CAT 2024: Syllabus, Eligibility, Notification, Registration, Pattern, Preparation

Introduction
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a premier national entrance examination in India, hosted every year by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). Apart from 21 IIMs, other top MBA colleges like FMS, IIFT, SPJIMR, IITs, MDI will offer MBA admission 2025 based on CAT 2024 score. It serves as a gateway to prestigious postgraduate management courses in top-tier business institutions throughout the nation.
CAT 2024: Key Highlights
CAT is a prestigious and intensely competitive entrance examination, hosted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), aiming to select candidates for their highly-regarded management programs. This computer-based evaluation meticulously scrutinizes applicants’ capabilities across diverse areas, including Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). 
Renowned management institutes and business schools across India, in addition to the 21 IIMs, universally recognize CAT scores for admissions into their varied postgraduate programs. Given the high stakes and rigorous nature of the CAT, aspirants are required to engage in detailed and sustained preparation over several months. The curriculum of CAT necessitates a thorough and focused approach to study. Scoring an excellent percentile in the CAT Exam is a cake walk if you attempt the questions with accuracy and do exceptionally well in one of the sections.
Detailed outline of the CAT Exam 2024
Category
Details
Exam Name
Common Admission Test (CAT)
Conducting Body
Indian Institutes of Management, Calcutta (Expected)
Exam Level
National
Frequency
Annual
Exam Mode
Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Duration
2 hours (with designated time-slots)
Number of Questions
66
Question Types
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Type in The Answer (TITA) Questions
Sections
1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) 24 questions
 
2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) 20 questions
 
3. Quantitative Ability (QA) 22 questions
Marking Scheme
+3 for each correct answer, -1 for each incorrect answer (for MCQs), 0 for incorrect TITA questions only
Eligibility
Bachelor’s Degree final year or passed Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA (45% for SC, ST, and PwD categories)
Selection Process
Based on CAT scores, followed by Written Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD), and Personal Interview (PI) for some IIMs
Score Validity
1 year
Admission Offered
Postgraduate MBA Programs
Number of IIMs Participating
21 IIMs
Other Institutes Accepting CAT Scores
999 + Prestigious management institutes and business schools in India
Preparation Time
At least an year of focussed and dedicated preparation
MBA Masterclass
Important Dates
CAT 2024 Important Dates & Timeline
Important dates (Tentative)
CAT 2024 Notification Date
Last week of July 2024
CAT Registration Start Date 2024
First week of August, 2024
CAT 2024 Last Date of Registration
First week of September 2024
CAT 2024 Registration Fees
Rs.2500
CAT 2024 Exam Date
November 24, 2024
CAT 2024 Result Date
First week of January 2025
MBA Courses Offered by IIMs through CAT
MBA Course at IIM
Details
Post Graduate Program in Management (PGP) or Master of Business Administration (MBA)
The flagship initiative of the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) is the Post Graduate Programme (PGP), available at all 20 of their locations. This program serves as an equivalent to a Master of Business Administration (MBA), culminating in a Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) upon completion. Spanning two years, the coursework is divided into six trimesters. The PGP is an all-encompassing management program, providing foundational courses in a variety of managerial disciplines. In their second year, students have the opportunity to select specialized electives according to their preferences. Following the enactment of the IIM Bill in Parliament, several of the premier IIMs have transitioned from awarding the PGP diploma to conferring MBA degrees.
PGP-FABM (Food and Agribusiness Management)
 
