The Ultimate Guide to CAT Exam 2025: Tips and Strategies
- Goalisb
- Sep 24
- 15 min read
Welcome to the ultimate guide that will unravel the mysteries of the CAT (Common Admission Test), a pivotal exam that opens the doors to CAT exam IIM and all other esteemed MBA programs across India. The significance of the CAT exam cannot be overstated; it is a key that unlocks the gates to renowned institutions like IIMs and other leading business schools. This comprehensive guide will delve into every facet of the CAT exam, equipping you with insights, strategies, and resources to conquer this formidable challenge and pave your way to a rewarding MBA journey.
Table of contents:
What is the CAT Exam?
The CAT exam is a multidimensional assessment designed to gauge your aptitude for pursuing an MBA. The examination has three sections such as logical reasoning and data interpretation, verbal ability and comprehension reading, and your quantitative ability to evaluate your skills that is essential for the course. Each section plays a unique role in unravelling your analytical thinking, language proficiency, and quantitative prowess. The scores you achieve in these sections are not mere numbers; they carry the power to shape your academic destiny, determining your eligibility for prestigious institutions and competitive programs.
CAT Exam 2025 IIM Dates and Registration:
Timing is everything, especially when it comes to the CAT exam. We present you with a comprehensive list of upcoming CAT exam dates, allowing you to chart your course well in advance. However, these dates are just the beginning – successful registration is the crucial next step. Our bunch of information will help you understand the process easily. Remember, your timely registration secures your spot in this intense evaluation, allowing you to showcase your potential on the grand stage.
CAT Important Dates 2025
Particulars | Date |
CAT 2025 registration starts | August 1, 2025, Friday (10:00 am) |
CAT 2025 registration ends | September 20, 2025, Saturday (5:00 pm) |
CAT 2025 admit card download begins | November 5, 2025, Wednesday |
CAT 2025 test day | November 30, 2025, Sunday |
CAT 2025, an emblem of India's most rigorous MBA entrance exams, carries a profound significance for those vying for a seat in prestigious B-schools, including the esteemed IIMs. In this guide, we delve deep into the facets of CAT 2025, highlighting the need for meticulous preparation and staying attuned to timely notifications to seize this golden opportunity.
Final and pre final year students can also write the GMAT or the GRE Exam and submit these scores for admissions to programs like the ISB Young Leaders Program.
For those who are additionally writing the GMAT test or the GRE Test need to write MBA essays in addition to the test scores and can also apply Internationally for the Top Deferred MBA Programs.
Confused about registration timelines and parallel exam planning? At GOALisB, we help you build a personalized MBA entrance strategy — including CAT, GMAT, or GRE — so you never miss a deadline. Contact now.
CAT 2025: Overview
The Indian Institutes of Management conduct a computer-based Common Admission Test 2025 (CAT 2025).
The test will be held on Sunday, November 30, 2025 in three sessions.
CAT 2025 will be conducted by IIMs as a prerequisite for admission to various management programs of IIMs.
The programs are- Post Graduate Programs in Management (PGP) and Fellow Programs in Management (FPM) [PhD]
CAT 2025: Notification, Registration
CAT Registration
The CAT 2025 registration window opens at 10.00 a.m. on August 1, 2025, and will close at 5:00 p.m. on September 13, 2025.
You need to create your login credentials
Fill up all your academic details in the form of 2025
Pay the fees
At the time of registration, the candidates have to select any five test cities, as per their preference.
After the last date of registration, candidates will be allotted one among the five preferred cities, subject to availability.
The candidates can download the admit cards from November 05, 2025 until November 30, 2025.
The journey commences with staying vigilant about CAT 2025's crucial dates. Every date is a stepping stone from the initiation of registration to the much-anticipated result declaration. The importance of staying updated with CAT 2025 notifications cannot be overstated, as it ensures candidates are well informed and prepared for each process stage.
CAT 2025: Eligibility Criteria
The general students must score 50% and SC/ST/OBC students must score at least 45% in their graduation to apply for IIM CAT. The graduation either has to be pursued from a UGC acclaimed university or there should be an equivalent qualification under the Ministry of Education, Government of India.
The candidates must have any one these :
Completed Bachelor’s degree with the required percentage of marks*.
b) Completed professional degree (CA/CS/ICWA/Fellow of the Institute of Actuaries of India
(FIAI)) with required percentage*.
c) Should be in the final year of Bachelor’s degree with required percentage*.
*SC/ST/PwD candidates should have a minimum 45%. For General, EWS and NC-OBC
candidates, the minimum is 50%.
