IBSAT Exam Pattern 2024: Check Latest Paper Pattern and Marking Scheme!

ICFAI Business School Aptitude Test 2024 ( IBSAT )

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Registration: 1 Jul '24 - 20 Dec '24

Shruti Garg

Shruti GargAssistant Manager- Editorial

Updated on Aug 9, 2024 12:42 IST

IBSAT exam pattern 2024 is similar to most of the other MBA entrance exams in terms of test structure and marking scheme. The test is conducted in Computer Based mode through remote proctored. Candidates will be able to take the IBSAT 2024 exam from their own laptop/desktop.

The IBSAT question paper is divided into four sections—Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability, Data Adequacy & Data Interpretation and Reading Comprehension. Check out the details of the IBSAT 2024 exam pattern below, including key highlights, section-wise weightage, and a brief description of each section of the IBSAT 2024 syllabus.

Q:   What will be the mode of IBSAT exam?

A:
The IBSAT exam (ICFAI Business School Aptitude Test), is conducted in an Computer-Based online mode. It is a computer-based test (CBT) wherein candidates are required to take the exam on a computer/laptop from their own homes. The exam is proctored remotely to ensure fairness and prevent any malpractice. During the IBSAT exam, aspirants are provided with a computer interface that allows them to answer MCQs within a specified time limit. IBSAT exam typically consists of sections covering Quantitative Aptitude verbal ability, data adequacy and interpretation, and reading comprehension. IBSAT exam is conducted for a duration of 120 minutes in which candidates have to attempt 140 questions of one mark each.
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Q:   Can I take IBSAT exam more than once?

A:
Yes, IBSAT (ICFAI Business School Aptitude Test) can be taken more than once. IBSAT is an entrance examination conducted by ICFAI Foundation for admission to MBA and PGDM programs offered by the IBS campuses across India. To appear for IBSAT exam more than once candidates must note the important guidelines: 1. Frequency: There is no limit on the number of attempts one can appear for IBSAT. You can take the IBSAT in consecutive years. The exam is usually conducted again in February, wherein candidates can re-appear for IBSAT. 2. Application Process: For each attempt, you need to complete the IBSAT application process and pay requisite fee. 3. Eligibility: Make sure you fulfill the eligibility criteria for the programme you are interested in. Some programs may have specific requirements regarding the number of attempts. Check the programme's eligibility criteria to ensure you meet all the necessary requirements.
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Q:   How to appear for IBSAT online test?

A:
To appear for the IBSAT online proctored examination, candidates will have to go through the several stages: Stage 1- Candidates must login through the link shared on the registered email address. Candidates must enter their unique ID and Date of Birth to access the IBSAT exam Stage 2- The verification process will be conducted at two levels. In the first level candidate's facial photo will be captured. During the exam, AI tool will constantly monitor the candidate's actions and movements. In the second level of the verification process, candidate's will have to display their IBSAT hall ticket and valid ID proof when prompted. Stage 3- Candidates must read the exam instructions carefully. Stage 4- IBSAT exam begins online.
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IBSAT 2024 Exam Pattern: Highlights

Find the key highlights on the IBSAT 2024 exam structure in the table below.

Exam Structure

Details on IBSAT Exam

Exam Mode

Home-Proctored Test

Duration of exam

120 minutes

Number of questions

140 MCQs

Total Marks

140 marks

Language of paper

English

Subjects

  • Quantitative Aptitude
  • Verbal Ability
  • Data Adequacy & Data Interpretation
  • Reading Comprehension

Number of sections

Four sections

Marking scheme

  • One mark for each correct answer
  • No negative marking

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Q:   Is the IBSAT exam difficult?

A:
As per the analysis of previous year's papers, the IBSAT exam is of moderate level. It is relatively easier than other management exams like the CAT MAT or CMAT. There are a total of 140 questions, divided into four sections. Each of these questions carries one mark. Since there is no negative marking, the IBSAT is relatively less challenging than an exam like the IIFT. Also, the Verbal Ability section dominates the question paper with 50 questions of moderate difficulty. This makes the IBSAT paper easier to score with just six months of preparation. The quantitative and reasoning questions can be difficult sometimes, but these tough questions can be balanced out by easy questions in the same section. However, the cutoff is higher due to competition because only 10 IB schools accept IBSAT scores.
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Q:   How to avoid common mistakes in IBSAT?

