What After CAT Exam? Selection Process, Things to Do

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most competitive exams in India for admission to management programs offered by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other reputed business schools. After months of rigorous preparation, appearing for the CAT exam can be both a relief and a nerve-wracking experience. However, the admission journey doesn't end there. After qualifying the CAT Exam, candidates are required to prepare for the admission counselling, Written Aptitude Test, GD, and Personal Interviews. In this article, we have presented a comprehensive guide on what to do after the CAT exam:

Evaluate Your Performance:

Reflect on how the exam went. Refer to the CAT Answer Key and evaluate your approximate scores.

Relax and Rejuvenate:

Take a well-deserved break to relax and recharge your mind and body. Engage in activities that you enjoy. Avoid dwelling on the exam or discussing it excessively with others. Give yourself time to rejuvenate before getting back to prepare for the further selection process.

Stay Updated:

Keep yourself updated with the latest news and notifications regarding the CAT exam, including result dates, cutoffs, and admission processes of various B-schools.You may subscribe to credible sources and regularly visit the official CAT websites for accurate information.

Prepare for Other MBA Entrance Exams:

While awaiting your CAT results, you can utilize this time to prepare for other MBA entrance exams such as XAT, SNAP, NMAT, and CMAT. As each of these exam has its own unique pattern and syllabus, so familiarize yourself with their respective formats and practice accordingly.

Improve Weak Areas:

Identify your weak areas based on your CAT performance and mock test analysis.Devote extra time to strengthen these areas through targeted practice and study.

Revise & Review General Knowledge and Current Affairs:

Many B-schools include a section on General Knowledge and Current Affairs in their entrance exams and interview processes. Stay updated with current events, business news, and general knowledge topics by reading newspapers, magazines, and online portals regularly.

Research B-Schools and MBA Specializations:

Research and shortlist B-schools based on your CAT percentile, academic background, career goals, and preferences. Also, explore various MBA specializations and career paths to align your aspirations with the programs offered by different B-schools. You can consider consulting a career counsellor for better advice.

Prepare for Group Discussions and Personal Interviews (GD-PI):

Practice group discussions and mock interviews to improve your communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and confidence.Keep yourself updated about the trending topics, current affairs, and industry-related issues for effective participation in group discussions and interviews. Refer to expected interview questions and GD topics available online for effective practice.

Network and Seek Guidance:

Connect with current MBA students, alumni, and industry professionals to gain insights about the B-schools, MBA programs, and career opportunities you are interested in. Seek guidance from mentors, teachers, or professional consultants for personalized advice and assistance.

Stay Positive and Maintain Confidence:

Believe in yourself and stay positive throughout the post-CAT phase. Remember that your CAT score is just one aspect of your MBA application. Maintain confidence in your abilities and stay focused on your goals, regardless of the outcome of the CAT exam.

In conclusion, the period after the CAT exam is an important phase for MBA aspirants to regroup, strategize, and prepare for the further selection process and admissions. We hope this article provided you useful information about what to do after CAT exam. Download the Testbook App to get online resources for MBA entrance preparation.