Low Percentile in CAT and CMAT? Here’s What You Can Do Next
Formfees
03/03/2025
Scoring a low percentile in CAT or CMAT can feel discouraging, but it’s not the end of your MBA dreams. Many students face this situation, and there are multiple pathways to achieve your career goals. Here’s a detailed guide on what you can do next:
Contents
- 0.1 1. Analyze Your Performance
- 0.2 2. Consider Other MBA Entrance Exams
- 0.3 3. Explore B-Schools with Low Cutoffs
- 0.4 4. Improve Your Profile
- 0.5 5. Retake the Exam Next Year
- 0.6 6. Explore Alternative Career Paths
- 0.7 FAQs
- 0.8 Need Help? Connect with Us on WhatsApp!
- 0.9 Stay Updated with Formfees
- 1 Why This Matters
1. Analyze Your Performance
Before making any decisions, take time to understand where things went wrong:
- Identify Weak Areas: Review your sectional scores to pinpoint weak subjects (Quant, Verbal, DILR, etc.).
- Mock Test Analysis: Check if your mock test performance aligned with your actual exam results.
- Time Management: Reflect on whether poor time management affected your score.
2. Consider Other MBA Entrance Exams
CAT and CMAT are not the only options. Explore other MBA entrance exams with lower cutoffs or different exam patterns:
| Exam | Key Details |
|---|---|
| XAT | Conducted by XLRI; focuses on Decision Making and General Knowledge. |
| SNAP | Conducted by Symbiosis; easier Quant section compared to CAT. |
| NMAT | Conducted by GMAC; allows multiple attempts and has a moderate difficulty level. |
| MAT | Conducted by AIMA; accepted by over 600 B-schools in India. |
| ATMA | Conducted by AIMS; focuses on Analytical and Verbal Skills. |
3. Explore B-Schools with Low Cutoffs
Several good B-schools accept lower percentiles. Here’s a list of top colleges with CAT/CMAT cutoffs below 90 percentile:
| B-School | Approx. Cutoff (CAT/CMAT) | Program Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| IMT Ghaziabad | 85-90 percentile | Strong industry connections and placements. |
| Great Lakes Chennai | 80-85 percentile | Focus on analytics and leadership. |
| TAPMI Manipal | 75-80 percentile | Known for marketing and finance specializations. |
| KJ Somaiya Mumbai | 70-75 percentile | Excellent infrastructure and alumni network. |
| IPE Hyderabad | 65-70 percentile | Affordable fees and good ROI. |
4. Improve Your Profile
A low percentile doesn’t define your potential. Strengthen your profile to stand out:
- Work Experience: Gain 1-2 years of relevant work experience to boost your resume.
- Certifications: Pursue certifications like CFA, FRM, or Digital Marketing to enhance your skills.
- Extracurricular Activities: Highlight leadership roles, internships, or volunteer work.
5. Retake the Exam Next Year
If you’re determined to get into a top B-school, consider retaking CAT or CMAT:
- Create a Study Plan: Focus on weak areas and practice regularly.
- Join a Coaching Institute: Enroll in a reputed coaching program for structured preparation.
- Mock Tests: Take at least 20-30 mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
6. Explore Alternative Career Paths
If an MBA isn’t your only option, consider these alternatives:
- Specialized Master’s Programs: Look into programs like M.Sc. in Data Science, M.Com, or M.A. in Economics.
- Government Jobs: Prepare for competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, or Banking.
- Entrepreneurship: If you have a business idea, start your own venture.
FAQs
Q1: Can I get into a good B-school with a 70 percentile in CAT?
A: Yes, several B-schools like IPE Hyderabad and Jaipuria Institute accept candidates with 70 percentile.
Q2: Should I retake CAT or apply to other exams?
A: If you’re confident about improving your score, retake CAT. Otherwise, explore other exams like XAT, SNAP, or NMAT.
Q3: How can I improve my chances of admission with a low percentile?
A: Focus on building a strong profile with work experience, certifications, and extracurricular activities.
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Why This Matters
A low percentile in CAT or CMAT is just a temporary setback. With the right strategy and determination, you can still achieve your career goals. Whether it’s exploring other exams, improving your profile, or retaking the test, there are multiple pathways to success.
