CAT Exam Day Guidelines 2023: Things to Carry, Do's and Dont's

Summary: CAT 2023 will be conducted according to strict guidelines and protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of all examiners and participants. Here’s everything you need to know about CAT Exam Day Instructions 2023! 

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most important entrance exams for admission to MBA programs in India. 

It is conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), and the scores are used for admission to IIMs and other top business schools in the country. 

CAT 2023 is yet to be scheduled for this year; however, the CAT Exam Day Instructions 2023 will remain similar to that of last year. 

This article provides detailed instructions for candidates appearing for the CAT 2023 exam day.

Latest Update: Authorities have postponed back the release date of the CAT Admit Card from October 19, 2023 to November 7, 2023. Students can download their CAT 2023 Admit Card by visiting the official website at www.iimcat.ac.in.

Download FREE Study Material for CAT Exam 2023 by SuperGrads

Common CAT Exam Day Guidelines 2023

The "Common CAT Exam Day Guidelines 2023" are a set of instructions and protocols designed to ensure a smooth and fair examination experience for all CAT (Common Admission Test) candidates in the year 2023.

Adhering to these guidelines is crucial for the safety, integrity, and success of the examination.

Here's an explanation of the key components of the Common CAT Exam Day Guidelines 2023:

1. Shifts and Timing: CAT 2023 is expected to be conducted in three shifts. Candidates must be aware of their assigned shift and arrive at the examination centre well in advance. Punctuality is emphasized, with a suggested arrival time of preferably 90 minutes before the exam.
2. Mask Usage: While wearing masks is common due to safety concerns, it's important to note that masks will be allowed only beyond the frisking point, if applicable, for the year. Candidates should be prepared to follow any health and safety protocols in place during the examination.
3. Last Entry: The guidelines specify that the last entry into the examination hall is permitted 15 minutes before the start time of the exam. Latecomers will not be allowed entry, so arriving on time is crucial.
4. Identity Documents: Candidates are required to carry all necessary identity CAT documents, with the CAT admit card being compulsory. Government-issued photo identification is also essential for verification purposes.
5. Prohibited Items: Electronic devices such as mobile phones, calculators, watches, wallets, and other prohibited items should not be brought to the CAT exam location. Complying with these rules is essential to prevent disqualification.
6. Dress Code: Candidates must adhere to the dress code specified in the exam day guidelines. Certain clothing items, such as those with large buttons or thick-soled shoes, may not be allowed inside the exam room.
7. Biometric Attendance: Guidelines related to biometric attendance, seating selection, and other exam-related procedures should be carefully followed before the exam day.

CAT Exam Day Guidelines 2023

Exam Day Workflow for candidates appearing in the CAT exam is given below. 

• CAT 2023 is expected to be held in three shifts.
• Arriving on time for the CAT 2023 exam location is essential, preferably 90 minutes before the exam. 
• The last entry is 15 minutes before the start time.
• Carrying all required identity documents, including the CAT Admission Card, is compulsory.
• Observing the guidelines for biometric attendance, seating selection, etc., must be done before the exam day. 

Exam Hall - CAT Exam Day Instructions 2023

These instructions are as per the previous year’s brochure: 

1. The time allotted for each Section is 40 minutes (53 minutes and 20 seconds for PwD Candidates).
2. As soon as the candidate starts answering a section, the clock (displayed on the top right corner of the screen) starts ticking and will display the remaining time available to complete the current section.
3. On completion of 40 minutes, the timer would reach zero, the current section would be auto-submitted, and the candidate would be automatically moved to the next section. The candidate can then start answering the next Section.
4. The same process would be repeated for all three sections. For PWD Candidates, the process would be the same as above, except that for each Section, they would be given 53 minutes and 20 seconds. However, there would be an option for submitting the answers to a Section at any point after 40 minutes. Thus, they would have the option to complete the Test between 120 minutes and 160 minutes.
5. Candidates would be allowed to leave the Test Lab only after the completion of 120 minutes. PwD candidates would be allowed to leave between 120 minutes and 160 minutes. 
6. Some questions would be of multiple-choice type (MCQ), and some would be of non-MCQ type.

