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CAT 2023 - Exam Date, Admit Card, Registration, Pattern, Syllabus, Preparation, Result

Updated By Subhashri Roy on 16 Feb, 2023 11:10

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CAT 2023

CAT 2023 examwill most likely be conducted by IIM Calcutta or IIM Lucknow on November 26, 2023, in three slots across India. The official CAT exam dates 2023 will be announced in July 2023 and the CAT 2023 application process will begin in August 2023. 

Candidates planning to pursue MBA from a top-notch B-School in India, must appear for the CAT 2023 as about 1,200 MBA colleges accept the scores for admission to their PG management programmes. The top MBA colleges accepting CAT scores for admission include the IIMs, MDI, SPJIMR, IMT, FMS, IM, IITs, GIM, GLIM, LIBA, NITIE, MICA, IRMA, KIIT SOM, BIMTech, AMU, JMI, BHU among others.

The CAT 2023 Mock Test will be released in November 2023 on the official website. The CAT 2023 Admit Card will be released in October 2023. CAT Exam Pattern 2023 will comprise 66 questions from logical and analytical reasoning, quantitative aptitude, and general awareness.

Once the CAT 2023 result is out, the CAT 2023 Selection Process of all IIMs will commence. Candidates who have qualified for the exam will have to participate in counselling to secure admission to the CAT 2023 Participating Institutes. CAT exam scores are required to shortlist candidates for GD/PI/WAT rounds.

CAT is the most popular entrance exam for MBA Admissions in India conducted by IIMs once every year in November. More than 1,000 MBA Colleges in India other than IIMs accept CAT exam scores for admission to MBA/PGDM courses. A candidate who has completed graduation in any stream with a minimum of 50% scores (45% for the reserved category) is eligible to appear for the CAT exam 2023. The purpose of CAT is to screen candidates for admission into the flagship PGP in Management courses offered by the 20 IIMs in India. Check out the complete details for the CAT exam 2023 here.

Read More

Know best colleges you can get with your CAT score

CAT 2023 Exam Highlights

The following table displays some of the major highlights of the CAT exam 2023:

CAT Full FormCommon Admission Test (CAT)
Conducting BodyIIM Calcultta/IIM Lucknow
CAT 2023 Official Websiteiimcat.ac.in
CAT 2023 Exam DateNovember 26, 2023 (Expected)
CAT 2023 Exam Timings
  • Session 1: 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM
  • Session 2: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM
  • Session 3: 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM
PurposeFor admission into MBA/PGDM courses in 20 IIMs and other 1,000+ MBA colleges in India
LevelNational-Level Postgraduate Exam
Frequency of CAT 2023 ExamAnnual
LanguageEnglish
CAT Exam ModeComputer-Based Test(CBT)
CAT 2023 FeesRs. 2,300 (General Category) and Rs. 1,150 (Reserved Category)
Minimum EligibilityGraduation in any stream with 50% marks (45% for reserved category)
Exam Sections
  • Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
  • Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
  • Quantitative Ability (QA)
CAT 2023 Number of Questions66
Type of QuestionsMCQs and Non-MCQs
Exam Helpdesk No.1-800-210-1088 (Toll Free)

CAT 2023 Important Dates

The CAT 2023 exam dates are provided below. Test takers must be updated with all the related events of the CAT exam: 

Events 

CAT 2023 Exam Dates

CAT 2023 Official Notification Release

July 26, 2023 (Tentative)

Commencement of CAT Registration 2023

First Week of August 2023 (Tentative)

Last Date for CAT 2023 Registration

Third Week of September 2023

CAT Application Correction Window 2023

Third Week of September 2023

CAT 2023 Admit Card Release

Last Week of October 2023
CAT Exam 2023 Mock Test ReleaseFirst Week of November 2023

CAT 2023 Exam

Last Week of November 2023

CAT Answer Key 2023 Release

First Week of December 2023

Last Date to Challenge CAT 2023 Answer Key

First Week of December 2023

CAT Exam 2023 Result Announcement

Third Week of December 2023

Similar Exams :

CAT 2023 Official Notification

The CAT exam 2023 official notification will be released on July 26, 2023 (tentative). The notification consists of all important information related to CAT 2023 exam dates, application forms, registration fees, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, number of test centres, reservation criteria, and syllabus. Candidates can download the PDF files of the notification from the links given below:

Download CAT 2023 Information Bulletin - To be Updated
Download CAT 2023 Advertisement - To be Updated

What Changes Can Be Expected in CAT Exam 2023?

It hasn't been revealed as to what changes in the CAT exam question paper pattern will be introduced this year. But the changes introduced in the CAT 2021 have been given here for reference. The conducting body of CAT 2021, IIM Ahmedabad, introduced several changes in the examination pattern. These were:

  • The total number of questions is again likely to decrease from 66. Earlier, it was reduced from 76 to 66.

  • The penalty for Non-MCQs type TITA questions without negative marking is likely to increase.

  • The conducting body of CAT 2023 might bring some more changes in the exam structure to improve gender diversity and academics in the IIMs.

CAT 2023 Conducting Body

The CAT exam 2023 will be conducted by IIM Calcutta/IIM Lucknow. IIMs are responsible for conducting the CAT exam every year on a rotational basis. The conducting body for the exam is also responsible for all the activities such as the release of the CAT official notification, CAT online registration, conducting the exam, declaration of the result, and screening qualified students for admissions.

Through the CAT exam, one can get admission into 20 IIMs and more than 1000 management schools across India. IIM Lucknow, IIM Calcutta, IIM Ahmedabad, and IIM Bangalore are regarded as some of the top premier B-Schools in India, providing world-class management education, practical training, and lucrative placement opportunities to students. Aspirants can take a look at the past years conducting bodies of CAT.