Before setting sail, understanding the eligibility criteria is paramount. Delving into academic prerequisites, age thresholds, and specific category requirements, candidates must ensure their eligibility.
Reservation
As per the legal requirements, 15% of the seats are reserved for Scheduled Caste (SC) candidates, 7.5% for Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates, 27% for Other Backward Classes candidates belonging to the “Non-Creamy” layer (NC-OBC), up to 10% for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) candidates and 5% for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwD).
Not sure if you’re eligible for IIMs or which programs you can apply to with your background? With GOALisB experts schedule a profile review, who will evaluate your profile and guide you toward the right B-schools in India and abroad.
CAT Application Form 2025
The distribution of the application form will be available till September 20, 2025 5 pm.
Filling out the CAT 2025 application form is akin to crafting a masterpiece. Selecting preferred exam cities and date slots necessitates careful consideration. Meticulously following instructions to avoid common errors is crucial to ensure the accuracy of information entered.
CAT 2025 Exam Fees
CAT Registration fee
₹1300 for SC, ST and PwD candidates.
₹2600 for all other candidates.
Comprehending the intricacies of CAT 2025's application fee structure for various categories is pivotal. Navigating diverse payment methods and successfully executing payment transactions are integral to validating the application.
CAT 2025: Points to know while attempting exam
Conquering CAT 2025 demands adherence to essential guidelines. Punctuality, carrying permissible items, and maintaining composure amid pressure are the crux of the exam. Effective time management and unwavering focus are the cornerstones of success.
Follow what your invigilator says
Start with the questions you know
Remember the time management of each section
Meticulously go for TITA questions
On-screen calculator might help
Stay focused
Leave the tricky questions for later
Quality matters over quantity
Check the answers twice/thrice
No need to panic
CAT 2025 Result:
Candidate's CAT 2025 scorecards will be made accessible on the CAT website.
Candidates may also be informed individually by SMS.
The CAT results are likely to be declared by the first week of January, 2026.
The CAT 2025 score is valid only till December 31, 2026 and will accordingly be accessible on the website.
With bated breath, candidates await the CAT 2025 result declaration. A comprehensive explanation of result-checking procedures aids candidates in seamlessly accessing their outcomes. Grasping the significance of CAT scorecards in the MBA admission process is pivotal for aspirants to make informed decisions.
The GMAT Exam on the other hand has a similar subject matter but different in terms of the test taking strategies. This exam however qualifies the applicants to apply to Masters in Management programs, Masters in Business Analytics, Masters in Finance and ISB YLP program. Get in touch with our MBA admission consultants for MBA essay and MBA interview preparation assistance.
CAT 2025 Strategy - How & Where To Prepare From
If you want to get through any of the IIMs in India, CAT score is very important. The basic strategy needs analyrical abilities, general aptitude, and problem-solving skills. If you can improve these three factors in you, the chances are wider for you. You also need to be patience in case of any competitive examinations.
The CAT exam is categorised into three sections. Each section has 40 minutes so the the total examination duration is 2 hours. The sections are
Verbal Ability and Comprehension Reading
Logical Reasoning and Interpretation of Data
Quantitative ability
The Verbal Ability and Comprehension reading has 24 questions, the logical reasoning and data interpretation has 20 questions, and the quantitative ability has 22 questions in each of the section. The total marks is 198 and the marking scheme is +3 for every right answer and -1 for every wrong answer.
Nurturing success in CAT 2025 requires more than knowledge; it demands strategic preparation. Valuable insights, recommended study materials, and mock tests are the tools of the trade. Exploring coaching classes and online test series can provide the competitive edge needed to excel.
In essence, CAT 2025 is an examination and a transformative journey towards excellence in management education. Prospective MBA candidates are urged to prepare early and follow this comprehensive guide meticulously. By diligently embracing the challenges of CAT 2025, candidates can unlock doors to a promising future, adorning business and management with their prowess.
At GOALisB, we mentor students with customized CAT prep plans and parallel strategies for GMAT/GRE to maximize options for IIMs, ISB, and top international MBAs. Book a free consultation today.
CAT Preparation Tips: CAT exam IIM:
Preparing for the CAT exam requires a well-structured study plan that aligns with your test date. Your study plan is more than a schedule; it's your roadmap to success. Crafted with precision, it aids you in navigating through the extensive syllabus and myriad study materials. A critical aspect of CAT preparation is managing time effectively and strategically prioritizing topics. Your dedication to your study plan shapes the foundation of your triumph.