A:
Here are some of the common mistakes which can be avoided by aspirants while preparing for IBSAT exam. Check the tips to avoid the common mistakes below: 1. Not solving enough mock papers To get a proper understanding of the format, time management and to be able to solve questions accurately one must take as many mocks. Solving and practicing individual questions is a lot different to attempting a full mock test. While taking mocks aspirants can realize mismanagement of time, silly errors which do not get highlighted otherwise. 2. Ignoring past years' sample papers Even if there are major changes in exam pattern, candidates should not ignore past year sample papers. They are a great source to practice section-wise questions. Moreover, there are chances of questions getting repeated after 3 to 4 years. 3. Not focusing on error analysis Analyzing mistakes is crucial for an all round preparation. One should revisit all the tests and questions solved and find out the repetitive mistakes. After identifying the mistakes one should just focus on getting the basics clear and be cautious while attempting those kinds of questions on the exam day. 4. Not iterating the preparation strategy Having one preparation strategy is good, but sticking to it despite no results in terms of scoring in mocks is stupidity. Changing the study plan if not working well is recommended. Here advices from industry experts and academicians can be followed. 5. Not listing down important formulas and concepts To have a quick access to all the important formulas, concepts and tricks, aspirants can prepare a list of the same. The list can be put on pin board, it proves good for revision. 6. Ignoring the SWOT Analysis Identifying strengths and weaknesses is very important for performing well in the exam. If strengths are known one can be confident and start solving the test from questions based on strong concepts. On the other hand the weak areas can be practiced and focus can be on minimizing errors.
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Explore subject-wise topics asked in IBSAT

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IBSAT Exam Pattern 2024: Section-wise Weightage

The section-wise distribution of questions in IBSAT exam or question paper is as follows:

Sections

Number of Questions

Verbal Ability (VA)

50

Reading Comprehension (RC)

30

Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

30

Data Adequacy/ Sufficiency and Data Interpretation (DA/ DI)

30

Total

140

Section 1: Verbal ability

The section includes the highest number of questions, i.e. 50 as compared to other sections. The section comprises all the essential components of English Language—Grammar, Sentence formation, Vocabulary usage, Idioms, Phrases, One-word substitution, Jumbled paragraphs, and many others.  

Section 2: Reading comprehension

This section consists of 30 questions based on RC passages. The passages are usually of moderate difficulty level. The questions are linked to the information given in the passage and are relatively easy to attempt.

Section 3: Quantitative Ability

This section checks your mathematical skills with a strong emphasis on Arithmetic. Again, the questions are of moderate difficulty level. With a decent number of practice sets, candidates can have good command over the section.

Section 4: Data Adequacy & Data Interpretation

The section comprises two sets of questions. One section consists of Data Interpretation, which includes questions on Data analysis, Data comparison, Data trends. The other section includes questions on Data sufficiency.  

VARC Questions with Answers for Practice Quantitative Aptitude Questions with Answers for Practice DILR Questions with Answers for Practice

IBSAT 2024 Mock Test

IBSAT mock test helps test-takers in analysing the preparation level and accuracy. Candidates can take the IBSAT mock test on the official website. The IBSAT national mock test was available till December 16. Try out the free IBSAT Mock Test designed by Shiksha to help you boost your preparation for IBSAT 2024.

Q:   What is the score pattern in IBSAT exam? How is the percentile calculated?

A:
As per the IBSAT exam pattern, the marking scheme for IBSAT is as follows: 1. One mark for each correct answer 2. No negative marking On the basis of the score obtained by candidates in the IBSAT exam, they are shortlisted for the Group Discussion and Personal Interview rounds. Candidates meeting the IBSAT cutoff criteria are shortlisted for the selection rounds. Listed below is the IBSAT cutoff: 1. CAT & XAT 60 percentile and above 2. GMAT 500 + 3. NMAT by GMACTM 150+ The final selection for admission to programme and campus is calculated based on the following components and their weightage: 1. Class 10th- 10% 2. Class 12th- 15% 3. Graduation- 25% 4. Group Discussion- 25% 5. Interview- 25%. .
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Q:   What are the prerequisites for IBSAT online exam?

A:

IBSAT 2024 exam is expected to be held in remote proctored home. Candidates will be able to take the test from any location with stable internet connectivity. To appear for IBSAT online proctored examination, candidates must ensure to fulfill the following technical requirements: For Laptop/Desktop 1. Processor- Dual Core, 4 threads, 2.2 GHz 2. RAM- 2 GB 3. Screen Resolution- 1024*768 4. Web Camera- 640 x 480, 15 frames per second (fps) 5. Microphone- Any Model (External or Internal) 6. Network Bandwidth- 1 Mbps continuous connectivity 7. Browser- Chrome/Edge 8. Net Framework- v4.5.2 9. Antivirus- Any make (To be disabled) 10. Mic/Cam settings- Under chrome 11. Pop up/ Ad Blocker to be disabled 12. Any Desk 13. Administrative Privileges 14. Compatibility checks- webcam and microphone For Mobile 1. OS- Android 8 or above 2. RAM- 2 GB or above 3. Must have front camera.

