Introduction
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is the gateway to India’s most prestigious management institutes – the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). Among them, the Old IIMs—Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, Lucknow, Indore, Kozhikode, and Shillong—are the dream B-Schools for every MBA aspirant. To secure a seat, you need to know the CAT cut-offs these IIMs expect. In this blog, Planet E brings you the latest details on CAT score requirements, sectional cut-offs, and key admission trends for 2026 admissions.
Old IIMs and Their CAT Cut-Offs 2026 (Expected)
Below is an overview of the minimum CAT percentile required by the top IIMs based on previous year trends.
| IIM College | Expected Overall CAT Percentile (General) | Sectional Percentile (VARC/DILR/QA) |
|---|---|---|
| IIM Ahmedabad | 99-100 | 70-80 |
| IIM Bangalore | 99-100 | 75-80 |
| IIM Calcutta | 99-100 | 80-85 |
| IIM Lucknow | 98-99 | 85 |
| IIM Indore | 98-99 | 80 |
| IIM Kozhikode | 97-98 | 75 |
| IIM Shillong | 90-92 | 70 |
💡 Note: These are expected ranges based on past trends. Final cut-offs vary every year depending on CAT difficulty, number of applicants, and institute selection policies.
Sectional Cut-Offs Matter
All Old IIMs require candidates to clear sectional cut-offs in VARC (Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension), DILR (Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning), and QA (Quantitative Aptitude).
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A balanced scorecard is crucial.
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Even a 99+ overall percentile may not guarantee a call if sectional cut-offs are missed.
Factors Affecting CAT Cut-Offs
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Number of Applicants – Higher competition often pushes cut-offs higher.
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Difficulty Level of CAT Exam – A tougher paper may result in slightly lower cut-offs.
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Reservation Policy – Cut-offs for different categories (SC, ST, OBC, EWS) vary significantly.
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Weightage in Selection Process – IIMs also consider academic record, work experience, and diversity.
Expert Tips from Planet E to Crack Old IIM Cut-Offs
At Planet E, India’s trusted CAT preparation institute, our experts recommend:
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Aim for 99+ percentile for IIM Ahmedabad, Bangalore & Calcutta.
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Focus on sectional balance to avoid elimination.
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Mock Tests & Analysis – Regular practice helps identify weak areas early.
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Time Management – Allocate time smartly to maximize sectional performance.
Planet E’s Guidance for 2026 CAT Aspirants
With our exclusive CAT coaching programs, Planet E provides:
✅ Structured study plans
✅ Live & recorded classes
✅ Mock CAT exams with in-depth analysis
✅ Personalized mentorship for IIM calls
Final Thoughts
Getting into an Old IIM is a dream for every CAT aspirant. While the overall percentile cut-off is crucial, sectional performance and a strong profile also play a vital role. Start early, stay consistent, and let Planet E guide you to your 99+ percentile journey.
