Scoring 90 in Major Examinations: Percentiles, Eligibility, and Expectations

Reaching a score of 90 in major examinations like JEE Main and CAT can significantly impact your eligibility for advanced stages and overall percentile rankings. This article dives into the expectations and outcomes of scoring 90 marks in such competitive tests, along with tips to improve your score in the days leading up to the exam.

Understanding Your Eligibility for JEE Main and Advanced

Firstly, it's important to understand the eligibility criteria for JEE Main and Advanced. For candidates from the general category, scoring 90 marks in JEE Main is likely to be insufficient to qualify for the JEE Advanced. Even if you manage to secure around 85 to 87 percentile, this may not be enough to make the cut.

However, if you are from a reserved category, your chances of qualifying for JEE Advanced are much higher. The JEE Main for this year consists of 300 marks, with the top 2% of candidates in each category being shortlisted for the JEE Advanced. Therefore, aiming for a minimum of 85 to 87 percentile will help you stand a better chance of qualifying for JEE Advanced.

Interpreting the Score of 89 in JEE Mains

One of our peers in the batch who scored 84 in the January JEE Main attempt achieved a remarkable 89th percentile. Based on historical data, if you score 90 marks in JEE Main, you can expect a similar percentile range. Therefore, you may secure around a 90.5 to 92 percentile, depending on the difficulty of the paper and the overall performance of the candidates in your shift.

Performance Expectations in CAT

Moving on to the CAT (Common Admission Test) that is widely used by top B-schools for MBA admissions, the scenario is somewhat different. For a score of 90 in CAT, which accounts for 30 out of the total 100 marks, you can anticipate a percentile between 75 to 80. This is based on historical performance from previous years, where individuals who scored 90 points have achieved percentiles as high as 83 to 85.

Tips for Improving Your Score

To achieve and maintain a high score in these competitive exams, it's crucial to focus on your preparation and revision in the final leg of the exam period. Here are a few key tips:

Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weaker sections and work on them diligently. Spend extra time on subjects where you are struggling. Practice Previous Year Papers: Solving past papers will help you understand the patterns and types of questions asked. This will also boost your confidence and reduce exam anxiety. Time Management: Practice time management during your practice sessions to ensure you can complete the exam within the given time frame. Rest and Relaxation: Ensure you get adequate rest and take breaks to avoid burnout. A relaxed mind performs better on the exam day. Stay Informed about Changes: Keep yourself updated with any changes in the exam pattern or syllabus to stay prepared.

By following these tips and staying focused, you can enhance your chances of achieving a high score and securing a competitive percentile in JEE Main, CAT, and other major examinations.

Conclusion

Scoring 90 in exams like JEE Main and CAT can significantly influence your admission prospects and percentile rankings. Whether you are from the general or reserved category, understanding your eligibility for advanced stages and taking measures to improve your performance can make a substantial difference. Remember, consistent effort and strategic preparation are key to achieving your goal.