CAT Exam Date 2025
- Goalisb
- 13 hours ago
- 27 min read
Cracking the Common Admission Test (CAT) isn’t just about mastering quant formulas or reading comprehension passages; it’s about unlocking a life‑changing opportunity. As a seasoned admissions consultant who has walked alongside thousands of MBA aspirants, I’ve witnessed the anxiety, the late‑night revisions and the joyous messages when those coveted interview calls arrive. CAT 2025, scheduled for Sunday,
CAT Exam Date 2025 is 30 November 2025, and this is your is your gateway to the prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and many top business schools in India. In this comprehensive guide, I will demystify the exam, share critical dates, unravel eligibility rules and offer insider tips to help you tell your own success story.
Why CAT 2025 Matters
The Common Admission Test is the premier management entrance examination in India. It is conducted once a year (this time by IIM Kozhikode) as a computer‑based test and serves as a prerequisite for admission to Post‑Graduate and Fellow/Doctoral programmes at IIMs and many other top B‑schools. CAT scores are also used by a long list of non‑IIM member institutions. A strong performance in CAT 2025 can open the door to MBA, Executive MBA, and specialised programmes ranging from analytics to healthcare management. In short, CAT isn’t just an exam—it’s your passport to transformative opportunities in management education.
CAT Exam Date 2025 to Remember
Staying on top of deadlines is crucial. Here is a snapshot of CAT 2025 milestones based on the official advertisement and information bulletin:
Event | Date & Time | Notes |
Registration opens | 01 Aug 2025 (Friday), 10:00 AM IST | Candidates can begin filling the online application. |
Registration closes | 13 Sep 2025 (Saturday), 5:00 PM IST | No registrations will be accepted after this time. |
Admit card download | 05 Nov – 30 Nov 2025 | Admit cards available on the official site. |
Test date | 30 Nov 2025 (Sunday) | The exam will be conducted in three sessions across ~170 cities. |
Result declaration | First week of January 2026 (tentative) | Scorecard valid until 31 Dec 2026. |
Every successful applicant I’ve worked with has one trait in common: they plan ahead. Mark these dates on your calendar, set reminders and make sure you have all documents ready well before the deadline.
CAT Exam Eligibility & Reservation—Who Can Apply?
CAT 2025 maintains inclusive yet stringent eligibility norms. You are eligible if you satisfy any one of the following conditions:
Bachelor’s degree: You must hold a Bachelor’s degree with at least 50 % marks or equivalent CGPA (45 % for SC/ST/PwD candidates) from a recognised university or institution. This includes degrees recognised by the Ministry of Education or institutions deemed to be universities.
Professional qualification: Candidates who have completed professional degrees like CA, CS, ICWA (CMA) or Fellowship of the Institute of Actuaries of India with required percentages are eligible.
Final‑year students: If you’re in the final year of your bachelor’s degree or awaiting results, you can apply. Such candidates must produce a certificate from their institution confirming that all requirements have been met.
Reservation of Seats
Legally mandated reservations apply:
15 % seats for Scheduled Caste (SC) candidates and 7.5 % for Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates.
27 % seats for Other Backward Classes (NC‑OBC) from the non‑creamy layer and up to 10 % for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).
5 % seats reserved for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwD). Disabilities covered include blindness, low vision, deafness, locomotor disability, autism, intellectual disability, mental illness and multiple disabilities.
Candidates must upload valid certificates during registration and produce originals during subsequent selection stages. Remember, simply meeting the minimum eligibility criteria doesn’t guarantee shortlisting; your overall performance in the exam and subsequent stages is crucial.
CAT Exam Registration Process & Fees
Registration is straightforward but detail‑oriented. According to the official registration guide, here’s how to proceed:
Register to generate a User ID and Password. Visit the official CAT website (iimcat.ac.in) and click “New Candidate Registration.” You’ll need a valid email and mobile number, which will be verified via OTP.
Log in and complete the application form. After registration, log in using your credentials to fill in personal details, academic history and work experience. You can save your progress and return later.
Upload required documents. You must upload a recent passport‑size photo, signature and relevant category certificates. The photo should be less than six months old, with a white background, and within the specified size limits. Category and disability certificates must be scanned as PDFs.
