Many MBA aspirants often ask one common question before starting CAT preparation — What is the minimum percentage required for CAT exam? Understanding the eligibility criteria is very important before applying for the Common Admission Test (CAT), which is the entrance exam for IIMs and many top MBA colleges in India.
What is the CAT Exam Minimum Percentage?
The minimum percentage required for the CAT exam depends on the candidate’s category. According to official CAT eligibility criteria:
- General / EWS / OBC candidates: Minimum 50% in graduation
- SC / ST / PwD candidates: Minimum 45% in graduation
These marks must be obtained in a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
This means students must complete graduation first with the required marks to become eligible for CAT.
CAT Eligibility Criteria 2026 (Overview)
To apply for CAT 2026, candidates must meet some basic eligibility requirements related to education and marks.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
- Candidate must have a bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years).
- Degree must be from a recognized university.
- Minimum marks required:
- 50% for General/EWS/OBC
- 45% for SC/ST/PwD
- Final year students can also apply.
- There is no age limit for CAT exam.
- Work experience is not mandatory.
Graduation marks are the main eligibility requirement; Class 10 and Class 12 marks are not required for CAT eligibility.
CAT Minimum Percentage Requirement Table
Below is a simple table explaining CAT eligibility marks category-wise.
| Category | Minimum Graduation Percentage |
|---|---|
| General | 50% |
| EWS | 50% |
| OBC | 50% |
| SC | 45% |
| ST | 45% |
| PwD | 45% |
This percentage can be marks or equivalent CGPA as per university rules.
Can Final Year Students Apply for CAT?
Yes, final year students are eligible to apply for the CAT exam. However, they must complete their graduation and submit proof of passing before admission to MBA colleges.
If a student fails to meet the required percentage after graduation, their admission may be cancelled.
Is There Any Age Limit for CAT Exam?
One of the best things about CAT is that there is no age limit. Anyone can appear for CAT, including:
- Fresh graduates
- Working professionals
- People changing careers
- Candidates with gap years
So age is not a restriction for CAT exam eligibility.
Are Professional Degree Students Eligible for CAT?
Yes, students with professional degrees can also apply for CAT if they meet the minimum marks requirement. These degrees include:
- CA (Chartered Accountant)
- CS (Company Secretary)
- ICWA/CMA
- Actuarial Science (FIAI)
They must have at least 50% marks (45% for reserved categories) to be eligible.
Important Points About CAT Eligibility
Here are some important points every CAT aspirant should know:
- CAT eligibility is based only on graduation marks.
- Class 10 and 12 marks are not required for eligibility.
- Final year students can apply.
- No age limit.
- No attempt limit.
- Work experience is not mandatory.
- Professional degree holders can apply.
- CGPA is converted into percentage as per university rules.
CAT Eligibility vs IIM Admission Criteria
Many students think that if they meet CAT eligibility criteria, they will get admission to IIM. But this is not true.
CAT eligibility only allows you to appear for the exam.
Admission to IIM depends on many factors like:
- CAT percentile
- Graduation marks
- 10th and 12th marks
- Work experience
- Interview performance
- Written Ability Test (WAT)
- Personal Interview (PI)
So even if you are eligible for CAT, you still need a high percentile to get into top IIMs.
What Happens If Your Graduation Is Less Than 50%?
If your graduation marks are less than required percentage:
- General/OBC/EWS with less than 50% – Not eligible
- SC/ST/PwD with less than 45% – Not eligible
However, some private MBA colleges may still accept students through other exams like MAT, CMAT, or direct admission.
Summary
The minimum percentage required for CAT exam is mainly based on graduation marks. General category students need at least 50% marks, while reserved category students need 45% marks. There is no age restriction for the test, and final-year students are eligible to apply. CAT eligibility is simple, but getting admission into IIMs requires a high percentile and good academic profile.
If you are planning to prepare for CAT 2026, first make sure you meet the eligibility criteria and then start your preparation early to score a high percentile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What is the minimum percentage required for CAT exam?
Candidates need 50% marks in graduation for General/EWS/OBC and 45% marks for SC/ST/PwD categories.
Q2. Can final year students apply for CAT?
Yes, final year graduation students can apply for CAT exam.
Q3. Is there any age limit for CAT exam?
No, there is no minimum or maximum age limit for CAT exam.
Q4. Are 12th marks required for CAT eligibility?
No, CAT eligibility is based only on graduation marks, not on 10th or 12th marks.
Q5. Can a student with backlog apply for CAT?
Yes, students with backlog can apply, but they must complete graduation before admission.
