CAT Coachings: Everything You Need to Know for Cracking the CAT Exam

Introduction

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most prestigious and competitive entrance exams in India for aspirants seeking admission into the top business schools, including the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). Every year, lakhs of candidates appear for the CAT exam with the dream of joining elite B-schools. However, with the increasing competition and changing exam patterns, self-study is often not enough. This is where CAT coaching institutes come into play.

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about CAT coachings — their importance, types, what to look for when choosing one, online vs offline coaching, top institutes in India, fee structures, and preparation tips. Whether you're a first-time aspirant or a repeater aiming to improve your score, this detailed guide will help you make informed decisions about your CAT preparation.

What is CAT Coaching?

CAT coaching refers to structured, professional training provided to students who are preparing for the CAT exam. Coaching institutes offer well-designed courses that include study material, test series, mock exams, doubt-clearing sessions, and mentorship to help students understand concepts and build exam strategies.

CAT coaching can be delivered in different formats:

• Offline (classroom-based) coaching

• Online coaching through apps or websites

• Hybrid models combining both online and offline resources

Importance of CAT Coaching

1. Structured Preparation

CAT coaching provides a structured curriculum covering all topics from Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC).

2. Expert Guidance

Experienced faculty who have either cracked CAT or trained successful candidates can offer strategies, shortcuts, and a deep understanding of the exam.

3. Time Management

Coaching institutes help students manage their time effectively by offering daily or weekly study plans, mock tests, and regular assessments.

4. Peer Learning

Studying in a classroom or group environment helps students discuss doubts, compete, and learn collaboratively.

5. Regular Mock Tests

Most reputed coaching centers conduct full-length mock tests, topic-wise quizzes, and all-India test series to simulate the real exam environment.

Types of CAT Coachings

1. Offline (Classroom) Coaching

Traditional classroom coaching provides face-to-face interaction with teachers and peers. It is ideal for students who need disciplined schedules and direct mentorship.

Pros:

• Personalized doubt clearing

• Peer group motivation

• Focused environment

Cons:

• Time-consuming (travel + fixed schedules)

• Less flexibility

• Higher fees

2. Online CAT Coaching

Online CAT coaching has gained massive popularity, especially post-pandemic. Platforms like Unacademy, BYJU'S, TIME online, 2IIM, and Cracku offer comprehensive CAT courses.

Pros:

• Flexible timing and self-paced learning

• Recorded lectures for revision

• Cost-effective

• Accessible from anywhere

Cons:

• Less interaction

• Self-discipline required

3. Hybrid Coaching

Some institutes offer hybrid coaching — live classes with recorded sessions, occasional classroom sessions, and online tests — combining the best of both worlds.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing a CAT Coaching Institute

Choosing the right coaching institute is crucial for success. Here are key factors to keep in mind:

1. Faculty Experience

Check if the teachers are CAT toppers, IIM alumni, or experienced trainers with a good track record.

2. Study Material

The quality of study material and mock tests can significantly affect your preparation. Ensure they are updated according to the latest CAT pattern.

3. Success Rate

Look at past results, testimonials, and how many students scored 99+ percentile from that coaching.

4. Batch Size

Smaller batch sizes allow for better interaction and personalized attention.

5. Fee Structure

Compare fees across institutes and what all is included — test series, interviews, study materials, etc.

6. Location & Accessibility

For offline classes, choose an institute that is conveniently located. For online, ensure platform compatibility and ease of use.

Top CAT Coaching Institutes in India (2025)

Here are some of the top-rated CAT coaching institutes in India:

1. TIME (Triumphant Institute of Management Education)

• One of the most popular names in CAT prep.

• Strong classroom presence across India.

• Comprehensive mock test series.

2. IMS

• 40+ years of experience in MBA test prep.

• Personalized mentorship program.

• Strong online platform and test analytics.

3. Career Launcher

• Known for quality teaching and study material.

• Offers MBA Premium program.

• Also prepares students for GD-PI-WAT after CAT.

4. 2IIM CAT

• Online-only platform.

• Video lessons, question banks, and mock tests.

• Great for self-paced learners.

5. BYJU'S

• Adaptive learning with engaging videos.

• Offers app-based coaching with regular updates.

6. Unacademy

• Live classes, recorded sessions, and test series.

• Multiple educators and topic-wise preparation.

7. Handa Ka Funda

• Affordable online CAT coaching.

• Well-structured content and short topic videos.

CAT Coaching Fee Structure (Approximate)

Online vs Offline CAT Coaching: Which is Better?

CAT Coaching for Working Professionals

Many working professionals aspire to pursue an MBA but struggle to balance work and CAT prep. Here are some tips:

1. Opt for Weekend or Night Batches

Many coaching centers offer weekend-only batches for working candidates.

2. Use Online Coaching

Flexible schedules and recorded classes allow professionals to study at their convenience.

3. Create a Study Plan

Target 2-3 hours on weekdays and more on weekends. Use commute time for reading or listening to verbal content.

4. Utilize Mock Tests

Focus more on mock tests and performance analysis as you get closer to the exam.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Choosing CAT Coaching

1. Following the crowd blindly – What works for others may not work for you.

2. Ignoring mock test analysis – Simply taking mocks is not enough; analyzing them is critical.

3. Switching too many platforms – Stick to one course and follow it thoroughly.

4. Neglecting soft skills prep – Don’t ignore WAT/GD/PI while focusing only on the CAT written exam.

5. Underestimating online platforms – Many online platforms now match or exceed offline coaching in quality.

Tips for Maximizing Your CAT Coaching

1. Attend All Classes Regularly
   Don't miss sessions as the syllabus is interconnected.

2. Make Short Notes
   Summarize key formulas, tricks, and strategies in a notebook.

3. Revise Weekly
   Allocate time each week for revision and error analysis.

4. Take Mock Tests Seriously
   Simulate real exam conditions while taking mocks and review them thoroughly.

5. Participate in Doubt Sessions
   Clear your doubts as soon as they arise to avoid piling up confusion.

6. Balance All Sections
   Don’t just focus on Quant — VARC and DILR are equally important.