CAT Year

CAT Conducting Body

2023IIM Calcutta/IIM Lucknow
2022IIM Bangalore

2021

IIM Ahmedabad

2020

IIM Indore

2019

IIM Kozhikode

2018

IIM Calcutta

2017

IIM Lucknow

2016

IIM Bangalore

2015

IIM Ahmedabad

2014

IIM Indore

2013

IIM Indore

2012

IIM Kozhikode

2011

IIM Calcutta

2010

IIM Lucknow

2009

IIM Ahmedabad

CAT Exam 2023 Eligibility Criteria

To fill out the CAT exam application form, applicants must meet several eligibility requirements established by the exam's administrators. Look at the CAT 2023 eligibility criteria prescribed below to attempt the exam on the CAT 2023 exam date successfully:

  • Graduation

An undergraduate degree in any discipline from a recognized board or similar in any relevant subject is required to apply for the CAT exam.

  • Minimum Marks

Applicants must have a college grade point average of approximately 50%. The minimum cumulative grade for SC/ST candidates is 45%. 

  • Age Limit

There is no maximum age for appearing in the CAT exam.

  • Final Year Applicants

Students who are in the final year of their graduation can apply for the exam but will only get admission if they reach the basic mark eligibility requirements after graduating from college. Those who have finished their final assessment and are waiting for results are eligible to apply.

CAT 2023 Registration

Each year, approximately 2 lakh applicants enrol for CAT to get admission into the MBA/PGDM programs offered by 20 IIMs, IITs, and other top universities in India. CAT 2023 registration window will open in the first week of August 2023 and close on third week of September 2023. The application form will be accessible at the official web portal (iimcat.ac.in).

Steps for CAT Registration Process 2023

MBA aspirants have to follow the given steps to register for CAT exam 2023:

  1. Visit the official website.
  2. Click on the 'New Candidate Registration' tab.
  3. Select the 'Register' tab.
  4. Enter your basic information, such as your email address, name, contact details, nation, and birth date.
  5. Select 'Submit' to receive an OTP.
  6. Fill in the OTP and Captcha code and press the 'I Agree and Submit' button.
  7. Your CAT User ID and login will be created and emailed to you at the address you provided. Note it for future communications.
  • CAT Registration 2023 Fees

Students can make the payment for the CAT exam using methods such as net banking, debit, or credit cards.

CategoryCAT Registration Fee 
General/NC-OBCINR 2300
PwD/DAINR 1150
SC/STINR 1150
  • CAT Registration Statistics

Aspirants can check out the list of CAT registrations over the past years in the table provided below:

CAT YearTotal CAT Registrations
20222,56,000
20212,29,969
20202,27,835
20192,44,169
20182,41,000
20172,31,000
20162,32,292
20152,18,664
20142,18,664

CAT 2023 Admit Card

IIM Calcutta/IIM Lucknow will release the CAT admit card 2023 in the last week of October 2023 on the official website. The CAT 2023 admit card will include the exam centre location, exam timing, reporting time, a link to a Google Map to help you find the test centre, and examination day guidelines. On the CAT 2023 exam date, applicants must bring a printout of their admit card and an identity card to the examination centre.

Steps to Download CAT Admit Card 2023

  1. Visit the CAT's official site (iimcat.ac.in.)
  2. To username and password, enter your CAT.
  3. Press the 'Download CAT 2023 Admit Card' button.
  4. The screen will show your admit card. Take a print of the document after downloading it.
  5. Keep a photocopy of your hall ticket for future use.

CAT 2023 Exam Pattern

CAT 2023 question paper will comprise 66 questions of 198 marks in total. There is a sectional limit of 40 minutes for each of the three sections, including VARC, DILR, and QA. The CAT exam pattern 2023 can be found below. 

CAT 2023 Section

Total Questions

Total MCQs (With Negative Marking)

Total Non-MCQs (Without Negative Marking)

Time Limit

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

24

19

5

40 Minutes

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning

20

15

5

40 Minutes

Quantitative Ability

22

14

8

40 Minutes

Total

66

48

18

120 Minutes

CAT Exam Pattern Over Past Years

Here's the table depicting the CAT exam pattern followed by IIMs over the years.

CAT Exam YearConducting IIMNo. of SlotsTest DurationTotal QuestionsTotal Sections
2022IIM Bangalore32 Hours663
2021IIM Ahmedabad32 Hours663
2020IIM Indore32 Hours763
2019IIM Kozhikode23 Hours1003
2018IIM Calcutta23 Hours1003
2017IIM Lucknow23 Hours1003
2016IIM Bangalore23 Hours1003
2015IIM Ahmedabad23 Hours1003
2014IIM Indore42 Hours 50 Minutes1002

CAT Syllabus 2023

The CAT syllabus is quite extensive. The conducting IIMs don't have a fixed CAT syllabus, so MBA aspirants can get an idea of the CAT exam syllabus by going through CAT previous years' question papers, sample papers, and mock tests. CAT 2023 syllabus will include topics from sections such as Quantitative Aptitude (QA), Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR).  The questions asked in the exam are mostly based on Middle School Maths and English topics. The table below highlights the important topics from the CAT syllabus:

CAT Section

Important Topics

Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation

Blood Relation, Syllogism, Seating Arrangement, Tables, Graphs, Data Caselets

Quantitative Aptitude

Geometry, Algebra, Mensuration, Number System, Time and Work

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

Sentence Completion, Inferences, Para-Jumbles & Para-Summary, RC Passage-Based Questions

How to Prepare for CAT Exam 2023

With over 2 lakh applicants contending for approximately 5,000 seats, it is critical to prep thoroughly for the CAT exam. A CAT exam aspirant can get lost in the thousands upon thousands of tips, strategies, techniques, and ways recommended by teachers, professors, coaching institutes, and even youtube channels when looking for information like how to prepare for the CAT exam 2023 or how to crack the CAT exam easily.