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Q:   Is IBSAT an online exam?

A:
Yes, IBSAT is an online exam. It is a computer-based test conducted by ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education for admission to MBA/PGDM program of ICFAI Business School (IBS) campuses across India. There are nine IBS campuses- IBS Hyderabad, IBS Dehradun, IBS Jaipur, IBS Ahmedabad, IBS Gurgaon, IBS Bengaluru, IBS Kolkata, IBS Pune & IBS Mumbai. The IBSAT exam is usually held in the last week of December every year. The exam assesses the candidate's aptitude in areas like Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability, Data Adequacy & Data Interpretation, and Reading Comprehension. The exam is conducted in online mode wherein candidates need to answer the question within the given time duration. The IBSAT exam is conducted in online proctored mode, wherein candidates can take exams from their own laptops/desktops from any location with a stable internet connection.
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FAQs Related to IBSAT Exam Pattern

Check below the frequently asked questions on IBSAT exam pattern:

Q:   Which are the most important topics to focus for IBSAT preparation?

A:
There is nothing like an important topic for the preparation. You have to go with complete preparation for the exam. There are a number of exams conducted in India for the MBA type courses. Exams like CAT, XAT, GMAT, MAT, IBSAT, NMAT, SNAP, etc. have some minor tweaking and variations apart from the main sections. Each of these exams has quantitative aptitude, verbal reasoning, logical reasoning and data interpretation, apart from GK or essay writing section in some of the exams. So, you have to prepare accordingly for these exams either by taking coaching classes or correspondence course or by self-preparation or by following recommended books. After you have prepared for the most difficult level questions, you may try to get some question banks for the specific exam you are targeting either offline mode i.e. books on exams or online mode i.e. free question banks websites or paid question banks for practice.
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Q:   How can I crack IBSAT in 1 year?

A:
IBSAT exam is comparatively easy as compared to other MBA entrance tests. You must work on efficiency and time management. Reasoning section, the candidates can practice through mock tests to be precise and accurate. Since for this section, there is no precise formula, the candidates can solve as many mock tests as possible. Simple preparation for this section can be done by solving puzzles and riddles. Quantitative section, the candidates can prepare from the NCERT books or secondary and Higher secondary level mathematics books. Candidates can also opt for solving mock tests, previous years ATMA question papers and CAT question papers. Lastly, for the verbal section, the candidates can brush up their grammar, vocabulary and increase their reading speed. Reading from various topics can give an advantage while dealing with long passages. It is essential that students refer to previous years question papers and rely on mock tests, as this will make them familiar with the paper pattern and will give them an idea about the type of questions asked. Thus, students are better prepared for the examination.
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Q:   How do I prepare for the IBSAT exam?

A:
The IBSAT exam is conducted for admission to management courses at the ICFAI Business School. To prepare for this exam, the following expert suggestions will be helpful: 1. Understand the syllabus and exam pattern of the IBSAT exam. 2. Devise a study plan as per the exam date and available time to study. 3. Six months are sufficient to prepare for the IBSAT therefore, utilize this time properly. 4. Complete all topics from the IBSAT syllabus four months before the actual exam. 5. Select study material carefully; for the Reading Comprehension section, Business Communication by Clark and Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis are sufficient, along with the newspaper. 6. You can study Quantitative Aptitude topics from Arun Sharma or RS Agrawal. Try to note down formulas separately to revise regularly ahead of the exam. 7. For the Verbal Ability section, the English Proficiency Test from IMS India would be sufficient. You can select other books as well, as per your requirements. 8. Nishit Sinha's Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning will be helpful in the DI section, along with a section-wise mock test. 9. In addition to the mock test, solve the previous year's IBSAT question papers two months before the exam. 10. You can refer to online IBSAT preparation guides and videos to prepare well for topics in which you are scoring lower. Be confident in your preparation to do well on exam day.
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Q:   Which is the easiest of MBA entrance exams in India out of these: NMAT, MAT, CAT, IIFT, SNAP, CMAT, IBSAT, XAT?

A:
Syllabus of all MBA entrance examinations such as CAT, XAT, MAT, NMAT, SNAP, CMAT, IIFT etc is similar with only minor differences. Toughness of examination is based on ratio of seats virus number of candidates appearing in MBA Entrance examination. CAT is the toughest because its score is used by legacy IIMs which are the best B-Schools in India. In India, based on MBA aspirants feedback, CMAT is the easiest MBA entrance examination. Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) is a national level entrance examination conducted by All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) every year as per the directions of Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), Government of India. The CMAT is a three hour computer based online test which is conducted in a single session to evaluate the candidates’ ability across various segments like Quantitative Technique, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension and General Awareness. There is no fixed syllabus of CMAT examination. CMAT syllabus revolves around Basic Mathematics (mostly arithmetic from standard 1 to 10), Reasoning and Reading Comprehension.
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Q:   How can I crack IBSAT in 6 months?

