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The IBSAT 2025 test will take place online with remote proctoring during the final week of December. If you want to take the test, you need to prepare frequently. Read this article by Career 360 to Understand the changes and trends from the previous five years that will help you determine what type of questions you'll encounter on the IBSAT exam.
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IBSAT Past 5 Year Exam Analysis
This Story also Contains
- IBSAT 2024 Overall Analysis
- IBSAT 2024 Section Wise Analysis
- IBSAT 2025 Preparation Tips
- IBSAT Cutoff (Previous year)
- IBSAT 2025 Exam Preparation Books
- Other Important IBSAT 2025 Preparation Resources
The IBSAT was formerly conducted as a computer-based Test (CBT), but the IBSAT paper pattern has been changed to a remote proctored exam. One important aspect is that there is no negative grading, so you may answer as many questions as you like without losing points. This Careers360 article offers helpful preparation advice along with the test format for the last five years.
Past 5 Years IBSAT Exam Analysis
The following table will share the trend of IBSAT over the past 5 years.
- The duration of the IBSAT exam for past five years: 120 minutes (2 hours)
- The total number of Questions in IBSAT exam: 140 questions
- Choice per Questions in IBSAT past five years: 5 options
- Total number of sections: 4 sections
Year | Number of Questions | Sections | IBSAT Difficulty Level |
| IBSAT 2024 | 140 | 4 (Four)
| Easy to Moderate |
| IBSAT 2023 | 140 | 4 (Four)
| Moderate |
| IBSAT 2022 | 140 | 4 (Four)
| Easy to Moderate |
IBSAT 2021 | 140 | 4 (Four)
| Moderate to Difficult |
IBSAT 2020 | 140 | 4 (Four)
| Moderate |
IBSAT 2019 | 140 | 4 (Four)
| Easy to Moderate |
IBSAT 2018 | 140 | 4 (Four)
| Easy |
As you can see, IBSAT has maintained a fairly consistent pattern for the past 5 years. Prior to that, the patterns were flexible and saw several changes. The overall difficulty level is easy to moderate, which has been maintained over the years. Now we will share with you a detailed section-wise analysis of the IBSAT exam.
Check out the IBSAT Section-wise Difficulty Level & Review
IBSAT 2024 Overall Analysis
- IBSAT 2024 was organized in an online proctored format on December 28 and 29 in a number of slots.
- The paper was of the same pattern with 140 questions distributed across four sections, without negative marking.
- The difficulty level of the entire exam was easy to moderate, making well-prepared students attempt most of the questions with confidence.
All questions were printed in uppercase; no lowercase letters were employed during the paper.
There were visible differences in the subject matter and question types from the 2023 examination.
Candidates were able to switch between sections without any restriction as there was no sectional timing.
It was possible to attempt 32–34 questions per section within 25–30 minutes.
17–20 correct answers per section with a high level of accuracy were enough for a competitive score.
The anticipated cut-off for ICFAI Hyderabad would be around 60–65 percentile, while other ICFAI campuses might have the same or slightly modified cut-offs.
Experts opine that the highest percentile range would be between 80–90 for top-notch selection.
IBSAT 2024 Section Wise Analysis
As you have seen in the above table, there are four sections in the exam of equal weight. Each question carries one mark. The section-wise analysis is given as follows:
1. Verbal Ability
- This part was fairly straightforward, with questions being largely direct and grammar-based.
- Vocabulary-based questions were somewhat tricky but easy to handle with good English.
- Subjects covered were synonyms, antonyms, idioms, cloze tests, sentence correction, and jumbled paragraphs.
- Trying 32–34 questions within 25 minutes was easily achievable for adequately prepared candidates.
IBSAT Sample Papers with Answer Key
IBSAT model papers & practice set with answer key. Download IBSAT questions & answers in PDF format.
Download EBook2. Reading Comprehension
- The section was divided into 4 passages, each approximately 500–600 words in length, with a total of 30 questions.
- They were a combination of direct factual and inferential types, with the latter taking more time.
- The level of difficulty was moderate to a bit challenging because of inference questions.
- It was a good benchmark to solve 20–22 questions correctly in about 25 minutes.