CAT Test Content and Sample Questions:
Let's dive deep into the content of the CAT exam. The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section assesses your command over language and comprehension skills. The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning section challenges your ability to analyse information and draw logical conclusions. Lastly, the Quantitative Ability section tests your proficiency in solving numerical problems. To aid your preparation, we provide sample questions and detailed explanations. Practice is your ally in mastering these sections.
CAT exam IIM Official Website and Additional Resources:
The official IIM CAT website serves as a treasure trove of essential information. From exam details to registration guidelines, it's your one-stop shop for CAT. Amplify your preparation with recommended study materials harmonising with the exam's essence. The official resources act as mentors, guiding you through the labyrinth of CAT preparation with accuracy and precision.
Scope After CAT Exam for Experienced Professionals:
Apart from freshers, experienced professionals can also apply using the CAT scores to the following one year MBA in India:
Experienced professionals can unlock 1-year MBAs at IIMs, ISB, and global schools. GOALisB helps you position your work experience effectively for these competitive programs. Schedule a call.
CAT vs. Other MBA Entrance Exams:
In MBA entrance exams, the CAT exam shines as a unique entity. Distinct in its content and format, it offers a blend of challenges that set it apart. As you stand at the crossroads of exam choices, reflect on your strengths and aspirations, aligning them with the program that resonates with your goals.
Tips for CAT Test Day:
The day of the CAT exam arrives with a surge of emotions. Nervousness and excitement intermingle, but fear not – our practical tips are here to guide you. Managing test anxiety and maintaining unwavering focus are skills that can be honed through practice. Your test day experience can be a triumphant one with the right mindset and strategies.
CAT Score Improvement Strategies:
A strategic approach is paramount for those aiming to enhance their CAT scores. Our guide offers strategies beyond the surface, encouraging you to analyse your past test performances. Identifying areas of improvement is the first step towards progress, and we equip you with the tools to take that step confidently.
You need to strategies your study plan
Go through the exam pattern over and over again
You must know the fundamentals to focus on it
Solve Questions within the allotted times and practice regularly
Analyzing every mock tests help you identify your strengths and weaknesses.
Seek Guidance
Stay Relaxed
Struggling to cross the 95+ percentile? GOALisB consultants provide one-on-one mentorship for test strategy, mock test reviews, and career-aligned MBA planning. Get a free consultation.
CAT Mock Tests and Practice Papers:
Mock tests and practice papers are not mere rehearsal tools but your simulation ground for the actual battle. These resources bring theory to life and offer invaluable insights into your preparation. We direct you to reputable sources offering an array of mock tests and practice papers, providing ample opportunities to refine your skills.
CAT Accommodations for Test Takers with Disabilities:
Diversity and inclusivity are pillars of the CAT exam. We delve into the process of requesting accommodations for test-takers with disabilities, shedding light on the available options that level the playing field. The CAT exam ensures that every aspirant's potential is measured without bias or hindrance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CAT exam given for?
The CAT (Common Admission Test) is given for admission to MBA and other postgraduate management programs in Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and top B-schools across India.
Detailed Answer: The Common Admission Test (CAT) is India’s most competitive management entrance exam, conducted annually by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) on a rotational basis.
Purpose of the CAT Exam:
Admission to IIMs
Mandatory for entry into MBA/PGP programs at 21 IIMs across India.
Admission to Non-IIM B-Schools
Accepted by 1,000+ institutions including FMS Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, SPJIMR Mumbai, IMT Ghaziabad, IIT DoMS, and LIBA.
Programs Covered
Primarily MBA/PGDM.
Also used for Executive MBA, Fellow Programs in Management (FPM), and other management-related degrees in some institutes.
CAT Exam Structure (2025 format):
Sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), Quantitative Ability (QA).
Duration: 2 hours.
Mode: Computer-based, conducted once a year (usually in November).
In summary: The CAT exam is given to qualify for MBA and management program admissions in IIMs and other top Indian business schools, making it the most important management entrance test in India.
Is 70 a good score in CAT?
A 70 percentile in CAT is considered low for IIMs, as top IIMs require 95–99+ percentiles; however, it may be sufficient for admission to tier-3 or regional MBA colleges.
Detailed Answer: The CAT exam is percentile-based, meaning your score is relative to other test-takers. A 70 percentile indicates you performed better than 70% of candidates, but it falls short for India’s top-ranked management schools.
CAT Percentile vs. College Opportunities:
Top IIMs (Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, Lucknow, Kozhikode, Indore)
Typical cutoff: 98–99+ percentile.
70 is far below the eligibility range.
New & Baby IIMs
Cutoffs: 90–95 percentile.
70 will not qualify.