Select test cities. Choose up to five preferred test cities from a drop‑down list. Centres are allotted based on availability; in rare cases, a nearby city may be assigned.
Pay the fee and submit. Fees are ₹1,300 for SC/ST/PwD candidates and ₹2,600 for all other categories. Payment must be made online. Once submitted, the form cannot be edited.
After submission, download and print your application summary for future reference. Keep your User ID and password safe; they will be required for downloading the admit card and checking results.
CAT Exam Pattern & Structure
CAT 2025 is designed to assess your aptitude in three key areas: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) and Quantitative Ability (QA).
According to preparation experts, the exam pattern remains consistent with recent years:
Section | MCQs | Non‑MCQs (TITA*) | Total Questions | Time | Weightage (marks) |
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 22 | 2 | 24 | 40 minutes | 72 |
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 12 | 10 | 22 | 40 minutes | 66 |
Quantitative Ability (QA) | 14 | 8 | 22 | 40 minutes | 66 |
Total | 48 | 20 | 68 | 120 minutes | 204 |
*TITA (Type‑in‑the‑Answer) questions require you to type your answer instead of choosing from options.
The exam is conducted across three sessions on the same day. Each section has a strict 40‑minute limit; you cannot switch between sections during the test. The marking scheme typically awards three marks for every correct answer and penalises wrong answers in MCQs (no negative marking for TITA questions).
CAT Exam 2025: Essential Documents & Proformas
Beyond the application form, CAT 2025 requires specific affidavits and certificates. Understanding these forms early prevents last‑minute scrambling:
Final‑Year Certificate: Final‑year students must submit a certificate from their college/registrar confirming they have obtained at least 50 % (45 % for SC/ST/PwD) based on the latest available marks. This certificate validates provisional admission until final results are declared.
Identification Affidavit: Candidates without a permanent address document may need an affidavit on non‑judicial stamp paper, attested by a notary, certifying their identity and residence.
Authorization Form: If you have a medical or logistical need to carry specific items into the test lab, you must complete an authorization form and have it approved by CAT authorities.
Scribe Affidavit: PwD candidates who require a scribe must arrange their own scribe and submit an affidavit detailing the scribe’s educational qualifications. The candidate must acknowledge responsibility for any misrepresentation.
These proformas are available on the CAT website under the “Proformas and Forms” section. Download them early, fill them accurately and keep notarised copies ready.
Plan For CAT Exam Dates 2025: Programmes Accepting CAT 2025 Scores
Programme | Institute | Website | Accepts CAT 2025? |
PGP | IIM Ahmedabad | Yes | |
PGP‑FABM | IIM Ahmedabad | Yes | |
ePGD‑ABA | IIM Ahmedabad | Yes | |
MBA | IIM Amritsar | Yes | |
MBA‑Business Analytics | IIM Amritsar | Yes | |
MBA‑HRM | IIM Amritsar | Yes | |
Executive MBA (EMBA) | IIM Amritsar | Yes | |
M.Sc. in Data Science (MSDSM) | IIM Amritsar (with IIT Ropar) | Yes | |
PGP | IIM Bangalore | Yes | |
IIM Bangalore | Yes | ||
PGPBA | IIM Bangalore | Yes | |
PGPPM | IIM Bangalore | Yes | |
MBA | IIM Bodh Gaya | Yes | |
MBA (Digital Business Management) | IIM Bodh Gaya | Yes | |
MBA (Hospital & Healthcare Management) | IIM Bodh Gaya | Yes | |