To prepare for the CAT exam 2023, one should focus on solving and analyzing sample question papers, go through comprehensive subject-wise exam evaluation, and concentrate on wrapping at least 70% of the curriculum in 2-3 months. The crucial components of CAT exam preparation entail reading Arun Sharma and Nishit K Sinha's CAT books; taking online classes and exam preparation provided by coaching establishments, such as Unacademy, Career Launcher, IMS India, T.I.M.E, and others; and attempting to solve overall questions and section-wise study material and practice CAT exams.

That being said, students should remember to follow a few fundamental guidelines when immersed in their CAT preparations, especially with the exam day almost knocking on their door. Here are some fruitful tips that can help aspirants enhance their CAT exam 2023 preparation.

  • Choose your Method of Preparation Wisely

Both self-preparation and assisted preparation are good choices, but the progress from either one depends on the student. One should weigh their options and do proper research before choosing either self-preparation or a coaching center.

  • Know your Strengths and Weaknesses

When preparing for the CAT exam, students must pay attention to their strengths and pinpoint their areas of weakness. Such a strategy will help them perform flawlessly in sections where they are well-prepared and avoid errors in areas where they lack confidence. Such an approach is ideal for an exam like CAT, where negative marking is applicable.

  • Improve your Time Management Skills

Time management during the CAT exam is extremely necessary. Students must remember that the objective of CAT is not restricted to assessing a student’s knowledge, but also how a student performs under given time constraints.

  • Learn the Correct Approach to Answering

CAT aspirants should know that answering every question in CAT is not the correct approach to cracking the exam. With restrictions like a strict time limit and an exam pattern consisting of negative markings, candidates should be cautious while answering questions and when selecting questions they wish to answer. It is critical to realize that the number of questions attempted during CAT is not as important as how carefully you choose your questions and how accurate your responses are.

  • Diversify Your Preparation

In order to tackle the vast and tricky syllabus covered by the CAT exam, a student needs to resort to every form of preparation possible. Book learning is not enough when a student needs to prepare themselves in terms of topics covered, time management, complex questions, and proper judgment when attempting questions. Therefore, a student must take include mock tests and previous year’s question papers in their routine to enhance their CAT preparation for the CAT 2023 exam date.

CAT Exam 2023 Best Books

CAT books 2023 are crucial elements of exam preparation. MBA aspirants must refer to them for the CAT syllabus and study them thoroughly to have a conceptual clarity of important CAT topics. They are a great source of knowledge about all the necessary concepts. Candidates preparing for the CAT exam must have a list of the best books for CAT 2023 given below:

  • Quantitative Aptitude for MBA Entrance Examinations- Abhijit Guha
  • How to prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT- Arun Sharma/TATA McGRAW HILL
  • Higher Algebra- Hall and Knight
  • Course in Mental Ability and Quantitative Aptitude- Edgar Thorpe
  • Word Power Made Easy- Norman Lewis
  • How to Prepare for the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT- Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhya

CAT Sample Papers

For fool-proof CAT exam preparation, MBA aspirants must solve CAT sample papers to get insight into the CAT syllabus, exam pattern, and marking scheme and understand the types of questions they may encounter during the exam. From full-length to short-time or sectional quizzes, there are many CAT sample papers available online. Solving the sample papers can help candidates analyze their preparation level and work on the weaker areas. They are also important for enhancing your final exam performance and boosting your confidence. Download the CAT sample papers from the links given below before the CAT 2023 exam date to score high:

CAT Sample Paper 1

Download PDF

CAT Sample Paper 2

Download PDF

CAT Sample Paper 3

Download PDF

CAT Sample Paper 4

Download PDF

CAT Sample Paper 5

Download PDF

CAT 2023 Mock Test

CAT 2023 mock test is a dummy exam created just like an exact duplicate of the actual examination. It is conducted online on the official website (iimcat.ac.in) to make candidates familiar with the exam environment and help the understand how to attempt the CAT exam. The CAT 2023 official mock test will be available for candidates on the CAT 2023 website. To attempt the CAT mock tests, you need to sign in on the login screen, go through the instructions and start the test. Here are the direct links to access CAT 2023 Mock Test:

CAT 2023 Mock Test - Direct Link (To be Updated)

CAT 2023 Mock Test for PwD Candidates (Blindness and Low Vision) - Direct Link (To be Updated)

CAT 2023 Mock Test for Other PwD Candidates - Direct Link (To be Updated)

Students can refer to the CAT 2023 Mock Test Navigation Guide PDF to become familiar with the instructions, features, and procedures of the Computer-Based Test:

CAT 2023 Mock Test Navigation Guide PDF - Direct Link (To be Updated)

Why Solve CAT 2023 Mock Test

  • Solving CAT 2023 mock test is a great way to comprehend the online CAT test process.
  • Applicants can reacquaint themselves with each stage in order to proceed accurately during the actual exam because it is a dummy of the actual CAT exam.
  • Mock tests for the CAT provide a reasonable grasp of the question paper pattern and merit list.
  • The CAT online mock test can help you improve your time and efficiency when answering statistical questions or questions that require you to interpret excerpts.
  • Practicing mock tests aids in the discovery of techniques and workarounds for answering CAT question papers in the shortest amount of time.
  • The more practice tests one takes, the better one will become at answering all types of questions – difficult, simple, extensive, or complicated.
  • They help you improve your speed and accuracy when solving questions.

