1.92 lac students appeared for CAT 2021. Only 3000-5000 will make it to IIMs. Rest 1.87 lac can beat themselves for not making it or they can explore one of the other options.
It is a brutal competition indeed. Many people take gap years just to prepare for CAT and if you don’t make it to top 2.5%, you have no chance of making it to schools like IIMs. There are some very talented, smart and intelligent people in this pool. So, in this post, we explore the way forward for anyone who couldn’t clear CAT.
Let’s get right into it. Here are the immediate next steps to consider:
1. Think what you wanted to do after the MBA and try it directly.
Most people don’t seem to realize that most careers don’t even require an MBA (especially roles in startups).
2. Get work experience
If MBA is crucial for your career goal (read Investment Banking, Consulting, Finance), get good work experience and go for an MBA later with a better profile. B Schools always value great work experience, so your time is not wasted.
3. Take GMAT instead
Honestly, if you are looking for better options after CAT, there is nothing better than GMAT. With the amount of preparation you do for CAT, you can easily get great scores in GMAT. There are many schools in India (and of course all abroad) that accept GMAT scores including IIM A, B, C, XLRI, SP Jain etc. Plus GMAT score is valid for 5 yrs. You can check out our GMAT guide to learn everything about cracking the exam.
4. Use CAT score to apply abroad
You don’t have to delay your MBA plans. Use your CAT score to apply to other schools. For example, HEC Paris accepts CAT score for some of its Master’s programs
Do I need to say that please don’t take a drop? Ok, let me say it. Please never take a drop 🙂 There are solid options that you can try instead of CAT, so, get going.
Remember, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger and not making it to IIM most definitely will not kill you. Many people who did not make it to IIMs are thriving in their careers. So can you.
No comment yet, add your voice below!