IIM Ahmedabad Admission Test (IAT) 2026: Dates, Interview Schedule, Admission, Sample Paper

Yes, if you appear for the CBSE improvement exam as a private candidate and score higher marks, then the latest marksheet will be considered as your valid Class 12th result. For IIM A, B, C and other top IIMs, they look at the final updated marksheet that you present at the time of admission.

So, if you improve your percentage from 70% to 90%, then definitely the improved score will be counted in your profile evaluation. Just make sure you give the exam through the official CBSE improvement route and keep the valid documents.

Hey Ramesh! Looking at your profile—10th: 92%, 12th: 93%, Master’s CGPA: 8.3, no work experience, SC category—you have a solid academic record. For top IIMs like Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and Calcutta, SC category candidates usually need a CAT percentile of around 92–94 to have a realistic chance at admission. Other IIMs like Lucknow, Indore, Kozhikode may require slightly higher percentiles, around 94–96. For FMS Delhi, SC candidates typically need 95+ percentile.

Remember, these percentiles are approximate and can vary slightly each year depending on the competition and number of seats. Sectional cut-offs also matter, so make sure to perform well in all sections of CAT. Since you have no work experience, your academic record will carry more weight, which is in your favor. My suggestion is to aim for 95+ percentile to keep your options open across IIMs and FMS. Also, consider applying to other top MBA colleges alongside, to maximize your chances. With focused preparation, your profile is competitive for SC category seats.

Hi Lokendra

As you are from SC category and also a PWD candidate, your chances of getting a call from IIM A,B,C will be very good at 60 - 65 percentile. The official minimum percentile required for your category (cutoff) is 50 percentile but the safe percentile for getting a call from IIM ABC is 65 percentile. The safe percentile to guarantee your admission would be 80 percentile.

To know more about CAT: CAT by CAREERS360

Hope this answer helps! Thank You!!!

Hello,

Depending on the IIM, SC or PWD candidates minimal percentile for an IIM call typically falls between 50 and 70. Generally speaking, a percentile score of 80 or more is seen as a safe bet for admission assurance. However, various IIMs and even different years for the same IIM may have varying cut offs and admission chances.

Hello Aspirant,

1. Minimum Percentile for IIM A/B: While there isn't a specific percentile to guarantee you admission to IIM Ahmedabad or IIM Bangalore, a 99+ percentile CAT score is typically deemed competitive at these schools in particular for GEM candidates. The percentile is only one consideration alongside your academic history, experience and other accomplishments, so the required percentile is variable.
2. Is it worth trying without work experience - It is possible for you to get into IIMs with no work experience; however, preferably in particular for IIM A/B, candidates typically have gained work experience along with 2+ other years in the workplace when they apply for an MBA. These colleges want candidates to demonstrate real-world experiences where they were impactful, have taken on leadership roles etc. In other words, if your goal is Management Consulting, the experience in your current job offer will provide you with solid practical experience and credibility to apply later.
3. Should wait or go ahead with job offer - If Management Consulting is your goal, the real value of the job offer is through the work experience. Over the long term, securing work experience through the job offer is valuable and beneficial to your profile. IIMs really appreciate a mix of academic performance, experience in the workforce and individuals who demonstrate past leadership potential to make the jump into an MBA. Besides, if you take the job, it also gives you time to stretch your mind to determine if management consulting is really what you want to do with your life before you apply for an MBA.