Also ReadCAT 2023 Mock Test: Importance of CAT Mock Test During Preparation

Best Coaching Institutes for CAT Exam 2023 Preparation

MBA aspirants seeking admission into IIMs and other B-Schools in India can consider joining a coaching institute for fool-proof CAT exam preparation. The CAT coaching institutes provide aspirants with the best study material and preparation guides. The experienced staff conducts doubt-clearing sessions regularly. These coaching centers provide a platform for several CAT applicants to exchange their views and ideas on various CAT-related matters. A few coaching centers also give demo sessions to candidates who want to enroll in CAT preparation. Some of the top coaching institutes in India that prepare students for CAT and other MBA entrance exams are listed below:

IMSCareer LauncherBulls Eye
Byju’s ClassesEndeavour CareersErudite
PT EducationTIMEMBAguru
Prudence Academy --

CAT 2023 Exam Day Guidelines: Dos and Don’ts

The CAT 2023 exam date is approaching, and all the MBA aspirants are getting done with their final preparation. However, no amount of preparation will help you crack the exam if you are not aware of the guidelines for the CAT exam 2023. Candidates can refer to the official CAT 2023 Test Day Guide PDF given below for a comprehensive list of instructions and guidelines regarding the CAT exam 2023.

CAT 2023 Test Day Guide - PDF Link(To be Updated)

Here are some requirements you must know in advance to keep your confidence high and avoid any last-minute hassle.

Dos For Candidates:

  • Carry a hard copy of the CAT 2023 admit card. No student will be allowed to take the exam without it. No digital copies are accepted.
  • Read the instruction given on the hall ticket. Important details regarding your exam center, reporting time, exam time, and others are given in the admit card.
  • Make the necessary preparations for travel, meals, lodging (if needed), and other costs (including those on account of medical emergencies).
  • Reach the exam center on time for a smooth entry to the exam hall and start the test without any stress. Those who arrive late will not be permitted to sit in the exam.
  • Candidates must sign the Attendance Sheet that is available at the registration desk.
  • Cooperate with Test Centre staff during document verification and frisking.
  • Listen to the instruction given by your exam invigilator carefully. If you face any issues related to logging in or finding an allotted seat during the exam, immediately bring it to his notice.
  • The total duration of the CAT exam is 120 minutes and no extra time will be allotted to any candidate. Thus, try to manage your time wisely so that you get enough time for all the sections.
  • Use the on-screen keyboard to respond to a non-MCQ at the console and the mouse to choose the appropriate option for MCQs. The keyboard should not be utilized, as doing so may result in the test being locked.
  • Candidates will be provided sheets to do the rough work and calculations and return them to the Invigilator once the exam is over. Don't write anything on the admit card or ID card.
  • Be confident and try not to feel anxious during the exam. Read every question carefully and give answers with confidence.
  • Ask the test center invigilator who is present in the test lab for any assistance you need during the test.

Don'ts For Candidates

  • After 8:15 AM for the morning session, after 12:15 PM for the afternoon session, and after 4:15 PM for the evening session, do not request admittance into the test center after those times.
  • Don't try to cheat in the CAT exam. If you are caught doing so, the invigilator may take some serious action against you.
  • Multiple attempts to take the CAT exam are not permitted. If a candidate is discovered to have taken the test more than once, their application will be rejected.
  • In the Test Lab, unless there is a medical emergency, do not ask for a bio-break.
  • Do not take friends or family members with you past the Test Center gate.
  • On the day of the test, don't ask for a different testing location, lab, or console.
  • Avoid wasting ScribblePad pages because each Candidate will only be given one pad for the Test. After the test, do not take any pages from the Scribble Pad outside the Test Lab.

Things Allowed to Carry Insider the CAT Exam Hall (Dos)

  • Valid photo ID proof issued by the Government of India (original and photocopy), such as an Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, PAN Card, E-Aadhaar, Ration Card, College/University ID, or Driver's License.
  • Two passport-size photographs.
  • An authorization form is provided by IIM to carry any prohibited or exceptional items.
  • Medical Certificate and Scribe Affidavit for candidates belonging to the PwD category.
  • Name change degree documents for candidates whose name has been changed due to marriage, divorce, or any other legal reason.
  • Hand sanitisers, face masks, transparent water bottles, and a self-declaration certificate due to Covid-19.

Things Prohibited Inside CAT Exam Hall (Don'ts)

  • Any electronic gadgets like mobile phones, beepers, wristwatches, calculators, cameras, wireless/Bluetooth devices, etc.
  • Headpins, clips, and jewellery that contains metal.
  • Pencil boxes, purses, bags, or any kind of luggage.
  • No closed footwear is allowed beyond the frisking point.
  • Students with a pacemaker or any kind of metal implant in their body are required to bring a medical certificate of the same.
  • Jackets and clothes with pockets are not allowed.

CAT 2023 Exam Day Work Flow

On the CAT 2023 exam date, candidates are expected to arrive at the exam center at the reporting time mentioned on their admit cards for a smooth experience. Arriving late or not carrying important documents can lead you into trouble. Thus, ensure you reach on time and carry everything important to the exam center. Here’s the CAT exam day flow that every candidate needs to follow:

  • Arrive at the exam center
  • Locate the lab from the notice board
  • Get the CAT admit card 2023 checked
  • Submit bags, mobile phones, etc.
  • Undergo frisking
  • Get all the approved documents verified
  • Reach the lab/block
  • Complete biometric capture
  • Locate console
  • Login to the test screen
  • Verify and confirm profile details
  • Read instructions and agree to the declaration
  • Start the CAT exam
  • Finish the test and submit feedback
  • Return the notepad and pen to the exam invigilator
  • Exit the test tab
  • Exit the exam center

CAT 2023 Exam Centers

IIM Calcutta/IIM Lucknow will release the details of CAT 2023 exam centers in the official notification. The CAT exam 2023 will be conducted in around 150 cities across different states in India. While filling out the application form, candidates can select any 6 exam centers for the CAT exam 2023 as per their preference.

