CAT 2024: Exam dates and expert tips to crack the MBA entrance

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is among the most challenging and prestigious MBA entrance examinations in India. Annually, the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) hold this exam, which allows individuals to gain entry into some of India’s top management institutes and represents an important step for anyone who wants to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA). It has been announced that the CAT exam date for 2024, and so all aspirants need to be prepared well informed about the details surrounding this exam.

In this article, we will go through key 2024 CAT exam dates to enable you to prepare better as per your needs and act according to timely advice. Online Manipal is one such platform that businesses use as a resource for their MBA activities.

CAT 2024 exam date: Key highlights

As you get yourself ready for one of the most competitive exams in the country, being aware of the critical dates is essential to avoid missing out on anything important.

1. CAT exam date 2024: CAT 2024 will take place on November 24th, next year across over 170 cities in India.

2. CAT exam 2024 registration date: The registration for CAT 2024 begins on August 2nd and ends on September 15th of the same year.

3. Admit card release date: Admit cards are expected to be ready by November 5th, 2024 around 4  p.m.

4. Result date: The expected time for announcing results is January 5th, 2025 for the 2024 CAT exam.

Understanding CAT 2024 exam format

The CAT exam has been created to evaluate candidates’ ability in three major sections namely  – Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). It is computer-based, comprising 100 multiple-choice questions notorious for its tricky time-bound nature. A strategic approach toward mastering each section will help you ace the examination.

Expert tips on how to crack the CAT exams 2024

#1. Understand the exam pattern thoroughly

It is crucial to know the entire 2024 CAT exam date and pattern. Grasp the marking scheme, kind of questions as well as how the paper is spread across different sections. The exam structure has been delineated below:

• VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension): 24 questions
• DILR (Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning): 20 questions
• QA (Quantitative Aptitude): 22 questions

For every correct answer given, three points are awarded. There also exists negative marking which implies one point will be deducted whenever one makes a wrong answer in Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). This can bring your score down even if you have answered most of the answers correctly,

#2. Develop a preparation schedule

A structured timetable can work wonders. Ensure that your schedule is realistic and provides adequate time for each section. A balanced approach will help avoid burnout while ensuring that there is constant progress in your studies. Below are some important components of a study plan:

• Daily practice: Solve CAT’s previous year’s question papers regularly.
• Mock tests: Take full-length mock exams under timed conditions.
• Review sessions: Spend time analyzing your mistakes and weak areas.

#3. Focus on building a strong foundation

Fundamental concepts form the basis on which most of these questions are asked during CAT exams. Hence it is important to build a foundation in quantitative skills, logical reasoning and verbal skills. When starting always begin with easy problems then go for the ones whose difficulty levels increase progressively. This not only helps one understand concepts but also develops their time management skills, aiding them in handling difficult questions much more easily during the examination itself.

#4. Practice with CAT past papers

One of the best ways to prepare for the CAT is by practicing with previous years’ question papers. Solving CAT question papers from the past five years will not only help you understand the types of questions but also help you get used to the time-bound nature of the exam. You can find CAT 2024 preparation resources, including free downloadable CAT question papers, on various online platforms.

#5. Take mock tests regularly

Mock tests are simulations of actual exams and they help in assessing one’s level of preparedness for the exam. Takin

g timed tests regularly can improve time management skills and the confidence needed to face the exam on the final day. Always ensure that after any mock test, review all your mistakes so as to prevent them from happening again in the actual examination.

#6. Time management is key

Time management is crucial for cracking the CAT exam. With 66 questions to be solved in 120 minutes, you need to ensure that you allocate time to each section effectively. Practice solving questions under timed conditions and focus on improving your speed and accuracy. If you find a question too difficult, it’s better to skip it and move on rather than wasting precious time.

Why choose Online Manipal for your MBA?

The right guidance and resources can make all the difference when preparing for the CAT exam. Online Manipal is a platform created by the Manipal Group that allows students to access UGC-approved online degree programs including two MBA courses — one through Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) and another through Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE). 

The fact that enrolling into online MBA programs without a stressful entrance exam like CAT makes Online Manipal’s online MBA degrees extremely lucrative and useful. And all this with world-class faculty and an enriching course! Forget the days of CAT MBA admissions and taste high-quality education affordably. Some of the key benefits of these courses are:

1. Flexibility: It is easier to balance professional and personal commitments by pursuing your MBA at your own pace in MUJ’s and MAHE’s online programs.

2. Accredited programs: Online Manipal offers a UGC-accredited online MBA that is recognized by employers.

3. Targeted learning: An MBA course for working professionals at MAHE ensures relevant skills are developed that can be applied immediately at work.

Conclusion

The CAT exam date 2024 has been set for November 24, 2024, marking the start of what is anticipated to be a higher-level competition journey among prospective MBA students all over the country. One can increase one’s chances of passing the test if one remains updated with key dates, does thorough preparation and uses expert advice including working out on CAT previous year question papers.

For those who want to pursue an MBA after clearing the CAT exam, Online Manipal is the best place for them. You can go through the details about the courses available where you can continue with your education online while still working at your job or taking care of personal responsibilities. Browse through Online Manipal’s MBA programs today to take your first step towards success!

Unlock opportunities with our top online degree programs