Executive MBA | IIM Bodh Gaya | Yes | |
MBA | IIM Calcutta | Yes | |
PGP | IIM Indore | Yes | |
PGP‑HRM | IIM Indore | Yes | |
MSDSM (Data Science & Management) | IIM Indore | Yes | |
EPGP | IIM Indore | Yes | |
PGPMX | Yes | ||
MBA | IIM Jammu | Yes | |
MBA (Healthcare) | IIM Jammu | Yes | |
Executive MBA | IIM Jammu | Yes | |
MBA | IIM Kashipur | Yes | |
MBA (Analytics) | IIM Kashipur | Yes | |
EMBA | IIM Kashipur | Yes | |
EMBA (Analytics) | IIM Kashipur | Yes | |
PGP | IIM Kozhikode | Yes | |
PGP‑BL | Yes | ||
PGP‑Finance | IIM Kozhikode | Yes | |
PGP‑LSM | IIM Kozhikode | Yes | |
EPGP‑IL | IIM Kozhikode | Yes | |
EPGP Kochi | IIM Kozhikode | Yes | |
MBA | IIM Lucknow | Yes | |
MBA‑ABM | IIM Lucknow | Yes | |
MBA‑SM | IIM Lucknow | Yes | |
PGPWE (Working Executives) | IIM Lucknow | Yes | |
Blended MBA | IIM Lucknow | Yes | |
MBA | IIM Mumbai | Yes | |
MBA (Operations & Supply Chain Mgmt) | IIM Mumbai | Yes | |
MBA (Sustainability Mgmt) | IIM Mumbai | Yes | |
MBA | IIM Nagpur | Yes | |
Executive MBA (Hybrid) | IIM Nagpur | Yes | |
MBA | IIM Raipur | Yes | |
MBA in Public Policy & Governance | IIM Raipur | Yes | |
MBA | IIM Ranchi | Yes | |
MBA‑HRM | IIM Ranchi | Yes | |
MBA (Business Analytics) | IIM Ranchi | Yes | |
PGP | IIM Rohtak | Yes | |
EPGDSM | IIM Rohtak | Yes | |
PGPx | IIM Rohtak | Yes | |
MBA | IIM Sambalpur | Yes | |
MBA‑BA (Business Analytics) | IIM Sambalpur | Yes | |
Executive MBA | IIM Sambalpur | Yes | |
MBA for Working Professionals | IIM Sambalpur | Yes | |
PGP | IIM Shillong | Yes | |
PGPEX | Yes | ||
PGP (Working Executives) | IIM Shillong | Yes | |
MBA | IIM Sirmaur | Yes | |
MBA (Tourism Management) | IIM Sirmaur | Yes | |
MBA (Travel, Tourism & Hospitality Mgmt) | IIM Sirmaur | Yes | |
ExMBA | IIM Sirmaur | Yes | |
PGPEX‑LSM | IIM Sirmaur | Yes | |
ExMBA (Digital Transformation & Analytics) | IIM Sirmaur | Yes | |
PGPM (MBA) | IIM Tiruchirappalli | Yes | |
PGPM‑HR (MBA‑HR) | IIM Tiruchirappalli | Yes | |
PGPBM (MBA for Working Executives in Chennai) | IIM Tiruchirappalli | Yes | |
MBA | IIM Udaipur | Yes | |
MBA‑DEM (Digital Enterprise Mgmt) | Yes | ||
MBA‑GSCM (Global Supply Chain Mgmt) | Yes | ||
Executive MBA (Online) | IIM Udaipur | Yes | |
PGP | IIM Visakhapatnam | Yes | |
EMBA | IIM Visakhapatnam | Yes | |
PGPMCI | IIM Visakhapatnam | Yes | |
EPGDPM | IIM Visakhapatnam | Yes | |
PGDMEx | IIM Visakhapatnam | Yes | |
Doctoral Programme in Management | IIM Ahmedabad | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Amritsar | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Bangalore | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Bodh Gaya | Yes | |
Doctoral Programme (PhD) | IIM Calcutta | Yes | |
Doctoral Programme in Management | IIM Indore | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Jammu | Yes | |
PhD (Working Professionals) | IIM Jammu | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Kashipur | Yes | |
Executive PhD | IIM Kashipur | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Kozhikode | Yes | |
PhD Practice Track | IIM Kozhikode | Yes | |
PhD for Management Teachers | IIM Kozhikode | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Lucknow | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Mumbai | Yes | |
PhD (Executive) | IIM Mumbai | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Nagpur | Yes | |
PhD (Executive) | IIM Nagpur | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Raipur | Yes | |
PhD (Practice Track) | IIM Raipur | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Ranchi | Yes | |