State

Test Cities

Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Port Blair

Andhra Pradesh

Guntur; Kakinada; Kurnool; Nellore; Rajahmundry; Tirupathi; Vijayawada; Visakhapatnam

Arunachal Pradesh

Itanagar

Assam

Dibrugarh; Guwahati; Silchar

Bihar

Aurangabad; Muzaffarpur; Patna; Purnea

Chandigarh

Chandigarh

Chhattisgarh

Bhilai; Raipur

Delhi-NCR

Delhi, New Delhi, Faridabad, Gurugram, Noida, Panipat, Ghaziabad, Greater Noida,

Goa

Madgaon; Panaji

Gujarat

Ahmedabad; Anand; Gandhinagar; Rajkot; Surat; Vadodara

Haryana

Ambala; Bahadurgarh; Hisar; Palwal; Rohtak; Sonipat

Himachal Pradesh

Simla; Waknaghat

Jammu & Kashmir

Jammu; Samba, Kashmir

Jharkhand

Bokaro; Dhanbad; Jamshedpur; Ranchi

Karnataka

Banglore; Belagavi (Belgaum); Dharwad; Gulbarga; Hubli; Mangalore; Mysore; Udupi

Kerala

Ernakulam; Kasaragod; Kollam; Kozhikode; Malappuram; Thrissur; Trivandrum

Madhya Pradesh

Bhopal; Gwalior; Indore; Jabalpur; Sagar

Maharashtra

Ahmednagar; Amravati; Aurangabad; Jalgaon; Kolhapur; Mumbai, Navi Mumbai; Nagpur; Nanded; Nashik; Pune; Raigad; Satara; Solapur; Thane; Ulhasnagar

Meghalaya

Shillong

Manipur

Imphal

Odisha

Balasore; Berhampur; Bhubaneswar; Cuttack; Dhenkanal; Sambalpur; Rourkela

Puducherry

Puducherry

Punjab

Bhatinda; Chandigarh; Fatehgarh Sahib; Jalandhar; Ludhiana; Mohali; Pathankot; Patiala; Ropar; Sangrur

Rajasthan

Ajmer; Alwar; Jaipur; Jodhpur; Kota; Sikar; Udaipur

Tamilnadu

Chennai; Coimbatore; Madurai; Namakkal; Thanjavur; Tiruchirappalli; Tirunelvelli

Telangana

Hyderabad; Karim Nagar; Warangal

Uttar Pradesh

Agra; Allahabad; Barabanki; Bareilly; Ghaziabad; Gorakhpur; Greater Noida; Kanpur; Lucknow; Mathura; Meerut; Muzaffarnagar; Noida; Varanasi

Uttarakhand

Dehradun; Roorkee

West Bengal

Asansol; Bankura; Burdwan; Durgapur; Hooghly; Howrah; Kalyani; Kolkata; Siliguri

CAT 2023 Answer Key

CAT's final answer key 2023 will be released along with the result in early December 2023. To access CAT answer key 2023, candidates will need to login into the CAT official website and enter their CAT 2023 Login ID and password:

  • The answer key for the CAT exam will only be available for the aspirants who took CAT 2023. 
  • The CAT exam answer key PDF is released along with an objection form. The aspirants who find discrepancies with the CAT answer key get the option to challenge the answer key by submitting an objection to the CAT 2023 centre. They also need to pay 1200 for every question they challenge.
  • If the objection found by the candidate is valid, the measures taken by IIMs will apply to all the candidates.
  • If there is no change even after the candidate has objected, it will not be considered.
  • The CAT final answer key is prepared after considering and reviewing all objections submitted.
  • CAT answer key helps the candidates verify their answers and figure out their expected score for the CAT exam for MBA admission to IIMs and other top B-schools.

CAT 2023 Result

CAT 2023 scorecard will likely be out in the third week of December 2023. CAT result 2023 will be available for download on the official website (iimcat.ac.in) once it is released by the exam conducting authority.

CAT Exam 2023 Result Highlights

  • CAT result date and time will be released on the official website.
  • IIMs send the CAT exam score via SMS to all the candidates who took the exam.
  • Once the CAT result is out, IIMs inform that the CAT scorecard is live.
  • CAT 2023 scorecard can be downloaded when the result is declared.
  • CAT scorecard consists of the scaled score and percentile score of a candidate.
  • The raw scores of candidates are not mentioned on the CAT scorecard.
  • CAT 2023 exam score will only be valid till December 31, 2024.

CAT Exam 2023 Admission Process

After the CAT 2023 exam date, one must have a clear understanding of the admission process after CAT. Notably, IIMs have their individual selection process, and the admission process of IIMs usually includes the score obtained in the CAT exam, academic record, and performance in PI & WAT rounds. There are three general stages through which the IIMs admission process gets conducted through CAT. 

  • Stage 1: CAT Exam Performance
  • Stage 2: Shortlisting by IIMs for Personal Interview round
  • Stage 3: IIMs Final Selection Process 2023 comprising WAT & PI Round

The final selection depends on the collective performance in all the stages. Students must note that old IIMs conduct separate admission processes while the baby or new IIMs conduct a Common Admission Process for MBA admission after the CAT exam.

Popular IIMs Conducting Admission Process

Top IIMs in India, including IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Calcutta, IIM Lucknow, IIM Bangalore, IIM Indore, IIM Kozhikode, IIM Shillong, IIM Nagpur, IIM Rohtak, and IIM Visakhapatnam, shortlist students and conduct the admission process to finalize candidates for PGDM/MBA admission. They provide high weightage to diversity, academics, work experience, and CAT exam scores.

