CAT Full Form: Common Admission Test

CAT Full Form: Common Admission Test

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Chanchal
Chanchal Aggarwal
Senior Executive Content
Updated on Dec 4, 2023 15:50 IST

CAT is a highly competitive entrance examination conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for admission to their postgraduate management programs. Scoring well in CAT opens doors to prestigious business schools and paves the way for a successful career in management.

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The full form of CAT is “Common Admission Test“. If you’ve ever considered pursuing a management education in India, you must have encountered the acronym CAT. CAT- Common Admission Test is a highly sought-after examination that opens doors to prestigious business schools in India. This article will delve into the full form of CAT. We have also covered the purpose, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and importance of CAT.

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Table of Contents

What is CAT?

CAT full form is Common Admission Test. CAT exam is an entrance examination conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for admission to their postgraduate management programs, such as the MBA (Master of Business Administration). It is recognized as one of the country’s most competitive and rigorous examinations.

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Purpose of CAT

The primary purpose of CAT is to assess a candidate’s aptitude, problem-solving skills, logical reasoning, data interpretation, and verbal ability. It is a standardized measure to evaluate candidates’ readiness for the demanding curriculum and competitive environment of business schools.

Eligibility Criteria for CAT

To be eligible for CAT, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum percentage specified by the respective IIMs. The eligibility criteria may also include specific requirements regarding academic discipline, work experience, and reservation categories. It is essential to review the official notification for precise details.

Exam Pattern

CAT is a computer-based test that consists of three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). The total duration of the exam is 180 minutes, with each section having a designated time limit. The questions in CAT can range from multiple-choice questions (MCQs) to non-MCQs, requiring candidates to select answers, type in responses, or evaluate statements.

Check out the complete CAT Syllabus-  CAT Syllabus 2023 (Available): Download Subject-wise CAT Exam Syllabus PDF with Weightage 

Importance of CAT

Scoring well in CAT opens doors to some of India’s most prestigious business schools, including the IIMs and other renowned institutes. These institutions offer excellent academic curriculums, faculty expertise, industry exposure, and placement opportunities. CAT scores are also accepted by numerous other management institutes nationwide, expanding the range of options for aspiring students.

Preparation Tips for CAT

Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the CAT syllabus and exam pattern. Focus on strengthening your core concepts in quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, reading comprehension, and vocabulary.

Time Management: Develop a study schedule and allocate sufficient time for each section. Practice time-bound mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.

Solve Previous Years’ Papers: Solve previous years’ CAT question papers to understand the exam pattern and gain insight into the types of questions asked.

Take Mock Tests: Regularly take full-length mock tests to gauge your progress and identify areas of improvement. Analyze your performance and work on weak areas accordingly.

Seek Guidance: Consider joining coaching classes or online programs that provide expert guidance, study materials, and mock tests. Engage in group discussions and interact with fellow aspirants to exchange knowledge and strategies.

Conclusion

CAT, the Common Admission Test, is a gateway to some of India’s most prestigious business schools. Understanding the full form, purpose, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and significance of CAT is essential for aspiring management students. With focused preparation, perseverance, and a strategic approach, one can ace the CAT examination and pave the way for a rewarding career in management.

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FAQs

What does CAT stand for?

CAT stands for Common Admission Test.

What is the purpose of the CAT exam?

The CAT exam is a national-level entrance examination conducted in India for admission into various management programs, including MBA, offered by prestigious business schools (IIMs) and other participating institutions.

How often is the CAT exam conducted?

The CAT exam is typically conducted once a year, usually in the months of November or December.

How is the CAT exam structured?

The CAT exam is divided into three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). The exam is conducted in an online computer-based format, and the duration is typically around 180 minutes.

What is the scoring pattern for the CAT exam?

The CAT exam follows a scaled score pattern. Each correct answer is awarded three marks, and for every incorrect answer, one mark is deducted as negative marking. Unanswered questions do not carry any positive or negative marks. The final score is based on the overall performance across all sections.

About the Author
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Chanchal Aggarwal
Senior Executive Content

Chanchal is a creative and enthusiastic content creator who enjoys writing research-driven, audience-specific and engaging content. Her curiosity for learning and exploring makes her a suitable writer for a variety ... Read Full Bio