CAT 2019 Number of Slots: Analysis & Insights 2026
Reflecting on CAT 2019 number of slots provides timeless lessons for 2026 MBA aspirants. That year, IIMs offered 3,421 slots across 21 institutes, with a 97.66% occupancy rate post-normalization changes. This article dissects slot distribution, cutoffs, and how it influenced selection, drawing parallels to current trends.
With CAT evolving, understanding historical data sharpens percentile targets. We analyze VARC, DILR, QA breakdowns and diversity quotas.
Total Slots Breakdown by IIM
Top IIMs dominated allocations.
IIM Ahmedabad led with 385 slots, emphasizing 99+ percentiles.
- IIM Bangalore: 412
- IIM Calcutta: 467
- Newer IIMs: 100-200 each
Section-Wise Slot Impacts
Balanced scores key to securing spots.
- VARC heavy: Older IIMs
- DILR puzzles: 20-25 slots/testlet
- QA math: High weightage
Quotas shaped 40% of slots.
- GEN: 50%
- OBC: 27%
- SC/ST: 22.5%
Lessons for 2026 CAT Takers
Apply 2019 strategies today.
- Mock 99pc mocks
- Focus weak sections
- Interview prep early