Is Leaving My Current Job to Prepare for CAT/Government/Bank Exams Worth It?

As a Java Developer with 1 year of experience, you might be considering leaving your job and dedicating your time to prepare for prestigious exams like the Common Admission Test (CAT), government services, or bank examinations. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you decide whether this is the right course of action.

Can You Prepare While Working Full-Time?

Preparation for high-end competitive exams like the CAT, government services, and bank exams can indeed be done while working full-time. Many professionals manage to clear their exams while juggling professional responsibilities. For instance, people often re-qualify for higher cadre positions after joining services, and individuals pursue PhDs while working.

Additionally, government services often require candidates to appear in competitive examinations during probation or to qualify for promotions. Even CA Final examination candidates take their exams while working full-time, highlighting the feasibility of balancing work and preparation.

Factors to Consider Before Quitting Your Job

There is no definitive answer to whether you should leave your job to prepare for exams. The decision depends on several factors:

Interview Process: Leaving your job to prepare for the CAT or other exams might raise red flags during the interview process. Employers may question your commitment to the company and job. Job Security: Staying in your current job provides security and uptime to explore opportunities in other areas, such as a full-time MBA or an MBA from a quality college abroad, which often require prior work experience. Personal Circumstances: If you have a stable job and the time to prepare, it can help you stay calm and focused during the CAT. This can significantly impact your performance. Venue of Exams: Consider whether leaving your job is necessary. You can still prepare effectively with a consistent 2-3 hours of daily preparation. However, some jobs might demand more than 12 hours of work, making it challenging to find the time needed for exam preparation.

Alternative Approaches

If you are not ready to quit your job, consider other alternatives that can help you balance your professional responsibilities with exam preparation:

Split Work Schedule: Some individuals find success by splitting their work schedule, dedicating specific hours for exam preparation. For example, preparing from 6 PM to 9 PM after work hours. Start a Side Venture: Engage in small ventures like providing tuitions, freelancing, or starting a small business, such as baking from home. Ensure you manage your time well and have all necessary documents in place.

Case Studies

A 6-time CAT 100iler, Patrick Dsouza, shares his experience. He prepared for CAT multiple times and eventually got into IIM A, demonstrating that you can achieve your goals with perseverance and a balanced approach.

Conclusion: The decision to quit your job for exam preparation should not be made hastily. Evaluate your circumstances, weigh the pros and cons, and decide based on what aligns best with your long-term career goals. With the right mindset and a well-planned approach, you can achieve your dreams without compromising your current job or professional growth.