Top Non-IIMs (FMS, SPJIMR, MDI, IIT DoMS, IMT, XIMB, etc.)
Cutoffs: 85–97 percentile.
70 is below requirements.
Tier-2 & Tier-3 Colleges
Some state universities and private institutes accept 60–75 percentile.
Examples: Amity, BIMM Pune, Christ University, UPES, and other regional schools.
Key Insight:
With 70 percentile, you can get into average MBA colleges, but not India’s elite schools.
If your goal is IIMs or top 20 B-schools, it is advisable to re-attempt CAT or consider exams like XAT, NMAT, SNAP, or MAT.
In summary: A 70 CAT percentile is not competitive for IIMs or top B-schools but may open doors to tier-3 or regional MBA programs.
What is the last date for applying for CAT 2025?
The last date to apply for CAT 2025 is September 20, 2025 at 5:00 PM IST.
Is CAT conducted twice a year?
No, the CAT exam is conducted only once a year, usually in November, by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs).
Detailed Answer: The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national-level management entrance exam in India, managed annually by one of the IIMs on a rotational basis.
Key Facts about CAT Frequency:
Once a Year: Conducted only once, typically on the last Sunday of November.
Single Admission Cycle: CAT scores are valid for one academic year of MBA/PGDM admissions.
Exam Slots: While the test is conducted once, it is held in three sessions (morning, afternoon, evening) on the same day to accommodate large numbers of candidates.
No Mid-Year Attempt: Unlike GMAT or GRE, CAT does not allow multiple attempts in a year.
In summary: The CAT is held once every year in November, and the score is valid for admission in the following academic year.
What is the salary after CAT exam?
Salary after the CAT exam depends on the B-school you join—graduates from top IIMs earn average packages of ₹25–35 LPA, while new IIMs and tier-2 colleges offer ₹8–15 LPA.
Detailed Answer: The CAT exam itself does not guarantee a salary—it is an entrance test. Your salary depends on the MBA/PGDM institute you get into after clearing CAT.
Salary Outcomes by Category of B-Schools (2025):
Top IIMs (Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, Lucknow, Kozhikode, Indore)
Average salary: ₹25–35 LPA.
Highest packages often exceed ₹1 crore (international offers).
New & Baby IIMs (Ranchi, Trichy, Udaipur, etc.)
Average salary: ₹12–18 LPA.
Steady placements with consulting, BFSI, IT, and FMCG firms.
Non-IIM Elite B-Schools (FMS Delhi, SPJIMR, MDI, IIT DoMS, IMT, XIMB, etc.)
Average salary: ₹15–25 LPA depending on institute and specialization.
Tier-2 & Tier-3 Colleges (accepting CAT with 60–80 percentile cutoffs)
Average salary: ₹6–12 LPA.
Job roles largely in sales, operations, and entry-level consulting/finance.
Key Insight:
CAT is only the gateway—salary depends entirely on the reputation, ranking, and placement ecosystem of the B-school you join.
Specializations also matter—consulting, finance, and product management often command higher packages than general management or operations.
In summary: After CAT, the salary range varies widely—from ₹6 LPA at lower-ranked colleges to ₹25–35 LPA at top IIMs, with exceptional global offers crossing ₹1 crore.
How many CAT attempts are allowed?
There is no limit on the number of CAT attempts; you can take the exam every year as long as you meet the eligibility criteria (bachelor’s degree with 50% for general, 45% for reserved categories).
Detailed Answer: The Common Admission Test (CAT), conducted annually by the IIMs, has no restriction on attempts, unlike some competitive exams.
Key Points on CAT Attempts:
Unlimited Attempts
Candidates can appear for CAT every year without any lifetime cap.
Many aspirants take the exam 2–3 times to improve their percentile.
Eligibility Criteria
Minimum requirement: Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks (General/OBC) or 45% (SC/ST/PwD).
Final-year students can also apply.
Age Limit
No upper age limit for CAT.
Anyone meeting academic criteria can sit for the test multiple times.
Score Validity
CAT score is valid for one academic year only.
If you reappear the next year, the old score cannot be used.
In summary: You can attempt the CAT exam unlimited times, provided you meet eligibility, since it is held once a year and scores are valid for only one admission cycle.
What is the CAT exam syllabus?
The CAT exam syllabus covers three sections: (1) Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), (2) Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and (3) Quantitative Ability (QA).
Detailed Answer: The Common Admission Test (CAT), conducted by the IIMs, does not publish an official syllabus, but the topics are based on core concepts from high school-level mathematics, English, and logical reasoning.
