Choosing Between IIM Rohtak and Retaking the CAT: A Comprehensive Guide
The decision to join Indira Gandhi Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Rohtak this year or retake the Common Admission Test (CAT) can be agonizing. Several factors come into play, from program fit and scoring potential to career goals and financial considerations. In this article, we outline the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Current IIM Rohtak Offer
Reputation and Ranking
IIM Rohtak has been gaining recognition in recent years, but it may not have the same historical prestige as some of the older IIMs. Consider how this aligns with your career goals. If enhancing your brand value and aligning with industry expectations is crucial, you might want to explore higher-ranked institutions.
Program Fit
Evaluate the curriculum, faculty, and specializations offered by IIM Rohtak. Does the program align with your career aspirations and interests? The faculty expertise, teaching methods, and the range of specializations can significantly impact your learning experience and future career opportunities.
Retaking the CAT
Potential for Better Scores
If you believe you can significantly improve your CAT scores, retaking the test may lead to better outcomes and admission to a higher-ranked IIM. Assess your preparation time and whether you are willing to invest the required effort again.
Preparation Time
Consider the time you need to prepare for the CAT and whether you are willing to dedicate this much time again. This preparation can be emotionally and financially exhausting, so ensure you have the necessary resources and support.
Long-Term Career Impact and Industry Preferences
Evaluate how each option impacts your career trajectory. A degree from a higher-ranked institution might open more doors and provide a broader range of job opportunities. Research the industries that interest you and their preferences regarding the institutions from which candidates graduate.
Financial and Opportunity Cost
Tuition Fees and ROI
Consider the financial implications of attending IIM Rohtak versus the potential return on investment (ROI) from retaking the CAT and potentially securing admission to a higher-ranked IIM. Higher fees might come with greater ROI if the placement opportunities are better at a higher-ranked institute.
Time Delay
Retaaking the CAT means delaying your MBA by another year, which might impact your career timeline. Consider how this delay will affect your current professional plans and personal aspirations.
Conclusion
Ultimately, weigh the pros and cons based on your personal and professional goals. If IIM Rohtak meets your career aspirations and you feel confident about the program, it may be a good choice. However, if you have the potential to achieve a significantly better outcome by retaking the CAT and securing admission to a higher-ranked IIM, it might be worth the effort.
Remember, if you are not getting into any IIMs better than IIM Rohtak, you can still take the CAT next year while being at IIM Rohtak. This might save you 6-7 lakhs, but if the next institute offers a much better placement scenario, it would be a wise choice.
One of my batchmates from IIM Trichy switched to the Faculty of Management Studies (FMS) after one year, and his package is much higher than ours. This underscores the importance of carefully evaluating all options before making a decision.