The purpose of the Common Admission Test (CAT) exam is to evaluate the aspirants' business acumen based on topics like Quantitative Ability (QA), Verbal Ability (VA), Reading Comprehension (RC), Data Interpretation (DI) and Logical Reasoning (LR). The exam is conducted by the IIMs for admission into their business management programs. A computer-based test, CAT, is held once every year in November.

Career Launcher offers various programs for CAT and other MBA entrance exams and is known as the pioneer in online preparation, as well as classroom coaching with over 100 centers across India. With our blended coaching classes (Classroom + Online Programs), we have built a formidable reputation over the years. Depending on the key features and duration of the course provided, the fees vary for different programs. Starting from INR 5,000 for self-paced courses for subject-specific excellence, it can go up to around INR 70,000 for comprehensive long-term classroom and online courses.

However, there are always discounts available on the payment of fees. Both long-term and short-term classes are provided in all the best coaching for CAT.

Generally, the duration of CAT coaching offered by premier institutes should be anywhere between 10 to 12 months, depending on when you wish to start preparing for the upcoming CAT or any other entrance exam. The preparation for CAT can be done through different types of courses, such as classroom coaching, online classes, or pre-recorded sessions. 

Here at Career Launcher, we have programs for the 2024 as well as the 2025 attempt, for which the duration differs depending on which course you opt for. To know more about our programs, click here.

It is advisable to begin preparations for the CAT exam 10-12 months before the exam. However, you can still crack the CAT if you prepare fiercely in a shorter amount of time. CAT draws the highest number of test-takers in Indian management entrance exams; hence, the competition is very stiff. Since every aspirant will be preparing their best; therefore it is important to start early to stay ahead.

Here are the five ways to kickstart your CAT preparation without coaching:

• Familiarise yourself with the paper pattern, syllabus, etc.
• Get your basics right - work on solidifying the fundamental concepts
• Write consistent online mock tests in the proctored format from day 1.
• Iron out any areas of weakness with revision and practice
• Maintain your perseverance, confidence and motivation

6-8 months of preparation is enough for your CAT preparation if you devote a few hours to your preparation every day. If your fundamentals are weak, you should spend the first 4 weeks solidifying your basics. Here are a few steps to help fuel your 6 months CAT preparation plan:

• Get a strong grip on the Quantitative topics; solve all of your CL Funda books within 30-50 days.
• As a beginner, make it a habit of solving a minimum of 2 RC questions a day. You can gradually increase the number of questions over time.
• Solve LR and DI on a regular basis. If it’s your first time preparing for CAT, prepare question-type-wise.
• Start taking mock tests from the first day of your preparation itself. This will help you benchmark your preparation right from the start.
• Make sure to analyse your mocks in detail.
• Keep a positive mindset, be your own inspiration and never give up.

While CAT is necessary if you wish to get into the IIMs and other premier B-Schools, it is not the only entrance exam for securing admission to a B-school. Apart from CAT, some of the other MBA entrance exams include:

• Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT)
• Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP)
• Narsee Monjee Aptitude Test (NMAT)
• Central University Entrance Test (CUET PG)
• Common Management Admission Test (CMAT)

In addition to these, there are many regional and state-level exams that you may consider taking to secure admissions to the top B-schools across the country.