Is CAT Mandatory for Online MBA? Check Other Entrance Exams Required

The Common Admission Test, or CAT, is a major entrance exam for MBA or other postgraduate management programmes, with approximately 2.93 lakhs candidates appeared for CAT 2024. But there is a question, Is CAT required for Online MBA? What are the factors universities consider when providing online MBA admission?

An online MBA is a management degree programme delivered completely in a virtual mode. Anyone, whether a graduate or a working professional, can enrol in an Online MBA degree and enhance their management career. Admission to online MBA programmes are offered based on the candidates' previous academic performance, meeting eligibility criteria, and document verification. While online MBA admission is merit-based, some universities take into consideration of management exam scores such as CAT, MAT, or XAT.

IIMs, which are known for high-quality management education in India, ask candidates to have a valid CAT, GMAT, or GRE score. IIM Online MBA are generally designed for working professionals and executives and their Online MBA programmes are called Executive MBA that are offered in blended mode.

Is CAT Compulsory for an Online MBA?

There are more than 75 online MBA colleges in India. Most colleges allow students to pursue an online MBA without CAT. While CAT is not compulsory, having a valid CAT, MAT, or XAT score would be an added advantage for candidates at the time of admission. Candidates have to meet the eligibility criteria set by their colleges for online MBA admission.

Online MBA Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for online MBA programmes may vary from one college to another. However, the basic requirements include:

• A bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline from a recognised university or its equivalent
• A minimum of 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST candidates)
• Work experience (at least 1–3 years if required)
• Some colleges conduct separate aptitude tests and personal interviews

Also Read: Is an Online MBA the Shortcut to Executive Success? Find Out Now!

Why CAT is Not Mandatory for an Online MBA?

Online MBA programmes are specifically designed for students who want to work right after their graduation, working professionals, remote learners, and those who are unable to attend regular on-campus classes. Online MBA provide them an alternative option to gain management education without relocating and at their own pace.

Here are the key reasons why CAT is not mandatory for an Online MBA:

• Focus on professionals and remote students: Online MBA programmes target working professionals or remote students.
• Emphasis on experience: Online MBA colleges prefer work experience instead of an entrance exam.
• Direct admission process: Online MBA colleges prefer interviews and academic qualifications and provides merit-based admission.
• Global competition: With growing competition at global level, everyone wants to upskill and stay ahead of the competition. This is where an Online MBA gives them the opportunity to gain a degree in their preferred specialisation without leaving their jobs.

Also Read: Is Online MBA The Future of Business Education in India?

How to Get Direct Admission to Online MBA Without CAT?

To get direct admission to an Online MBA without CAT, candidates are required to consider certain factors which are as follows:

• Select the right college that provides admission to an online MBA without CAT
• Check the accredited online MBA college, programme and admission criteria, such as academic qualifications, entrance exam, and work experience.
• Check what type of assessment the online MBA college conducts for admission; a personal interview and aptitude test.
• Fulfil all the admission criteria, apply online, submit the application with the required documents, and pay the online MBA application fee.

Also Check: 10 Questions to Ask Before Enrolling in An Online MBA

Top Colleges Offering Online MBA Without CAT

Online MBA in India is offered by UGC approved colleges, ensuring the degree meet the industry standards. The following table lists the top colleges offering online MBA without CAT along with their total fees:

In essence, CAT is not mandatory for Online MBA, however, it is a major examination for management programmes at top B-schools in India. Online MBA without CAT opens various career opportunities in the management field. Candidates can apply for admission to an online MBA and pursue their education without any stress of entrance exams.