CAT Exam FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 2024

CAT Exam FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 2024

Ongoing Event

CAT Application Date:01 Aug' 25 - 13 Sep' 25

Alen Tom ShajiUpdated on 06 Sep 2024, 03:07 PM IST

CAT Exam FAQs 2024 - The frequently asked questions on CAT 2024 include all the queries or issues related to the entrance test. Basically, under the CAT exam FAQs section, candidates generally asked questions pertaining to important dates, registration process, eligibility criteria, etc. Apart from that, CAT FAQs 2024 also contain answers to such questions related to admit card, exam day instructions, result dates, CAT answer key dates, etc.

CAT 2024 expected to be held on November 24 in CBT mode. Candidates can check the provided CAT exam FAQs so that they can be aware of all the events of the CAT. Read the full article by Careers360 to clear up all the doubts or queries about CAT 2024. Most of the questions came up related to the pattern of CAT. It is very necessary to clear all the doubts of candidates pertaining to CAT 2024.

This Story also Contains

  1. CAT Exam FAQs 2024
  2. CAT Exam FAQs 2024 - Registration
  3. CAT Exam FAQs 2024- Admit Card
  4. CAT Exam FAQs 2024 - Exam Pattern
  5. CAT Exam FAQs 2024 - Answer Key
  6. CAT Exam FAQs 2024- Result
  7. CAT Exam FAQs 2024- Category Selection
  8. CAT Exam FAQs 2024- Persons with Disability
CAT Exam FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 2024
CAT Exam FAQs

CAT Exam FAQs 2024

The CAT Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are divided into the following sections:.

  • CAT Registration FAQs 2024
  • CAT Exam Pattern FAQs 2024
  • CAT Admit Card FAQs 2024
  • CAT Result FAQs 2024
  • CAT Category Selection FAQs 2024
  • CAT Person with Disability FAQs 2024

Download CAT Sample Papers here.

CAT Exam FAQs 2024 - Registration

IIM Lucknow will release the CAT 2024 application form in the first week of August. Below are the answers to questions that relate to the CAT 2024 registration.

Question- What is the last date for CAT registration 2024?

Answer- As per CAT 2024 exam schedule, CAT 2024 registration last date is November 24.

Question- Will CAT 2024 be postponed?

Answer- This national-level entrance exam expected to be conducted on November 24, 2024 and there is no indication that it will be postponed as of now.

Question- Who will set CAT 2024?

Answer- The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow will conduct CAT exam 2024 in online mode on November 24, 2024 in three shifts.

Question - Can I edit or make changes to CAT 2024 application form, once I have made payment?

Answer - After paying the amount of the CAT application fee, no changes are allowed to be made to the CAT application form 2024. However, in the correction window, candidates edit their photograph and signature only.

Question - I have done my graduation. Do I need to enter the overall percentage of total marks as per my university standards?

Answer - As per last year's CAT eligibility criteria, candidates need to submit the percentage as per their university norms.

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Question - How many CAT attempts?

Answer - As long as the candidates match the eligibility criteria, they can attempt the CAT exam as many times as they can. There is no limit for CAT exam attempts.

Question - I am pursuing the final year of graduation. Am I eligible to appear for CAT 2024?

Answer - Candidates need to provide the aggregate percentage of the last marks statements received by their university.

Question - Is there any age criteria for CAT 2024?

Answer - No, there is no age bar to appear for CAT exam 2024.

Question - What is the fee for the CAT exam?

Answer - Candidates belonging to the General and NC-OBC category candidates need to pay Rs 2400. Those belonging to the reserved category (SC/ ST/ PWD) need to pay Rs 1200.

Question - I am not pursuing a Bachelor's degree or any other professional qualification degree. Am I eligible to appear for CAT 2024?

Answer - If you are not pursuing any bachelor’s degree or have not completed any professional degree then you are not eligible to appear for CAT 2024 exam.

Question - When and how do I register for CAT 2024?

Answer - CAT 2024 online registration will start in the first week of August 2024. Candidates can apply at iimcat.ac.in.

Question - Where can I pay the CAT registration fee?

Answer - Candidates can pay the registration fee while doing CAT registration. Payment of the application fee can be done via a payment gateway. Candidates have to use a valid credit or debit card and a net banking facility is also available.

Question - Can I use my coaching institute or friend’s email ID while registering for CAT?

