Many students aspire to pursue an MBA, and India provides a wealth of opportunities to realize that goal. The Amrita Common Aptitude Test (ACAT) is one of the new assessments that students need to be aware of. The Amrita School of Business (ASB), a division of the esteemed Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University, which is renowned for its top-notch instruction and all-encompassing approach to student development, administers this test.
As a competitive entrance exam, the ACAT evaluates applicants' aptitude for management education, assisting Amrita School of Business in selecting the best candidates for its prestigious MBA programs. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about ACAT, including its structure, eligibility, registration process, preparation tips, and more.
1. What is ACAT?
The Amrita Common Aptitude Test (ACAT) is an entrance exam conducted by Amrita School of Business to select candidates for its flagship MBA program. The exam is designed to evaluate candidates on various dimensions, such as quantitative aptitude, verbal ability, data interpretation, and general awareness. Successful candidates can gain admission into one of the six campuses of Amrita School of Business, located in Coimbatore, Bengaluru, Kochi, Amritapuri, Amaravati, and Nagercoil.
Unlike other MBA entrance exams such as CAT, MAT, or XAT, ACAT is specific to Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, offering an excellent opportunity for students who want to study in a university known for its academic excellence, industry connections, and global collaborations.
2. Why Choose Amrita School of Business?
The Amrita School of Business is one of the leading business schools in India, known for its holistic approach to education and strong industry partnerships. Here are a few reasons why you might consider applying to ASB:
- Accreditation: Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is accredited by NAAC with an A++ grade and is ranked among the top private universities in India.
- Innovative Curriculum: ASB's curriculum is designed to combine traditional management studies with a focus on sustainability, ethics, and social responsibility.
- Global Exposure: The university has partnerships with leading international universities, offering students opportunities for exchange programs and dual degrees.
- Placement Opportunities: The school boasts impressive placement records with top recruiters such as Deloitte, KPMG, Cognizant, Infosys, and TCS.
3. ACAT Exam Structure and Syllabus
The ACAT exam is structured to test candidates' abilities in key areas essential for management studies. Here’s a breakdown of the exam pattern:
Section |
Number of Questions |
Verbal Reasoning & Language Comprehension |
25 |
Data Interpretation & Analysis |
25 |
General Knowledge of Indian and Global Scenarios |
25 |
Quantitative Aptitude |
25 |
Duration: 150 Minutes (02 Hours & 30 Minutes)
Total Questions: 100
Correct Answer: +3 Marks
Incorrect Answer: -1 Marks
Exam Dates: 08 & 09 March, 2025
Last date to Apply: 28 February, 2025
4. Eligibility Criteria for ACAT
Before applying for the ACAT exam, it’s crucial to check if you meet the eligibility requirements:
- Educational Qualification: A Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks.
- Final Year Students: Candidates in their final year of graduation can also apply, provided they can submit their graduation certificates before the MBA program commences.
- Work Experience: While not mandatory, having relevant work experience is an added advantage.
5. Step-by-Step Guide to Registering for ACAT
Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the ACAT registration process:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
- Go to the official Amrita School of Business website: https://mbaadmissions.amrita.edu/
Step 2: Register as a New User
- Click on the “Apply Now” button and create an account by providing your email address, name, and mobile number.
- Verify your email by clicking on the verification link sent to your inbox.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
- Log in to your account and fill in your personal details, academic background, and work experience (if any).
- Upload scanned copies of required documents, such as your photograph, signature, and academic certificates.
Step 4: Select Your Preferred Campus
- Choose your preferred campus (Coimbatore, Bengaluru, Kochi, Amritapuri, Amaravati, or Nagercoil) and the MBA program you wish to pursue.
Step 5: Payment of Application Fee
- The application fee for ACAT is approximately â¹1,880 (Including GST). You can pay via credit card, debit card, net banking, or UPI.
- After successful payment, download and print the confirmation receipt for your records.
6. Preparation Tips for ACAT
Preparing for ACAT requires a structured approach to ensure you cover all the necessary topics. Here are some tips to help you ace the exam:
Understand the Exam Pattern
- Familiarize yourself with the exam structure, sections, and the types of questions asked.
Create a Study Plan
- Allocate specific hours each day for Quant, Verbal, Reasoning, and General Awareness.
- Focus on your weaker areas but also maintain strengths in topics you’re confident in.
Use the Right Study Materials
- Invest in standard preparation books like Arun Sharma’s Quantitative Aptitude and Norman Lewis’ Word Power Made Easy for verbal improvement.
- Read newspapers, business magazines, and stay updated with current affairs for the General Knowledge section.
Take Mock Tests
- Attempt mock tests regularly to get a feel of the actual exam environment and improve your time management skills.
- Analyze your performance after each test to identify areas where you can improve.
Revise Regularly
- Make sure to revise key concepts and formulas weekly to keep them fresh in your mind.
- Focus on practicing previous years' ACAT sample papers for better clarity.
7. FAQs
Q1: How often is the ACAT exam conducted?
A: ACAT is typically conducted once a year. However, confirm the dates on the official website for the most accurate information.
Q2: Is there any negative marking in ACAT?
A: Yes, there is (-1) negative marking in ACAT.
Q3: Can I reschedule my ACAT exam date?
A: No, once you have chosen your exam date and center, it cannot be rescheduled.
8. Conclusion
The Amrita Common Aptitude Test (ACAT) offers a great opportunity for those pursuing an MBA who wish to secure a place at one of India's top business schools. With diligent preparation and careful following of the registration process, you can boost your chances of being admitted to the Amrita School of Business. The key to achieving success lies in understanding the exam structure, studying thoroughly, and maintaining confidence throughout the journey.
We trust that this guide has equipped you with the necessary information to start your path towards pursuing an MBA at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham.
Best of luck with your preparations and the upcoming exam!
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