Executive PhD (EPhD) | IIM Ranchi | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Rohtak | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Sambalpur | Yes | |
Executive PhD | IIM Sambalpur | Yes | |
Doctoral Programme | IIM Shillong | Yes | |
Doctoral Programme (Working Professionals) | IIM Shillong | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Sirmaur | Yes | |
PhD (Executive) | IIM Sirmaur | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Tiruchirappalli | Yes | |
Executive PhD | IIM Tiruchirappalli | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Udaipur | Yes | |
PhD | IIM Visakhapatnam | Yes | |
Executive PhD | IIM Visakhapatnam | Yes |
Where Can You Write The Test On The CAT Exam Dates 2025: Test‑Centre Cities by State/Union Territory
State/UT | Test Cities |
Andaman & Nicobar Islands | Port Blair |
Andhra Pradesh | Anantapur, Chirala, Chittoor, Guntur, Kadapa, Kakinada, Kurnool, Nellore, Ongole, Rajahmundry, Tirupathi, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram |
Arunachal Pradesh | Itanagar‑Naharlagun |
Assam | Dibrugarh, Guwahati, Jorhat, Silchar, Tezpur |
Bihar | Arrah, Aurangabad, Bhagalpur, Darbhanga, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Patna, Purnea |
Chandigarh | Chandigarh‑Mohali |
Chhattisgarh | Bhilai Nagar, Bilaspur CG, Raipur |
Delhi (NCT) | Delhi‑New Delhi |
Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu | Silvassa |
Goa | Panaji‑Madgaon |
Gujarat | Ahmedabad, Anand, Gandhinagar, Mehsana, Rajkot, Surat, Vadodara, Vapi |
Haryana | Ambala, Faridabad, Gurugram, Hisar, Kurukshetra |
Himachal Pradesh | Bilaspur HP, Hamirpur, Kangra, Shimla |
Jammu & Kashmir | Jammu, Samba, Srinagar |
Jharkhand | Bokaro Steel City, Dhanbad, Hazaribagh, Jamshedpur, Ranchi |
Karnataka | Belagavi (Belgaum), Bengaluru, Hubli‑Dharwad, Kalaburagi (Gulbarga), Mangaluru (Mangalore), Mysuru (Mysore), Shivamogga (Shimoga), Udupi |
Kerala | Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Kannur, Kollam, Kottayam, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Palakkad, Thrissur, Trivandrum |
Ladakh | Leh |
Lakshadweep | Kavaratti |
Madhya Pradesh | Bhopal, Gwalior, Indore, Jabalpur, Sagar, Satna, Ujjain |
Maharashtra | Ahmednagar, Akola, Amravati, Aurangabad (CS Nagar), Bhiwandi, Chandrapur, Jalgaon, Kolhapur, Mumbai, Nagpur, Nanded, Nashik, Navi Mumbai, Palghar‑Boisar, Pune, Raigad, Sangli, Satara, Solapur, Thane, Vasai, Wardha |
Manipur | Imphal |
Meghalaya | Shillong |
Mizoram | Aizawl |
Nagaland | Kohima |
Odisha | Balasore, Berhampur, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Dhenkanal, Rourkela, Sambalpur |
Puducherry (UT) | Puducherry |
Punjab | Amritsar, Bhatinda, Jalandhar, Ludhiana‑Phagwara, Patiala |
Rajasthan | Ajmer, Bikaner, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, Sikar, Udaipur |
Tamil Nadu | Chennai, Coimbatore, Kanchipuram, Madurai, Salem, Tiruchirappalli, Tirunelveli, Vellore |
Telangana | Hyderabad, Karimnagar, Khammam, Warangal |
Tripura | Agartala |
Uttar Pradesh | Agra, Aligarh, Bareilly, Ghaziabad, Gorakhpur, Jhansi, Kanpur, Lucknow, Mathura, Meerut, Moradabad, Muzaffarnagar, NOIDA‑Greater NOIDA, Prayagraj, Varanasi |
Uttarakhand | Dehradun, Haldwani, Roorkee |
West Bengal | Asansol‑Durgapur, Bankura, Burdwan, Howrah, Kalyani‑Hooghly, Kolkata, Siliguri |
Tips for Preparation and Success
Start with a diagnostic test. Understand your baseline by taking a mock test. It helps identify strengths and weaknesses across VARC, DILR and QA.