Check: CAT Exam Pattern 2023

Things to Carry to the Exam Hall

Knowing what to carry to the exam hall is crucial to ensure a hassle-free CAT exam experience. It includes essential documents like the CAT admit card and government-issued photo ID, which are mandatory for verification. Understanding these requirements helps candidates avoid complications on exam day and focus on their performance.

• Admit Card
• Govt issued Photo Identity Proof
• Name Change Document (if applicable)
• Medical Certificate and Scribe Affidavit
• Self-declaration issued with CAT Admit Card
• Affidavit of Scribe and Medical Certificate

Things Not to Carry to the Exam Hall

Understanding what not to carry to the exam hall is vital to maintaining the integrity and security of the CAT exam. Let's check the items to avoid in the CAT exam hall. 

• Carry bags/Purses
• Pencil
• Watches
• Mobile phones
• Wallets
• Expensive items
• Calculator
• Electronic devices
• Cameras
• Bluetooth devices etc

Check: CAT Exam 2023 Eligibility Criteria

Can I carry the Calculator to the CAT exam hall? 

Yes, you may use a calculator on the CAT exam. However, this does not imply that you are permitted to bring your own calculator to the exam. You will be allowed to use an on-screen calculator. 

Check: CAT Mock Test Series

Dress code as per CAT Exam Day Instructions 2023

Knowing the dress code as per CAT Exam Day Instructions for 2023 is essential to avoid any violations. It helps candidates choose appropriate attire without distractions, ensuring a fair and standardized examination environment. Adherence to the dress code contributes to a smooth and compliant testing experience.

• You are not allowed to wear clothing with large buttons or shoes with thick soles. 
• Candidates are not permitted to carry a phone or other electronic device, wear jewellery, or wear watches.
• Inside the exam room, candidates are not permitted to wear closed-toed shoes, hats, jackets, or clothing with pockets or huge buttons.
• Socks, plain pullovers, sweaters, and cardigans (without any pockets) are allowed inside the exam hall. 

Check: CAT Exam Cut Off 2023

CAT Exam Day Time Slots and Guidelines 2023

CAT Exam Day Time Slots and Guidelines for 2023 include information about the expected three exam shifts and the importance of punctuality. Candidates should be aware of their assigned shifts and arrive well in advance.

The guidelines emphasize the last entry cut-off time and the need to adhere to specified safety measures and dress codes. Compliance with these guidelines is essential for a smooth CAT examination experience.

Check: CAT Online Coaching

Conclusion

In conclusion, the CAT Exam Day Guidelines 2023 provide detailed instructions to help ensure a smooth exam day experience for all test-takers. All candidates are instructed to arrive at the testing centre with the appropriate ID and important documents and be prepared to follow the instructions provided by the examiner. 

Key Takeaways: 

• CAT Exam Day Guidelines for 2023 are expected to be similar to the previous year, emphasizing the importance of following strict protocols for the safety and fairness of the exam.
• Key guidelines include arriving on time, wearing appropriate clothing, carrying essential documents, and not bringing electronic devices or prohibited items to the exam hall.
• The exam is expected to be conducted in three shifts, with specific rules for PwD (Persons with Disabilities) candidates.
• Prohibited items include bags, watches, mobile phones, wallets, calculators, and electronic devices.
• The dress code prohibits clothing with large buttons, thick-soled shoes, and items with pockets or huge buttons in the exam room.
• The CAT exam provides an on-screen calculator for candidates, and personal calculators are not allowed.
• Following these guidelines ensures a smooth and compliant CAT exam experience, allowing candidates to focus on their performance during this critical test for MBA admissions.

Check: CAT Exam Marks vs Percentile 2023