Introduction
As one of the most prestigious and competitive entrance examinations in India, the Common Admission Test (CAT) is a gateway to business schools. Achieving the 99th percentile is a significant milestone for many aspirants, marking a high level of performance relative to other test-takers. The following article will explore the scores required to achieve the 99th percentile in CAT 2021, and how various factors influence your percentile ranking.
The Basic Structure of CAT
The CAT exam is divided into three sections: Quantitative Ability (QA), Verbal Ability Logical Reasoning (VARC), and Data Interpretation Logical Reasoning (DILR).
For CAT 2021, each section was out of 100 marks, making a total of 300 marks. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice and numerical answer questions, with a total time of 180 minutes.
Scoring System and Percentile Calculation
The percentile score of a candidate is determined by their relative performance compared to all other test-takers. It does not solely depend on the absolute score obtained. To be part of the 99th percentile, you must score higher than 99 percent of the test takers.
For CAT 2021, the general rule of thumb is that about 55 to 60 marks out of the total 300 marks is required to achieve the 99th percentile. However, it is crucial to understand that the exact score can vary depending on the distribution of scores among the candidates. Therefore, it's essential to consider the following points:
Understanding the Relationship Between Score and Percentile
As an illustrative example, if you scored 155 out of 300 in CAT 2011, which had 100 questions, you would have achieved the 99th percentile. This implies that you scored at least 155 marks, outperforming 99% of the test-takers from that year.
Current CAT 2021 Scoring Distribution
In the recent CAT 2021, the average topper scores an impressive 240/300. This means that to secure the 99th percentile in CAT 2021, you need to demonstrate a high level of proficiency in all three sections.
Factors Influencing Percentile
Several factors apart from raw scores can influence your CAT 2021 percentile. These include:
Sectional Strengths and Weaker Sections
Your strong and weak sections play a significant role. If you excel in QA and VARC but struggle in DILR, your overall score might be lower than those who have balanced strengths.
Overall Test Performance
Even if your individual section scores are not among the top, a high overall score with good performance in more sections can push you to the 99th percentile.
Exam Trend and Difficulty Level
The difficulty level of the exam can vary from year to year. In some years, the test might be easier, leading to higher average scores and thus making it harder to achieve the 99th percentile. Conversely, in a tougher year, the score required to break the 99th percentile might be lower.
Conclusion
In summary, achieving the 99th percentile in CAT 2021 requires a well-rounded strategy and a high overall score. While the exact score can vary, aiming for around 55 to 60 out of 300 marks is a reasonable target. Remember, your percentile is a relative measure, heavily influenced by your performance in comparison to the competition. With consistent practice and a focused approach, you can enhance your chances of securing a high percentile.
Best Wishes to All Aspirants for CAT 2021!