Can a below avg academic student crack CAT 2026 and get into IIM BLACKI? Need honest guidance
Asked by Boda Avanthika on 2026-03-23 in General MBA Doubts
Hi Shweta, I really need your honest guidance.
My profile: 10th – 90% 12th – 78% B.Tech (2024 pass out) – 66% Category – SC, Female No work experience No certifications No extracurricular activities
CAT journey: CAT 2024 – 35 percentile CAT 2025 – 40 percentile CAT 2026 will be my 3rd attempt
Right now I am struggling with self-doubt and feel like I am a below average student. But at any cost, I want to crack CAT 2026 and pursue MBA from IIM BLACKI.
Is it realistically possible for someone with my background to get into IIM BLACKI if I score very high percentile?
What strategy should I follow from now to maximize my CAT 2026 score?
Along with CAT preparation, what activities (courses, internships, certifications, volunteering, projects etc.) should I do to build a strong profile for IIM selection despite having no work experience?
Your honest advice would really help me stay focused and motivated. Thank you for guiding students like us.
3 Answers
Shweta Arora(Mentor) · 2026-03-23 · 4 helpful
Firstly, your academic profile is good enough to get into top IIMs. Your profile is not the barrier, the CAT percentile is. The category benefit will ensure you get a shortlist as long as you score well in CAT - I'd just 97+. You can get a call at lower percentile also for some colleges but aim higher.
The strategy is simple - set a timetable (you can generate one using the schedule tab), follow it consistently by watching conceptual videos/taking coaching and solving questions. Then June onward, take proper mocks.
You can build your profile alongside but that shouldn't be the main priority as of now. Just do well in CAT and you can make it.
Pinky · 2026-03-23 · 2 helpful
u can get in dont worry. u have good overall scores and ur 10th marks are also good. just do well in CAT like di said. u can make it to any IIM.