerable time for practicing mock tests, etc.
Q: What is the difficulty level of IIFT entrance exam?
A: IIFT entrance exam is of medium to high difficulty level. All the three main sections - Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning - are moderate to difficult whereas GK section is usually easy. IIFT exam is as difficult as CAT, even though the score is not valid for any other MBA institute.
Q: What is the exam pattern and syllabus of IIFT 2024 exam?
A: IIFT entrance exam is a speed based test in which candidates have to solve 110 questions in 2 hours. For every question, four options will be given for selection of the correct answer. The IIFT syllabus includes Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning and General Knowledge.
Q: What is the duration of IIFT entrance exam?
A: IIFT entrance exam is conducted for 2 hours without break. There is no sectional time limit in IIFT so the aspirants can plan their strategy according to their strong and weak areas. IT is not mandatory to solve all the 110 question so candidates can read and choose the questions which they can answer accurately without wasting time. It is advised to reach sectional cut off in each section and if the time permits, improvise on it.
Q: How many mock tests to practice for IIFT 2024 exam?
A: About 25-30 full-length mock tests are recommended for preparation of IIFT entrance exam to aim high scores. Candidates must start practice mock tests only after completing the syllabus and nearer to the exam date. The ideal phase to start practicing IIFT mock test is two months before the exam. Since, the IIFT exam is conducted in December, candidates must start mock test practice by October.
Q: Is there negative marking in IIFT exam?
A: Yes, there is negative marking in IIFT exam. In Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning sections, one mark is deducted for each incorrect attempt. In General Knowledge section, -0.5 marks are deducted for each incorrect attempt. Thus, candidates must choose questions carefully. They should answer only those questions which they can solve correctly.
Q: Can I prepare for IIFT with CAT books?
A: Yes, since the syllabus and difficulty level of IIFT exam is same as the CAT, one can prepare for the CAT and IIFT both by studying the same books. However, candidates must practice sample questions specific to IIFT as the question type of this exam is different from CAT.
Q: How to prepare for Current Affairs and GK section of IIFT?
A: To prepare for the General Awareness section of IIFT candidates can refer to Competition Success Review, Manorama Year Book, GK Guides and stay abreast with current affairs by reading newspaper and watching news. Candidates should pick up GK for preparation towards the end as it memory based and can be done in less time.
Q: Which section has the maximum weightage in IIFT entrance exam?
A: The IIFT Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension section has maximum weightage in the IIFT entrance exam. The section carries 35 questions and 105 marks. There is negative marking of -1 for every incorrect answer. However, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension section of IIFT exam is not as tough as that of CAT.
Q: Has the IIFT exam syllabus been revised for the 2024 exam?
A: No, the IIFT exam syllabus has not been revised for the 2024 exam. The syllabus will cover all the important topics of Verbal Ability, English Comprehension, Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning and GK.
Q: How many attempts are allowed in IIFT?
A: There is no limitation on number of exam attempts but since the IIFT entrance exam is an annual test thus one gets only one attempt for a particular academic session. If a candidate wishes to take the exam again, they can do so in the next session.
Q: How many mock tests to practice for IIFT 2024 exam?
A: About 25-30 full-length mock tests are recommended for preparation of IIFT entrance exam to aim high scores. Candidates must start practice mock tests only after completing the syllabus and nearer to the exam date. The ideal phase to start practicing IIFT mock test is two months before the exam. Since, the IIFT exam is conducted in December, candidates must start mock test practice by October.
Q: Is there negative marking in IIFT exam?
A: Yes, there is negative marking in IIFT exam. In Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning sections, one mark is deducted for each incorrect attempt. In General Knowledge section, -0.5 marks are deducted for each incorrect attempt. Thus, candidates must choose questions carefully. They should answer only those questions which they can solve correctly.
Q: Can I prepare for IIFT with CAT books?
A: Yes, since the syllabus and difficulty level of IIFT exam is same as the CAT, one can prepare for the CAT and IIFT both by studying the same books. However, candidates must practice sample questions specific to IIFT as the question type of this exam is different from CAT.
Q: How to prepare for Current Affairs and GK section of IIFT?
A: To prepare for the General Awareness section of IIFT candidates can refer to Competition Success Review, Manorama Year Book, GK Guides and stay abreast with current affairs by reading newspaper and watching news. Candidates should pick up GK for preparation towards the end as it memory based and can be done in less time.
Q: Which section has the maximum weightage in IIFT entrance exam?
A: The IIFT Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension section has maximum weightage in the IIFT entrance exam. The section carries 35 questions and 105 marks. There is negative marking of -1 for every incorrect answer. However, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension section of IIFT exam is not as tough as that of CAT.
Q: Has the IIFT exam syllabus been revised for the 2024 exam?
A: No, the IIFT exam syllabus has not been revised for the 2024 exam. The syllabus will cover all the important topics of Verbal Ability, English Comprehension, Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning and GK.
Q: How many attempts are allowed in IIFT?
A: There is no limitation on number of exam attempts but since the IIFT entrance exam is an annual test thus one gets only one attempt for a particular academic session. If a candidate wishes to take the exam again, they can do so in the next session.
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