Answer - No, candidates need to provide a valid email address. All further communication of IIMs will be communicated to the registered email address.

Question - I have done a 5 years integrated course of B.Tech and MBA. As per my university norms first 3.5 years are considered to be B.Tech and remaining years is considered to be MBA. How do I enter my marks?

Answer - As per your university norms, candidates need to enter the aggregate percentage of the first 3.5 years under Bachelor's degree, and the remaining 1.5 years they will have to enter under a Master’s degree.

Question - I have done dual Bachelor’s degree courses (B.Com+LLB, B.Pharma+B.Tech etc). How do I enter my marks for two bachelors?

Answer - Candidates need to select the option indicating that they have a dual bachelor’s degree. After that candidates can enter all the details of both qualifications.

Question - I have completed a five year dual degree course (BS+MS, B.Tech+M.Tech, B.Tech+MSc etc)? How can I enter my marks for a bachelor degree?

Answer - As per your university norms, candidates need to enter the aggregate of marks that are equivalent to Bachelor’s degree and enter under Bachelor’s section and equivalent marks for Master’s degree under Master’s section.

Question - When will CAT 2024 be held and can I choose an exam date?

Answer - CAT 2024 expected to be held on November 24, 2024. Based on your preferred test city selection, the session slot, test city is allotted.

Question - I have made some mistakes while entering/registering the details in my CAT 2024 application. What should I do now?

Answer - One cannot edit certain personal details like Name, DOB, email ID, mobile number, etc. If anyone has made such kind of mistake then they have to register again with a new email ID. Your CAT 2024 application form will be considered for the latest registration and the admit card will be issued for the same. Candidates will not receive any refund and admit card for their earlier registration.

Question - Can I appear for more than one slot for CAT 2024?

Answer - No, candidates can not appear for more than one slot. It is considered a fraudulent activity if one attempts to appear for both slots. To ensure that one has only one attempt, photo IDs, admit card, candidates' pictures and biometric information will be verified.

Question - I have an SC/ ST certificate in the format uploaded on the CAT 2024 website. Can I use the same certificate or do I have to download the certificate template from the CAT website and fill it again?

Answer - If the category certificate fulfils the following conditions, then in such case one can upload the same certificate.

  • The name of the caste and number should appear in the certificate.
  • The certificate should have been issued by a competent authority.
  • The certificate should be in English or Hindi only.
  • The ministry’s resolution/ order number would be available.
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Question - I have changed my name with the due procedure after completing my degree. Should I enter my name as per the degree or the changed name?

Answer - Candidates need to enter their changed name and provide the supporting documents for change of name at the time of exam, interview and admission.

Question - In case the website does not work and I am unable to complete my application, what should I do?

Answer - If the registration window or website is not accessible for any reason, then close the internet browser (clear cache & cookies, browsing history of the web browser) and try again.

Question - I have received multiple passwords. Which password should I enter to login?

Answer - Candidates need to use the password contained in the most recent SMS they have received. If still, a problem persists, then simply use your user ID and click on the “forgot password” button. Now candidates will receive a new password on their registered email ID.

Question - I have done my graduation in May-June 2024 but have backlogs, am I eligible to apply for CAT 2024?

Answer - Yes, candidates who are completing their bachelor’s degree by May 2024 are eligible to apply for CAT. However, candidates should select Yes to the question “Are you in the final year of Bachelor’s degree”.

Question - My university name is not listed in the drop-down list while filling the application form?

Answer - If your university’s name does not appear in the drop-down, then one can select the option as “Others” from the drop-down list.

CAT Exam FAQs 2024- Admit Card

Question- Is the CAT admit card out?

Answer- IIM Calcutta will issue CAT 2024 admit card in online mode on November 5.

Question- Is there a specific order for answering sections? Can I attempt sections the way I want?

Answer- You must answer the sections in a pre-specified order and this order will remain the same for all the candidates.

Question - What details will be mentioned in the CAT 2024 admit card?

Answer - The following details will be mentioned on your CAT 2024 admit card.

  • Candidates name
  • Test Date
  • PwD Status
  • Exam time
  • Test centre details

Question - If I do not get my CAT admit card, whom should I contact?

Answer - The CAT 2024 admit card needs to be directly printed from the official website, candidates can use their credentials such as User ID and Password. The CAT admit card will not be mailed to the candidate's residence.

If one is unable to view their CAT admit card after logging in, candidates can use the CAT helpdesk

Question - When should the CAT admit card be produced?