IIM Admission Criteria for 2023-2025: IIMs Selection Criteria

Around 9-11 IIMs, conduct a Common Admission Process (CAP) to finalize and select students. One of the 6 baby/new IIMs coordinates this admission process. Candidates will have to participate in common WAT and PI rounds for 9 to 11 new IIMs, such as IIM Kashipur, IIM Ranchi, IIM Raipur, IIM Udaipur, IIM TrichyIIM Sambalpur, IIM Bodh Gaya, IIM Sirmaur, and IIM Jammu.

CAT Exam 2023 Participating Colleges

Several MBA colleges in India accept CAT exam scores for MBA admission. These include 20 IIMs and several other MBA colleges in the non-IIM category, such as FMS Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, SPJIMR Mumbai, SJMSoM IIT Mumbai, DoMS IIT Delhi, etc.

Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) Category

S. No.

Name of the IIM

Courses Offered
1IIM Ahmedabad
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management for Executives (PGPX)
  • Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP)
  • Fellow Programme in Management (FPM)
  • Armed Forces Programme in Business Management (AFP)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Food and Agri-business Management (PGP- FABM)
  • ePost Graduate Programme (ePGP)
2IIM Bangalore
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management for Executives (PGPX)
  • Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP)
  • Fellow Programme in Management (FPM)
  • Post Graduate Program in Public Policy and Management (PGPPM)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Enterprise Management (PGPEM)
3IIM Calcutta
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management for Executives (PGPEX)
  • Fellow Programme in Management (FPM)
  • PGPEX-VLM (Post Graduate Program for Executives for Visionary Leadership in Manufacturing)
  • Post Graduate Diploma in Business Analytics (PGDBA)
  • CEMS MIM: Master’s in International Management
4IIM Lucknow
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)
  • Fellow Programme in Management (FPM)
  • Executive Fellow Programme in Management (EFPM)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Agri-business Management (PGP- ABM)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Sustainable Management (PGP- SM)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management for Working Executives (WPM)
  • Management for Executives (IPMX)
5IIM Kozhikode
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)
  • Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Business Leadership (PGP-BL)
  • Fellow Programme in Management (FPM)
6

IIM Indore

  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)
  • Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP)
  • Fellow Programme in Management (FPM)
  • Integrated Programme in Management (IPM)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management Mumbai (PGP- Mumbai)
  • Post Graduate Diploma Programme in Management for Executives (Modular)-PGPMX
  • Fellow Programme in Management (Industry)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Human Resource Management (PGP-HRM)
7

IIM Nagpur

  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)
8

IIM Amritsar

  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)
9IIM Sambalpur
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)
10IIM Ranchi
  • Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management for Executives (PGEXP)
  • Fellow Programme in Management (FPM)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Enterprise Management (PGPEM)
  • Post Graduate Diploma in Human Resource Management
  • (PGDHRM)
  • Certificate Program in General Management (CPGM)
11IIM Tiruchirappalli
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGPM)
  • Fellow Programme in Management (FPM)
12IIM Kashipur
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)
  • Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP)
  • Fellow Programme in Management (FPM)
  • Executive Fellow Programme in Management (EFPM)
13IIM Raipur
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management for Working Executives (PGPWE)
  • Fellow Programme in Management (FPM)
  • Executive Fellow Programme in Management (EFPM)
14

IIM Visakhapatnam

  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)
  • Post Graduate Certificate Programme in Business Management for Experienced Professionals
15

IIM Bodh Gaya

  • Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM)
16

IIM Udaipur

  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP) 
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management for Executives (PGPX)
  • Fellow Programme in Management (FPM)
17

IIM Rohtak

  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGPM)
  • Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP)
  • Fellow Programme in Management (FPM)
18

IIM Sirmaur

  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGPM)
19

IIM Jammu

  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)

20

IIM Shillong
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP)
  • Post Graduate Program for Executives – Managing Business in India and China (PGPEx- MBIC)
  • Fellow Programme in Management (FPM)

Non-IIM MBA Colleges Category

S. No.

Name of the Institute 

Courses Offered
1SJMSOM, IIT Bombay
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA)
  • Management Development Programs (MDPs)
  • Doctoral Program
  • Inter-Disciplinary Dual Degree Program (IDDDP) in Management
2Faculty of Management Studies  – University of Delhi
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA)
  • Master of Business Administration - Executive Health Care Administration
  • Management Development Programs (MDPs)
  • Doctoral Program
3DMS, IIT Delhi
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA)
  • Doctoral Program
  • Management Development Programs (MDPs)
  • International Student Internships
4Management Development Institute (MDI, Gurgaon)
  • Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM)
  • Online PGDM Program
  • Post Graduate Diploma in Management - Human Resource Management (HRM)
  • Post Graduate Diploma In Management - International Business (IB)
  • Post Graduate Diploma In Management - Business Management (BM)
  • Post Graduate Diploma In Management - Public Policy and Management (PPM)
  • Post Graduate Diploma In Management - Business Administration (BA)
  • Fellow Program In Management
  • Management Development Programs (MDPs)
5Xavier's Institute of Management (XIM, Bhubaneshwar)

  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) - Business Management
  • Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) - Business Management
  • Executive Post Graduate Diploma in Management through Virtual Interactive Learning (EPGDM-VIL)
  • PhD (Part-Time & Full-Time)
6Institute of Management Technology (IMT, Ghaziabad)
  • Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM)
  • Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM-Marketing)
  • Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM-Finance)
  • Post Graduate Diploma in Management Dual Country Program (PGDM DCP)
  • Post Graduate Diploma in Management Banking and Financial Services (PGDM BFS)
  • Post Graduate Diploma in Management for Working Professionals (PGDM WE)
  • Post Graduate Diploma in Business Management Accelerated Progam (PGDM ExP)
  • Fellow Program in Management (FPM)
  • Management Development Programs (MDPs)
7

Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA, Chennai)

  • Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM)
  • Executive Diploma Program
  • Post Graduate Program (PGP) in Logistics
  • Management Development Programs (MDPs)
8

T A Pai Management Institute (TAPMI, Manipal)

  • Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM)
  • PGDM - Human Resource Management (HRM)
  • PGDM - Banking and Financial Services (BFS)
  • Executive Education Programs
  • Doctoral Program
9

SP Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR, Mumbai)

  • Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM)
  • Post Graduate Diploma in Management (Business Management)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGPM)
  • Global Management Programme (GMP)
  • Post Graduate Management Programme for Women (PGMPW)
  • Fellow Programme in Management (FPM)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Family Managed Business (PGPFMB)
  • Start Your Business Programme (SYB)
  • Post Graduate Executive Management Programme (PGEMP
  • Post Graduate Programme in General Management (PGP-GM)
  • Doing Business in India
  • Global Management Programme
  • Management Development Programme (MDP)
  • Post Graduate Programme in Development Management (PGPDM)

CAT 2023 Cutoff

Each IIM has its own selection procedure for admission to top PGP/MBA/PGDM programs. Applicants must clear both the sectional and overall CAT cutoff 2023 to be eligible for admission. Here is the CAT 2023 expected cutoff percentile for IIMs and Non-IIM institutes as predicted by the experts:

  • Expected IIM CAT Cutoff Percentile 2023

S. No.

Name of the IIM

Expected CAT 2023 Cutoff Percentile

1IIM Ahmedabad99+
2IIM Bangalore99+
3IIM Calcutta99+
4IIM Lucknow97-98
5IIM Kozhikode97-98
6

IIM Indore

97-98

7

IIM Nagpur

95-96

8

IIM Amritsar

95-96

9IIM Sambalpur95-96
10IIM Ranchi94-95
11IIM Tiruchirappalli94-95
12IIM Kashipur94-95
13IIM Raipur94-95
14

IIM Visakhapatnam

92-94

15

IIM Bodh Gaya

92-94

16

IIM Udaipur

92-94

17

IIM Rohtak

90+

18

IIM Sirmaur

90

19

IIM Jammu

90

20

IIM Shillong90

  • Expected Non-IIM CAT Cutoff Percentile 2023

S. No.

Name of the Institute 

Expected CAT 2023 Cutoff Percentile
1IIT Bombay99+
2Faculty of Management Studies98.20+
3IIT Delhi98+
4Management Development Institute (MDI, Gurgaon)95+
5Xavier's Institute of Management (XIM, Bhubaneshwar)94+
6Institute of Management Technology (IMT, Ghaziabad)90+
7

Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA, Chennai)

90+

8

T A Pai Management Institute (TAPMI, Manipal)

85+

9

SP Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR, Mumbai)

85+

  • CAT 2023 Section-Wise Cutoff Percentile

Percentile

Score-VARC

Score-DILR

Score-QA

Overall Score

99.5

44

35

40

101

99

34

26

36

96

98

32

28

30

90

95

32

20

29

81

90

29

17

26

72

85

24

15

20

59

80

20

12

15

47

CAT Exam 2023 Disclaimer

CAT 2023 test takers will have to agree to a Non-Disclosure Agreement, which means that the test takers are barred from disclosing any sort of content pertaining to the CAT exam. Candidates who violate the rules will have to face a punishment of up to three years in jail and should also pay a fine of up to Rs. 2,00,000. 

During the admission or selection process, if it is found that a candidate has furnished any incorrect information or has violated any process, he/she will be barred from participating in the selection process. Also, the candidate will not be allowed to appear for the CAT exam in the future.

CAT 2023 Contact Details

Candidates applying for the CAT exam must note that they are free to contact the concerned authorities if they have any issues or queries related to the exam. 

Contact Details for Queries Related to Registration, Payment, and Document Uploading:

Toll-free number1-800-210-1088 (Monday - Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM)
Email addresscathelpdesk@iimcat.co.in
AddressIndian Institute of Management
Vastrapur, Ahmedabad 380015
Gujarat
CollegeDekho Student Helpline18005729877

Contact Details for Academic Queries such as Eligibility, Category, and PwD Certificate:

Phone number+91-079-7152 4630 / 4631 / 4633 / 4634
Email addresscat2022@iima.ac.in

Important Dates

CAT 2023 Important EventsDates

Want to know more about CAT

FAQs about CAT

Can a student without a Maths background clear CAT 2023?

Definitely, a student without a Maths background can clear CAT 2023 but candidates will have to invest a lot of effort in the arithmetic component. For this, they should practice the previous year's question papers, take various mock tests and practice papers, and master multiple strategies to increase their efficiency. By this, candidates will be able to learn all the basic concepts and solve difficult mathematical problems on time.

Can you crack the CAT exam 2023 without coaching?

Yes, candidates can crack the CAT exam 2023 without coaching only if they aggressively prepare for it. However, aspirants must keep in mind that the exam offers tough competition and simultaneously demands considerable time and consistent effort. Most experts recommend that applicants who want to perform well on the exam should take CAT coaching but it is not mandatory. 

How much is the CAT exam fee 2023?

The CAT exam fee 2023 for General, EWS and NC-OBC categories is INR 2,300 and for SC, ST and PwD category is INR 1,150. You can pay the fees online using net banking or a debit/credit card. Candidates should be aware that the CAT application fee is not transferable. As the CAT application and registration is a one-time process, candidates must thoroughly check the form and apply accordingly.

How many attempts for CAT are allowed?

