Today, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta will release the admit cards for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2024, enabling candidates who registered for the exam to download their admit cards from the official website, iimcat.ac.in. Candidates can access the admit cards by logging in with their registered credentials. This document is essential for entry into the examination hall and contains important details such as the exam date, time, center, and guidelines.
CAT 2024 exam date and purpose
The CAT 2024 exam is scheduled for November 24, and it will be conducted across various cities in India. This entrance exam is pivotal for those aspiring to secure seats in prestigious management programs, as it serves as the gateway to admission in IIMs and numerous other top-tier business schools. The test scores are widely recognized by over 1,000 MBA institutions across India, including elite non-IIM institutions such as FMS Delhi, SJMSoM IIT Mumbai, MDI Gurgaon, DoMS IIT Delhi, and SPJIMR Mumbai.
How to download the CAT 2024 admit card
Candidates should follow these simple steps to download their CAT 2024 admit card:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to iimcat.ac.in.
- Navigate to the Admit Card Link: On the homepage, click on the ‘CAT 2024 Admit Card’ link.
- Enter Login Credentials: A new page will appear; enter your login credentials and submit.
- Download the Admit Card: View and download the admit card.
- Print a Copy: It is recommended to print a hard copy of the admit card for future use and to present it at the exam center.
CAT 2024 exam insights
The CAT exam comprises three main sections:
- Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
With a total of 198 marks, the CAT 2024 question paper includes two types of questions: Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) and Type-in-the-Answer (TITA) questions. The exam spans 120 minutes, with each section allotted 40 minutes. Candidates must complete each section within its allotted time and are not allowed to switch between sections during the exam.
The structure of the exam is designed to assess a candidate’s analytical, problem-solving, and verbal skills. To perform well, aspirants are encouraged to focus equally on each section, as each holds substantial weight in the final score.
Eligibility criteria for CAT 2024
For eligibility to appear in CAT 2024, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks or equivalent CGPA. For SC, ST, and PwD candidates, the minimum requirement is 45%.
- Final Year Students: Candidates in the final year of their undergraduate program or awaiting results are also eligible to apply, provided they fulfill the required criteria upon admission.
Candidates who meet these qualifications are encouraged to register, as the CAT is not only a prerequisite for IIMs but is also accepted by top B-schools across India.
Exam pattern for CAT 2024
The CAT 2024 exam pattern is designed to test a candidate’s aptitude across three core areas:
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC): This section tests English language skills, including comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary.
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR): This section assesses a candidate’s ability to analyze and interpret data, as well as their logical thinking skills.
- Quantitative Ability (QA): Focuses on mathematical skills, including algebra, arithmetic, and geometry.
Candidates have a total of 120 minutes to complete the exam, with 40 minutes per section. Once the allotted time for a section is up, candidates will be moved automatically to the next section. The test’s structure and time constraints make it essential for candidates to manage their time effectively within each section.
Important tips for CAT 2024 aspirants
- Thorough Revision: As the exam date approaches, candidates should focus on revising key topics, formulas, and problem-solving techniques.
- Practice Mock Tests: Taking full-length mock tests can help in familiarizing with the exam format, as well as in improving speed and accuracy.
- Time Management: During preparation and in the exam, focus on managing time efficiently across sections.
- Sectional Balance: Ensure balanced preparation across all sections to avoid low scores in any one area, as each section contributes to the overall score.
- Stay Updated: Regularly check the official CAT website for any last-minute updates or instructions related to the exam.
The release of the CAT 2024 admit card marks the final phase of preparation for candidates aspiring to join India’s top management institutes. With less than a month left until the exam, it is crucial for aspirants to utilize their time effectively and make use of the resources available to them. By following the guidelines provided, candidates can ensure a smooth and organized exam day experience.