The program, spanning across two full years, was formerly referred to as the PGP-ABM. During the initial year, participants in both the PGP (Flagship) and FABM engage in identical coursework, with the exception that FABM students tackle a handful of additional subjects. As the program progresses into its second year, the focus for FABM students shifts predominantly towards topics related to agriculture.
PGP in Human Resource Management (PGDHRM)
The PGPHRM stands out as the premier program at IIM Ranchi, conducted on a full-time basis. This program unfolds over the course of six semesters and includes a summer project as a key component of the curriculum.
PGP in Public Policy and Management (PGPPM)
This program is designed to offer extensive educational opportunities, enhancing the leadership abilities and efficiency of those in policy-making roles. The PGPPM is dedicated to cultivating leadership capabilities and assisting professionals in public policy and management as they navigate emerging challenges. The PGPPM spans one year and features a two-week international immersion initiative as part of its curriculum.
PGP in Enterprise Management (PGPEM)
This programme is offered by IIM Bangalore and is a 22-month weekend residential programme.
The programme can be pursued by mid-level and senior executives having at least four years of work experience after Graduation. 
PGP in Business Management (PGPBM)
PGP in Business Management, a program that spans 24 months and is meticulously designed to equip working executives for upper-management positions. The objective of this program is to mold versatile professional managers ready to excel in various segments of a corporation.
PGP in Sustainable Management (PGP-SM)
PGP-SM is a two-year full-time programme in Sustainable Management offered by IIM Lucknow.
The programme is spread across six semesters which includes an international immersion programme.
PGP in Agri-Business Management (PGP-ABM)
PGP ABM is designed exclusively to develop entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs in the field of agribusiness.
The two-year full-time residential programme is offered by IIM Lucknow.
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CAT 2024: Eligibility Criteria 
Before the start of CAT 2024 registration in August 2024, candidates must verify whether they are eligible to appear for the exam or not. Only those who meet the requirements will be allowed to take the CAT in 2024.
  • Candidates applying must possess a bachelor's degree in any discipline and achieve a minimum score of 50% for the General and NC-OBC categories. For SC, ST, and PWD candidates, a score of 45% is required.
  • The candidate's bachelor's degree must have validation from any of the Universities incorporated by an Act of the central or state legislature in India or other educational institutions established by an Act of Parliament or declared to be deemed as a University under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956, or possess an equivalent qualification recognized by the Ministry of HRD, Government of India.
  • Final-year bachelor's degree candidates are eligible to take the examination, provided they meet the required grade point average. However, failure to meet this requirement in subsequent stages will result in the cancellation of admissions.
  • Individuals holding a professional degree, such as CA/CS/ICWS, are eligible to take the CAT exam.
  • CAT 2024 has no age restrictions, providing opportunities for individuals of all ages to participate.
CAT 2024: Application Process
The registration process for CAT Exam is very simple, to begin registration simply login to the official https://iimcat.ac.in/ website to begin the registration process. 
Registration Process
  • To register as a new candidate, a candidate must visit the official website and provide their basic information under "New Candidate Registration."
  • After submission, they will receive an OTP for registration verification
  • After the verification is complete, candidates will receive a login ID and password on their registered email and mobile number.
  • Candidates can now begin adding the necessary information to the application form.
  • Candidates not only have the option to choose the interview city, but they also get to select the programmes they want to participate in.
  • Candidates can choose up to six preferred test cities for the CAT 2024 examination.
Uploading Documents
During the application process, it is crucial for the candidate to upload the necessary documents as specified.
  • Passport size Photograph
  • PwD certificate (if needed)
  • Signature
  • EWS.NC-OBC/SC/ST certificate
  • Candidates will be required to present their mark sheets and degrees in person.
Application Fee Payment (Tentative)
  • In order to finalize the registration, candidates are required to make a payment of the application fees, which can only be submitted online.
  • Additionally, candidates will have the opportunity to review their application before making the payment and submitting the form.
  • After successful payment, candidates will receive a confirmation email within a few minutes.

