Did you know that some top B-schools abroad accept CAT scores for admission?
Good news for you! Many international business schools accept CAT, allowing Indian students to pursue global management education without taking the GMAT.
For the 2024-25 intake, you can apply to well-renowned B-schools in Singapore, Australia, and Europe, including SP Jain in Dubai, and Deakin with a valid CAT score. This blog highlights such business schools that accept CAT scores offering Indian students a smooth transition into the international business domain without any additional exams..
Key Highlights:
- The top international business schools accepting CAT scores (2024-2025) are ESCP Business School, ESSEC Business School, and EDHEC Business School.
- CAT scores are generally valid for one year, so it's essential to submit your scores to universities within this timeframe.
- The minimum CAT score required for MBA programs abroad is typically 120 or higher to be considered for admissions
Table of Contents: |
Is CAT Accepted for MBA Abroad?
Yes, while the CAT is primarily an Indian entrance exam, a few international institutions do accept it as a valid assessment for MBA admissions. CAT scores are accepted by select international business schools, primarily in countries like Singapore, Australia, and Dubai. Top business schools such as SP Jain School of Global Management (Dubai, Singapore), Deakin Business School (Australia), and some others recognize CAT scores for admission into their MBA programs, offering Indian students with a global education pathway.
Here are some countries that accept CAT scores for MBA:
- Canada: Some Canadian universities accept CAT scores for their MBA programs.
- UK: A few UK business schools also consider CAT scores, although GMAT or GRE is more commonly required.
- Australia and New Zealand: Some universities accept CAT scores, but it's advisable to check individual institution requirements.
Top International MBA Colleges Accepting CAT Scores
Among the top colleges accepting CAT scores are renowned institutions such as ESCP Business School, ESSEC Business School, EDHEC Business School, and EMlyon Business School. As the demand for high-quality business education grows globally, many prestigious international institutions recognize the CAT (Common Admission Test) as a valid entry qualification for their MBA programs.
Below is a list of some top institutions that accept CAT scores:
QS Ranking (2025) |
University Name |
Country/City |
Eligibility Criteria |
Programs Offered |
---|---|---|---|---|
27 |
Berlin, London, Madrid, Turin, Paris |
GMAT, GRE, CAT, TAGE MAGE |
Masters in Management |
|
28 |
Paris (France), Singapore, Morocco |
GMAT, GRE, TAGE MAGE, Cambridge (FCE), TOEFL, IELTS, TOEIC |
Masters in Management |
|
47 |
France |
GMAT, GRE, TAGE MAGE, CAT, CFA Level II |
Masters in Management |
|
51 |
France |
GMAT, GRE, TAGE MAGE, CAT |
Masters in Management, MSc in Management |
|
121-130 |
Perth, Australia |
GMAT, CAT, XAT, MAT |
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
|
131-140 |
Asian Institute of Management |
Philippines |
GMAT, GRE, NMAT by GMAC, CAT, XAT |
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
251 |
Dubai, Sydney, Singapore |
GMAT, GRE, CAT, SPJAT |
Global MBA, Executive MBA |
|
- |
France, USA, China, Brazil, South Africa |
TAGE MAGE, GMAT, GRE, CAT |
Masters in Management |
Next, we explore the program details specifically, starting with ESCP Business School's MBA in International Management.
1. ESCP Business School
ESCP’s MBA in International Management offers a 10-month intensive program with the option to study across their European campuses. The curriculum focuses on global business strategies, leadership development, and hands-on experience through company consultancy projects.
Courses Offered |
Masters in Management |
Eligibility Criteria |
GMAT, GRE, CAT, TAGE MAGE |
Country |
Berlin, London, Madrid, Turin, Paris |
Annual Fees |
USD 18,795 to USD 22,289 or (INR 15.60 Lakhs to INR 18.50 Lakhs) |
2. ESSEC Business School
ESSEC’s Global MBA is a 12-month program with a strong focus on leadership, digital transformation, and sustainability. The program includes career advancement opportunities through international business trips, electives, and personalised mentoring. Students can also choose from specialisations like Strategy & Digital Leadership or Finance.
