CAT 2024 Exam Day Instructions - Rules, What to Carry, Do's and Don'ts
Understanding CAT 2024 exam day instructions is crucial for test-takers to have a smooth exam experience. Check out important CAT exam instructions, do's, don'ts, exam day workflow, and other instructions!
CAT 2024 Exam Day Instructions must be known by every CAT aspirant before they appear for the exam. Every year, more than 2 lakh students apply for the CAT exam and work their fingers to the bone to crack it. However, no amount of preparation or any strategy will help you pass the exam if you’re not aware of the CAT 2024 exam day instructions. There are certain CAT exam rules that candidates must abide by on exam day, including the do’s and don’ts. From carrying the CAT 2024 admit card to the exam center to dressing up properly, students need to pay attention to some important things for a smooth exam experience.
The CAT exam this year will be conducted onNovember 24, 2024, in three slots as per the CAT 2024 notification which was released on July 28, 2024. IIM Calcutta will release an official test guide containing all the important CAT 2024 exam day instructions on the official website. To ensure a hassle-free experience, here are all the CAT exam instructions and rules that you must follow on exam day. You can also find a detailed CAT 2024 exam day workflow that you will have to follow and know about the things to carry for the CAT 2024 exam.
Also Read:
CAT 2024 Exam Day Guidelines
In order to have a successful CAT exam day, you must follow certain guidelines that have been put in place to ensure the well-being of every test takers. Check out the CAT exam day guidelines mentioned below:
- Candidates must make sure that they reach the examination center with ample time to complete all the formalities before the exam.
- Candidates must not forget to carry their CAT admit card and the required government-issued Photo ID proof. To err on the side of caution, candidates should carry two copies of the required documents.
- Candidates must not sign their CAT admit card prematurely. The admit card should only be signed in the presence of the CAT exam invigilator.
- The photo that candidates will attach to the CAT admit card must be the same as the one uploaded during the CAT registration process.
- Candidates should also make sure that they do not have any rubbish or scrap paper in their pockets as only the CAT admit card and the Photo ID proof are allowed inside the exam hall.
- The writing pad provided for rough work during the CAT exam has to be returned after the examination is over. Candidates should also make sure to write their name and registration number on the rough pad.
- Any kind of electronic gadgets are prohibited inside the CAT examination room. Thus, candidates must refrain from carrying such items to the examination center.
- Any kind of clothes with pockets, metal jewelry, and heavy footwear is also prohibited inside the CAT examination hall.
- Bags and other kinds of luggage are not allowed inside the examination hall. Candidates must make sure they carry all the required documents in a transparent folder.
- Candidates with medical conditions who have metal inside their body like metal implants or pacemakers will be required to submit medical certificates for the same at the CAT exam hall.
CAT 2024 Exam Day Instructions: Do's and Don’ts
Below are some important guidelines regarding the CAT 2024 that candidates must follow at each point for a hassle-free examination experience.
Do's | Don'ts |
|
|
Also Read: Do’s & Don’ts for Writing the CAT 2024 Exam
What to Carry to the CAT 2024 Test Centre?
Students appearing for CAT 2024 must be aware of what to carry and what not to carry at the exam centre to avoid any hassle. Here is a list of things to carry for CAT exam:
- CAT Admit Card: The CAT Admit Card 2024 is mandatory to carry into the examination hall. The admit card is also known as the ‘Hall Ticket’ without which, the candidates cannot enter the examination hall.
- Photo Identity Proof (Government)
- Aadhar card
- Voter ID
- Driving license
- Passport
- PAN card
- Employer ID
- College ID
- Identification affidavit
- Authorization Form: CAT authority will issue the candidate an authorization form, which is necessary to carry to the examination hall to get permission for special items.
- Name Change Document: Candidates whose names have changed as a result of any circumstance (such as marriage, a legal name change, or a divorce) must have official documentation confirming the name change.
- Affidavit of Scribe & Medical Certificate: Candidates who fall under the PwD category must bring a medical certificate substantiating their claim of disability as well as a scribe affidavit (on the form provided by IIMCAT) to the CAT 2024 examination hall.
What Not to Carry to the CAT 2024 Test Centre?
The exam authority of CAT has forbidden many things inside the exam hall, and any student is not allowed to take the exam if found in the possession of those things. The following items are not allowed inside the CAT 2024 examination hall:
- Wristwatches
- Mobile Phone
- Purse/Handbag
- Log Tables
- Calculator
- Camera
- Wireless/Bluetooth Devices
- Other Electronic Gadgets
- Geometry/ Instrument/ Pencil box
Relief to Carry Accessories Against CAT Exam Day Authorization Form
Though candidates are not allowed to carry any accessories and electronics inside the examination hall, they can take them inside only if they are necessary for their medical health and prescribed by an MCI-approved doctor. In that case, the CAT authority will issue the candidate an authorization form, which is necessary to carry to the examination hall to get permission.
