Imagine standing in a room full of people who once dreamed of cracking the CAT. Some made it, some didn’t, and others chose not to try. Now, ask them where they are in their careers. You will hear stories of triumphs, failures, and surprising detours. Success doesn’t look the same for everyone—and it certainly isn’t tied to one exam. Exams like CAT have forever been marketed as the ultimate gateway to a successful career. But what happens when the results don’t align with your expectations? Or worse, when the MBA route doesn’t deliver on its promises? It’s time to challenge this singular narrative. A career isn’t built on a CAT score—it’s built on skills, experiences, and the ability to adapt.
Employers today are not hiring based on your ability to solve quadratic equations or who can solve how many questions faster. They are looking for people who can think critically, communicate effectively, and adapt to challenges. These qualities don’t come from solving multiple-choice questions but from real-world experiences and problem-solving. However, the obsession with exams like CAT often overshadows the bigger picture.
This is what CAT does not teach you
Preparing for the CAT is a rigorous process. You master concepts like geometry, algebra, and reading comprehension. But ask yourself—how often do these skills show up in the workplace? Take marketing as an example. You are more likely to need user understanding, an ability to execute with rigour, and working with multiple stakeholders to get your plan approved. Platforms like Kraftshala, for instance, emphasize industry-relevant skills and hands-on learning, which align more closely with the demands of the modern workplace. On the other hand, traditional exams test theoretical knowledge, but the modern workplace demands much more.
The ROI of many MBA programs just isn’t what it used to be. Sure, if you’re getting into the tier-1 B-Schools, the investment might make sense. But for countless others, the degree doesn’t pay off. The job market today rewards those who are ready to hit the ground running. Employers want people who can deliver from day one, whether it is in terms of managing projects, designing campaigns, or analysing data.
Skills matter not scores
Students who can embrace the countless opportunities available outside the CAT exam are having fantastic careers in today’s day and age. By working on real-world projects, gaining hands-on experience, and learning how to work with people, you can make yourself extremely relevant and desirable for today’s recruiters. Not doing as well in CAT, or choosing not to pursue it, isn’t the end of the road. It’s an opportunity to explore other, often better, options. Whether it’s learning digital marketing, mastering analytics, learning UI/UX or diving into project management, the key is to focus on building the skills that matter. Success doesn’t come from following a single path. It comes from knowing your strengths, exploring your interests, and finding ways to add value.
Conclusion
The world is full of opportunities, and your future is defined by how you adapt, grow, and learn. CAT is just one path among many—and sometimes, the road less travelled can lead to the greatest destinations. So, here’s the real takeaway: your career is bigger than a score. Take a step back, think about what matters, and go build the future you want.
The author is Founder & CEO, Kraftshala