Courses Offered |
Masters in Management |
Eligibility Criteria |
CAT, GMAT, GRE, TAGE MAGE, Cambridge (FCE), TOEFL, IELTS, TOEIC |
Country |
Paris (France), Singapore, Morocco |
Annual Fees |
USD 13,313 to USD 14,940 or (INR 11.05 Lakhs to INR 12.40 Lakhs) |
3. EDHEC Business School
EDHEC’s Global MBA is a 10-month program that emphasises leadership and innovation, with specialisations in Digital Innovation, Finance, and Global Leadership. The program includes a strong focus on sustainability and responsible business, integrating leadership coaching and career support.
Courses Offered |
Masters in Management |
Eligibility Criteria |
GMAT, GRE, TAGE MAGE, CAT, CFA Level II |
Country |
France |
Annual Fees |
USD 55,964 or (INR 46.45 Lakhs) |
4. EMlyon Business School
EMlyon’s International MBA is a 12-month program designed for professionals looking to drive innovation and entrepreneurship. The program offers specialisations in Strategy, Digital Transformation, and Finance, with real-world learning through business simulations, consulting projects, and a final capstone project.
Courses Offered |
Masters in Management, MSc in Management |
Eligibility Criteria |
GMAT, GRE, TAGE MAGE, CAT |
Country |
France |
Annual Fees |
USD 18,072 to USD 44,578 or (INR 15 Lakhs - INR 37 Lakhs) |
5. The University of Western Australia
UWA’s MBA Full-Time Intensive is a 12-month program focusing on leadership, strategy, and entrepreneurship. The program offers specialisations in Finance, Leadership, and Resources, along with practical industry engagement through internships, projects, and mentorship from senior executives.
Courses Offered |
MBA |
Eligibility Criteria |
GMAT, CAT, XAT, MAT |
Country |
Perth, Australia |
Annual Fees |
USD 21,945 to USD 32,542 or (INR 18.22 Lakhs - INR 27.01 Lakhs) |
6. Asian Institute of Management
AIM’s MBA program offers a unique focus on leadership in emerging markets. It’s a 16-month program that integrates real-world case studies and project-based learning, designed to equip students with strategy, leadership, and innovation for businesses in developing economies.
Courses Offered |
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
Eligibility Criteria |
GMAT, GRE, NMAT by GMAC, CAT, XAT |
Country |
Philippines |
Annual Fees |
USD 31,385 or INR 26.05 Lakhs |
7. SP Jain School of Global Management
SP Jain’s Global MBA is a 12-month, tri-city program where students study in Dubai, Singapore, and Sydney. It offers specialisations in Marketing, Finance, Operations, and Entrepreneurship, with a strong focus on global exposure, experiential learning, and leadership development.
Courses Offered |
Global MBA, Executive MBA |
Eligibility Criteria |
GMAT, GRE, CAT, SPJAT |
Country |
Dubai, Sydney and Singapore |
Annual Fees |
USD 28,915 or INR 24 Lakhs |
8. SKEMA Business School
SKEMA’s Global Executive MBA is a modular, 18-month program that focuses on global business management, digital transformation, and innovation. The program offers flexibility with a mix of on-campus and online modules
Courses Offered |
Masters in Management |
Eligibility Criteria |
TAGE MAGE, GMAT, GRE, CAT |
Country |
France, USA, China, Brazil, South Africa |
Annual Fees |
USD 14,458 to USD 26,506 or (INR 12 Lakhs - INR 22 Lakhs) |
Admission Requirements of Global MBA Colleges Accepting CAT Scores
Many international colleges accept CAT scores for their MBA programs, giving Indian students more options to study abroad. They typically require a valid CAT score (120+), a bachelor's degree, and relevant work experience.
In addition to a strong CAT score, academic performance is also a key factor in the admission process.
Minimum GPA
Applicants should have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Proof of English Proficiency
Candidates must provide proof of English proficiency by meeting one of the following minimum scores:
- IELTS score of 6.5 or above.
- TOEIC score of 850.
- Cambridge FCE score of 175.
- TOEFL iBT score of 90 or above.
- PTE score of 60.
Test Scores
Applicants are required to submit scores from one of the following tests:
- GMAT with a minimum score of 550.
- GRE with a score of 300+.
- NMAT by GMAC.
- CAT with a 60 percentile or higher.
- XAT with a 65 percentile or higher.
- MAT with a 70 percentile or higher.
Documents required
The following outlines the documents required for international colleges accepting CAT scores.
