If you are set to get an MBA in India, the CAT (Common Admission Test) is your golden ticket to India’s top B-schools. But what exactly does CAT percentiles have to do with college admissions?
In this blog, we’ll explain the MBA college admission by CAT percentile by creating a comprehensive list of colleges admitting different ranges of percentiles and their estimated cutoffs for 2025.
What is a CAT Percentile?
A CAT percentile shows the proportion of test-takers who scored lower than you in the test. For instance, if your percentile is 90, it implies you fared better than 90% of test-takers.
Significance of CAT Percentile in MBA Admissions
Your CAT percentile is the primary filter in shortlisting candidates in the majority of top MBA/PGDM institutions. Although academics, work experience, and profile are given importance by some institutions, CAT scores hold considerable importance in:
- Shortlisting for Group Discussions (GD)
- Personal Interviews (PI)
- Final rounds of admission
MBA Colleges Accepting CAT Percentile – 2026
Below is a carefully handpicked list of MBA colleges based on your CAT percentile range:
Top MBA Colleges by CAT Percentile (2025 Expected)
| CAT Percentile Range | Top MBA Colleges | Location | Approx. Fees (INR) | Average Package (INR) |
| 98–100 | IIM Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, FMS Delhi | PAN India | ₹12L–₹25L | ₹25LPA–₹35LPA |
| 95–98 | MDI Gurgaon, IIM Trichy, IIM Udaipur, IIT Bombay | Gurgaon, Trichy, Udaipur, Mumbai | ₹10L–₹22L | ₹15LPA–₹25LPA |
| 90–95 | IMT Ghaziabad, XIMB, DSE, TAPMI | Ghaziabad, Bhubaneswar, Delhi, Manipal | ₹8L–₹14L | ₹10LPA–₹15LPA |
| 85–90 | GIM Goa, LBSIM Delhi, K J Somaiya, FORE | Goa, Delhi, Mumbai | ₹6L–₹10L | ₹7LPA–₹10LPA |
| 75–85 | BIMTECH Noida, IFMR GSB, Welingkar Mumbai | Noida, Chennai, Mumbai | ₹6L–₹9L | ₹6LPA–₹9LPA |
| 60–75 | NDIM Delhi, JIMS Rohini, VIT Vellore | Delhi, Vellore | ₹4L–₹6L | ₹4LPA–₹7LPA |
| Below 60 | IILM, Jaipuria, IMS Ghaziabad, UPES | Delhi-NCR, Dehradun | ₹3L–₹6L | ₹3LPA–₹6LPA |
Factors Apart from CAT Percentile
Your CAT score is important, but most B-schools have a holistic admission policy. Here are the other things they look at:
- Academic history (10th, 12th, Graduation)
- Work experience
- Diversity factor (academic or gender)
- GD-PI-WAT performance
- Extra-curricular achievements
How to Select the Correct College Depending on CAT Percentile
- Be realistic about your percentile – aim for colleges in your score range.
- Beyond the IIMs – great ROI and industry exposure can be found in numerous private institutes.
- Verify placement figures, fees, and ROI before applying.
- Apply to dream, reach, and safe schools.
Final Thoughts
Your CAT percentile is an entry to numerous top MBA schools, but it is not a sole deciding element. With smart planning and suitable strategy, even a lowly percentile can get you into a well-known B-school.
Leave a comment