Did you get low marks in CAT? The question of whether to join an average B-school or drop a year to reattempt CAT leaves many aspirants in a dilemma. The answer? Well, it isn’t as simple as a ‘yes’ or ‘no.’

It’s a bit like standing at a crossroads—one path leads to a college that may not be the dream institution but offers a structured environment, networking opportunities, and a shot at placements. The other path is the uncertain yet potentially rewarding route of another year of preparation, with the hope of landing in a top-tier B-school. But before choosing either road, it’s important to ask: what kind of traveler are you?

The Case for Joining an Average B-School

Not every successful professional has an IIM tag. In fact, many students from mid-tier B-schools have built stellar careers through sheer dedication, networking, and skill-building. Here’s why joining an average B-school might be the right choice:

• Structured Growth: An MBA is as much about learning as it is about discipline. A B-school, even if not top-ranked, provides a structured curriculum, internships, and networking opportunities that help in professional development. If you work your way through it and are consistent with your efforts, you might land good placements.
• Avoid Stagnation: Staying in an academic or professional environment keeps you engaged, pushing you to learn and grow. Taking a break can sometimes lead to procrastination, loss of motivation, or difficulty in getting back into the rhythm of rigorous study.
• Better ROI in the Long Run: While some average colleges may not have the highest starting packages, the real differentiator is what you do during your MBA. With the right effort, even an average B-school graduate can outshine peers from premier institutes.
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The Case for Dropping a Year and Reattempting CAT

On the flip side, if you are determined to get into a top B-school, taking another shot at CAT is a valid option—but only if approached with the right mindset.

• Are You Ready for the Grind? Reattempting CAT isn’t just about taking another test. It requires consistency, discipline, and a strategic approach. Many students start strong but lose motivation midway, leading to a lower score than before.
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• Can You Improve Significantly? If your previous attempt was hampered by a lack of preparation, a poor strategy, or external circumstances, a second attempt might bring a drastic improvement. However, if you were already well-prepared and scored close to your potential, the chances of a significantly higher score might be low because, over time, students get frustrated and lack the motivation to be consistent.
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• Utilising the Gap Year: If you do take a year off, don’t just prepare for CAT. Consider internships, part-time jobs, or upskilling courses that keep you engaged and enhance your profile. This ensures that even if the second attempt doesn’t yield a top-tier college, you still have valuable experience.
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So, What’s the Verdict?

There isn’t a universal answer to the above question because different paths work for different people. A high CAT score and a top-tier B-school undoubtedly offer an edge, but success in the corporate world is about much more than the name of your institution.

If you decide to join a mid-tier B-school, make sure you maximise every opportunity—network relentlessly, upskill continuously, and work towards the best possible placement. If you choose to reattempt CAT, stay disciplined, maintain consistency, and have a backup plan in case things don’t go as expected.

So, now it's on you to choose wisely and give it your best shot, irrespective of the path you choose!