Do’s & Don’ts for Writing the CAT 2022 Exam

Are you feeling lost and unsure about what career path to take after completing 12th standard?

Say goodbye to confusion and hello to a bright future!

Take The Free Test Now

What is online CAT?

COMMON ADMISSION TEST (CAT) is a computer-based test (CBT) and not an Internet-based test (IBT) i.e. a candidate does not take the test on the Internet. A candidate will read the questions on a computer terminal and choose an answer by clicking on the correct option.

How is the computer-based format different from the paper-based format?

The format of the test is more or less the same except that a candidate reads a question on a computer terminal and clicks on the correct answer, instead of reading a paper booklet and using a pencil to darken the ovals on an answer sheet.

How is CAT administered?

The test cannot be taken from just about any computer. A candidate will have to take the test on a pre-assigned workstation. Students will not have the choice to choose their workstation.

• CAT 2021 will be conducted in three sessions on a single day
• CAT exam will be conducted across 159 cities in India

Also Read:How to Crack CAT 2021 in 2 Months: Useful Section-wise Tips for Aspirants

How is the computer-based format different from the paper-based format?

A candidate does not take the test on an Internet site. The CBT format of CAT is more or less the same except that a candidate reads a question on a computer terminal and clicks on the correct answer, instead of reading a paper booklet and using a pencil to darken the ovals on an answer sheet.

What does a CBT test look like?

To familiarise yourself, you should have a look at the practice test which is available on the official CAT website. You can familiarise yourself with the functionality and navigation of the actual exam. 

Also Read: CAT 2021 Study Plan for Students in Final Year of Graduation - Check When and How to Start CAT Preparation

What are the shift timings for CAT 2021?

The timings for CAT 2021 about to be conducted on November 29 have been provided in the table below.

Where can I select my preference of shift and test date?

The exam shift is allocated for each registered candidate based on the city preference made at the time of application.

ON THE DAY OF CAT 2022 EXAM

What do I have to do when I reach the CAT 2022 test centre?

IIM Indore has provided the entire exam day workflow for candidates appearing for CAT 2021. Candidates can refer to the steps to be followed when at the CAT 2021 exam centre given below.

What is the reporting time for the test?

You will have to reach the examination centre 1.5 hours before the exam. You can check the exam timings from the CAT 2021 admit card. The CAT 2021 will be conducted in three sessions due to the COVID 19 pandemic. 

Also Read:How to Approach CAT 2021 Question Paper?

What are the identification documents required to be carried to the test centre?

Candidates will need to bring the following identification documents on the test day:

a. CAT 2021 Admit Card

b. At least one original (not photocopied/scanned copy) and valid (not expired) photo identification. The name on your photo identification must match your name as entered in the CAT application. Acceptable forms of photo identification are limited to Driver's license, Passport, PAN Card, Voter ID, College ID (supported with a valid ATM/ Credit/ Debit Card with your name), Employee ID, Unique Identification Card (UID), or a notarized Affidavit (in English) with Photo, Signature, Date of Birth and Residential Address. Photocopies of the original are not acceptable. Candidates will not be permitted to take the test if photo identification is not presented.

c. A valid document as proof of SC/ST eligibility (if applicable).

Note: If you are a Differently Abled candidate and have requested for support during the test, please carry the copy of the authorisation of the support that has been sent to you.

Also Read: Common Mistakes to Avoid During CAT Preparation: Tips and Strategies

Does the name need to match with the names appearing on the identification documents?

Your name needs to be identical to the name on your school-leaving certificate.

Note: If the name has been changed due to events such as marriage, you must show the relevant document mentioned below and submit a photocopy at the time of the test, interview and at the time of joining a programme.

• Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, Legal Name Change Document

What are the permitted materials I can bring with me to the test centre?

None. You will not be permitted to bring any personal items to the test centre, including but not limited to wrist-watch, pen, cellphones, calculators, etc.

Calculator in the testing centre

Candidates are prohibited from bringing calculators to the testing centre. You may use the on-screen calculator that will be available throughout the exam.

Important: Admit Card and one photo identification, mentioned above, are mandatory in order to appear for CAT 2021.

Note: You will have to store all other personal items at the test centre at your own risk. Please do not bring any other items to the test centre, as they are not permitted into the testing centre.

Also Read: How to Prepare for CAT Quantitative Ability (QA) - Check Expert Advice, Tips and Tricks

Can I move back and forth between the two sections?

No, each section will be timed separately. Once a section ends, candidates cannot go back to it.

Can I move to the second section if I finish the first section before the designated 40 minutes are up?

There is a specific order for answering sections. Hence you have to attempt sections in the same order as it is given. You must answer the sections in a pre-specified order and this order will remain the same for all the candidates.

If you choose to end your test before the full duration is up, you will be required to wait at your testing station until the test is declared over by the test administrator.

How will the separately timed sections work?

You will not be able to end the first section before the first 40 minutes are up. Similarly, before the second 60 minutes are up you cannot go to the third section. Candidates will be allotted exactly 40 minutes for answering questions in each section and they cannot switch from one section to another while answering questions in a section.

Meanwhile, the CAT 2022 admit card is going to be released on 27th October, 2022 at 5 PM.

If you want to know about the recent changes in the exam pattern of CAT 2022 or exam strategies, you can ask questions on the Collegedekho QnA zone.

For admission-related assistance, fill out the Common Application Form or call on our toll-free number 1800-572-9877. Collegedekho wishes you all the best for CAT 2022!