Introduction to CAT Percentile 90 in 2021
In today’s competitive world, the CAT (Common Admission Test) results and percentiles play a crucial role in securing admission to top B-schools. Let's explore the implications of securing a 90th percentile in the CAT 2021, a common question asked by many aspirants.
The Significance of 90 Percentile
When we talk about a 90th percentile in CAT 2021, it means that you have performed better than 90% of the test-takers. This seems like a respectable score, but its significance varies significantly based on the aspirations and background of the aspirant.
Overall Population Insights
It is important to consider that around 190,000 candidates had appeared for the CAT 2021. Each percentile represents approximately 1,900 candidates. Therefore, achieving a 90th percentile means that 19,000 candidates rank higher than you. This is a large pool of candidates, and it raises the question: is 90th percentile sufficient to secure admission to your desired business school?
Tier 1 vs. Tier 2 B-schools
For aspirants targeting Tier 1 colleges such as IIMs and other top-tier institutions, a 90th percentile might not be sufficient. The competition is extremely high, and these institutions often have stringent cutoffs. For instance, the 90th percentile_cutoff varied from 90 to 94 in 2021, whereas the 90th percentile_cutoff for Tier 2 colleges was lower. However, for students aiming for Tier 2 or Tier 3 colleges, a 90th percentile could open many doors.
Category-Specific Considerations
The overall percentile score can also vary based on the category an aspirant belongs to. If you belong to a general category, the bar for admission to top institutions is higher. However, if you are from a reserved category (such as SC, ST, or EWS), a 90th percentile in CAT 2021 could be a promising score.
Female Non-Engineers and SC/ST Aspirants
It's important to note that for female non-engineers and SC/ST aspirants, a 90th percentile can be considered a good score. Female non-engineers often face additional challenges in the entrance exams, and a 90th percentile could be a significant achievement. Similarly, for SC/ST candidates, this percentile is highly commendable, as it can still secure their admission to top B-schools.
Suggestions for Improvement and Applications
For students who have secured a 90th percentile, the next step is to evaluate their profile and determine the right set of B-schools to apply to.:
1. Evaluate Your Profile: Assess your background, experience, and any additional achievements that could strengthen your application.
2. Research B-schools: Based on your profile, identify the B-schools that align with your goals. Consider institutions that offer a combination of academics, internship opportunities, and faculty.
3. Prepare Applications: A strong application requires thorough preparation. Make sure to craft a compelling personal statement, secure strong recommendations, and submit all necessary documents on time.
Conclusion
The significance of a 90th percentile in CAT 2021 can vary significantly based on individual circumstances. For those targeting Tier 1 institutions, a 90th percentile may not be sufficient, but for Tier 2 and 3 colleges, it can still be a strong contender. Regardless of your category, a positive mindset is key. Focus on leveraging your current percentile to strengthen your application, and prepare for future endeavors.