The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2024, one of the most anticipated MBA entrance exams in India, has concluded successfully. Conducted by IIM Calcutta, the exam saw candidates from across the country appear in three slots. The first slot ended at 10:30 am, and the second at 2:30 pm. Candidates and experts alike rated the exam’s overall difficulty level as moderate.The number of questions this year increased to 68, compared to 66 in 2023. Slot 1 and Slot 2 papers were both moderately challenging, according to test-takers.
Interestingly, CAT 2024 expanded its reach, increasing the number of test cities from 167 to 170. However, candidates could choose only five preferred test cities during registration, a reduction from the six options available in the previous year.
The CAT 2024 results are expected to be announced in the second week of January, marking a slight delay compared to previous years. This shift is attributed to the record-breaking number of registrations, resulting in an expanded pool of aspirants.
CAT: A Gateway to Premier B-Schools
CAT is more than just an exam; it’s a pathway to securing admissions in India’s prestigious business schools, particularly the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). However, beyond the IIMs, there are other top-tier management institutes in India that offer world-class education and have consistently ranked among the best.
According to the IIRF 2024 rankings, several business schools outside the IIM ecosystem are recognized for their excellence. These institutes not only boast high academic standards but also have competitive CAT cut-offs, moderate fee structures, and impressive placement records. Here’s a closer look:
FMS – Faculty of Management Studies, University of Delhi, Delhi
FMS Delhi is renowned for its unmatched return on investment (ROI) and consistently ranks as one of the top MBA programs in India. With a course fee of just INR 2.00 lakh, it remains an economical choice for aspirants. The CAT 2024 cut-off for FMS is expected to be around 98.54 percentile.
IIFT Delhi – Indian Institute of Foreign Trade, New Delhi
IIFT Delhi is celebrated for its expertise in international business. The institute produces graduates who excel globally, supported by robust placement statistics.
IIT Bombay – Shailesh J Mehta School of Management (SJMSOM), Mumbai
SJMSOM offers an excellent MBA program at a fee ranging between INR 8.27 lakh and INR 20.00 lakh. For CAT 2024, the cut-off percentile is projected at 97.5 percentile. According to NIRF data for 2022-23, all 115 students graduating within the stipulated time were successfully placed.
IIT Delhi – Department of Management Studies (DMS), New Delhi
DMS IIT Delhi is another top B-school that blends technology and management expertise. Its MBA program has a course fee of INR 12.00 lakh, with a CAT cut-off of 98.04 percentile. The 2022-23 academic year saw all 124 students placed, with a median salary of INR 24.45 lakh per annum.
These institutes showcase the diversity and quality of MBA education available in India, offering aspirants various choices beyond the IIMs. With competitive CAT scores and a well-rounded profile, candidates can target these leading schools to advance their careers in management.
