How to: GDPI pre-prep

Congratulations to all CAT aspirants for completing the first step of your MBA journey! As you gear up for the next phase—Group Discussions (GD) and Personal Interviews (PI)—we at IMS are here to help you shine. While we will soon commence our expert-led GDPI sessions, here are some steps you can take at home to kickstart your preparation:

1. Stay Updated with Current Affairs

Ensure that you are up to date on not just what happened this month but all the important landmark events that happened this year.

This is not as daunting as you might think. Go through old headlines and the articles that seem relevant to the big picture, for example, the Chandrayaan 3 launch or the Iran-Israel conflict.

2. Learn Your Profile

• Key achievements (academic, extracurricular, professional).

• Strengths, weaknesses, and learnings.

• Career goals and reasons for pursuing an MBA.

This will help you articulate your story convincingly during the PI.

Ensure that you will be able to speak for at least a minute on each of these topics.

3. Practice Communication Skills

Effective communication is critical for both GD and PI. Here’s how you can work on it:

• Speak Extempore: Pick random topics and practice speaking for 2-3 minutes. Focus on structuring your thoughts logically.

• Record and Analyze: Record your responses to assess tone, clarity, and fluency. Identify areas for improvement.

• Simulate Discussions: Engage in debates or group discussions with friends or family. Practice active listening and maintaining composure while presenting your points.

• Read Aloud: Read articles or books aloud to improve diction and articulation.

• Mirror Practice: Speak in front of a mirror to observe and refine your body language and expressions.

• Vocabulary Building: Improve your vocabulary by learning new words daily and incorporating them into conversations.

4. Develop Critical Thinking

Group discussions demand logical reasoning and the ability to present balanced viewpoints. Practice structuring your arguments by:

• Breaking down topics into pros and cons.

• Offering solutions or unique perspectives.

For example, when discussing "The impact of Artificial Intelligence on jobs," structure your argument by addressing its pros (efficiency, innovation) and cons (job displacement) while concluding with potential solutions (upskilling programs).

5. Build Confidence

Confidence comes with preparation and self-belief. Start practicing early, rehearse often, and believe in your potential.

6. Work on Time Management

GD rounds often require you to think quickly and contribute meaningfully within a limited timeframe. Practice speaking concisely yet impactfully.

7. Maintain a Preparation Diary

Create a dedicated diary or notebook to jot down:

• Bullet points for answers to common PI questions.

• Key facts, achievements, and examples you want to mention.

• Notes on GD topics you’ve practiced.

This diary is meant to act as a last-minute refresher. Before heading into the interview or GD, you can glance through it to refresh your memory on the key points you want to highlight. You can use it during practice sessions to structure your thoughts and arguments more effectively. However, remember that you cannot take the diary into the actual GDPI rounds—its purpose is to ensure you are well-prepared and confident going in.

Best of Luck!

Your GDPI preparation journey is an opportunity to showcase your unique strengths, knowledge, and personality. Remember, every effort you put in today brings you closer to your dream B-school. Stay focused, practice diligently, and trust in your abilities. IMS is here to support you every step of the way. Best of luck, and we can’t wait to see you excel!

Beyond CAT: Your Complete MBA Preparation Guide

 Approximately 3.25 lakh students appeared for CAT 2024 yesterday, underscoring the intensity of the competition. I hope you performed well and wish you the best of luck. However, now is not the time to rest—it’s crucial to plan your next steps and stay prepared for what lies ahead.

Plan B: Other Management Exams

While we hope your CAT results open the doors you’re aiming for, it’s wise to consider alternative options. Several other management entrance exams are still accepting applications. Here’s a quick overview of key exams and their timelines:

Exam Name	Application Deadline	Test Date(s)	Fees (₹)
SNAP 2024	22 Nov 2024	8, 15, 21 Dec 2024	2,250
XAT 2025	30 Nov 2024	5 Jan 2025	2,200
IBSAT	21 Dec 2024	28, 29 Dec 2024	1,800
MICAT II	11 Jan 2025	25 Jan 2025	2,100

Some of these exams have unique requirements. For instance:

• XAT: Includes decision-making and general awareness sections.

• IBSAT: Tests data adequacy alongside VARC, QA, and DI sections.

• MICAT II: Assesses psychometric skills, divergent and convergent thinking, and general awareness.

To excel, leverage the IMS portal’s ADMAT section, specifically designed to prepare students for these exams.