Reasons to Avoid Carrying Prohibited Items on CAT Exam Day
Candidates who violate the CAT exam's dress code and prohibited item policies risk severe repercussions, including exam disqualification. On the day of the CAT exam, carrying prohibited items could have the following consequences:Disqualification: Candidates risk being disqualified from the examination if they are discovered to be in possession of prohibited items.
Loss of personal belongings: Any personal items that candidates leave outside the exam room are their responsibility.
Cancellation of Candidature: Candidates who attempt to cheat or use unfair methods during the exam risk having their CAT applications cancelled.
Also Read: CAT 2024 Exam Day Mistakes You Must Avoid
Dress Code for CAT 2024 Exam Day
The CAT aspirants should take note of the following guidelines pertaining to the dress code to avoid issues at the time of entry:
- Metal jewellery is not permitted to be worn by candidates.
- Inside the examination hall, candidates are not permitted to wear closed-toed shoes, caps, jackets, or clothing with pockets or huge buttons.
- Candidates who have metal implants, pacemakers, or other devices in their bodies must submit a medical certificate for those devices.
- The test lab allows socks, plain pullovers, sweaters, and cardigans (without pockets).
CAT 2024 Exam Day Workflow
From reaching the exam centre to exiting it, there is a certain workflow for the examination, which has to be followed. The staff at the examination centres and the invigilator will assist you through the process and help you. Following is the exam day workflow:
Also Read:CAT Exam Centres
How to Use Google Map Link on CAT Admit Card to Find the Test Centre?
There are often unavoidable delays on exam day since candidates frequently struggle to find the exact location of their CAT 2024 exam centre. In order to prevent this, IIM included a new Google Map Link feature on the CAT 2024 admit card that allows applicants to confirm the precise location of the test centre that has been assigned to them. Candidates simply need to download their CAT admit cards in order to access the same, and then click on the Google Map link to acquire directions to the exam centre.
Verification of Documents and Biometric Registration
Candidates must have their documents validated after entering the test centre and undergoing the frisking process (security check).
- The original ID proof and admit card for the candidate, both of which are attached with photographs, will be examined on the desk. Candidates will be requested to continue with biometric registration after their documents have been verified.
- The left thumb impression and picture of the candidate will be taken.
- The attendance sheet must be signed by the candidates.
Exam Day Guidelines for PwD Candidates for CAT 2024
- Candidates with disabilities (PwD) will get an additional 40 minutes (total of 160 minutes) to finish the test.
- Separate rooms will be allotted to floors with elevator access or on the ground floor.
- PwD candidates will receive special coordinators.
- PwD candidates who have a scribe must carry an affidavit that has been properly signed by both the candidate and the scribe.
- A wheelchair will be made available to applicants who demand one (as stated on their admit cards).
- According to the specifications listed on the admit card, the "Zoom" option will be made available on the candidate's test console (for candidates who are visually impaired).
CAT 2024 Exam Day Key Activities and Time Slots
The following schedule has been created based on the schedule of last year’s CAT exam:
Time | Activities | Approx. Time for the Activity | Remarks | ||
Shift 1 | Shift 2 | Shift 3 | |||
7.00 AM | 11.00 AM | 3.00 PM | Reach the Test Centre (candidate’s reporting time) | - | The gate closes 15 minutes prior to the beginning of the exam. |
7.05 AM | 11.05 AM | 03.05 PM | Find the Test Lab number | 1-5 Minutes | From the Barcode Desk, the candidate determines where the Exam Lab is. |
7.10 AM | 11.10 AM | 03.10 PM | Scrutiny of Admit Card | 1-5 Minutes | At the entry gate, the documents are first examined. |
7.15 AM | 11.15 AM | 03.15 PM | Deposit personal belongings (mobile phone, bag etc.) | 1-10 Minutes | Candidates are required to deposit their personal belongings at the entry gate |
7.25 AM | 11.25 AM | 03.25 PM | Frisking of candidates | 3-5 Minutes | Security personnel assigned to frisk candidates. |
7.30 AM | 11.30 AM | 03.30 PM | Document (ID card and Admit Card) checking at the Test Lab entrance | 1-10 Minutes | Document verification is done. |
7.40 AM | 11.40 AM | 03.40 PM | The candidate reaches the exam hall | 1-10 Minutes | The candidate arrives at the examination hall. |
7.50 AM | 11.50 AM | 03.50 PM | Candidates go to the Registration Desk and sign (manual) on the attendance sheet | 1-5 Minutes | Candidates must sign the Attendance Sheet available at the Registration Desk. |
7.55 AM | 11.55 AM | 03.55 PM | Registration Process | 1-10 Minutes | The photographs of candidates are captured and the iris is scanned as per process. |
