Likhith · December 2, 2025 
Introduction
Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), Delhi is one of India’s most prestigious B-schools, known for its exceptional ROI, faculty, and placements. Every year, thousands of CAT aspirants dream of getting a call from FMS. But how much score or percentile do you need to secure that elusive call? With FMS being highly competitive, understanding the expected CAT cutoffs and selection process is crucial for aspirants. This blog dives deep into CAT score requirements for FMS shortlisting for 2026 admissions, backed by recent trends, expert insights, and actionable tips to improve your chances.
What is the FMS Admission Process?
FMS Delhi follows a multi-stage admission process where the initial shortlisting for Personal Interview (PI) is based heavily on CAT scores. The composite score for shortlisting is derived from weighted CAT section scores: verbal ability & reading comprehension (VARC) gets 40%, data interpretation & logical reasoning (DILR) 30%, and quantitative ability (QA) 30%. Candidates meeting category-wise minimum cutoffs are shortlisted for Extempore, Statement of Purpose evaluation, and PI. The final selection also looks at academics, SOP, extrovert performance, and interview scores, making it a holistic process beyond CAT performance.
How Does FMS Shortlist Candidates Based on CAT Scores?
Instead of relying solely on raw CAT marks, FMS uses composite scores calculated from CAT section-wise scores with different weightages to ensure balanced skills. Over the years, minimum CAT percentile for FMS shortlisting for the general category has been consistently above 98 percentile, often around 99+. For reserved categories like OBC, SC, ST, the cutoffs differ, ranging from around 70 to 96 percentile depending on the category. Sectional performance matters too, since the composite score weighs section scores differently. FMS also awards additional marks to female candidates to promote diversity.
What CAT Score/Percentile is Needed to Get an FMS Call?
Recent data shows for General category candidates aiming for a call from FMS in 2026, a CAT composite score equivalent to a percentile around 99+ is needed. Below is a summary of expected cutoff percentiles based on past trends and recent data:
| Category | Expected CAT Composite Percentile Cutoff |
|---|---|
| General | 99+ |
| EWS | 97+ |
| OBC | 96+ |
| SC | 85+ |
| ST | 70+ |
The composite score cutoffs are slightly flexible depending on the number of applicants and CAT difficulty each year, but aiming for 99+ percentile is the safest strategy for general category aspirants.
What Factors Can Influence FMS Cutoff?
Cutoffs fluctuate due to these factors:
- Number of CAT test takers and the relative difficulty of CAT in that session
- Number of applicants applying specifically to FMS and their profiles
- Category-wise seat availability and reservation policies
- Changes in FMS admission policy or additional criteria such as interview performance weightage
- Gender diversity and academic profile considerations
Thus, while CAT score is paramount, a strong academic profile and interview skills can improve chances beyond just clearing cutoffs.
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting an FMS Call
- Focus on maximizing your CAT percentile, especially in VARC and QA sections since they carry heavy weightage at FMS
- Build a strong overall profile including academics, internships, and extracurriculars to enhance your PI stage performance
- Prepare well for Statement of Purpose and Extempore rounds as they have combined 15% weightage in selection
- Practice mock interviews to increase confidence and team performance in the Personal Interview stage
- Consider category reservations and apply accordingly to maximize chances
How Career Plan B Helps
Career Plan B supports MBA aspirants aiming for FMS calls by offering:
- Personalized Career Counselling to set realistic CAT score targets based on your profile and category
- Psycheintel and Career Assessment Tests to highlight your strengths and tailor your preparation
- Admission and Academic Profile Guidance for improving your resume, academic credentials, and application presentation
- Career Roadmapping to create a focused preparation and application plan considering CAT score requirements and alternate options.
Have any doubts?
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FAQs
Q: What is the minimum CAT percentile required for an FMS call?
A: For the General category, typically 99+ percentile composite score is needed; reserved categories have lower cutoffs.
Q: Does work experience help in FMS admission?
A: While work experience is considered, CAT score and interview performance carry more weight in FMS admissions.
Q: Are sectional cutoffs important for FMS shortlisting?
A: Yes, FMS uses weighted section-wise scores for shortlisting, so balanced performance across sections is crucial.
Q: How many candidates get calls from FMS each year?
A: Roughly 1,500-2,000 candidates are shortlisted annually across all categories for the interview stage.
Q: Can a lower CAT percentile still get you an FMS call?
A: It is unlikely for the general category; reserved categories may have calls at lower percentiles depending on seat availability.
Conclusion
Scoring a 99+ percentile composite score in CAT is essential for General category aspirants aiming to get a call from FMS. Besides clearing cutoffs, building a strong profile and preparing for interview rounds significantly improve chances. With tough competition, strategic preparation and holistic readiness matter. Reach out to Career Plan B for personalized guidance, profile enhancement tips, and a comprehensive roadmap to turn your FMS dream into reality.
