The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) have decided to put an end to the three decade old paper-pencil format and have adopted the computer based model for CAT 2009. While it will be the first time that students will write the test on a computer, CAT will not be held online and will not be computer-adaptive. The applicants will have to select their test dates from a period of 10 days starting at the end of November 2009. The CAT will be held at different Prometric Centres across the country but their locations will be determined only after all the applications have been received.

The manifold increase in number of CAT applications each year is the main reason behind this decision. Unlike international exams like GRE and GMAT, CAT is neither computer adaptive or an online based test. Instead the student will read the questions on the computer terminal and click on the correct option. Students will still be able to go back and forth between the questions, make corrections at any time during the test and can answer the questions in any order. Each student will be provided with a notepad with numbered pages for rough work and calculations. This must be left behind at the desk at the end of the test. Though many were concerned about the test being more expensive, the IIM has only increased the fee from Rs.1300 to Rs.1400( Rs.700 for the SC/ST candidates). CAT 2009 vouchers could be purchased from many locations, the names of which will be published at the end of August.

The voucher will have the complete details regarding the online registration though an E-mail account is a must as the Admit card will now be send electronically. This card is to be provided at the time of test where the photo ID be checked and biometric captured.

A computer based CAT will result in enhanced security, flexibility in choice of selection date, ease of registration process, better physical environment and test experience. Such a format is expected to improve communication between candidates and IIMs in terms of programme information, test delivery, receipt of admit cards, and receipt of score reports.

The CAT 2009 results will be announced by the end of January 2010.