CAT Notification: Key Changes You Must Know

CAT Notification: Key Changes You Must Know

Introduction

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a crucial entrance exam for MBA aspirants aiming for top business schools in India, including the prestigious IIMs. Every year, CAT undergoes certain modifications, and candidates must stay informed about these changes to enhance their preparation strategy. This year, significant updates have been introduced, affecting the exam pattern, test cities, application fees, and more.

If you are planning to appear for the CAT exam, here’s everything you need to know about the latest changes.

Changes in Exam Pattern

One of the most notable updates is the change in the exam pattern. The number of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) has been reduced, while the number of key-in answer-type questions has increased. This means that candidates will now need to enter answers manually instead of selecting from given options.

Despite this change, the overall exam structure remains the same:

• Three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability
• Each section will have a fixed time limit of 60 minutes
• Candidates cannot skip sections or return to a previous section once it is completed

Increase in Test Cities

To accommodate more candidates, additional test centers have been introduced. The total number of test cities has increased, ensuring accessibility for candidates from different regions.

Choice of Test Centers & Sessions

Applicants can choose up to four preferred cities for their exam center from the available list. However, test centers are allotted based on availability, and candidates cannot select their preferred test session. The session (forenoon or afternoon) is assigned randomly.

Availability of Mock Tutorials

To help candidates get familiar with the exam interface and pattern, a mock tutorial will be released. It is recommended that all aspirants take this tutorial to understand the exam format, question navigation, and other important instructions.

Standardization Process for Scores

CAT follows a rigorous score normalization process to ensure fairness across different sessions. The raw scores are adjusted for location and difficulty level variations before being converted into scaled scores and percentiles. Candidates are shortlisted for the next round of selection based on their percentiles rather than raw scores.

Revised Application Fees

There has been a slight increase in the CAT application fee.

• General category candidates must pay a higher fee compared to previous years
• Reserved category candidates (SC/ST/PwD) also face a marginal fee increase

Admit Card Download Date

Candidates can download their admit cards from the official website starting from the announced date. The admit card is a mandatory document for entry into the examination hall, and candidates should ensure they download and print it in advance.

Expected Result Date

The CAT results are typically announced in January, and candidates can check their scores online. Additionally, results are also sent via SMS. The official website will provide access to downloadable scorecards.

Official Answer Key Release

In recent years, CAT authorities have started releasing official answer keys, allowing candidates to cross-check their responses. Aspirants can expect a similar release this time, providing greater transparency in the evaluation process.

Conclusion

With these updates, candidates must align their preparation strategy accordingly. The shift in question types, increase in test centers, and changes in application fees all impact the exam experience.

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Staying updated and adapting to these changes will help you approach the CAT exam with confidence and clarity!