Written by Pranshul Verma
February 6, 2026
Thinking about How to Score 99 Percentile in CAT, Let’s find the answer. The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most challenging and high-profile competitive exams in India. Over two lac candidates apply for the exam every year for only a limited number of seats. The exam is conducted in nearly 150 cities across the country to shortlist the students for the IIM colleges.
The CAT 2021 exam will happen in November, with the last date of registration being in September. Over the years, we have seen a few IIM aspirants scoring 99 percentile in CAT. Of course, it is not easy for everyone to achieve this score. A small number of less than 1% of candidates do that. If you are doing CAT preparation, then one of your dreams might be to score 99 percentile in the CAT Exam.
Based on the insights from those who have achieved this, we have shared a robust CAT preparation strategy and tips that can help you to achieve the 99 percentile in CAT. Remember, there is no shortcut to this, other than the hard work done smartly.
Create a preparation strategy
How to start preparation? What are the right ways to prepare for CAT? These are some of the common questions asked by aspirants when looking for ways to crack the management entrance exam.
Your strategy should start with going through the latest exam pattern and updated CAT syllabus. Next, you should find your strong and weak areas in all the sections and subjects. This is because there is no ideal strategy. You have to create a personalized one depending on the time left for the exam, weak and strong areas, etc.
Don’t attempt all the questions
This is the most important part. You need to attempt a limited number of questions, rather than all questions to avoid negative marking. You get +3 marks for every right answer and -1 mark for every wrong answer, except the TITA questions.
So, how many questions to attempt to score 99% in CAT 2021?
According to those who scored 99+ percentile and the experts in the management field, the number of questions to attempt is around 65. Section-wise, you should answer 26-28 for VARC, 18-20 for DILR, and about 25 for QA.
Accuracy levels
Without working on the accuracy levels of answering the questions, the dream of scoring 99+ percentile will remain unachieved. You can’t go with the hit-and-trial method in competitive exams like CAT. You need to be sure about your answers. For this, you should work on your ability to answer more accurately. As per the toppers, your answers’ accuracy level must be over 85%, even if you attempt fewer questions.
Work on time and speed
You get three hours for all three sections in the exam, which means you have 60 minutes for each section. You have to answer fast and effectively, as well as learn time management to be able to score high. This will come with regular practice, attempting mock tests, opting for the best Online CAT coaching, and study material.
Analyze your preparation
You need to regularly test your preparation level for CAT to understand where you stand. This can be done by attempting mock tests. Along with regular mock test practice, you also need to analyze the results to find what went right and what went wrong. You need to identify your weak areas so that you can improve and put in your hard work accordingly.
Play smartly on exam day
The final stage is the day of the exam. You have to attempt and answer the questions smartly to be able to score 99 percentile in CAT. Remember that you should not give more than a couple of minutes to a single question. If you find it hard to answer, better skip to the next one. Attempt those questions first that you think can be answered accurately. It will not only lift your confidence but also save you more time to attempt the remaining questions.
Wrapping Up:
These are some of the crucial tips to follow while planning for the CAT exam and to achieve the 99 percentile in the CAT. Choosing the best coaching for CAT, the right preparation books and study material, working on weaknesses, and playing smartly during the exam are the keys to success. Those who have achieved this goal also focused majorly on these points.
Also Read:
Avail Your Free CAT Courses
We have a list of curated courses to help you Ace the CAT Exam. Checkout Now.
Tools to help you ace CAT
Free tools that actually help you crack CAT
Daily Study Planner · Free Masterclass · Topic Tests & Battle Mode · Study Buddy & To-Do Lists · Flashcards for Quick Revision
Built by CAT toppers. Used by 10,000+ aspirants.

Your CAT Course is waiting for You..!!
Related Articles
How to Prep for CAT 2026: The Real Gyaan No One Tells You (Until Now!)
Thinking about CAT 2026? Don’t fall for the old myths. This isn’t your board exam. We’re breaking down how to actually prep, what works, and what to absolutely avoid.
Top CAT Coaching? Nah, Find Your Perfect Prep Partner.
Everyone’s chasing the ‘top CAT coaching’ but what if that’s the wrong question? It’s not about who produces the most IIM converts; it’s about finding a coaching that clicks with *your* vibe. Let’s spill the tea on how to actually find your perfect prep partner.
Top MBA Colleges in India: Beyond the IIM Hype (Real Talk, No Cap!)
Thinking about an MBA in India? Everyone talks IIM A/B/C, but are you missing out on hidden gems? We’re diving deep into the real top MBA colleges, beyond just the big names, and what actually matters for your career.
Stay Up to Date in Your CAT Journey
Access Our CAT Courses
Courses curated by top IIM Faculties and 7 Times CAT 100%iler
Mentorship Programs
The right mentorship is what makes a difference between a 90 and a 99%iler. Check out our Mentorship Programs Now.
Not Your Regular Topic Tests
Topic Tests just got an upgrade with Battle Mode. Now invite your friends to a challange and ace the Topic Together.
Can we help you?