I had a gap during B.Tech and didn’t prepare a solid explanation. In my PI, I fumbled when they asked "What did you do during that year?", I said I just focused on health and didn’t do anything else. That hurt me. In hindsight, I should’ve built a stronger case and maybe taken up a course or internship to show I was proactive. Don't leave this part to chance. The gap won’t kill your chances, poor communication about it will. So prep for both CAT and PI from now.

Your CGPA and academics are decent, especially since you're a General category student. The gap can raise questions, but that’s just one part of your story. I’d suggest keeping some kind of extracurricular/project/online certification ready to talk about from your gap period. Also, consider getting your basics clear in GK and current affairs, CAP interviews often test that. And remember, many students with gap years convert IIMs each year, it’s more about how you present it.

I had a 7.4 CGPA, no work ex, and a drop year during engineering due to a failed subject. Still got calls from IIMK, CAP IIMs, and MDI with a 98.6 percentile. IIMs care more about the "why" behind the gap and your overall self-awareness. They won’t reject you solely for a gap unless you appear unprepared or evasive in the interview. Make sure you have one clear, honest explanation, and back it up with what you did during that time. A consistent CAT mock strategy and a strong interview can compensate for it.

I had a 1-year gap after my 2nd year due to mental health struggles. During my interviews, no one penalized me for it, but they did ask what I did during that time. If you can show that you're using your time productively, maybe you’re preparing for CAT, learning a skill, or even taking care of family, they will listen. Focus on your narrative. Also, 10th and 12th scores are decent. CGPA is average but not disqualifying, especially if you score well in CAT (aim 98.5+ for IIM I/K).

I had a similar profile, a gap between 12th and college, and another semester drop during engineering due to health issues. Honestly, the impact of gap years depends heavily on how well you justify them in the PI stage. If your CAT percentile is 99+ and you present a convincing reason during interviews (personal, financial, medical, etc.), it won’t be a deal-breaker. IIMs want clarity and maturity, not perfection. Work on your CAT rigorously and build a solid narrative for your gap, that’s key.