College Applications

Over 50 colleges are currently accepting applications, with another 8 expected to open soon. The B-School Zone, available on the IMS portal, can help you track deadlines and details to streamline your application process.

Documentation

This is the right time to organize your documentation. Ensure you have all the necessary documents and start the process for any missing items, as replacements or true copies may take up to two months. Here’s a checklist to guide you:

• CAT 2024 scorecard

• Class 10 and 12 certificates, including passing certificates

• Graduation certificate and mark sheets

• Valid photo identity card

• Recent photographs and signature

• Work experience certificates (if applicable)

• Caste certificate (if applicable)

• DAP/PwD certificate (format as per CAT guidelines)

• Income certificate for EWS applicants (format as per CAT guidelines)

• Certificates for extra-curricular activities

Interview and GD-PI Preparation

Once exam results are out, the next critical phase is interviews, group discussions (GD), and written ability tests (WAT). Top B-schools often evaluate candidates holistically, so excelling here is essential.

• Personal Interview (PI): Reflect on your career goals, achievements, strengths, and weaknesses. Be ready to discuss your CAT journey and justify your choice of pursuing an MBA.

• Group Discussions (GD): Stay updated with current affairs, as GD topics often stem from recent news or trends. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently.

• Written Ability Test (WAT): Focus on structuring your arguments logically and maintaining clarity in your writing.

Pro Tip: Platforms like IMS offer mock interviews, GD/WAT sessions, and personalized feedback to help you refine your skills.

Scholarships and Financial Planning

MBA programs are a significant investment, so it’s wise to plan your finances early.

• Scholarships: Research scholarships offered by institutions or external organizations. These can be merit-based or cater to specific categories, such as economically disadvantaged students.

• Education Loans: Compare loans from various banks for better interest rates, flexible repayment options, and moratorium periods.

• Budgeting: Factor in tuition fees, living expenses, and additional costs like books, travel, and software subscriptions.

Gain Insights from Insiders

To prepare for interviews and understand the nuances of life at your target B-schools, take advantage of insider knowledge:

1. IMS Features: Use tools like Future You and B-School Insider to explore detailed GD-PI preparation resources and campus insights.

2. Student & Alumni Networks:

• Reach out to current students or alumni from your target B-schools to learn about their GD-PI experience, campus life, placements, and academic programs.

• Join forums or social media groups that connect aspirants, students, and alumni for guidance and updates.

By proactively managing these aspects, you’ll ensure a smooth transition into the next stage of your MBA journey. Use this time wisely, stay focused, and best of luck!

Future You!

Do you want to know about - Career in e-Commerce / What does a e - Commerce Product Manager do? or How to become an Area Sales Manager? or All about Career in Analytics? or All about Career in Finance? or How to become a Corporate Banker? or How to become an Investment Banker? or How to build a career in Equity Research? or How about career in Corporate Banking? or How to build a Career in General Management? & many more questions related to your Future Career............................... Then you MUST watch IMS Future You Series. A unique IMS Property develop to answer such queries for aspiring future roles. So what are you waiting for. Login to your myIMS portal to watch LIVE & as well as recording sessions.

Mentorship - myPlan

Mentorship - MyPlan sessions are personalised session for students with Faculties / Mentors to help in their successful journey for an entrance test. As these are personalised session (One - to - One) the students strength & weaknesses are NOT shared with anyone. An objective of these sessions is also to provide a friendly session to students so that they can speak to mentors without any hesitation. The objective of this ession is to help student identify their preparation at differnt intervals and to boost their preparation. There are multiple sesions which student can book with their choice of subject mentors like: Study Plan Session, A Date with CAT (or any other test), ADMAT strategies, Profile Building etc So, go to your myIMS portal today & book your personlised mentorship session now!

IMS B-School Zone

The B-School Zone is a comprehensive platform designed to provide in-depth information about various b-schools across the country. It serves as a one-stop solution for students to explore details about MBA programs, helping them make well-informed decisions with insights into shortlisting criteria, selection processes, cutoff scores, and key dates. The data is updated on a regular basis to ensure that students have access to the most current information available. And absolutely! The B-School Zone is completely free to use. Our goal is to make crucial information about b-schools accessible to all students. Checkout the B-School Zone in your myims portal now and always before filling any B-School applications. Thanks Team IMS Malleswaram

2178 IMS students secure final admits to IIMs - CAT'23

Proud Moment for entire IMS!!!! 2178 Unique students from IMS secured final Admits in IIMs & this is laso the highest number of admits from any coaching center in India. Congratulation to entire IMS for this wonderful feat. Thanks

Art and Science of Management at premium IITs

Dear All,                                                                                       

Learn the Art and Science of Management at premium IITs of the country!

