Preparing for the CAT Post XII: Steps to Secure Admission to an IIM

Hello mate, thanks for asking.

Realism and Preparation

Let's be honest with the answer - no false hope and not murdering your dream of being an IIM student. Every college has its definite selection procedure which includes the CAT Score, Academic Performance, Field Diversity, Work Experience, Written Ability Test, GD, and PI. If you can get these two right (CAT and Personal Interview), then there's nothing that can stop you from achieving your dream.

Note: The shared photo illustrates the selection criteria for IIM Lucknow. So, don't waste time overthinking about your past academic performance. Instead, focus on the future and what you can control.

Everyone Can Prepare for CAT

Of course, anyone and everyone can prepare for the CAT. Don't worry about getting into colleges because of your profile. Just keep working hard. If you score a great percentile in the CAT, you can get a good college. I know it's the truth because even I had plans to do an MBA much before I joined for Engineering. But as the mediocrity loving 99.99 junta, I neglected the preparation aspect then and there itself. Quite happy to hear about you.

A 3/4/5 Year Preparation Is Not Needed

'Important Note: A 3, 4, or 5-year preparation is not needed for the CAT. If you are quite sure about your plans to get into an IIM, then follow these steps. Not in any particular order:

Step 1: Consider Non-Engineering UG

Take any non-engineering stream for your undergraduate degree if possible. I know it would be tough to convince your parents, but in the long run, it helps. Many IIMs use the Academic Diversity component to either shortlist for the interviews or award a few points in the final selection calculation. This year, IIMs gave 10 points for non-Engineers. So imagining a 92-iliter non-Engineer versus a 99-iler Engineer, the final score, assuming all other components remain the same, would be equal.

Step 2: Score Good in UG

Learning and studying are indeed cool! You will be valued by people for your knowledge and nothing else. If you do well academically, it will reflect positively on your CAT score and subsequent IIM admission.

Step 3: Engage in Extra-Curriculars and Co-Curricular Activities

To stand out among 3 Lakh people, you need things to boast about. If possible, try to pursue a hobby. Participating in extracurricular activities and co-curricular activities can enhance your profile and make you stand out.

Step 4: Focus on English Speaking and Writing Skills

The most neglected aspect by most aspirants is English-speaking and writing skills. You should be a decent storyteller - by storyteller, I mean you should be able to mold your answers during your interview in a coherent manner. Merely knowing vocabulary won't help you here. Try to speak in English for at least 10 minutes a day. Also, read the editorial sections of newspapers such as The Hindu and The Indian Express. Start reading the front pages too!

Conclusion: Trust that with the right preparation and approach, you can secure an admission to an IIM. The path is challenging, but it's worth it. Good luck and start preparing today!