CAT Selection Process 2025: Check IIM Admission Criteria, Cut Offs, Dates and PI Shortlist

IIM Selection Procedure Through CAT Score

The IIM selection procedure generally consists of three phases:

1. Shortlisting of Candidates
2. WAT/GD-PI Round
3. Final Selection

Phase 1: Shortlisting of Candidates

In this stage, each IIM shortlists candidates based on their CAT score compared to the specific cutoffs set by each institute. For General category candidates, the minimum cutoffs are usually around the 90th percentile or higher, while reserved categories may have lower cutoffs. Candidates scoring above the cutoff become eligible for the interview round. However, shortlisting also considers academic records.

Phase 2: WAT/PI Round

Candidates who clear the first phase move on to the WAT-PI round. This stage is crucial, as it heavily influences the final selection. Over recent years, some IIMs have replaced the Group Discussion (GD) with WAT, while others conduct only the Personal Interview (PI).

Phase 3: Final Selection

In the final phase, candidates are evaluated on multiple parameters, including their CAT score, WAT, PI, academic background, and work experience. Each parameter is assigned a specific weightage, as shown in the example below:

Note: This is an example based on IIM Bangalore's criteria for CAT 2023. Weight distribution may vary across different IIMs.

Common Admission Process (CAP)

The Common Admission Process (CAP) is conducted for the newer IIMs, which include IIM Bodhgaya, IIM Kashipur, IIM Sambalpur, IIM Sirmaur, IIM Jammu, IIM Ranchi, IIM Trichy, and IIM Udaipur. CAP follows a unified selection process, involving WAT and PI rounds, with common cutoffs and weightages.

Key Points of the IIM CAP Process for 2025:

• Participating IIMs send a list of shortlisted candidates to the institute conducting CAP.
• The CAP conducting IIM organizes the WAT-PI rounds for these candidates.
• After CAP, each participating IIM evaluates candidates individually to finalize their merit lists.
• Final selection lists are published on the respective IIM websites for selected candidates.

IIM Interview Call Letter

Shortlisted candidates for the first round will receive call letters through their registered email IDs. The call letter will provide information on:

1. Registration link and last date to complete registration

2. Date, time, and venue for WAT/GD and PI rounds

3. List of required documents, including:

• Class 10 and 12 mark sheets and certificates
• Graduation mark sheet and certificate
• Reservation category certificate (if applicable)
• IIM interview call letter
• CAT 2024-25 scorecard

IIM Shortlist Status 2025-27

The shortlist for the 2025-27 admission cycle will be released by individual IIMs following the CAT 2024-25 result announcement. Candidates will be able to check their shortlist status on each IIM’s website by logging into their account.

Once announced, candidates will need to confirm their acceptance by following the instructions provided and paying the requisite admission fee to secure their place at the respective IIM.

Top 10 Non-IIM Colleges Accepting CAT Scores 2024

The following is a list of the top 10 non-IIM colleges accepting CAT 2024 scores, selected based on criteria such as educational quality, infrastructure, faculty, placements, and rankings:

Other Notable Non-IIM Colleges Accepting CAT Scores

Aside from the above top institutions, many other reputable non-IIM colleges accept CAT scores. Here are some popular options along with their course details and average placement packages:

Tips for Securing Admission to Top Non-IIM Colleges with CAT Scores

Gaining admission to top non-IIM colleges that accept CAT scores requires a well-rounded approach. Here are some essential pointers:

1. Understand Admission Criteria: Research the specific selection criteria used by each college, focusing on aspects like academic background, relevant work experience, and extracurricular achievements alongside CAT scores.

2. Excel in the CAT Exam: A high CAT score is crucial. Aim to thoroughly prepare across all sections, focusing on areas like problem-solving, verbal reasoning, and data interpretation.

3. Enhance Your Profile: Complement your academic profile with leadership experience, extracurricular achievements, and skills relevant to the management field.

4. Prepare for Group Discussions and Personal Interviews: Many top institutions use GD and PI rounds. Practice discussing current topics, industry trends, and effectively communicating your career ambitions.

5. Craft a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP): The SOP is an opportunity to convey your motivations for choosing a particular course and institution. Highlight achievements and goals aligned with the college’s values.