What option is better - CAT preparation for IIMs or UPSC preparation for IAS?

No, CAT is not compulsory for MBA at SOA University. Candidates without CAT scores can appear for SAAT conducted by SOA for admission in MBA. Aspirants can choose any of these of admission pathways. 

Yes, candidates can get admission to specific executive or online MBA programs at IIM Mumbai without the CAT by using alternative exams like GMAT or GRE, or by clearing the institute's own entrance test. However, the regular, full-time flagship MBA programme strictly requires a valid CAT score.

CAT coaching institutes in Ludhiana that offer weekend batches are TIME, IMS, Master Mind, Bulls Eye and Career Launcher.

To choose the best CAT Coaching institute in Ludhiana, candidates must consider the following points:

• Ask about batch size, number of full-length mocks, recorded sessions/notes
• Compare classroom vs. online/hybrid formats
• Final fee structure and refund/installment policy.
• Success Rate of the centre.

The average fee in Ludhiana is from ₹50,000 to ₹85,000 for offline classroom courses and ₹18,000 to ₹35,000 for online courses.