Overview
An MBA from a top Indian B-school, especially from an IIM, can transform your career. The Common Admission Test (CAT) is the gateway to 20 IIMs and over 1,200 other B-schools. Here is a comprehensive guide to navigating the MBA admission process in India.
CAT is conducted annually by one of the IIMs on a rotational basis. Registration typically opens in August, with the exam held in late November.
Marking scheme: +3 for correct MCQ, -1 for incorrect MCQ, no negative marking for non-MCQ (TITA) questions.
Step 1: Register for CAT 2026
Step 1: Register for CAT 2026
CAT is conducted annually by one of the IIMs on a rotational basis. Registration typically opens in August, with the exam held in late November.
Step 2: CAT Exam Pattern and Preparation
Step 2: CAT Exam Pattern and Preparation
Marking scheme: +3 for correct MCQ, -1 for incorrect MCQ, no negative marking for non-MCQ (TITA) questions.
| Section | Questions | Time |
|---|
| Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 24 | 40 minutes |
| Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 20 | 40 minutes |
| Quantitative Ability (QA) | 22 | 40 minutes |
| Total | 66 | 120 minutes |
Step 3: IIM Shortlisting Criteria
Step 3: IIM Shortlisting Criteria
Each IIM has its own shortlisting formula. The weightage typically includes:
IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, and IIM Calcutta (the ABC of IIMs) shortlist approximately 1,500-2,000 candidates each for around 400-500 seats.
| Parameter | Typical Weightage |
|---|
| CAT Score | 40-60% |
| Class 10 Marks | 10-15% |
| Class 12 Marks | 10-15% |
| Graduation Marks | 5-10% |
| Work Experience | 5-10% |
| Diversity (Gender, Academic) | 5-10% |
Step 4: WAT-PI (Written Ability Test and Personal Interview)
Step 4: WAT-PI (Written Ability Test and Personal Interview)
Shortlisted candidates go through the final selection rounds, typically in February-March.
- Written Ability Test (WAT): A short essay (250-300 words) on a given topic in 20-30 minutes
- Personal Interview (PI): A 15-20 minute interview covering academics, work experience, current affairs, and personal questions
Step 5: Final Selection and Admission Offer
Step 5: Final Selection and Admission Offer
The final composite score is calculated using CAT percentile, WAT-PI performance, academics, work experience, and diversity factors. Offers are typically released in March-April, with the programme starting in June.
Other MBA Entrance Exams
Other MBA Entrance Exams
Besides CAT, consider these exams for more options:
- XAT: For XLRI and 150+ B-schools
- GMAT: For ISB, international B-schools, and some IIMs
- NMAT: For NMIMS and partner institutes
- SNAP: For Symbiosis institutes (SIBM, SCMHRD)
- MAT/CMAT: For a wide range of AICTE-approved institutes
Sources and Verification
Information last reviewed on 24 Jun 2026.
Fees, cutoffs, admission steps, placements, and programme details can change. Always cross-check the latest institutional or authority notice before acting.