CAT Eligibility, Selection Process and Career Prospects
If you want to prepare for CAT, you will need to start by knowing your eligibility, understanding how you will be selected, and learning about the opportunities available to you after taking the test. CAT (Common Aptitude Test) is one of the most competitive management entrance examinations in India and has easy and broad requirements for candidates seeking entry into CAT. The assessment actually starts after CAT through IIMs’s shortlisting process, interview process and final composite scoring. Check CAT Eligibility 2026 – Criteria, Selection Process & Career Prospects Explained under the Article.
This guide outlines all of the eligibility requirements for CAT; all of the selection stages of CAT; and all of the career opportunities available. The formatting of this guide is simple and easy to read and comprehend.
Need information on how the CAT exam compares to other exams such as MAT? Understand the differences between how they differ in their structure, difficulty level, as well as how student success translates into future career opportunities by looking through our in-depth guide CAT and MAT Exam: Understanding the Differences and Choosing the Right Path.
CAT Eligibility Criteria at a Glance
Fresh graduates, working professionals, and even final-year students can apply for CAT as its eligibility criteria is extensive enough to allow for such categories of applicants.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
| Education | An undergraduate degree with atleast 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD). |
| Final-Year Students | They are eligible, only if they submit proof of completion within the deadline. |
| Age Limit | No age limit |
| Work Experience | Not necessary (but can add weightage during final selection process). |
| Nationality | Indian residents + NRIs + foreign nationals (as per specific institute norms). |
Accepted Degrees
- Engineering, Commerce, Science, Arts, Management and all UGC-recognised degrees
- CA, CS, ICWA (treated as equivalent to a bachelor’s degree)
With no bias or discrimination against any particular academic discipline, the CAT is able to attract aspirants from various professions.
Reservation Policy for CAT (Common Aptitude Test)
CAT (Common Aptitude Test) is consistent with the reservation scheme provided by the Government of India.
| Category | Reservation % |
| SC | 15% |
| ST | 7.5% |
| OBC–NCL | 27% |
| EWS | 10% |
| PwD | 5% (across categories) |
Candidates applying under any of the above-mentioned categories should be able to provide valid certificates as required by IIM guidelines.
CAT Selection Process: How IIMs Shortlist Candidates
While the specifics of the CAT selection process differ slightly from one IIM to another, they are all built around a common three stage selection process.
1. CAT Exam Performance
The first level of filtering for IIM selection will be your overall and sectional scores from the CAT. Each institute has set a minimum sectional cut-off to ensure balanced competency.
2. Shortlisting for WAT–GD–PI
Shortlisted candidates will receive invitations to attend a WAT (Written Ability Test) or Essay Writing, a GD (Group Discussion) which will be conducted by a few selected institutes and lastly to a PI (Personal Interview). The Personal Interview is the most critical component of this selection process.
3. Final Merit List & Composite Score
The selection processes at the IIMs take into consideration the weighted formula such as:
| Parameter | Typical Weightage (Range) |
| CAT Score | 25–60% |
| Personal Interview | 20–40% |
| WAT/GD | 5–10% |
| Academic Profile (10th, 12th, Graduation) | 5–20% |
| Work Experience | 5–15% |
| Gender Diversity | 2–5% |
| Academic Diversity | 2–5% |
With its comprehensive multi-factor system, the CAT ensures a fair test-taking experience for all. If you want to know more about question types, section-wise format, scoring rules, and time limits you can read our detailed guide on the CAT Exam Pattern and CAT Marking Scheme.
Career Prospects After CAT
The CAT provides entry into many of the best management positions available in India, as well as abroad.
1. Roles After MBA from Top B-Schools
- Finance: Investment Banking, Equity Research, Corporate Finance, Financial Modelling, Financial Advisory, Financial Analyst
- Marketing: Marketing Analyst, Manager – Sales & Operations, Senior Business Development Manager, Business Research Analyst
- Operations: Supply Chain Manager, Project Manager, Operations Specialist, Management Executive
- OB & HR: HR Generalist, People Manager, HR Associate, Human Resources Officer , Assistant Manager – HR & Administration, HR Business Partner (BHR), Talent Acquisition Specialist
- IB & Strategy: International Business Development Executive, Export–Import Executive, Associate Business Research, Strategy & Planning Analyst, Strategy Consultant, Growth Strategy Executive
2. Post-MBA Salary Trends
The top IIMs report that their graduates receive salaries ranging from 20 to 30 lakhs per annum, with consulting and product being the highest paying sectors.
3. Long-Term Career Growth
Typically, those graduating with an MBA are enabled to become:
- C-suite roles (CEO, COO, CMO)
- Leadership positions in global firms
- Entrepreneurship and startup founding
- International management roles
A well-defined career path is the primary reason many students choose to pursue CAT over other entrance exams.
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