Summary: Ensure you bring the vital documents to carry for CAT Exam 2024, such as your admit card, ID proofs, etc, as outlined in this guide. Adhering to these requirements is essential for a successful CAT examination day!

The IIMs, India's best management institutes, administer this national-level examination, which is considered moderately difficult.

As the big day approaches, understanding what documents to bring for the CAT entrance exam becomes critical. While diligent study is crucial, equally important is being well-prepared with the right documentation on the examination day.

In this guide, we will delve into the essential "Documents to carry for CAT Exam 2024", ensuring that you are fully equipped for a successful and hassle-free test experience.

Latest Update: Authorities have postponed back the release date of the CAT Admit Card from October 19, 2024 to November 7, 2024. Students can download their CAT 2024 Admit Card by visiting the official website at www.iimcat.ac.in.

Download FREE Study Material for CAT Exam 2024 by SuperGrads

Documents to carry for CAT Exam 2024

Here's the checklist of important things to carry for CAT exam - 

1. CAT Admit Card: Your Entry Ticket

Arguably, the most vital document, the CAT Admit Card, is mandatory for entry into the exam centre.

Aspiring candidates must: 

• Download it from the official CAT website. 
• Get it printed, ensuring that all essential details, such as the candidate's name, application number, registration number, exam date and time, exam centre address, and PWD status, are clearly visible. 
• Affix the photograph used during the application process. 

Without this admit card, candidates will be denied entrance. 

2. Government-Issued Photo Identity: Proving Your Candidature 

It's crucial for candidates to carry at least one government-approved photo ID to the exam venue. The acceptable IDs include: 

• Aadhar card 
• Voter ID 
• UID
• Driving license 
• Passport 
• PAN card 

Note that this is to verify your identity and avoid malpractices during the exam. 

Check: CAT 2024 Exam Pattern

Is calculator allowed in CAT exam?

CAT allows the use of an on-screen calculator, which is a basic one. Any type of physical calculator is not allowed.

Documents to carry for CAT Exam 2024: Forbidden Items

What are the important things to carry for the CAT exam, and what are the things which are not allowed in the CAT exam?

What You Should Leave Behind? 

Documents to carry for the CAT exam aren't the only considerations.

Candidates should also be aware of prohibited items to prevent unnecessary complications. Some of the banned items include: 

• Watches 
• Mobile Phones 
• Calculators 
• Cameras 
• Electronic Gadgets 
• Headphones/Earpiece 
• Metal Jewellery 
• Pen/ Pencil Box

Ensure you do not carry these forbidden items, as they can lead to disqualification. 

Note: Metal implants require a medical certificate of the same at the CAT exam centre.

Check: CAT Exam Syllabus

Special Provisions: Scribe Affidavit, Medical Certificates, and More 

• PWD candidates should furnish a valid medical certificate indicating their disability. Those requiring a scribe must carry the prescribed scribe affidavit.
• It's essential to have these documents verified at the exam centre before being allowed entry. 
• Moreover, candidates with specific conditions, such as name changes due to marriage or other reasons, should bring their respective legal and government-stamped proofs. 
• Lastly, in exceptional situations requiring the need for certain forbidden items, a special authorization letter approved by MCI (Medical Council of India) should be obtained and presented. 

Stationery: Keeping it Simple 

Given that the CAT is an online examination, candidates are advised to carry minimal stationery. While pens, pencils, and scales for rough work are permitted, the examination centre will provide rough sheets. 

Check: CAT Entrance Exam Marking Scheme

Documents to carry for CAT Exam 2024: Authorization Form 

1. The "Authorization Form" for the CAT Exam 2024 is a crucial document that candidates may need in specific situations. This form is essentially a permission slip that allows candidates to carry certain items into the examination hall that are typically prohibited.
2. Under normal circumstances, items like gadgets, food, and additional stationery are not allowed in the exam hall. However, there might be exceptional situations where a candidate may require these items due to medical reasons or other valid justifications.
3. In such cases, candidates must obtain a special authorization letter approved by the Medical Council of India (MCI) that specifies the need for carrying these items. This letter serves as a formal request and, if granted, allows candidates to bring the necessary items into the examination hall without violating the standard rules.
4. It's important to note that candidates should only use this authorization form when absolutely necessary and in accordance with the guidelines provided by the examination authorities. Abusing this provision may lead to disqualification from the exam. Therefore, candidates should exercise discretion and responsibility when requesting and using the Authorization Form for the CAT Exam 2024.

Check: How to calculate Percentage in CAT exam

Documents to carry for CAT Exam 2024: Documents Related to Name Change 

Documents Related to Name Change" are important for CAT Exam 2024 candidates who have undergone a name change due to various reasons such as marriage, divorce, or other legal processes.