Create a study plan. Allocate time blocks for each section, ensuring balanced coverage. Adjust based on diagnostic performance.
Master fundamentals. Especially for QA and DILR, revisit high‑school mathematics and logical reasoning basics. Build conceptual clarity before diving into advanced questions.
Practice RC daily. For VARC, read diverse articles—editorials, business journals and literature—to improve comprehension speed and critical reasoning.
Simulate exam conditions. Take full‑length mocks at the same time as the actual exam. This helps build stamina and adaptability to sectional timing.
Analyse mocks deeply. Review every mock test to understand why you got a question wrong and how to improve. Pattern recognition is key to efficient problem‑solving.
Stay healthy and balanced. Don’t neglect sleep, exercise and hobbies. A relaxed mind processes information faster and performs better under pressure.
As someone who has guided thousands of MBA hopefuls, I cannot emphasise enough the importance of resilience. CAT preparation is a marathon, not a sprint. You will face tough concepts and occasional dips in confidence. Stay focused on your long‑term goal—whether it’s joining a top IIM, transitioning into a new career or pursuing entrepreneurship.
Exam‑Day Guide & Checklist
Your months of hard work culminate on exam day, so take the logistics seriously. According to official exam‑day guidelines, candidates should reach the centre well in advance to complete formalities and have their biometrics captured. Carry two printed copies of your admit card and a valid photo ID (Aadhar, voter ID, driving licence, passport, PAN, employer or college ID). Do not sign your admit card before entering the hall; you must sign it only in the invigilator’s presence.
The photograph pasted on your admit card must be the same as the one uploaded during registration.
Inside the examination lab, you will receive a writing pad for rough work; write your name and registration number on it and return it after the test. Electronic devices, calculators, wristwatches, bags and heavy footwear are strictly prohibited.
Avoid clothes with pockets or metal accessories and leave all gadgets at home. For candidates with medical implants like pacemakers, carry supporting medical.
If you have a name change, bring official documentation; PwD candidates requiring a scribe must carry the scribe affidavit and medical certificate.
Do’s and Don’ts
Do arrive early and visit the centre a day in advance. Biometric registration can be time‑consuming; reaching early helps you settle down.
Do print your admit card on A4 paper and affix the same photograph used in your application.
Do carry a self‑declaration form and follow COVID‑19 precautions if the authorities mandate them.
Do complete rough work on the scratch sheet and return it along with the pen provided.
Do not attempt the exam more than once; multiple attempts will lead to cancellation.
Do not carry electronic gadgets, heavy jewellery or henna‑stained palms. The exam authorities prohibit gadgets and henna because they interfere with biometric verification.
Do not use the keyboard during the test; doing so will lock your computer and disqualify you.
Knowing these rules in advance ensures you remain composed on exam day. Over the years, I’ve seen outstanding candidates falter because they forgot an ID or signed their admit card early—don’t let logistical mistakes undo your preparation.
CAT Score Normalization & Scoring: How Your Raw Score Becomes a Percentile
Since CAT is conducted in three slots—generally 8 AM–10 AM, 12 PM–2 PM and 4 PM–6 PM—the difficulty level can vary slightly across sessions. To ensure fairness, the IIMs use a normalization process.
This statistical method adjusts scores by accounting for location (mean) and scale (standard deviation) differences across different forms and sections. Essentially, your raw marks are transformed into a scaled score that is comparable across slots. The scaled scores are then converted into percentiles, which indicate the percentage of candidates you have outperformed.
Several sources elaborate on how normalization works. Your scaled score is thus a fair reflection of performance relative to all test‑takers, not just those in your slot.
Normalization is particularly important because CAT scores determine your percentile, which is the key metric used for shortlisting. For instance, if you obtain a scaled score of 96, and that places you at the 99th percentile, it means you performed better than 99 % of candidates. Understanding this conversion helps you set realistic score targets and manage anxiety—focus on maximising accuracy rather than chasing a perfect raw score.
CAT Exam 2025 Score vs Percentile & Expected Cut‑offs
Every aspirant wonders, “What score will get me into the top IIMs?” While cut‑offs fluctuate each year depending on difficulty and applicant performance, previous trends offer a guideline.
