The CAT course full form is Common Admission Test course. The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a pivotal examination in the realm of management education, acting as a gateway to esteemed institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top-tier business schools in India. The Indian Institute of Management Lucknow recently released the eligibility criteria for CAT 2024, setting the stage for the MBA/PGPM aspirants. Scheduled for November 26, 2024, the CAT exam is not just a test; it’s a key that can unlock numerous opportunities in the field of management.
What this course is all about
CAT is more than an exam—it’s a journey that assessed your abilities, improved your analytical skills, and prepared you for business challenges. CAT assesses management potential. Candidates take quantitative and verbal tests. A thorough evaluation ensures that CAT passes have a broad skill set to address organisational issues. CAT changes lives and prepares students for management. CAT candidates with management skills are diverse according to the qualifying conditions. Post-CAT opportunities include consulting, finance, marketing, data analytics, and international. CAT’s high pay attracts business and management experts. Qualified CAT 2024 candidates should embrace the opportunities and challenges ahead.
Eligibility Criteria
The first step to CAT is understanding the qualification parameters. CAT 2023 aspirants must have a Bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD). Last-year bachelor’s degree candidates may apply if they submit the completion certificate before the deadline. Unlike certain examinations, CAT is open to all candidates regardless of age.
The key eligibility percentage follows institution norms. If the institution does not provide a conversion plan, a standard formula translates the candidate’s CGPA to a percentage. Example: 88% for an 8.8 CGPA applicant.
Future Scope
More than an entrance test, CAT opens several career options. Top institutions may need CAT scores, but its relevance extends beyond academics. Post-CAT employment options:
Consulting:
McKinsey, BCG, and Bain deploy graduates to address complex business problems for clients across sectors.
Finance:
Investment banking, corporate finance, private equity, VC, and financial analysis provide opportunities.
Marketing:
CAT hires brand managers, market research analysts, digital marketers, and product managers across industries.
Data analytics and business intelligence:
MBAs in these subjects are in demand as data becomes more important in decision-making.
International Opportunities:
CAT scores may lead to studying overseas, working for multinationals, and joining international groups.
Salary
High-income prospects drive many CAT MBA candidates. With an average monthly salary of INR 1.5 lakh in India, an MBA is worth the effort. IIMs need the CAT for high-paying jobs. The CAT score is a key corporate recruitment measure at top Indian MBA colleges.