For the Common Admission Test (CAT), the important dates for application and test typically follow a general annual pattern. However, these dates may vary slightly from year to year, so it's always advisable to check the official CAT website or IIM notifications for the most current information. Below is a comprehensive outline based on the usual timeline for CAT:
1. CAT Notification Release Date
- The official notification for the CAT exam is typically released in July of each year. This is when detailed information about the exam, including eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and dates, is made available.
2. CAT Application Process
- Start Date for Application: The online registration and application process usually begins in August. Applicants need to visit the official CAT website to register, fill out the form, and submit it along with the application fee.
- End Date for Application: The registration process typically closes in September. Usually, the last date to apply is in the third or fourth week of September.
3. CAT Admit Card Release
- The admit card for the CAT exam is usually released in October. Candidates can download their admit cards from the official website by logging in with their credentials.
- The admit card typically includes important details such as the exam center, time, and instructions.
4. CAT Exam Date
- The CAT exam is generally conducted on a Sunday in the last week of November. It is a computer-based test (CBT) that is usually held in multiple slots on the same day to accommodate all candidates across the country.
- The exam date can vary slightly, but it typically falls within the last 10 days of November.
5. CAT Result Announcement
- The CAT exam results are typically declared in early January of the following year, usually around the first week. Candidates can check their results by logging into the CAT website.
6. Shortlisting and Interview Process
- After the results are announced, the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other participating B-schools will begin the process of shortlisting candidates for further rounds, which generally include Written Ability Tests (WAT), Group Discussions (GD), and Personal Interviews (PI).
- The specific timelines for this process vary based on the institute, but the interview rounds usually take place between February and April of the following year.
Example of the 2024-2025 CAT Dates:
- CAT 2024 Notification Release: July 2024
- CAT 2024 Application Start Date: August 2024 (typically the first week)
- CAT 2024 Application End Date: September 2024 (typically the third week)
- CAT 2024 Admit Card Release: October 2024 (usually around the first week)
- CAT 2024 Exam Date: November 2024 (typically the last Sunday)
- CAT 2024 Result Declaration: January 2025 (usually the first week)
Important Notes:
- Eligibility Criteria: Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree with a minimum percentage (which may vary across categories) from a recognized institution or university. The CAT exam is open to students of all academic backgrounds.
- Application Fees: There is a non-refundable application fee, which varies slightly for different categories. This fee is typically paid online during the registration process.
- Exam Pattern and Sections: CAT generally consists of three main sections:
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Ability (QA)
Candidates should ensure they are well-prepared across all sections to maximize their scores.
Conclusion:
While the dates mentioned here follow a general trend, it's crucial to stay updated with official announcements, as the schedule can change. Always check the official website of CAT or the Indian Institutes of Management for accurate, current dates and further details related to the exam.
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