Inexhaustible attempts for CAT are allowed. In other words, there is no upper age limit or cap on the number of times you can take the CAT exam 2023. However, the only criterion to sit for CAT is that the applicants must be studying in their final year or obtained a bachelor's degree with a minimum of 50% aggregate. Further, if you are targeting to work for a reputed firm, a few companies consider the number of CAT attempts taken by a candidate as an eligibility criterion. Hence, students must try to clear the exam in as minimum attempts as possible.

What happens if I fail the CAT exam?

The CAT exam does not use the concepts of passing or failing. You will either receive a high percentile, which will permit you to ‎promptly be called from IIM or one of your top universities, or a low percentile, which will prevent you from receiving a call for the next step in the admissions process. Further, if you do not achieve a decent percentile score, you can still enrol in reputable management institutes by taking the other management entrance exams like CMAT, NMAT, MAT, IIFT, IBSAT, XAT, GMAT, SNAP, MICAT, KMAT, TISS NET, GRE, or GATE.

How to calculate the CAT percentile?

The CAT percentile can be calculated just like percentiles in other exams. The percentiles are just a representation/ indication of the number of people who are behind you in the test. The General formula to calculate percentile along with some of the examples in this regard are elaborated below.

Percentile = ( 1 - All India Rank(Total Candidates in the Exam) * 100%

Example 1: Let us assume that 50 candidates appeared for the CAT exam. You have done well in the exam and scored 3rd rank in the entrance test, which means that 47 students scored less than you. Now, your percentile should be calculated as follows: -

47/50*100 = 94 Percentile.

How many times is CAT conducted in a year?

CAT is conducted once a year and the application form for the exam is released either in August or September. The exam is held in the month of late November to early December every year across 150 exam centres located in different test cities of India.

Is CAT conducted every year?

Yes, CAT is conducted every year by any one of the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) based on a policy of rotation. CAT is one of the many popular MBA entrance exams that, without a fail, is conducted every year. Candidates who are seeking admission to the MBA programme will have to appear for this entrance test and obtain a valid score to be eligible for admission to IIMs and other top B-Schools of India.

What does it take to clear the CAT 2023 exam?

Attempting mock tests regularly is what it takes to clear the CAT 2023 exam on its first attempt. The more mock tests you solve, the higher your chances of scoring in the CAT. Therefore, it is recommended to solve at least three mock tests a week. A mix of smart work, dedication, and hard work along with proper planning will help you clear the CAT exam. Candidates can plan their preparation as per their strengths and weaknesses. 

What are the benefits of appearing for the CAT 2023?

One of the most noteworthy benefits of appearing for the CAT 2023 is the opportunity to study in the IIMs and some of the prestigious management institutes in the country like MDI Gurgaon, FMS Delhi, S P Jain Mumbai, XLRI Jamshedpur, etc. The entrance test also helps the students in improving their logical thinking, reasoning, and time management skills.

How tough is CAT?

Overall, it can be said that CAT has a moderately tough difficulty level, however, the exam seems easy for many students who have started their preparation early and kept practising all three sections equally. With the right preparation strategy and a lot of practice, candidates can easily crack the entrance test and score a good percentile in the exam.

How many colleges accept CAT scores?

In India, nearly 3,763 colleges accept CAT scores since it is one of the most important entrance exams for MBA admissions in the country. Currently, there are a total of 20 Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) that accept the CAT score. More than one thousand other prestigious management institutes like MDI Gurgaon, FMS Delhi, S P Jain Mumbai, XLRI Jamshedpur, etc. also accept CAT scores. For more, aspirants can visit the official website of the selected college to find out if the college accepts CAT scores or not.

Who is the conducting body of CAT 2023?

It is given that only IIMs will be the conducting body of CAT 2023. In India, there are in total of 20 IIMs, and one of them administers the CAT exam every year on a fixed rotational basis. As soon as the latest notification is released, CAT authorities will announce the organising body for CAT 2023. In the years 2022 and 2021, CAT was conducted by IIM Bangalore and IIM Ahmedabad respectively.

 

What is the duration of CAT 2023?

The duration of CAT 2023 is two hours or 120 minutes. The test will be conducted in Computer-Based Mode (CBT). As there are three sections (VARC, DILR, QA) in the CAT exam, each section will have a duration of 40 minutes. Slot-wise, the exam will be conducted in three sessions, namely, Morning, Afternoon, and Evening. 

How is the CAT exam centre allotted to the applicants?

The CAT exam centre is allotted to the applicants based on their chosen preferences. The applicant can specify up to six cities on the application form where they would like to take the CAT 2023 exam. Once a CAT 2023 exam centre has been chosen, requests to modify it will not be accepted by the conducting authority. Although not guaranteed, candidates usually get the first or second CAT exam centre of their choice.

When is CAT 2023 conducted?

The CAT 203 is conducted in the month of late November to early December across 150 exam centres located in different test cities of India. CAT is conducted every year by any one of the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) based on a policy of rotation. Candidates who are seeking admission to the MBA programme will have to appear for this entrance test and obtain a valid score to be eligible for admission to IIMs and other top B-Schools of India.

What is CAT?

The full form of CAT is Common Admission Test. CAT is a national-level management entrance exam that helps applicants gain MBA/PGDM admission to IIMs and other prestigious management institutes across the country. There are three major areas of the test: Data Interpretation, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability. However, the only criterion to sit for CAT is that the applicants must be studying in their final year or obtained a bachelor's degree with a minimum of 50% aggregate. 

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No, it's not possible. You have to sit for CAT if you wish to seek admission in IIM-A. 

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Dear student,

If you wish to pursue Master of Architecture (M.Arch) from any college, you will have to check if you qualify the eligibility criteria set for the programme in the respective college. Almost all agricultural institutes require the applicants of M.Arch to have a bachelor's degree in architecture and they do not admit students who have not done B.Arch (Bachelor of Architecture).

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Dear student, 

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