Scoring between 80 to 90 percentile in CAT 2025 can still get you into several top-rated MBA colleges in India. While most students aim for a 99+ percentile, the high competition means even a slight score difference can impact your percentile. However, a lower percentile doesn't mean the end of your MBA journey. There are over 1,300 MBA colleges—both private and government—that accept CAT scores in the 80–90 percentile range.
If you’ve scored below 90 percentile, don’t be discouraged. Many well-recognised B-schools follow a structured admission process that includes filling out online applications, followed by Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds. Final selection is based on a candidate’s CAT score, academic background, and performance in GD/ PI.
This percentile range still gives access to quality colleges offering strong faculty, specialisations, infrastructure, and placement support. Explore your options wisely to choose the college that aligns best with your career goals.
MBA Colleges Accepting CAT Score 80-90 Percentile
Scoring 80–90 percentile in CAT 2025 opens up a wide range of options for MBA aspirants. While it may fall short of the IIM cutoffs, many prestigious B-schools across India accept candidates within this range. These colleges offer strong academic programs, experienced faculty, good industry exposure, and promising placement opportunities. Below is a curated list of MBA colleges accepting CAT scores between 80–90th27/06/2025 percentiles, along with their locations and updated fee details.
What’s Next? After Scoring 80-90 Percentile in CAT 2025
After scoring 80–90 percentile in CAT 2025, you are a step closer to securing admission to a reputed management institute. While many students still wonder whether a CAT score of 85 or 90 percentile is good enough, it’s important to understand that B-schools evaluate candidates based on multiple criteria, not just the CAT score. Once shortlisted based on their CAT percentile, candidates must go through additional admission rounds, which typically include:
- Written Ability Test (WAT)
- Group Discussion (GD)
- Personal Interview (PI)
Unlike some IIMs that have replaced GD with WAT-PI rounds, many other top private and government MBA colleges still conduct GD. Therefore, candidates should begin preparing early for all three stages to improve their chances of final selection. A good performance in these rounds can make a significant difference in getting admission to your preferred B-school.
Also Check: CAT Score Vs Percentile 2025: Check Formula, How to Calculate
How to Check & Choose MBA Options After CAT 2025
Even with a strong CAT 2025 percentile in the 80–90 range, selecting the right MBA college can be challenging. Before making your final choice, consider the following essential factors:
- Approvals & Recognition: Ensure the MBA/PGDM program is AICTE-approved or UGC-recognised for credibility and career value.
- Program Fee: Compare fee structures. Some top colleges like FMS Delhi or JBIMS Mumbai offer quality education at lower fees (INR 2–6 lakh), unlike others that may charge INR 20+ lakh.
- Specialisations Offered: Choose a college that offers your preferred MBA specialisation (e.g., Finance, Marketing, HR). Avoid applying where your interest area isn’t available.
- Placement Record: Review recent placement statistics, including average salary, top recruiters, and placement consistency.
- Faculty: Prioritise institutes with experienced, research-oriented, and industry-active faculty.
- Infrastructure: A well-equipped campus with modern classrooms, a library, Wi-Fi, and learning tools supports better academic outcomes.
- On-Campus Hostel: Prefer institutes with in-campus hostel facilities to enhance peer learning and campus engagement.
Final Thoughts
Scoring between 80–90 percentile in CAT 2025 offers you a wide range of good MBA options beyond the IIMs. Many well-recognised colleges offer strong academics, experienced faculty, good placements, and modern infrastructure. Instead of focusing solely on percentile, evaluate colleges based on program quality, specialisations, fees, and placement outcomes. With the right preparation for GD-PI-WAT and careful college selection, you can successfully begin your MBA journey and build a rewarding management career.
