CAT 2019 Number of Slots: Analysis for 2026 Prep

Though CAT 2019 offered 1,400 MBA slots across 21 IIMs, 2026 patterns suggest growth to 1,500+ with new quotas. This guide analyzes historical slot data, category-wise breakdowns (GEN/OBC/SC/ST/EWS), and prep strategies based on past trends.

Understand cutoffs, interview slots, and how slots evolved post-2019 expansions. Essential for aspirants targeting IIM Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and Calcutta in 2026.

CAT 2019 Slot Breakdown by Institute

IIMA: 385, IIMB: 400+, IIMC: 314. Total slots reflected 4.6% selection rate.
  • 1. Review official IIM reports.
  • 2. Note reservation policies.
  • 3. Track year-on-year changes.
  • 4. Focus on top 7 IIMs (70% slots).

Category-Wise Slot Distribution

GEN: ~50%, OBC: 27%, SC: 15%, ST: 7.5%, EWS: 10% in 2019.
  • 1. Calculate personal cutoff targets.
  • 2. Prepare for diversity quotas.
  • 3. Practice sectional scoring.
  • 4. Aim for 99+ percentile.

Evolution to 2026 Slot Numbers

Expect 1,600+ total with new IIMs; focus on VARC/DILR/Quant balance.
  • 1. Analyze 2025-2026 mocks.
  • 2. Join coaching for slot predictions.
  • 3. Track admissions policies.
  • 4. Prepare resume for WAT-PI.

Strategies to Secure a Slot

High mocks + GDPI prep. Target 200+ composite score.
  • Daily 3-hour Quant practice.
  • Read for VARC.
  • Solve 30 DILR sets weekly.
  • Mock interviews via mentors.

Common Myths on Slot Availability

Slots aren't fixed pre-CAT; based on applicant pool and cutoffs.
  • Ignore unverified rumors.
  • Use official sites only.
  • Plan B: 50+ other B-schools.

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