3. Quantitative Ability
- The Quant section had a balanced combination of arithmetic, algebra, and geometry-based questions.
- Difficulty overall was moderate, with questions demanding conceptual clarity as well as speed in calculation.
- Topics such as percentages, profit & loss, speed & time, algebra, permutations, and probability were common.
- Well-prepared candidates could attempt 21–23 questions with confidence in 25–30 minutes.
The difficulty level was a mix of moderate and tough questions. The topics included Percentages, likelihood, progressions, work problems, the ratio of proportion, distance and time, heights, etc. Very few questions can be classified as sitters, with most questions being of a moderate to high difficulty level. The quantitative part is definitely a notch higher in terms of difficulty, and a good student who prepared well should have been able to attempt around 15–18 questions correctly.
4. Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency
- In this section, data sufficiency, pie charts, line graphs, percentage change, and ratio-based problems were emphasized.
- The level of difficulty was moderate, with some questions being quite complicated.
- Logical reasoning and quick data analysis were the secrets to performing well in this section.
- Achieving 17–20 questions correct within 25–30 minutes was possible by well-prepared students.
Also check the Best Books for IBSAT Preparation
IBSAT 2025 Preparation Tips
As you have known by now, the difficulty level of the IBSAT is easy to moderate. Hence, the preparation should not take much toll on you. In case you have not started taking the mock test yet, here is your chance to download the IBSAT sample paper and practice. Since the IBSAT is conducted in a proctored home-based format, you will get an added advantage by solving the sample paper online.
If you have already prepared for CAT, MAT, CMAT, ATMA, or XAT, tackling IBSAT will not be of much difficulty for you. The difficulty level of IBSAT is lower in comparison to that of MAT, CAT, CMAT, and ATMA. The sections and syllabus are also on similar lines. Apart from practicing, revise the formulae, vocabulary, and grammar.
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Recommended eBooks
Related eBooks & Sample Papers
IBSAT Cutoff (Previous year)
The minimum IBSAT cutoff scores for getting a GDPI call scheduled at IBS are given below.
Campus | Cut off |
62+ | |
62+ | |
65+ | |
68+ |
IBSAT 2025 Exam Preparation Books
Getting help from trusted IBSAT study materials can really boost your preparation. Careers360 has put together a list of the best practice books for management exams to help you get ready. Check out the recommended books below:
Book Title | Authors |
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT | Arun Sharma |
Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Nishit Sinha |
Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT | Sarvesh Verma |
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT | Nishit K. Sinha |
A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal |
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | Abhijit Guha |
Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency | Ananta Ashish |
Other Important IBSAT 2025 Preparation Resources
Candidates can also improve their IBSAT preparation by downloading and studying ebooks from Careers360. These ebooks are made to help with B-school exam prep and provide useful tips to improve understanding and performance. Using these resources can help candidates strengthen their knowledge and refine their study strategy for the IBSAT exam.
eBook Title | Download Links |
3000+ Most Important Words - Vocabulary Builder | |
500+ Most Important Idioms and Phrases | |
300+ Most Important Phrasal Verbs | |
Permutation & Combination - Video Lectures and Practice Questions | |
Mastering DILR Questions with Expert Solutions |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why is it vital to understand previous year examination trends?
A:
Understanding the patterns and enhancements over the last five years might provide insight into what to expect on the IBSAT examination.
Q: How many sections are there in the exam?
A:
There are four sections in the exam of equal weightage.
Q: Is there any change in IBSAT exam pattern?
A:
No, IBSAT has maintained a fairly consistent pattern for the past 5 years.
Q: What is the level of the IBSAT exam?
A:
The overall difficulty level is easy to moderate.
Q: How many questions are there in Reading Comprehension?
A:
The reading comprehension section had four passages with a varied number of questions. The passages were 500 to 900 words, and the questions were easy and direct in nature
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Questions related to IBSAT
On Question asked by student community
Have a question related to IBSAT ?