Answer - The CAT 2024 admit card is a mandatory document required for the CAT entrance test. The CAT admit card 2024 will be made available online from the last week of October 2024.

Candidates should follow the instructions which are provided on the CAT admit card. Candidates should affix the same photograph to the physical admit card during the process of registration.

B-School Accepting CAT Scores - Location-wise

CAT Exam FAQs 2024 - Exam Pattern

Question - Can I take the exam from any computer?

Answer - Candidates must take the exam at the allotted examination centre. The venue details will be printed on the CAT admit card.

Question - How is the Computer-based format different from the paper-based (PBT) format?

Answer - In Computer-based mode, candidates read a question on a computer and click on the correct answer from among the given options or candidates have to type such answers where no options are available. Additionally, the timer on the computer screen will tell you the remaining time to complete the present question. In the paper-based (PBT) mode, candidates need to read a question on a paper booklet and use a pencil to darken the ovals in an Answer -sheet.

Question - Where can I select my preference to test date and shift?

Answer - The exam shift (morning, forenoon or afternoon) will be allocated for each registered candidate based on the city preference made at the time of registration. Candidates cannot select the shift.

Question - How many sections are there in CAT 2024?

Answer - CAT 2024 will have three sections.

  • Section I: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
  • Section II: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning
  • Section III: Quantitative Ability (QA)

Question - What does a CBT exam look like?

Answer - CAT practice test is available on the official website of CAT (www.iimcat.ac.in). Candidates can familiarize themselves with the navigation and functionality of the actual CAT entrance exam.

Question - How many non-MCQs are there in each section.

Answer - The number of questions varies and cannot be disclosed.

Question - Can I bring a calculator to the testing centre?

Answer - Candidates are not allowed to bring the calculators to the examination centre. Candidates can use on-screen calculators which will be available throughout the exam.

Question - Is there a specific order for answering sections? Can I attempt sections the way I want?

Answer - Candidates have to answer the sections in a specified order and this order will remain the same for all test takers.

Question - Is there negative marking for non-MCQs?

Answer - No, there is no negative marking for non-MCQs type questions.

Question - Does CAT 2024 have a syllabus for the preparation?

Answer - No, the CAT does not have a pre-defined syllabus for CAT 2024 preparation. During preparation days, candidates can take CAT 2024 mock test to understand the exam structure and pattern as well as the type of questions. Candidates need to check the CAT website regularly for the announcement of the CAT mock test.

Question - What is the marking scheme for CAT 2024?

Answer - For MCQs, 3 marks will be assigned for “correct answer” and no marks for “Unattempted or incorrect answer”

Scoring scheme for Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) is as follows.

  • For each correct answer, 3 marks will be awarded.
  • -1 mark for each incorrect answer
  • No marks will be deducted for unattempted questions.

CAT Exam FAQs 2024 - Answer Key

Question - When will the exam conducting body release the CAT 2024 answer key?

Answer - The CAT conducting body, IIM will release the provisional CAT 2024 answer key in the first week of December 2024.

Question - What is the difference between the CAT answer key and response sheet 2024?

Answer - The CAT response sheet displays the answers provided by the test taker and CAT 2024 answer key displays the correct answer for each section as by the conducting authority.

Quick Links:-

CAT Exam FAQs 2024- Result

Question - How to check the CAT 2024 result?

Answer - Candidates can check the CAT 2024 result in online mode only.

  • Visit the official website and log in through the registration credentials.
  • Now click on “Scorecard”
  • Download and take a print of the CAT 2024 result

Question - When will authorities release the result of CAT 2024?

Answer - Authorities will release the CAT 2024 result in the second week of January 2024.

CAT Exam FAQs 2024- Category Selection

Question - Which documents must I submit if I belong to the SC/ ST category?

Answer - If one belongs to SC or ST category, then your caste/ tribe must be listed in the Government of India schedule. For more details, visit the Ministry of Tribal Affairs website (tribal.nic.in) or refer to the Ministry of Social Justice. The caste certificate that one has uploaded in the CAT application form should be in the Government approved format. The certificate is also available on the official website of CAT. Candidates need to download and print the certificate, which clearly states the following:.

  • Caste name/ tribe
  • Whether one belongs to the Scheduled caste of scheduled tribe.
  • State and district or Union Territory of candidates ordinary residence.
  • The appropriate GOI schedule under which candidates caste/ tribe is approved, whether Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe.
  • Signature of required authorities.