According to an analysis of CAT score versus percentile, a 99th percentile generally corresponds to a raw score of around 95–100 marks, while a 95th percentile falls in the 73–78 marks range. Scores around 60–65 often translate to the 90th percentile.
It is important to remember that percentiles alone do not guarantee admission.
For general category aspirants, aiming for 97+ percentile provides a competitive edge; NC‑OBC candidates may target 90–95 percentile, while SC/ST candidates might be shortlisted at 70–80 percentile, depending on individual IIM criteriacoachifylive.com. Beyond percentiles, your academic profile, gender diversity, work experience and performance in interviews significantly influence your final selection.
Cut‑offs for non‑IIM institutions are often slightly lower. Many reputed B‑schools like FMS Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, SPJIMR Mumbai and IIT Delhi accept candidates with percentiles in the high 90s. Use past cut‑offs as reference points, but be prepared for variation.
CAT Selection & Admission Process
Once the CAT results are announced (typically in early January), the actual admissions journey begins. Each IIM and B‑school applies its own criteria, but the selection process generally involves the following stages:
Result and Shortlisting: Institutes release shortlists based on their cut‑offs, usually considering sectional and overall percentiles.
Personal Interview (PI): Shortlisted candidates are invited for in‑depth interviews assessing communication, analytical thinking and general awareness.
Group Discussion (GD) and Written Ability Test (WAT): Many B‑schools conduct GDs or case discussions and essay‑writing exercises to evaluate teamwork, articulation and thought clarity. Some IIMs like Ahmedabad and Lucknow still use the GD round, while others focus more on PI and WAT.
Final Merit List: Institutes compile a composite score using different weights for components. For example, one framework assigns 25 % weight to the CAT score, 10 % to the WAT, 30 % to the PI, 15 % to classes X and XII, 10 % to graduation marks and 10 % to work experience. Other institutions may adjust these percentages or include gender diversity and academic discipline bonuses.
Therefore, even a stellar CAT score is only part of the story; sustained academic performance and interpersonal skills matter. Invest time in preparing for interviews and writing, and ensure your resume highlights leadership roles, internships and achievements.
Section‑Wise Preparation Strategies & Recommended Books for CAT Exam Date 2025
While general preparation is important, each section demands a tailored approach. Over the years, I’ve seen candidates improve dramatically once they focus on strengthening fundamentals and practicing section‑specific techniques. Below I share proven strategies and curated resources.
CAT Exam 2025: Quantitative Ability (QA)
Scope & challenges: QA covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems and modern mathematics. Many aspirants fear this section because of its conceptual depth. Start by reviewing NCERT mathematics books from Class 6–10 to strengthen fundamentals. Once you’ve grasped the basics, move to advanced texts.
Recommended books:
“How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT” by Arun Sharma: This book divides topics into three difficulty levels, with solved examples and practice exercises.
“Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT” by Sarvesh K Verma: Offers comprehensive coverage with detailed solutions and tips.
NCERT Mathematics (Class 6–10): Ideal for building a solid foundation.
“Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations” by Abhijit Guha: A broad resource covering topics across competitive exams.
Strategy:
Master basics: Work through NCERT and introductory chapters from Arun Sharma. Focus on percentage, ratio, averages and algebraic identities.
Build speed: Practice mental math and approximation techniques to handle calculation‑heavy DI sets later. Use resources like Vedic Math to speed up calculations.
Solve progressive problem sets: As you gain confidence, tackle questions of increasing difficulty. Use the “Level of Difficulty” progression in Arun Sharma’s book to monitor improvement.
Mock tests: Simulate exam conditions regularly. After each test, analyse errors, revisit concepts and practice similar problems until you’re comfortable.
CAT Exam 2025 - Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
Scope & challenges: DILR assesses your ability to make sense of data (tables, charts, graphs) and solve logical puzzles. Many students struggle due to the variety of questions. Building accuracy and speed requires exposure to multiple formats and practising under timed conditions.
Recommended books:
“How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for the CAT” by Arun Sharma: Explains strategies for analysing tables, charts and graphs and includes plenty of practice questions.
