Navigating the Admission Gates of New IIMs: Understanding the Role of Percentile and Other Factors
Scoring a 93 percentile in the Common Admission Test (CAT) can be a significant achievement for aspiring students aiming to join the New Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). However, it's important to understand that while a high CAT percentile may position you well, it does not guarantee a call from these prestigious institutions. This article delves into the various factors influencing the admission process and offers valuable insights for candidates.
The Role of Percentile in Admission
A 93 percentile on the CAT is certainly competitive for admission to new IIMs, but it may not be enough to secure a call. The admission cut-off percentiles for new IIMs can vary each year depending on several factors, including the overall performance of applicants, the number of applicants, and the specific IIM admission criteria.
Over the past few years, new IIMs have generally had lower cut-off percentiles compared to the older, more established IIMs. For example, some new IIMs may have cut-off ranges from 85 to 95 percentile. However, other factors such as academic background, work experience, and performance in Personal Interviews (PI) and the Written Ability Test (WAT) also play a significant role in the selection process.
Understanding Specific Admissions Trends
To increase your chances of selection, it's advisable to focus on the interview process and refining your overall profile. Checking the admission trends and cut-off scores of specific IIMs from previous years can provide valuable insights. For instance, a general category student would find it challenging to get a call with a 93 percentile, as the cutoff has typically been around 94-95 percentile. However, for reserved category students, a 93 percentile and decent performance in PI and WAT can significantly enhance their chances of getting a call.
The Broader Selection Criteria
A lot more than a high CAT percentile comes into play when considering admission to new IIMs. Several factors are considered, including gender diversity, academic diversity, work experience, and grade percentages from various educational stages. Each institute uses different weightages for different components, and in some cases, even a 100 percentile may not guarantee a call because of the weightage of other criteria. CAT only serves as a rejection criteria, not a selection criteria.
There are certain websites that offer prediction systems, allowing you to input your details and estimate which IIMs you might get calls from. However, these predictions are based on past data and may not fully capture the nuances of each year's admission process. Therefore, it's crucial to prepare comprehensively, focusing not only on your CAT score but also on enhancing your interview skills and overall application profile.
Conclusion
In summary, while a 93 percentile on the CAT is a strong foundation, it is one of many factors considered in the admission process to new IIMs. Understanding the broader selection criteria, including other components like academic and work experience, is essential. By preparing diligently and understanding each IIM's unique admission process, you can increase your chances of securing a call and advancing your career goals.