MBA Entrance | CAT | 30th September 2022
CAT Exam: Purpose, Particulars, and Application Process Guide
Are you looking to apply for the upcoming CAT examination but confused about the steps? Worry not; by the end of this blog, you will thoroughly understand the step-by-step guide on applying for CAT.
But first, let me tell you a story. There’s a girl named Nisha. Nisha has got a sharp business mind and is looking to apply for the CAT examination. However, she is slightly confused about how to go about the process. But worry not, this story also has Archana who studies in an esteemed institute of management and will be helping Nisha understand every step.
Archana starts by pointing out that many but not all academic departments have a common entrance exam, and that CAT is one of those. “The abbreviation stands for Common Admission Test and is conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management”, alluded Archana.
As Nisha sits attentively, Archana starts explaining that the CAT examination is an entrance exam for getting admission to MBA colleges or IIM institutes all over India.
Take note Nisha, the examination for MBA entrance is conducted annually for students in India while IIM is the sole body that takes care of all official notifications, application forms, conducting and declaring the results, pointed out Archana. You must know who and why you’re writing the exam Archana says while she sips her coffee.
The senior student scrolls online for the dates of the exam and asks Nisha to take down all the particulars like -
MBA 2022 exam date is tentatively scheduled for November 27
The registration process will begin by the first week of August.
And Archana exclaims, “remember Nisha application mode is online”. Therefore, I expect you to sign up for official notifications to keep track of the dates and important announcements.
In a feeble voice, Nisha asks, who can apply for the exam? While Archana smiles at her junior, she points out that a graduate from any stream can apply for the CAT examination.
Any more doubts? ask Archana. Umm, yes actually utters Nisha where will the examination be held? The MBA entrance is conducted in 150 cities all over India. And you can choose any 6 convenient ones accordingly.
Now that we both know what the exam is, I’ll give a simple student guide for MBA aspirants like you wanting to get into the top institutes in India.
Try to catch up with Nisha, Archana smiles playfully as she delves into the steps.
Step 1: Online Application
Take note, Nisha, step one is all about the online registration for the MBA entrance exam. Highlight this website iimcat.ac.in to stay-up-to-date.
Step 2: Eligibility Criteria
That wasn’t so hard, was it? Let’s move on to Step 2. With an assertive voice, Archana pats Nisha on the back and asks, “do you have a bachelor’s degree with an aggregate percentage of fifty percent?” Yes, Nisha answers to which Archana says, “then you’re eligible to apply for the CAT examination.
Step 3: Keep Your Documents Ready
Well, now this step requires your undivided attention, Nisha. It’s simple but tricky as well, says Archana.
Here is a list of what you’ll need -
Recent Passport Size Photographs
Scanned copy of Signature (Black or blue)
College Certificates (Marks Card)
SC / ST / NC -OBC Certificate
Contact Details
Work Experience (in any)
Archana explains how she made the mistake of not keeping soft copies ready and requests Nisha to keep both hard and soft copies ready.
Did you make any mistakes while applying? Nisha asks Archana. Definitely yes, Archana sits back thinking of the careless blunders. But don’t worry, all you need to do is keep an open mind and fill out the application form with ease.
In addition, I’ll even throw in a few tips to avoid making any errors throughout the application process -
Since the process is done online, make sure your browser is updated for fast and smooth results. Google Chrome or Firefox are recommended to complete the registration.
Keep your scanned documents ready to be uploaded. Remember this Nisha! Archana exclaims to Nisha while she remembers her past mistake. Also, store the files in a separate folder with an appropriate label to avoid confusion. Yes, you need to do this Nisha, says Archana.
One detail candidates often miss is the size and format of the photographs. Therefore, check for the size, print, and scan as per the requirements.
Since the exam happens all over India, there are many centers to choose from. Ensure the cities you select are easily accessible to you at the time of the MBA entrance examination.
Don’t miss out on essential updates by relying on tentative dates. Keep a daily check on any recent event on the official website of the CAT examination.
Last but not least, always double-check your application form. Consider it a non-refundable flight ticket Nisha. You wouldn’t want to miss your flight, Archana connotes the importance of the exam.
Finally concluding this session with you Nisha, I would only suggest you keep the steps in mind. Right after the application process, have some fun with preparing for the exam, but of course, stay on track always. Check the pattern, note the syllabus and solve previous years' question papers whenever you have free time, Archana points out while she looks at Nisha with hope.
