CAT — result, percentile, IIM admission, RTI (2026)
Quick answer: CAT conducted by IIMs (rotating). Result in 30-45 days. Percentile-based. IIM admission: own criteria (CAT + WAT/PI + acads + work-ex + diversity).
Key facts
CAT = Common Admission Test (IIMs + 100+ B-schools)
Conducted in 2-3 sessions; normalised
Percentile-based scoring
IIM admission: holistic criteria (CAT + interview + acads + work-ex)
Each IIM has own selection criteria
Step-by-step process
CAT result + percentile — iimcat.ac.in.
IIM shortlist — Each IIM publishes own shortlist post-CAT.
WAT (Written Ability Test) + PI — At each IIM independently.
Final admission offer — Based on combined criteria.
Re-totalling possible — Within 30 days at iimcat.ac.in.
RTI for criteria + scoring — When standard channels exhausted.
Documents needed
Common issues + how to handle
Percentile dispute — RTI to IIM convener for normalisation formula.
IIM rejection without reason — RTI to specific IIM for selection criteria.
Diversity sector reservation criteria — RTI for definition + application.
Final admission offer dispute — RTI for selection committee minutes.
If stuck — file an RTI
Most “delays” or “rejections” clear within 7-15 days of an RTI being filed. Use this 5-question template:
1. Status of my application no. _____ dated _____ as on date.
2. Name + designation of dealing officer assigned to my file.
3. Reasons for delay beyond the statutory timeline.
4. Copy of any noting / movement of my file in the past 30 days.
5. Likely date of resolution / decision.
Auto-fill the PIO + your case: Open the AI RTI Drafter →
Frequently asked questions
Can I challenge CAT result?
Re-totalling within 30 days. No re-evaluation.
Why IIM rejection despite high CAT?
IIM uses combined criteria (CAT 30%, WAT-PI 30%, acads 20%, work-ex 10%, diversity 10% — varies). RTI extracts your scoring.
Diversity sector — what does it mean?
IIM-specific (gender, education stream, etc.). RTI for exact application.
IIM admission delayed > 6 months?
File RTI to specific IIM admissions office.
Summary + next step
Bottom line: CAT conducted by IIMs (rotating). Result in 30-45 days. Percentile-based. IIM admission: own criteria (CAT + WAT/PI + acads + work-ex + diversity). If delayed beyond statutory timeline, file an RTI — most cases clear within 15 days.
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Last reviewed: 26 April 2026.