CAT percentile is meaningful for shortlist but becomes low-weight in final IIM conversion - typically 25-30% of final selection depending on the IIM. At IIM Ahmedabad (Rs 27.5L fees, Rs 35.
22 LPA avg, 99%+ CAT cutoff), CAT score weight in final selection is 65 points out of 100 at shortlist but drops to 30% at final conversion stage. At IIM B, CAT is 55 of 100 at shortlist. At IIM C, CAT is 56 of 100 at shortlist.
Once shortlisted, the batch is roughly homogeneous at 98-99.9 percentile, so the differentiator shifts to WAT+PI performance, UG acads, and work-ex. This is why a 99.
95 percentile general male can lose to a 97.8 diversity candidate in final conversion - the PI/WAT difference can be 10+ points on a 100-point scale. The rant-thread OP was technically correct that at the interview stage, CAT becomes secondary, but emotionally incorrect because high CAT still carries weight in the composite.
The truth: for 99+ percentilers with weak UG or weak interview prep, conversion is NOT guaranteed. For 98-99 percentilers with strong UG and solid prep, conversion is highly achievable. Work on interview prep as if your CAT doesn't exist - that's the only way to convert.
Don't rage at diversity hires - work on areas within your control. Check your eligibility at collvera.