Response: There is no pre-determined strategy to take the CAT. It would differ from person to person depending upon their aptitude as well as their level of comfort with each section. Strategy will also depend on the level of difficulty of the test. I suggest that you take a sample CAT test first, analyze your weak/strong areas and then make a preparation plan. In the initial months try to concentrate on basic concepts and try to excel them. Later start with sectional tests and then comprehensive tests. Practice and analyzing your test papers is the best strategy of preparation. For online CAT there are no special steps that have to be taken as long as you are comfortable with a computer.

Response: As far as your profile is concerned, it is good, however universities will be looking at your overall profile plus your GMAT score. A balanced performance across both Maths and English will only help. I suggest that you get started with your preparation and refer the ETS Official Guide for both the subjects.

Response: Some of the top B-schools in the nation do offer a one yr exec MBA, eg: IIMs, XLRI, etc. The eligibility criteria are institute specific, however generally it requires an experience of more than 5 years. With your profile you may look at some of the best schools in the nation (like ISB in India) and many more abroad for a one-year exec program. I suggest that you do not settle for a mediocre B-school. Mostly candidates with a good overall profile land up with strategic or very senior Executive management positions.

Response: Hospital Management is a growing stream in India, hence it would be very difficult to predict the exact scope as well as future of the same. However pursuing the same from a renowned institute could help, for example: TISS. You could also look at universities abroad, for a better scope and for global opportunities. Money and lavishness would depend on your level of dedication, determination to the subject and also your performance at the institute.

Response: Yes, you are eligible to take the test provided; you score an aggregate of 60+% in the 7th and 8th sem. Generally government colleges have a 5% relaxation for SC/ST candidates, however this criteria is institute specific. You will have to get in touch with the respective institute for the same.

Response: One can improve his/her vocabulary by reading books of high literature and grammar. Reading editorial Columns of leading newspaper should be made a regular habit, in order to improve in this field. Reading the dictionary in your idle time is also a good prospect. But please do not try to mug it up. The only best way to improve in two months is practice. I suggest that you start taking CAT like sample papers to improve your speed as well as accuracy. There is no standard strategy to crack the CAT. It would differ from person to person. Also it would be difficult to set a standard strategy because the difficulty level of each section may also differ.

Response: Yes, you can surely take the CAT. You will be considered as a final year student; hence you need to have 50+% in the first two years of your graduation. Also kindly find the proforma in the CAT brochure. This needs to be printed on your college letterhead with the signature and stamp of the college principal.

Response: First and foremost, it is time that you start practicing sample CAT papers. I suggest that you take few paper based as well as computer based (if possible) tests to analyze your weak/strong areas and then accordingly make a plan of action. However going back to basics would not help much now. I suggest that you concentrate on test taking and try to improve on the areas you are a little weak in.

Response: Admission to some of the top B-schools in the nation would depend on your written test score, GD-PI performance as well as your overall profile (which will include your academics as well as work experience). Every B-school will evaluate your profile whether it is perfect or not, however it is more important to have the right attitude and determination to pursue an MBA.

Response: Starting your career in the right way requires deep and logical thinking. To pursue a medical or an engg degree depends on your field of interest. So please don’t panic, sit down with your elder ones and decide on the right option. Regarding options after BE, you can pursue an MBA or an M Tech.