The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2024, organized by IIM Calcutta, is one of the most anticipated MBA entrance exams in India, opening doors to top management programs across the country. Here’s everything you need to know about the CAT 2024 exam, from registration and admit card download to the exam day itself.
CAT 2024 Exam Overview
Exam Date: November 24, 2024
Conducting Body: IIM Calcutta
Exam Mode: Computer-Based
Cities: 170 across India
The CAT exam remains a significant stepping stone for MBA aspirants aiming to join IIMs and other prestigious B-schools in India. This year, IIM Calcutta is managing the exam, which will test candidates’ abilities in three major sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA).
CAT 2024 Registration and Key Dates
The registration period for CAT 2024 opened on August 1, 2024, and concluded on September 20, 2024. Candidates had to ensure timely registration, as there were no extensions.
Admit Card Availability: November 5, 2024
As of November 5, 2024, candidates who registered can download their admit cards from the official CAT website. It’s essential to have this document on exam day, as it contains vital details about the test center, timing, and other important instructions.
Important Tips for Admit Card Download:
- Visit the official CAT website.
- Log in using your CAT 2024 credentials (ID and password).
- Download and print the admit card. Ensure all information is correct. For any discrepancies, promptly contact CAT helpdesk support.
Pro Tip: Download your admit card well before the exam date to avoid last-minute issues like website traffic delays
What to Expect on Exam Day
CAT 2024 will take place on November 24 in multiple sessions across test centers in 170 cities. Candidates should arrive at least an hour before their allotted time to complete security checks and document verification.
CAT 2024 Exam Structure:
- Format: Computer-based
- Sections: VARC, DILR, and QA
- Duration: 120 minutes (40 minutes per section)
- Question Types: Multiple Choice (MCQs) and Non-MCQs
Post-Exam: Answer Key and Result Dates
After the exam, IIM Calcutta will release a provisional answer key and candidates’ response sheets by the first week of December. This allows candidates to review their answers and file objections if needed. To challenge the answer key, candidates need to complete an objection form and pay the stipulated fee per question
CAT 2024 Result Release
The final results are expected by mid-January 2025. Candidates will be able to access their scorecards online, showing their overall and sectional percentiles. These scores will play a crucial role in the admission processes at IIMs and other participating institutes.
Tips for Last-Minute Preparation
- Revise Key Concepts: Focus on areas like quantitative formulas, logical reasoning patterns, and reading comprehension strategies.
- Mock Tests: Take timed mock tests to gauge your time management and identify weak areas.
- Focus on Accuracy: CAT penalizes incorrect answers, so prioritize accuracy over sheer speed.
Conclusion
CAT 2024 is a significant milestone for MBA aspirants. With the admit cards now available, candidates are one step closer to their MBA journey. Be sure to have all the required documents on exam day, and use the time left for effective revision and mock tests to maximize your performance.
For the latest updates and tips on CAT preparation, stay tuned. Good luck to all CAT 2024 aspirants!