“How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT” by Arun Sharma: A structured approach to logical reasoning topics such as arrangements and puzzles.
“A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning” by R.S. Aggarwal: Offers wide‑ranging practice questions with solutions.
“Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency” by Ananta Ashisha: Focuses on calculation skills and sufficiency concepts.
Strategy:
Learn visualisation: Practice interpreting bar charts, line graphs, pie charts, spider graphs and tables. Focus on quickly identifying trends and comparing data sets.
Develop puzzle frameworks: For logical reasoning, categorise puzzles into arrangements, games & tournaments, blood relations, selections and conditionality. Create diagrams or matrices to organise information.
Practise sets regularly: Allocate dedicated days each week to solving DILR sets under timed conditions. Start with easier sets and progressively attempt moderate to difficult ones.
Analyse errors: After solving, check solutions and note the reasoning steps you missed. Over time, you will recognise common patterns and traps.
CAT Exam 2025 Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Scope & challenges: VARC tests comprehension, grammar, vocabulary and critical reasoning. Many technical candidates find this section challenging because they lack sustained reading habits. Building vocabulary and comprehension skills early is essential.
Recommended books:
“How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT” by Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay: Covers grammar rules, vocabulary techniques and reading strategies.
“Word Power Made Easy” by Norman Lewis: Uses an etymological approach to build vocabulary.
“High School English Grammar and Composition” by Wren & Martin: A classic for mastering English grammar.
“Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT and Other MBA Entrance Examinations” by Nishit K Sinha: Additional practice for reading comprehension and critical reasoning.
Reading from newspapers, magazines and online articles: Habitual reading broadens your exposure to diverse topics.
Strategy:
Develop reading stamina: Read editorials from The Hindu, opinion pieces in The Economic Times and long‑form articles on platforms like Aeon or Politico. Aim to summarise key points and identify the author’s argument.
Expand vocabulary: Use Norman Lewis’s approach of learning word roots, prefixes and suffixes to decode unfamiliar words. Maintain a vocabulary journal and revise regularly.
Practise critical reasoning: Solve para‑jumbles, para‑completion and summary questions. Focus on identifying the central idea, tone and logical flow.
Simulate RC passages: Practice reading comprehension from previous CAT papers and other competitive exams. Focus on answering questions within 6–8 minutes per passage.
Time Management & Productivity Tools
Preparing for CAT while juggling studies or work demands discipline. Integrate time‑management philosophies into your routine:
Getting Things Done (GTD) by David Allen: Introduces a structured system for capturing tasks, clarifying actions and focusing on the most critical items.
Eat That Frog! by Brian Tracy: Encourages tackling your most daunting tasks first, minimising procrastination and building momentum.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey: Habit 3—“Put First Things First”—teaches you to prioritise tasks by importance rather than urgency.
Deep Work by Cal Newport: Advocates working in distraction‑free blocks to achieve high‑quality focus.
Atomic Habits by James Clear: Offers a framework for building good habits and eliminating bad ones.
The Pomodoro Technique: Encourages working in 25‑minute focused intervals followed by short breaks. This technique is excellent for building concentration and preventing burnout.
Using these methods, create a personalised schedule. For example, allocate two Pomodoro blocks to QA, one to DILR and one to VARC each day. Review your tasks weekly and adjust based on progress. Remember to include breaks, exercise and time for reflection.
CAT Exam Mock Tests & Performance Analysis: Mastering the Last Mile
No amount of theory can substitute for simulated practice. Taking full‑length mock tests replicates exam pressure, helps you fine‑tune time management and reveals weak areas. Consider these guidelines:
Start with section‑wise tests to build confidence. Once comfortable, graduate to full‑length mocks.
Schedule mocks at the same time of day as your actual exam slot to align your body clock. If you expect a morning slot, practice at 9 AM; for evening slots, schedule mocks after 4 PM.
Use a notebook to record mistakes: After each mock, write down the question type, the error (conceptual or careless), and the correct approach. Revisit this log before subsequent tests.
Assess sectional timing: If you consistently overshoot 40 minutes in QA, practise time‑bound sets until you can complete the section with a 2–3 minute buffer.
Monitor your percentile progression: Many coaching platforms provide percentile comparisons; use them to gauge improvement relative to peers.
