CAT 2024: 98 Percentile in CAT Means How Many Marks - A Detailed Guide!

CAT 2024: 98 Percentile in CAT Means How Many Marks - A Detailed Guide!

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CAT Application Date:01 Aug' 25 - 20 Sep' 25

Himanshu ShekharUpdated on 19 Dec 2024, 02:50 PM IST

98 Percentile in CAT 2024: Scoring a 98 percentile in the CAT (Common Admission Test) is a dream for many MBA aspirants. This score places candidates in the top 2% of test-takers, significantly increasing the chances of admission to premier institutes like the IIMs and other top B-schools in India. However, achieving this percentile requires a clear understanding of the score dynamics and preparation strategy.

CAT 2024: 98 Percentile in CAT Means How Many Marks - A Detailed Guide!
98 Percentile in CAT Means How Many Marks

In this article, we break down the approximate marks required to secure a 98 percentile in CAT 2024, the factors influencing percentile calculation, and tips to achieve this target.

Understanding CAT Scoring and Percentiles

The CAT exam comprises three sections:

  1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
  2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
  3. Quantitative Ability (QA)

Each section is scored out of 68 marks, making the total score 204. However, the scaled score (adjusted based on difficulty levels) determines the percentile.

How Many Marks for 98 Percentile in CAT?

While the exact marks needed for a 98 percentile vary each year due to factors like exam difficulty and performance of candidates, historical data provides a rough estimate:

  • Overall Score: 105-115 out of 204
  • Sectional Scores:
    • VARC: 35-40

    • DILR: 30-35

    • QA: 35-40

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These figures are indicative and can shift based on the normalization process and varying levels of competitiveness.

Factors Influencing Percentile Calculation

Several factors play a role in determining how many marks correspond to a 98 percentile:

  1. Exam Difficulty: Tougher papers often lead to lower marks for higher percentiles.
  2. Candidate Pool: The number and performance of test-takers significantly affect percentile brackets.
  3. Sectional Weightage: Each section contributes equally to the overall percentile, so balanced performance is essential.
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Tips to Score 98 Percentile in CAT 2024

  1. Analyze Previous Year Trends: Study past years’ score-percentile relationships to set realistic targets.
  2. Focus on Strengths and Weaknesses: Identify your strong areas and maximize your sectional scores while improving weak sections.
  3. Time Management: Practice mocks to optimize time across sections effectively.
  4. Mock Tests and Analysis: Regularly attempt mocks and analyze them to fine-tune your strategy.
  5. Consistency in Preparation: Follow a structured study plan and avoid last-minute cramming.

Why Aim for 98 Percentile?

A 98 percentile opens doors to top B-schools such as:

  • IIMs: Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, Lucknow, and more.
  • Other Premier Institutes: FMS Delhi, SPJIMR, MDI Gurgaon, etc.
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These institutes often shortlist candidates with a strong CAT score coupled with an excellent academic and co-curricular profile.

What is the meaning of 98 Percentile in CAT?

Securing a 98 percentile in CAT requires a combination of smart preparation, focused practice, and a clear understanding of scoring patterns. By aiming for a score of 105-115, you can significantly boost your chances of joining a top-tier MBA program.

Stay committed, analyze your performance, and align your efforts with past trends to make your CAT 2024 journey a success.

CAT 2024 Score vs Percentile

Slot 1

Slot 2

Slot 3

Percentile

VARC

DILR

QA

Overall

VARC

DILR

QA

Overall

VARC

DILR

QA

Overall

99%

39-40

31-32

30-31

90

41-42

27-28

28-29

87

42-43

28-29

30-32

93

95%

31-32

24-25

23-24

66

33-34

22-23

22-23

63

34-35

23-24

24-25

68

90%

25-26

19-21

17-18

56-57

26-27

18-19

16-17

55-56

27-28

19-20

17-18

58-60

85%

22-23

16-18

14-15

45-46

23-24

15-17

13-14

44-45

24-25

16-17

14-15

46-48

80%

20-21

13-14

12-13

40-41

21-22

12-14

11-12

39-40

22-23

13-14

12-13

42-44

70%

16-17

11-12

10-11

35-36

17-18

11-12

10-11

35-36

18-19

12-13

11-12

37-38

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What percentile is 55 marks in CAT?
A:

With 55 marks in CAT 2024, candidates can expect a 95 percentile.

Q: What is the ideal preparation strategy to achieve 98 percentile in CAT?
A:

Focus on understanding concepts, practice extensively, analyze mock test performance, and maintain a consistent study routine.

Q: Are CAT mocks essential for scoring 98 percentile?
A:

Yes, regular mock tests help improve time management, accuracy, and familiarity with the exam pattern, which are key to scoring 98 percentile.

Q: How many hours of study are required to score a 98 percentile in CAT?
A:

On average, 2-3 hours of consistent daily study over 6-8 months, combined with mock tests and analysis, can help achieve this target.

Q: Can a non-engineer score a 98 percentile in CAT?
A:

Absolutely! With the right preparation and strategy, candidates from all academic backgrounds can achieve a 98 percentile.

Q: How does the CAT difficulty level impact the marks for a 98 percentile?
A:

A tougher exam generally reduces the marks needed for higher percentiles, as scaling adjusts for the difficulty level.

Q: Which IIMs accept candidates with 98 percentile?
A:

Candidates with a 98 percentile can get calls from IIM Lucknow, Indore, Kozhikode, and sometimes IIM Calcutta or Bangalore, depending on their profiles.

Q: How is the percentile calculated in CAT?
A:

Percentile in CAT is calculated based on the scaled score, considering the relative performance of all candidates and normalization for difficulty across slots.

Q: Does scoring 98 percentile guarantee admission to IIMs?
A:

No, admission to IIMs depends on other factors such as academic profile, work experience, and performance in the interview and WAT rounds.

Q: Is sectional balance important to achieve a 98 percentile in CAT?
A:

Yes, balanced performance across VARC, DILR, and QA is crucial as each section contributes equally to the overall percentile.

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Hello Aspirant,

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Do not make another payment.

Making a second payment could cause a double debit, which is difficult to get a refund for. You should:

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Hello

The CAT 2025 exam is a national-level MBA entrance test for IIMs and top B-schools in India. It will be held on 30th November 2025 in computer-based mode across ~170 cities.
The registration is open from 1st August to 13th September 2025 on iimcat.ac.in .
Admit cards will be available from 5th November 2025 onward.
Graduates with at least 50 marks (45 for SC/ST/PwD) are eligible to apply.
The exam tests English, Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude in three timed sections.

Yes, you can pursue an MBA at Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (BBAU), Lucknow, through the CAT exam.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Educational Qualification: A bachelor's degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD candidates) from a recognized university.

  • Entrance Exam: A valid CAT score is required for admission.

Admission Process:

  1. Application: Register online through the BBAU admission portal.

  2. Entrance Exam: Appear for the CAT exam and obtain a valid score.

  3. Counseling: Shortlisted candidates will be called for counseling based on their CAT scores.

  4. Document Verification: Submit necessary documents for verification.

  5. Fee Payment: Complete the fee payment to confirm admission.

Course Details:

  • Duration: 2 years (full-time).

  • Specializations: Finance, Marketing, Human Resource Management, among others.

Placement Opportunities:
BBAU has a strong placement record, with top companies recruiting MBA graduates.

For more details and to apply, visit the  official BBAU MBA admission page

Hello Amgothu

With 305 marks in ICAR PG and being from ST category, your chances of getting an AIEEA (CAT) seat is good, especially in plant sciences and less competitive subjects