CAT 2024 Admit Card
The CAT 2024 admit card is anticipated to be released in October 2024. Here are a few important considerations for the same:
  • Candidates can access and download their admit card by logging in to their account on the official website.
  • The admit card will contain information regarding the test location, date, and time.
  • On the day of the examination, candidates must bring their admit cards with them.
CAT 2024 Exam Pattern
Here is the tentative overview of the CAT exam pattern 2024
Mode of Examination
Computer-based
Medium
English
No. of Exam Slots
3
Total Questions
66
Questions Per Section
VARC: 24
DILR: 20
QA: 22
Time-Allotted
120 minutes (40 minutes per section)
Questions-Types
MCQs and TITA (Type in the Answer)
Correct Answer Marks
+3 for every right answer
Negative Marking
-1 for every wrong answer
No negative marking for TITA
CAT 2024 Marking Scheme
Section
MCQ
TITA Questions
Marks(MCQ)
Marks(TITA)
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension
20-21
4-5
+3, -1
+3, no negative
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning
20-21
2-3
+3, -1
+3, no negative
Quantitative Ability
20-21
4-5
+3, -1
+3, no negative
CAT 2024 Syllabus
The CAT exam consists of three sections, each with its own weightage. The official CAT syllabus page is designed according to the format established by IIM Ahmedabad. 
  • Prioritize the sections based on your individual strengths and weaknesses.
  • Reading comprehension, verbal reasoning, and grammar are components of VARC.
  • In the Quant section, topics such as Number System, Geometry, Mensuration, Algebra, and Arithmetic are covered.
  • The DILR section consists of sets based on Graphs, Number series, Data Sufficiency, and common reasoning concepts.
Detailed Section-wise Syllabus
The syllabus for CAT 2024 is illustrated in detail below:
VARC Syllabus
VARC is the first section of the exam to be completed. It comprises two subsections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension. Examine the key topics covered in this section:
DILR Section
The DILR section should be attempted following the VARC section. It is subdivided further into two sections: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning.
Below are some of the most important DILR topics:
QA Section
The last section of the CAT exam to be attempted is Quantitative Aptitude. The aptitude curriculum is the most extensive of all the sections. The majority of time is spent preparing for the QA section.
Check out these essential QA topics:
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Preparation Strategies and Tips
We have compiled preparation tips to assist you in scoring well in the CAT 2024 exam:
Formulate a Study Plan: You must devise a personalized preparation strategy. Set aside time each day to study for the CAT and maintain discipline. Track your daily progress and areas for development.
Diagnose Weaknesses: Devote time to topics with which you are unfamiliar because establishing the fundamentals is crucial. Before proceeding with CAT preparation, ensure you have a solid understanding of all concepts.
Practice Regularly: The majority of sections and topics rely on your ability to practise intensively and regularly. For calculations, you must increase your pace, and for sections such as reading comprehension, your daily practice questions are crucial.
Mode of Preparation: Whether you intend to study on your own or enrol in a CAT coaching programme is a crucial aspect of your CAT preparations. The mode of preparation you choose will also affect the strategy you employ to achieve your CAT exam objectives.
Take Mock Exams: Mock examinations are a necessary and effective method for identifying your weaknesses and strengths. They will better direct you towards areas where you need to strengthen or develop. Free CAT Mock Exams are an excellent means to gauge your aptitude.
CAT Score
CAT 2024 Sample Papers
Sample Papers are an integral part of preparation while preparing for any entrance examination. Anyone who has performed well in a competitive examination has hailed sample papers as the most effective study component.
To succeed on standardized tests such as the CAT, you need a well-thought-out plan involving concentrated study. The concepts are pertinent once you begin tackling CAT Sample Questions.
Advantages of the CAT Sample Paper
  • Consistent practice of sample papers and CAT practice exams improves conceptual clarity and prepares students for frequently posed questions. Sample papers provide a foundation for conceptual preparation. Obtaining these CAT exam sample papers is all that is required of students. These CAT sample questions will help you shape your preparation effectively.
  • Time Management: It is crucial for every exam. Solving sample exams increases your question-solving speed and improves your time management. Students can create a structured schedule to practise answering exam queries.
  • Exam-like Environment: Using a running timer to complete CAT mock exams and sample papers helps the candidate gain entrance by increasing their tempo and familiarising them with the exam environment. A familiar environment reduces the stress and anxiety associated with sitting in an exam unready. 
  • Provides New Questions: It is more difficult to create new questions; therefore, these new questions are not included in CAT preparation materials. These queries are instead utilised in CAT exam sample papers and practice exams. Practising these new questions strengthens a candidate's understanding of fundamental concepts.
  • The focus of Sample Exam Papers is on the entire exam, as opposed to the text questions of each chapter. These papers contain queries on all topics, thereby providing comprehensive preparation.
FAQ’s
Q : How many times can you appear in the CAT exam, and what is the upper age limit for it?
A: There is no age restriction and no limit on the number of CAT attempts permitted.
Q: What is the exam pattern for CAT 2024?
A: The CAT 2024 syllabus will include three sections:Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension,Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning and Quantitative Aptitude
Q: What is the CAT 2024 exam?
A: The CAT (Common Admission Test) 2024 is a national-level entrance test in India, conducted by the IIMs. It serves as a crucial step for admission into various post-graduate management programs offered by top business schools in India.
Q: When is the CAT 2024 expected to be scheduled?
A: The CAT 2024 is anticipated to be scheduled on the last Sunday of November 2024.
Q: When is the official announcement regarding CAT 2024 expected?
A: Aspiring candidates can expect the official announcement in the final week of July 2024.
Q: What is the eligibility criteria for CAT 2024?
A: Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree with a minimum grade of 50% (45% for reserved categories). Final-year students and those with professional degrees like CA/CS/ICWS are also eligible. There's no age limit for the CAT 2024.
Q: Where can candidates register for the CAT 2024?
A: Candidates can register online for CAT 2024 at iimcat.ac.in.
Q: When is the CAT 2024 admit card expected to be released?
A: The admit card for CAT 2024 is expected to be available in October 2024.
Q: What does the CAT exam syllabus include?
A: The CAT exam syllabus comprises three sections: VARC (Reading comprehension, verbal reasoning, and grammar), Quant (Number System, Geometry, Mensuration, Algebra, Arithmetic), and DILR (DI-based reasoning, Seating Arrangement, Grid-Based DI, Graphs, Tables, and Data Caselets).
Q: How should candidates prepare for CAT 2024?
A: Candidates should follow a structured study plan, read newspapers daily, practice regular questions, and take mock exams. Engaging with video resources, consulting with seniors or mentors, and regularly reviewing key formulas can also help.
Q: What are the tentative exam slot timings for CAT 2024?
A: The expected timings are:
Morning session: 8:30 am - 10:30 am
Afternoon session: 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Evening session: 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Q: When are the CAT 2024 results expected to be announced?
A: The CAT 2024 results are expected to be announced in December, followed by interview rounds by IIMs for the 2025-27 batch.
Q: Are there any age restrictions for CAT 2024?
A: No, CAT 2024 has no age restrictions.
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