CAT Syllabus Breakdown (2025)
1. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Reading Comprehension (RC): Inference, main idea, tone, fact vs. opinion.
Verbal Ability: Para-jumbles, para-summary, odd-sentence out, sentence correction, vocabulary usage.
2. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
Data Interpretation: Tables, charts, graphs, caselets, data sufficiency.
Logical Reasoning: Seating arrangement, puzzles, blood relations, syllogisms, coding-decoding, logical sequences.
3. Quantitative Ability (QA)
Arithmetic: Percentages, profit & loss, ratios, averages, time-speed-distance, time & work, mixtures.
Algebra: Equations, inequalities, functions, progressions.
Geometry & Mensuration: Lines, triangles, circles, coordinate geometry, areas & volumes.
Number Systems: Divisibility, remainders, factors, HCF/LCM, base systems.
Modern Math: Permutations & combinations, probability, set theory, logarithms.
Exam Structure (2025 Format):
Duration: 2 hours (40 minutes per section).
Questions: ~66 questions (VARC ~24, DILR ~20, QA ~22).
Marking: +3 for correct, –1 for incorrect (MCQs only).
In summary: The CAT syllabus includes English comprehension, logical reasoning, data interpretation, and quantitative aptitude, designed to test problem-solving and analytical skills.
Can I join an MBA without a CAT?
Yes, you can join an MBA without CAT by applying through other entrance exams (GMAT, GRE, XAT, NMAT, SNAP, MAT, CMAT, etc.) or direct admissions in certain private universities in India and abroad.
Detailed Answer: While CAT is the most popular exam for MBA admissions in India, it is not the only pathway. Many B-schools in India and abroad accept alternative entrance tests.
Options to Join MBA Without CAT:
Other Indian Entrance Exams
XAT → XLRI, SPJIMR, XIMB.
NMAT → NMIMS Mumbai and others.
SNAP → Symbiosis group institutes.
CMAT, MAT, ATMA, TISSNET → Accepted by many tier-2 and tier-3 schools.
International Exams
GMAT / GRE → Required for global MBAs (Harvard, Wharton, INSEAD, LBS, etc.).
Also accepted by ISB Hyderabad, IIMs (for Executive MBA), SPJIMR, MDI, and others in India.
Direct Admissions (No Entrance)
Some private universities (e.g., Amity, UPES, Lovely Professional University, Christ University) offer MBA admissions based on academic scores, GD/PI, or their own test.
Executive MBA / Online MBA
Many Executive MBA programs accept GMAT, GRE, or internal assessments instead of CAT.
Online/global MBAs (e.g., Coursera/edX-affiliated universities) don’t require CAT.
In summary: You can definitely pursue an MBA without CAT by applying through GMAT, GRE, XAT, NMAT, SNAP, MAT, CMAT, or direct-entry private universities in India and abroad.
Is CAT MCQ based?
Yes, the CAT exam is primarily MCQ-based, but it also includes non-MCQ (TITA – Type in the Answer) questions where candidates must enter answers directly.
Detailed Answer: The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a computer-based entrance exam for MBA/PGDM admissions, conducted once a year by the IIMs. Its question types include both multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and non-MCQs (TITA).
CAT Question Format (2025):
MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions)
Candidates choose one correct answer from given options.
Negative marking: –1 for wrong answers.
TITA (Type in the Answer)
No options given—candidates must type the answer using the keyboard.
No negative marking for TITA questions.
Section-Wise Breakdown (Approximate 2025 pattern):
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC): Mostly MCQs, few TITA in para-jumbles.
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR): Mix of MCQs and TITA caselets.
Quantitative Ability (QA): Both MCQs and TITA (arithmetic, algebra, geometry, etc.).
In summary: The CAT exam is MCQ-based with a mix of TITA questions, making it a test of both accuracy and conceptual clarity.
What percentile is 27 marks in cat?
In CAT-2024, 25.3 marks roughly equated to the 70th percentile in some slots.
So 27 marks might be slightly above that — maybe around 72-75 percentile depending on how many test takers and how hard the paper was.
As we conclude this comprehensive guide to the CAT exam, remember that this journey is not merely about acing an evaluation – it's about carving a path towards your MBA aspirations. The CAT exam is not a hurdle; it's a stepping stone. Armed with knowledge, strategies, and resources, you're ready to embark on this journey confidently. Start your preparation early, utilise the provided resources effectively, and set your sights on success in MBA education. Your future begins now.
For assistance with MBA essays and MBA interview preparation and mock interviews Contact us. You can also whatsapp at: +91 7719497187 or email at contact@goalisb.com.
