Navigating the IIM Selection Process: Tips and Insights from a Top Cat Aspirant

As a current CAT 2020 aspirant, I have had a journey filled with both highs and lows, including receiving calls from several Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) but not from the top-tier ones. This article aims to provide insights and tips based on my experiences and the lessons I have learned.

Receiving Calls from IIMs

Recently, I received calls from a few IIMs such as:

Despite this, I didn’t pursue any of these offers as I am determined to secure a spot in one of the top 10 business schools in India. This process has been disheartening at times, especially after scoring a 97.9 percentile in the CAT, yet success is not guaranteed by percentile alone.

Struggling with Top IIMs

I was disappointed not to receive calls from several top-tier IIMs despite my high percentile. It is important to accept that the selection process is complex and not entirely predictable. Blaming the system does not help; instead, I have decided to focus on the available opportunities and prepare diligently for the CAT 2020 exam.

Preparing for CAT 2020

To increase my chances of success, I have started intense preparation for the CAT 2020 exam. My goal is to give my 110 percent, fully dedicating myself to the process. The CAT, which is the Common Admission Test for Management, is a crucial step in securing a place in one of India's top business schools.

Lessons from the Current Situation

Despite my high CAT percentile, I also received calls from some of the newer or less prominent IIMs, including IIM Vizag. However, I have not cleared any of these calls yet. I am currently waitlisted for several, though I cannot remember the exact number. The experience has been a mix of both success and failure.

Reflection on My Experience

One of the key takeaways for me is that interviews play a significant role in the final selection process. Several students who also scored at my percentile received calls, which I attribute to their more impressive interview performance. This highlights the importance of both academic performance and the personal interview in the overall selection process.

Acknowledging Failure

Although I was not successful in securing a call from all the top IIMs, I believe it is important to acknowledge and learn from my failures. This experience, while challenging, has made me more resilient and determined to succeed in my future endeavors.

Stay Motivated and Upvote

I would like to thank those who have upvoted my previous articles. Your support motivates me to continue sharing valuable insights and tips with fellow CAT aspirants and IIM hopefuls. Keep upvoting, as it helps me reach a wider audience and provides encouragement to stay on track with my preparation.