The Common Admission Test (CAT) registrations have declined this year, with only around two hundred thousand candidates registering. Data shows that while 194,516 candidates registered for CAT 2013, only 173,738 took the exam. Industry experts believe this number drop is due to the current economic downturn.
However, it is unclear whether the economy genuinely causes this trend, whether CAT is losing its appeal among MBA candidates, or if they are just opting for simpler alternatives.
Here are 5 reasons MBA aspirants can do without CAT:
Alternative MBA entrance exams
In addition to the CAT exam, many other MBA entrance exams are available in India, such as XAT, MAT, CMAT, and GMAT, which many business schools accept. These exams may have different formats and focus on other areas, providing a better fit for some candidates based on their strengths and preferences.
For example, the XAT exam focuses on decision-making and analytical reasoning; the MAT exam focuses on verbal and mathematical skills; the CMAT exam focuses on management aptitude; and the GMAT exam focuses on speaking, mathematical and analytical skills, which many international business schools accept. By considering these alternative exams, MBA aspirants can have more options to choose from and increase their chances of getting into their desired business school.
Non-exam-based MBA programs
Some business schools offer MBA programs that do not require an entrance exam. These programs may base their admissions decisions on work experience, academic performance, and extracurricular activities. These programs are also called Executive MBA programs and usually focus on working professionals with years of experience who want to take their careers to the next level.
They are designed to provide practical skills, knowledge and understanding directly related to the applicant's current job and future career aspirations. The focus is more on the applicant's professional profile rather than their test-taking abilities. By considering non-exam-based MBA programs, MBA aspirants can have more options and increase their chances of getting into a business school that aligns with their professional goals and experience.
International MBA programs
Many MBA programs outside of India do not require the CAT exam and instead focus on other factors such as work experience, academic performance, and GMAT scores. These programs may also require additional application materials such as essays, letters of recommendation, and interviews. The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a standardised test widely accepted by many international business schools to measure applicants' readiness for graduate-level business studies.
The GMAT is designed to assess a candidate's analytical, quantitative, verbal and reading skills, which are essential for success in graduate-level business programs. By considering international MBA programs, MBA aspirants can have more options and increase their chances of getting into a business school that aligns with their professional goals and experience.
Specialised MBA programs
Some MBA programs specialise in finance, marketing, and operations. These programs are designed to give students a deep understanding of the specific field and the skills necessary to excel in it. The CAT exam may not be as crucial for these programs as work experience, internships, and education in the relevant field. Admissions to these programs are based more on the applicant's professional profile, relevant work experience, internships and education in the specific field.
For example, suppose an applicant has several years of experience in finance and has completed appropriate education and internships. In that case, they may be considered for a specialised MBA in finance program even if their CAT scores are low. By considering specialized MBA programs, MBA aspirants can have more options and increase their chances of getting into a business school that aligns with their professional goals and experience.
Personal or professional reasons
Some MBA aspirants may skip the CAT exam for personal or professional reasons. These reasons may include health issues, family responsibilities, or work commitments. It's essential for MBA aspirants to consider their current personal and professional situation and to make a decision that is best for them. Pursuing an MBA is a big commitment, both in terms of time and money, and it's essential to make sure you balance your personal and professional responsibilities with your MBA studies.
Sometimes, it may be better to delay the MBA until a more suitable time or consider other options, such as non-exam-based MBA programs or specialised MBA programs, which may have more flexible admission requirements.