A:
IBSAT is an online management aptitude test which is conducted by The ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education. The test scores are used for the intake of MBA and PhD programs of ICFAI Business School, The campuses that consider these scores are Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Dehradun, Gurgaon, Jaipur, Kolkata, Mumbai and Pune. Each section except Verbal Ability has 30 questions. The Verbal Ability section has 50 questions Verbal ability section in IBSAT exam basically tests students written language abilities. To clear this section, you must follow strategies like making a habit of reading more newspapers, quality magazines, novels etc. Spending qualitative time in reading also helps to overcome your weakness in your language skills. The verbal ability section of IBSAT exam is classified into following parts - Vocabulary Usage - Para Jumble - English Grammar - Replace the missing words - English Usage Few tips and tricks for IBSAT Preparation are - The first step to follow is IBSAT previous years question papers in order to understand the structure of the exam. You may also try solving them within the 120 minutes and examine the answers after completing the paper. - Make sure to check the speed while solving the questions. Time management plays a very critical role as the candidates will get more than a minute for each question. To improve this part, solve sample papers and try mock tests. - Since IBS is a Computer Based test, the candidates are recommended to appear for as many mock tests as possible. The online mock test will offer a similar atmosphere as that of the exam. - Do not lose confidence and do not get anxious in the exam or solving the sample papers. Go through the questions cautiously and try to comprehend them and then solve them. - Try reading newspapers, magazines, novels, books, journals, etc. for a better hold over vocabulary.
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IBSAT Exam

Student Forum

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Write here...

Answered 3 weeks ago

ICFAI Business School Aptitue Test (IBSAT) is administered by ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education for admission to MBA or PGPM programme. The courses are offered across nine campuses of IBS. Candidates seeking admission to IBS campus must appear for IBSAT exam or must have a valid score in any nat

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Shruti Garg

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

IBS offers Masters of Business Administration (MBA) and Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGPM) through IBSAT scores. Check the list of IBS colleges and courses offered through IBSAT below:

  1. ICFAI Business School (IBS), Hyderabad: MBA
  2. ICFAI Business School (IBS), Ahmedabad: PGPM
  3. ICFAI Business Scho

...more

32295433
Shruti Garg

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

The official website for IBSAT (ICFAI Business School Aptitude Test) for the academic year 2024-25 is general.ibsindia.org. Through this portal, candidates can complete a variety of tasks related to the IBSAT examination, including:

  1. Important Dates: The website also provides updated information on im

...more

32295433
Shruti Garg

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

The difficulty level of IBSAT is moderately easy. IBSAT exam is easy in comparison to other MBA entrance examinations like CAT, MAT, or CMAT. IBSAT question paper consists of total 140 questions across four sections. Each question carries one marks and no marks are deducted for any wrong answers or

...more

32295433
Shruti Garg

Contributor-Level 10

10 Institutes accepting IBSAT

Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • 3.9

    Placements

    3.6

    Infrastructure

    4.3

    Faculty & Course Curriculum

    4.0

    Crowd & Campus Life

    4.3

    Value for Money

    3.4

    Learning Experience

    0.0

    Course Support

    0.0
    (432)
  • |
  • Total Fees: ₹ 17.01 Lakh
  • |
  • 2 years
  • |
  • Full Time
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • 4.0

    Placements

    4.1

    Infrastructure

    3.7

    Faculty & Course Curriculum

    4.2

    Crowd & Campus Life

    3.8

    Value for Money

    4.0

    Learning Experience

    0.0

    Course Support

    0.0
    (167)
  • |
  • Total Fees: ₹ 7.02 Lakh
  • |
  • 2 years
  • |
  • Full Time
Post Graduate Program in Management (PGPM)
  • 3.8

    Placements

    3.9

    Infrastructure

    3.6

    Faculty & Course Curriculum

    4.2

    Crowd & Campus Life

    3.7

    Value for Money

    3.8

    Learning Experience

    0.0

    Course Support

    0.0
    (204)
  • |
  • Total Fees: ₹ 9.09 Lakh
  • |
  • 2 years
  • |
  • Full Time
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • 4.4

    Placements

    4.0

    Infrastructure

    4.0

    Faculty & Course Curriculum

    4.7

    Crowd & Campus Life

    5.0

    Value for Money

    4.3

    Learning Experience

    0.0

    Course Support

    0.0
    (3)
  • |
  • Total Fees: ₹ 13.05 Lakh
  • |
  • 2 years
  • |
  • Full Time

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