Question - Under which category can I apply for CAT 2024?

Answer - One can apply under the following categories:

  • General
  • Non- Creamy Other Backward Class (NC-OBC)
  • Scheduled Caste (SC)
  • Scheduled Tribe (ST)

Question - Do I belong to the NC-OBC category?

Answer - To know whether someone belongs to the NC-OBC category, visit the https://www.ncbc.nic.in.

CAT Exam FAQs 2024- Persons with Disability

Question - Which are the acceptable testing devices that I can use/ bring to the test centre?

Answer - The approved means of testing assistance are:

Testing Assistance

Applicable for

Arranged by

Abacus (without the calculator)

Visually Impaired

Candidate

Wheel Chair

Locomotive Disability/ Cerebral Palsy

Test center, on request in the CAT Application form

Hearing Aid

Hearing Impairment

Candidate

Scribe/ Reader

Visually Impaired/ Cerebral Palsy

Candidate

Magnifying Screen

Visually Impaired

Test Centre on request (System Inbuilt feature)

Question - Who is eligible to take the test under the PWD category?

Answer - As per the “PwD Act, 1995”, a candidate qualifies to be a PwD, if he/ she suffers for any of the following disabilities for not less than 40 percent as certified by a competent medical authority in the prescribed format. The certificate format is available on the official website of CAT.

  • Hearing Impairment
  • Low Vision/ Blindness
  • Cerebral Palsy/ Locomotive Disability

Question - I am a PwD candidate with low vision/ cerebral palsy or Blindness. What privileges will I receive on the day of examination?

Answer - Candidates suffering from blindness/ low vision/ cerebral palsy will be allowed to bring a scribe. Such candidates will also receive some time extension during the examination.

Question - What will be the time extension given to a PWD candidate?

Answer - PWD candidates with or without scribe will be given a time extension of 20 minutes per section, which comes to a total time extension of one hour for the full exam.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is 3 months enough for CAT?
A:

A period of 3 months is quite enough for the preparation for the CAT exam if the right strategy and planning are incorporated by the candidate.

Q: Is there a limit to CAT attempts?
A:
There is no limit on the number of attempts for the CAT exam. 

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Questions related to CAT

On Question asked by student community

Have a question related to CAT ?

Hello,

Thank you for your question!

KL- MAT syllabus: Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning, English/Verbal Ability, and General Awareness (similar to MAT/CMAT pattern).

CAT scores are valid in many private universities including KL University, but always check the year’s admission notification.

CAT vs other exams: CAT is toughest (IIMs + top B-schools), while MAT/CMAT/ATMA are relatively easier and accepted by many mid-level private universities.

Hello it will clear your doubt!

Hello Aspirant,

  1. I saw a cat. The cat found an old map inside a drawer of the king's palace.

Here's why:

  • "a cat": It's the first time we mention the cat, so it's indefinite.

  • "The cat": Now we're talking about that specific cat we just mentioned, so it's definite.

  • "an old map": It's the first time we mention a map, and "old" starts with a vowel sound, so "an."

  • "a drawer": It's one of possibly many drawers, not a specific one known to us yet.

  • "the king's palace": This is a specific, unique place, so "the."

Hello Kapish

You can find the last 5 year questions of DILR for CAT at Careers360 website. Moreover, you can find the previous year papers of all the subjects i.e. DILR, Quants and VARC. I am attaching the link through which you would be able to access the same.

Here's the link: CAT Previous Year Papers by CAREERS360
Sample paper of DILR: CAT Sample Paper (DILR) by CAREERS360

Thank You!!!


Hello Divya,

Yes, candidates with an online BBA can sit for both CAT and GMAT provided that the degree is from a recognized (UGC approved in India or accredited abroad) institution. The leading B-schools in both India and abroad do not look down upon online degrees as long as the degree is from a recognized body, they will mostly be looking at your test scores, academic performance, work experience, and profile holistically. What matters is the legitimacy of the institution and how you showcase your abilities, not whether your degree was obtained online or in-person.

Yes, someone with an online BBA can sit for both CAT and GMAT, provided the degree is from a UGC recognized university. Top B-schools in India (like IIMs) and abroad generally accept online degrees if they are valid, and you won’t be marked down just because it’s online. What matters more is your entrance exam score, academic record, work experience, and overall profile.