8.05 AM | 12.05 PM | 04.05 PM | In order to confirm that it is their photo, candidates check it on the registration terminal. | 1-5 Minutes | At the registration terminal, the candidate verifies the image that was captured. |
8.10 AM | 12.10 PM | 04.10 PM | The candidate sits at the terminal | 1-5 Minutes | The candidate inspects the Console assigned to them in the exam lab. At the terminal, there is a pen and a scribble pad. |
8.15 AM | 12.15 PM | 04.15 PM | Login to the Test screen | 1-5 minutes. | Candidate completes first login procedure. |
8.20 AM | 12.20 PM | 04.20 PM | Verify & confirm profile information | 1-5 minutes. | The applicant validates and verifies the profile information they provided during CAT 2024 registration. |
8.25 AM | 12.25 PM | 04.25 PM | Read the Declaration and agree to the same | 1-5 minutes. | The candidate reads all of the exam instructions before clicking "Accept." |
8.30 AM | 12.30 PM | 04.30 PM | Test Starts | 120 minutes. | CAT 2024 exam begins. |
10.30 AM | 02.30 PM | 06.30 PM | After the test is over, the candidate shares the feedback. | 1-5 minutes. | 120 minutes later the exam is over, and the feedback page appears on the screen. The candidate offers his opinions. |
10.35 AM | 02.35 PM | 06.35 PM | Return Admit Card, pen and Scribble Pad | 1-5 minutes. | The candidate drops the admit card, pen, and scribble pad in the appropriate boxes. |
10.40 AM | 02.40 PM | 06.40 PM | Leave the test lab and take the items you deposited | 1-5 minutes. | Candidates leave the exam hall and gather their belongings (if any) |
10.45 AM | 02.45 PM | 06.45 PM | Leave the Test Centre | - | The candidate exits from the Test Centre. |
Candidates must follow these CAT exam instructions and take note of all the things to carry for the CAT exam.
Related Articles:
Get Help From Our Expert Counsellors
FAQs
What are some important CAT 2024 exam day instructions?
Some of the important CAT 2024 exam day instructions are-
- Reach the exam centre at the reporting time mentioned on your admit card.
- Carry photocopies of CAT 2024 admit card
- Carry original ID proof
- Avoid carrying any prohibited items
- Carry necessary medical certificates if required
Will a photocopy of my ID proof be accepted at CAT 2024 exam centre?
No, a photocopy of your ID proof will not be accepted at CAT 2024 exam centre. Candidates will be required to carry their original ID proof to the CAT exam centres. They will not be allowed to enter with a photocopy of their ID.
Can I carry money inside the CAT 2024 exam hall?
Yes, you are allowed to carry paper notes inside the CAT 2024 examination hall without a wallet. However, you will have to leave any coins outside and their safety will not be guaranteed by the exam centre so it is best not to carry coins.
Can I carry any medical equipment inside the CAT 2024 exam hall?
If a candidate has any electronic equipment or accessory that is vital to their health and is prescribed by an MCI-approved doctor, they can get an authorization form issued to carry it inside the CAT exam centres. The authorisation form must be brought to the exam centre for permission to do the same.
Is an electronic copy of CAT 2024 admit card accepted at the exam centre?
No, an electronic copy of CAT 2024 admit card is not accepted at the exam centre. Candidates must carry a printed copy of their CAT admit card. Showing a digital copy will not grant you entry inside the CAT exam hall.
What do I do if I am having trouble finding my CAT 2024 exam centre?
In case candidates have trouble finding the CAT 2024 exam centre, they can check the digital copy of the CAT 2024 admit card which contains a Google Maps link to the CAT exam centre. Candidates can use their phones or laptops to access the link and find the location of their exam centre and how to reach it.
How can I find my time and session for CAT 2024?
CAT 2024 examination session and timing including the reporting time will be mentioned on your CAT admit card. Make sure that you take note of the given time and reach early to avoid the last-minute rush. If a candidate reaches the exam centre after the gate is closed, then he will not be allowed entry to the exam hall.
What are the prohibited items at the CAT 2024 exam centre?
The following items are not prohibited inside the CAT 2024 examination hall:
- Wristwatch
- Mobile Phone
- Purse/ Handbag
- Log Table
- Calculator
- Camera
- Wireless/Bluetooth Devices
- Other Electronic Gadgets
- Geometry/ Instrument/ Pencil Box
If a student is found carrying these items to the CAT 2024 exam hall, then he may be disqualified from the exam.
What items should I carry to the CAT 2024 exam centre?
The items to be carried to the CAT exam centre include-
- CAT 2024 admit card
- A photo ID proof such as Aadhar Card, Voter ID, Driving Licence, Passport, etc.
- Name change documents
- Medical certificate in case of any special condition like if you have a pacemaker.
- Medical certificate and Scribe Affidavit for PwD candidates
Will the CAT exam centre have space for safely keeping mobile phones?
In general practice, most of the CAT exam centres have some arrangements for storing a candidate's mobile phones and other important items. However, the safety of such items cannot be guaranteed and the candidate is instructed to not bring them to the exam centre.