CAT 2024 Notification Awaited: Know Where and How to Apply

CAT Registration 2024 is Expected to Open from August 4 to September 15.

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is the gateway to prestigious business schools in India, including the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). Aspiring MBA candidates eagerly await the opening of CAT registration each year. For 2024, the registration window is expected to open from August 4 till September 15, providing a crucial timeline for candidates to prepare and submit their applications. Explores the CAT 2024 registration process, important dates, and how top B-schools will likely plan their admission calendars accordingly.

CAT 2024 – Key Dates and Registration Process

Important Dates for CAT 2024

The dates for CAT 2024 registration are as follows:

Registration Start Date: August 1, 2024 (10:00 AM)
Registration End Date: September 13, 2024 (5:00 PM)
Admit Card Release: November 5, 2024 – November 24, 2024
CAT Exam Date: November 24, 2024
Result Announcement: Second week of January, 2025 (Tentative)

Steps for CAT Registration

Visit the Official Website: Candidates must visit the official CAT website to begin their registration process.
Create a Profile: New users must create a profile by providing basic details such as name, email address, and mobile number.
Fill in the Application Form: After profile creation, candidates must fill in detailed information including academic qualifications, work experience, and personal details.
Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of required documents such as a passport-sized photograph, signature, and category certificates (if applicable).
Payment of Application Fee: Pay the application fee using online payment methods. The fee varies for different categories.
Submit the Application: Review all details carefully before applying. Once submitted, no changes can be made.

Preparation Tips for CAT 2024

Understanding the Exam Pattern

The CAT exam consists of three sections:

Each section has a specific time limit, and candidates must answer questions within the given time frame. Familiarizing oneself with the exam pattern and practicing time management is crucial.

Practice and Mock Tests

Regular practice and taking mock tests are essential for success in the CAT exam. Mock tests help candidates understand their strengths and weaknesses, enabling them to focus on areas that need improvement.

Coaching and Study Material

Many candidates opt for coaching classes to get structured guidance and study material. Online resources and coaching institutes provide comprehensive study plans, practice questions, and expert advice.

Top B-schools and Their Admission Calendar

Planning the Admission Calendar

Top B-schools, including IIMs, align their admission calendars with the CAT schedule. The expected timeline for the admission process is as follows:

Application for CAT: August to September 2024
CAT Exam: November 24, 2024
Result Declaration: Second week of January, 2025 (Tentative)
Shortlisting for GD-PI-WAT: January to February 2025
GD-PI-WAT Rounds: February to April 2025
Final Selection and Admission Offers: April to May 2025

Key Considerations for B-schools

B-schools consider various factors while planning their admission calendar:

CAT Results: The timeline for CAT results is crucial as it impacts the shortlisting process.
GD-PI-WAT Rounds: Group Discussion (GD), Personal Interview (PI), and Written Ability Test (WAT) are integral parts of the selection process.
Academic Session Start: The admission calendar is designed to ensure that the academic session starts on time, typically in June or July.

Top B-schools Accepting CAT Scores

Here are some of the top B-schools in India that accept CAT scores for their MBA programs:

Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs): IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, IIM Lucknow, IIM Indore, IIM Kozhikode, and newer IIMs.
Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), Delhi
Jaipuria Institute of Management, Lucknow, Noida, Jaipur, Indore
SP Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR), Mumbai
National Institute of Industrial Engineering (NITIE), Mumbai
Xavier Labour Relations Institute (XLRI), Jamshedpur
T.A. Pai Management Institute (TAPMI), Manipal
Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS), Mumbai
Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai

These B-schools are renowned for their rigorous academic programs, distinguished faculty, and strong industry connections, making them highly sought after by MBA aspirants.

The CAT registration for 2024 is expected to commence from August 4 till September 15, marking the beginning of an intense preparation period for MBA aspirants. As candidates gear up for the exam, top B-schools also plan their admission calendars to ensure a smooth and timely selection process. Staying informed about important dates and following a structured preparation strategy can significantly enhance the chances of success in CAT 2024.