Test Preparation

CAT has become one of the most competitive exams for preparation to judge the potential of the candidates willing to pursue their career in Business Administration. Ending a three-decade-old paper-pencil format for the Common Admission Test (CAT), the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) have decided to adopt a computer based model for CAT 2009. The new Computer Based Test (CBT) will be embraced by IIMs across the country - Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Kolkata, Indore, Kozhikode, Lucknow and Shillong, and will give the students the flexibility to select a date convenient to them from a specified period of 10 days. The new system is also expected to help the Institutes of Management cope effectively with the increasing number of candidates every year. While around 95,000 candidates took CAT in 2003, the number rose to about 2,50,000 in 2008, reflecting a phenomenal growth, bringing the administrative system under severe pressure. With the online test, CAT will be similar to the GMAT test in its process.

The CAT will be conducted at Prometric centres across India.

In 2003, CAT question paper had been leaked and this resulted in a retest being held later that year. Computer-Based Test will ensure enhanced security in terms of biometric identification of candidates and video monitoring. Such a format is expected to improve communication between candidates and IIMs in terms of programme information, test delivery, receipt of admit cards and receipt of score reports. However, the nature of study preparation does not depend on whether the CAT is a paper-based or a computer-based test.

Every year, the CAT has changed in some way or the other. This year, the change is with respect to the mode of taking the test. As far as preparing the concepts are concerned, there will not be any change. However, one must go through sufficient online practice to acclimatise oneself with the online testing process. One needs material that will cover basic concepts explained in a friendly manner, CAT application-based questions for practice with explanatory answers and test papers. Also, it is a good idea to check out the material of most of the reputed MBA training institutions.

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