These documents are essential to ensure that the candidate's identity is properly verified during the examination.

Here's how these documents work:

1. Legal Proof of Name Change: If a candidate's name has changed, they must carry legal documents that confirm this change. These documents can include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or any other court-issued document that officially records the name change.

2. Government-Stamped Proof: Along with the legal documents, candidates should also possess government-stamped proof of their name change. This further validates the authenticity of the name change.

During the CAT Exam 2024, when presenting identification, candidates must ensure that the name printed on their admit card matches the name on the documents related to the name change. This process is crucial to prevent identity discrepancies and to maintain the integrity of the examination.

Documents to carry for CAT Exam 2024: Document Verification 

The candidate’s admit card (affixed with the photograph) and original ID proof will be checked before entering the exam hall. 

The photograph and signature of the candidate should be clearly printed and visible on the ID proof and must match the name printed on the Admit Card. 

Check: CAT Preparation Books

Documents to carry for CAT Exam 2024: Biometric Verification 

• Post document verification, candidates will move inside the exam hall.
• They would be asked to proceed with biometric registration- IRIS and photo registration. 
• The candidate’s IRIS will be scanned, and a photograph will be captured. 
• Candidates will be required to sign the attendance sheet. 
• It's a standard procedure to ensure that the right candidates are taking the test. 

Check: How to prepare for CAT in 3 months?

Documents to carry for CAT Exam 2024: Additional Guidelines and Instructions 

Candidates are advised to: 

• Reach the examination centre well in advance. 
• Ensure you have the CAT admit card with you. 
• Review all details on the admit card. 
• Avoid applying Mehendi or similar items that might delay the checking process. 
• Cooperate with examination staff and invigilators throughout. 
• Do not forget to carry the required items and similarly avoid the forbidden ones. 

Furthermore, candidates with specific needs, like those applying under the PwD quota, will receive added amenities such as extra time, separate rooms, or elevator access, among others.

Ensure you have all the necessary documents to carry for the CAT exam to utilize these provisions. 

CAT Exam Day Instructions: Do's and Don'ts 

Before appearing for the exam, candidates should consider the things that are permissible inside the examination hall and the ones that are banned.

Here is the list of do’s and don’ts in the examination hall for a smooth examination experience, consider the following: 

Documents to carry for CAT Exam 2024: Do's

• Carry the CAT 2024 Admit Card printed on an A4 size sheet. 
• Bring the self-declaration form as required. 
• Affix the photograph used during the application form fill-up process to the admit card. 
• Visit the CAT exam centre before the exam is conducted. 
• Use the washroom before the beginning of the exam, if required. 
• Carry the disability certificate if applicable. 
• Cooperate with biometric registration and document verification procedures. 
• Familiarize yourself with the examination centre rules and guidelines. 
• Abide by the instructions of the examination staff. 
• Dress code for CAT exam: Choose comfortable, neat attire without distractions, keeping in mind the weather and exam centre guidelines.

Check: CAT Exam Day Guidelines

Documents to carry for CAT Exam 2024: Don'ts

• Do not carry electronic devices such as mobile phones, calculators, smartwatches, wristbands, and cameras. 
• Avoid wearing any metallic jewellery. 
• Refrain from carrying stationery items except for those specifically mentioned. 
• Do not wear footwear beyond the frisking point. 
• Avoid any form of cheating or malpractice during the exam. 
• Do not bring any prohibited items into the examination hall. 
• Avoid any behaviour that may disrupt the exam environment. 
• Do not alter or tamper with any documents or certificates. 
• Avoid any form of communication or collaboration with other candidates during the exam. 
• Refrain from any action that may lead to disqualification from the exam. 

Take CAT  Free Mock Test Series By Supergrads to Test Your Preparation Level

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing the essential documents to carry for the CAT exam and other guidelines ensures a hassle-free experience. Adhering to these guidelines demonstrates responsibility and serious intent, both qualities of an aspiring management student. 

Key Takeaways:

• To ensure a smooth examination experience, candidates must be well-prepared with the necessary documents and adhere to specific guidelines.
• Essential documents for the CAT exam include the CAT Admit Card, which is mandatory for entry, and a government-issued photo ID to verify your identity.
• Prohibited items in the examination hall include watches, mobile phones, calculators, cameras, and electronic gadgets. Carrying these items can result in disqualification.
• Candidates with special needs, such as disabilities or name changes, should provide relevant documents like medical certificates, scribe affidavits, and legal proofs.
• On the day of the CAT exam, follow a set of do's and don'ts to ensure a smooth and fair examination experience.
• Adhering to these guidelines not only demonstrates responsibility but also helps in avoiding any complications during the CAT exam, ultimately increasing your chances of success. 

Check: CAT Application Form 2024