- Letters of Recommendation: Applicants must submit 2 to 3 letters of recommendation.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): A Statement of Purpose is required as part of the application.
- Professional Experience: At least 2 years of professional experience is preferred (optional and may vary by university).
- Updated Resume: A current and updated resume is required.
- Passport Copy: A copy of the applicant’s passport is required for submission.
Application Process of CAT Score Accepting Colleges Abroad
You need a structured process to apply to top international business schools that accept CAT scores. While the admission requirements of each university vary, the general steps are as follows:
- Research and Shortlist Schools: Identify the top international business schools that accept CAT scores, such as INSEAD (France), Singapore Management University (Singapore), and HEC Paris (France).
- Submit CAT Score: Ensure your CAT score meets the cut-off criteria for your chosen schools. Most colleges will have a minimum score requirement listed on their official websites.
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, resume, letters of recommendation (LORs), and a well-written Statement of Purpose (SOP).
- Complete Online Application: Fill out the online application form on the university’s website. Provide all personal details, upload documents, and pay the application fee.
- Visa and Financial Documentation: Once accepted, you'll need to handle visa applications and show proof of financial capability to support your education abroad.
CAT Score Validity
The validity of CAT (Common Admission Test) scores is typically one year from the examination date. This allows candidates to use their scores for admissions in the following academic year. However, individual institutions may have specific policies regarding score acceptance.
MBA in India vs MBA Abroad
Choosing between an MBA abroad and one in India means considering program length, costs, exposure, and career options. Indian programs focus on local business, while international programs provide a global perspective and better networking opportunities that can help your career.
Parameter |
MBA in India |
MBA Abroad |
---|---|---|
Program Duration |
2 years |
1-2 years |
Entrance Exams |
CAT, XAT, CMAT, MAT, NMAT, SNAP |
GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, IELTS |
Average Tuition Fees |
₹20-25 lakhs |
USD 60,000 to USD 120,000 or (INR 50 lakhs to over INR 1 crore) |
Living Expenses |
₹3-5 lakhs annually |
USD 7,200 to USD 12,000 or (INR 6-10 lakhs) annually |
Average Salary Package |
INR 10-25 lakhs per annum |
USD 55,200 to USD 1,800,000 or (INR 46 Lakhs to 15 Crores) per annum |
Quality of Education |
Strong focus on local business practices and regional industries |
Emphasis on global perspectives and cutting-edge specialisations |
Career Opportunities |
Excellent for local and regional roles |
Broader global opportunities with potentially higher salaries |
Cultural Experience |
In-depth exposure to India's culture and business environment |
Exposure to various cultures and global business practices |
Benefits of Pursuing an MBA Abroad
Pursuing an MBA abroad offers numerous benefits, including enhanced professional networking, a broadened global perspective, improved career prospects, international exposure, and opportunities for specialisation. These advantages equip graduates with the skills and recognition needed for success in the global business landscape.
Let’s explore some of the advantages of studying MBA outside India:
- Professional Networking: Engage with accomplished business leaders and entrepreneurs, significantly enhancing your professional network, which can lead to increased job opportunities.
- Broadened Global Perspective: Experience different cultures, gaining valuable insights that are essential in today's globalised business environment.
- Enhanced Career Prospects: Expand your career opportunities and develop critical skills necessary for success in business and management roles.
- International Exposure: Interact with industry experts from around the world, providing you with a deeper understanding of global business practices.
- Specialisation and Recognition: Pursue various specialisations in subjects like international finance and capital management, and obtain a globally recognized degree that adds value to your career.
From the Desk of 51³ÉÈ˵¼º½
Many top international business schools are now accepting CAT (Common Admission Test) scores for their 2024-25 MBA and management programs. This gives Indian candidates a wider opportunity to pursue global education without needing exams like the GMAT or GRE. By recognizing CAT scores, these schools make it easier for talented Indian students to join prestigious programs and experience a diverse, global learning environment. For Indian applicants, this provides a valuable advantage, allowing them to use their CAT scores to gain admission to well-known international business schools.
Are you an Indian student with a CAT score and looking to pursue an MBA abroad? Many top international business schools now accept CAT scores, letting you skip the GMAT! Join our free consultancy call to learn how you can use your CAT score for admissions to global programs. Let us help you take the next step toward your dream MBA!