Hello student
Here are some preferred books for IBSAT exam preparation:
*Quantitative Aptitude:*
1. "Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations" by R.S. Aggarwal
2. "Quantum CAT" by Sarvesh K. Verma
*Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning:*
1. "Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning" by Arun Sharma
2. "Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation" by K. K. Kundu
*Verbal Ability:*
1. "Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension" by Ajay Singh
2. "Verbal Ability" by R.S. Aggarwal
*General Knowledge and Current Affairs:*
1. "General Knowledge" by Manohar Pandey
2. "Current Affairs" by Arihant Publications
*IBSAT Specific Books:*
1. "IBSAT Guide" by Bulls Eye
2. "IBSAT Prep Guide" by Career Launcher
*Online Resources:*
1. IBSAT official website ((link unavailable))
2. Online mock tests and practice papers
Remember to practice regularly, take mock tests, and focus on your weaknesses to improve your performance. Good luck with your IBSAT preparation!
Hi,
IBS Aptitude Test is a test to find out your aptitude in the area of IBS. It helps you understand how well you handle stress and anxiety, how much you can cope with pain and discomfort, what are your strengths and weaknesses. The test is designed for people who have been diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
How does it work?
The test consists of two parts: an online questionnaire followed by a paper-based assessment. You will be asked to answer questions about yourself that may reveal information about your symptoms, lifestyle habits or personality traits which could affect the way you feel.
Thank you!
Hello,
IBSAT 2021 is scheduled on December 25, 2021 and December 26, 2021. The examination will be conducted in online mode. You do not have to book the slot to attend IBSAT 2021 examination. The examination center, date and time will be allotted to you and it will be given on the admit card. You need to attend the examination as per the details given on the admit card. The admit card will be soon released on the official website. You can download the admit card on the official website: ibsindia.org (https://general.ibsindia.org/mba-pgpm/index.asp?utm_source=google&utm_medium=IBSAT-Sitelink&utm_campaign=IBSAT2021Search&utm_source=Google&utm_medium=CPC&gclid=CjwKCAiAh_GNBhAHEiwAjOh3ZLO-1PvdD8J0Niclcqx4SSJRs4WvB-cB6seYvqriDJT6YlI8ntRIwxoCWQEQAvD_BwE#about)
IBSAT is a home proctored exam and it will held in the last week of December. You should check your admit card and email that whether you have received login credentials or not. In order to give this exam you must have username and password. At the test day they will be sending you the test link and you will have to login with your username and password. If you do not have login credentials then contact their team as soon as possible but only after checking your mail and admit card properly. They will thoroughly guide you everything.
Hello Aspirant.
Hope you are doing well.
NMAT = The National Medical Admission Test (NMAT) in Philippines is a national level examination pre-requisite by the applicant for entry to any medical school in the Philippines.
MAT = Management Aptitude Test, commonly known as MAT exam is conducted by the All India Management Association. Through this test, thousands of applicants bag admission to the top-tier B-schools of the country. It takes place 4 times a year.
IIFT = IIFT is a national-level management entrance exam conducted annually by National Testing Agency (NTA), for admission to its MBA (https://www.bing.com/search?q=MBA&filters=sid%3a75c75897-cd4a-8192-85b0-c7f302150a81&form=ENTLNK) (IB) program.
SNAP = SNAP entrance exam, commonly known as Symbiosis National Aptitude Test is an MBA level entrance exam that is attempted by almost 2 lakh students all over India to secure admission in the Symbiosis Business Schools. SNAP Test is conducted by Symbiosis International University (SIU). There are a total of 16 Symbiosis Institutes affiliated with SIU.
CMAT = The CMAT exam is one of the most popular MBA entrance exams. Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) is a national level entrance test conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA). Till 2018, it was conducted by All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) as per the directions of Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), Government of India.
IBSAT = The full form for IBSAT is ICFAI Business School Aptitude Test (IBSAT). It is one of the most popular and prominent university level entrance examinations for pursuing MBA, PGPM & PhD (part-time/full-time) programs in India. IBSAT 2021 is an entrance test which is conducted by ICFAI Foundation For Higher Education.
XAT = Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is a national-level MBA entrance test conducted by Xavier Labor Relation Institute (XLRI) Jamshedpur on the behalf of Xavier Association of Management Institutes (XAMI).
GOOD LUCK, STAY MOTIVATED AND HOPE THIS HELPS.
Thankyou.
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