CAT Introduction

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a computer based test for admission in graduate management programs. The test consists of three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning and Quantitative Ability.The exam is taken online over a period of three hours, with one hour per section. In 2020, due to the COVID precautions, The Indian Institutes of Management Indore decided to conduct the CAT Exam in 2 hours with 40 minutes devoted to each section. The Indian Institutes of Management started this exam and use the test for selecting students for their business administration programs (MBA or PGDM). The test is conducted every year by one of the Indian Institutes of Managements based on a policy of rotation.

In August 2011, it was announced that Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institute of Science (IISc) would also use the CAT scores, instead of the Joint Management Entrance Test (JMET), to select students for their management programmes starting with the 2012-15 batch.

Before 2009, CAT was a paper based test conducted on a single day for all candidates. The pattern, number of questions and duration have seen considerable variations over the years.

On 1 May 2009, it was announced that CAT would be a Computer Based Test starting from 2009. The American firm Prometric was entrusted with the responsibility of conducting the test from 2009 to 2013. The first computer based CAT was marred with technical snags.The issue was so serious that it prompted the Government of India to seek a report from the convenor. The trouble was diagnosed as 'Conficker' and 'W32 Nimda', the two viruses that attacked the system display of the test, causing server slow down.[8] Since 2014 onward, CAT has been conducted by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). CAT 2015 and CAT 2016 were 180-minute tests consisting of 100 questions (34 from Quantitative Ability, 34 from Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, and 32 from Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning. CAT 2020 onwards, the exam duration has been reduced to two hours, with 40 minutes allotted per section.

Life at IIM Calcutta

Located in Joka, the IIM Calcutta offers an environment in which our students and faculty can focus on intellectual and personal growth as a close-knit community. The IIMC campus includes world-class teaching infrastructure and academic buildings designed and continually updated to facilitate learning. Thanks to our supportive alumni, the school has never had to compromise in creating these exceptional facilities.

IIM Calcutta offers on-campus accommodation for students enrolled in residential programmes. Our five modern residence halls provide study areas and social spaces open to the entire community. Our latest addition to the list is a world-class hostel, ‘Lake View Hostel.’

IIM Calcutta’s academic and administrative buildings house classrooms of different sizes and seating capacities, group study areas, conference rooms, lounges, a business/engineering library, and offices for faculty and staff.

IIMC’s cutting-edge information technology environment offers the latest classroom instructional technology, computing, video conferencing, and integrated collaboration services. This is made possible by a high-speed converged voice, data and video network with secure wireless access available throughout the campus. Students and faculty can also connect to our network securely from around the world.

In every way, our physical and virtual campus fosters a community of collaboration, respect, stewardship, and responsibility. It is also the place where lifelong relationships are created, perhaps the most lasting legacy of the IIMC experience.

Preparation TIPS of CAT

Preparing for the CAT (Common Admission Test) exam requires a strategic and disciplined approach. Here are some effective tips to help you prepare for the CAT exam:

Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the CAT exam syllabus and exam pattern. Understand the different sections and topics included in the syllabus.

Create a Study Plan: Develop a comprehensive study plan that covers all sections of the exam. Allocate sufficient time for each topic based on your strengths and weaknesses. Ensure that your study plan is balanced and allows for regular revisions.

Strengthen Fundamentals: Focus on strengthening your fundamentals in quantitative aptitude, data interpretation, logical reasoning, and verbal ability. Practice regularly to improve your problem-solving skills and speed.

Solve Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests to simulate the actual exam environment. Analyze your performance in these tests to identify areas of improvement and focus on enhancing your time management skills.

Time Management: Develop effective time management skills to ensure that you can answer all the questions within the specified time frame. Practice solving questions within time constraints to increase your speed and accuracy.

Read Widely: Enhance your reading comprehension and verbal ability by reading a variety of newspapers, articles, and business magazines. This will not only improve your vocabulary but also keep you updated on current affairs.

Analyze and Learn from Mistakes: Analyze your performance in practice tests and identify the types of mistakes you make. Work on understanding the concepts behind the questions you answer incorrectly and learn from your mistakes.

Stay Calm and Confident: Maintain a positive attitude throughout your preparation. Manage stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or regular exercise. Stay confident in your abilities and believe in your preparation.

Revision: Regularly revise the concepts and formulas to ensure that you retain the information. Make concise notes of important formulas, shortcuts, and key points for quick revision before the exam.

Stay Healthy: Take care of your health by maintaining a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, and exercising regularly. A healthy lifestyle will improve your concentration and overall well-being during the preparation period.

Remember, consistent and focused preparation, along with a positive mindset, is crucial for performing well in the CAT exam. Best of luck with your preparation!