Applications to 7 IITs for MBA 2019-21 programs are open. All CAT 2018 test takers and interested candidates must apply before 27th January 2019!

The details of the programs are given below:

IIT Location	Bombay	Delhi	Dhanbad	Madras	Roorkee	Kharagpur	Kanpur
College Name	Shailesh J Mehta School of Management-SJMSOM-IIT Bombay	Department of Management Studies-DMS- IIT Delhi	IIT(ISM) Dhanbad (DMS)	Department of Management Studies-DMS-IIT Madras	IIT Roorkee	Vinod Gupta School of Management-VGSOM-IIT Kharagpur	Department of Industrial & Management Engineering – DIME-IIT Kanpur
Programs	MBA	MBA and MBA -Telecoms Mgmt	MBA	MBA	MBA	MBA	MBA
Seats	123	MBA - 91 Telecom - 24	62	59	95	140	78
Fee (`Lakhs)	9.11*	8.8	3.6	8.53*	8	7.36*	3.77
Avg. Sal. - 2016-18 batch (` Lakhs)	19.06	16.54	6	12.4	9.1	16.29	10.48
Eligible Streams	Engineers & Non-Engineers					Graduation 10+2+4 or 10+2+3+2	Only Engineers
Graduation Cut-off	First class or having 60% marks or CGPA of 6.5 out of 10 (55% marks or CGPA of 6.0 for SC/ST)						65% or a CPI of 6.5 on a scale of 10
CAT Scores	Required	Required.			Required	Required	Required. Read eligibility criteria. Link
Website	SJMSOM IITBombay Website	DMS IITDelhi Website	IIT Dhanbad Website	DMS IITMadras Website	IITRoorkee Website	VGSOM IITKharagpur Website	DIME IITKanpur Website
Application Guidelines link	Application Guidelines	Common Application Guidelines			Application Guidelines	Application Guidelines	Application Guidelines
Application link	Application Link	Common Application Link			Application Link	Application Link	Application Link
* includes hostel and accommodation expenses. The data is compiled with the help of primary and secondary sources.

Note:

• Final year students are also eligible to apply. Such candidates, if selected, will be admitted provisionally, on the condition that they meet all the requirements for the qualifying degree before start of the program and will produce provisional certificate of completion of the program latest by September 30, 2019.
• Eligibility for IIT Kanpur is different. Hence, interested candidates please visit here
• Relaxation in criteria for PH candidates may be as per each Institute's rules.
• Common Portal for Admission to MBA Program of Department of Management Studies (DoMS) IIT Madras, Department of Management Studies (DMS) IIT Delhi & Department of Management Studies, (DMS) IIT(ISM) Dhanbad is available.
• Each IIT has a unique eligibility with some relaxations for certain meritorious or Professional candidates.  Interested candidates are requested to website of individual IITs for short-listing and final selection criteria.

Application Fees:

• For all IIT's offering only 1 MBA program:

For General, OBC & Foreign National applicants: Rs 1,600/-
For SC/ST/PD applicants: Rs 800/-  

• For IIT Delhi's 2 MBA programs:

For General, OBC & Foreign National applicants: 1 program: Rs 1,600/- 2 programs: Rs 3,200/-
For SC/ST/PD applicants: 1 program: Rs 800/- 2 programs: Rs 1,600/-  

Note: Only Online Applications are accepted.

Steps for Admission to Post Graduate Programs in IITs:

• Fill "Online Application Form" (see website of the IITs you want to apply to) and submit application before the deadline, separately for each IIT.
• Visit website of individual IITs for short-listing and final selection criteria.
• Short-listed candidates for the selection process will be intimidated by each IIT independently.

IITs use CAT scores for short listing the candidates for their management program. IIMs have no role either in the selection process or in the conduct of the Program.

Reservation policy at IITs: As per the approved norms on reservation (OBC: 27%, SC: 15%, ST: 7.5% and PH 3% horizontal across GN, SC, ST and OBC) will be observed.

Should you have any queries regarding the exams to appear for & the best fit B-school basis your profile and experience, you book a one-on-one Call-a-mentor session with our professional mentors by visiting here or visit the nearest IMS Learning Center to meet a counselor. To locate the nearest IMS Learning Center, click here or write to us at ims@imsindia.com or call us at 1800-1234-467.

All the best!