In my experience, candidates who take at least 15–20 mocks and thoroughly analyse them typically see a significant jump in percentile.
Common Myths & Mistakes to Avoid
Myth: “You must attempt all questions.” In reality, accuracy matters more than quantity. With negative marking, it is wiser to leave unsure questions rather than guess randomly.
Myth: “Only engineering students crack CAT.” While engineers may be comfortable with QA, non‑engineers excel in VARC and DILR. Balanced preparation, not academic background, determines success.
Myth: “Coaching is mandatory.” Many self‑study candidates crack CAT using books and online resources. Coaching provides structure but isn’t indispensable.
Mistake: Ignoring sectional cut‑offs. Even if your overall percentile is high, failing to clear sectional cut‑offs can cost you an interview call. Balance preparation across all sections.
Mistake: Over‑reliance on shortcuts. Tricks work only if your fundamentals are solid. Invest time in understanding concepts before speeding through problems.
Mistake: Neglecting mental and physical health. Burnout hampers performance; schedule breaks, exercise and maintain a healthy diet.
Top B‑Schools Accepting CAT Scores
While IIMs are the most sought‑after destinations, many other institutes deliver world‑class management education. Here’s a non‑exhaustive list of reputable schools you can target:
Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs): 21 institutions across India—including Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, Kozhikode and Lucknow—admit students primarily through CAT scores. Each IIM has its own cut‑off and selection criteria; refer to their websites for detailed policies.
Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), Delhi University: Known for its exceptional ROI due to low fees and high placements.
Management Development Institute (MDI), Gurgaon: Offers PGPM, PGP‑HR and PGP‑IB programmes and values work experience.
SPJIMR, Mumbai: Focuses on values‑based leadership and offers specialisations like finance, marketing and operations.
Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs): IIT Delhi, Bombay, Madras, Kharagpur and Roorkee admit MBA students through CAT and often have percentile cut‑offs around 95.
IMT Ghaziabad, IMI Delhi, TAPMI, Great Lakes and XIM Bhubaneswar: These institutes often consider CAT alongside other exams like XAT or GMAT and offer specialisations in analytics, HR and finance.
Always research each school’s curriculum, culture and placement statistics to find the right fit. Ranking alone shouldn’t dictate your choice; align programmes with your career goals.
CAT Exam 2025 Preparation Tips for Different Candidate Profiles
Final‑Year Students
If you’re juggling final‑year coursework and CAT preparation, time management is paramount. Leverage semester breaks to consolidate fundamentals. Attend lectures proactively so you need less time for exam revision, freeing evenings for CAT practice. Use campus study groups for accountability; teaching peers is a powerful way to reinforce concepts. When you receive your final‑year certificate, ensure it confirms that all degree requirements have been met.
Working Professionals
For professionals balancing a job and preparation, consistency outweighs long study hours. Dedicate early mornings or late evenings to focused study sessions. Use weekends for full mocks and deep dives into weak areas. Apply management concepts you encounter at work to practical case studies—it enhances understanding and keeps learning relevant. Do not hesitate to discuss your MBA ambitions with your employer; some organisations offer support or flexible schedules for higher education.
Non‑Engineering & Humanities Students
Your strengths in reading, critical thinking and diverse perspectives can be invaluable. Focus on building math fundamentals gradually—start with NCERT books and progress to Arun Sharma’s QA texts. Use your strong reading habits to excel in VARC and treat DILR puzzles like the logical arguments you may encounter in philosophy or sociology coursework.
Candidates with Disabilities (PwD)
CAT offers additional time (53 minutes 20 seconds per section) and scribe facilities for PwD candidates, ensuring an equitable testing environment. If you need a scribe, arrange one early and submit the requisite affidavit and medical certificate. Familiarise yourself with the test centre layout and accessibility provisions before exam day. https://iimcat.ac.in/
CAT Exam Date Preparation Timeline: A Month‑by‑Month Planner
Planning your preparation ensures that you cover the syllabus systematically while leaving time for revision and mocks. Here’s a suggested timeline (adjust based on your starting point):
August 2024 – October 2024: Foundation & Concept Building
Work through NCERT maths books and basic logical reasoning exercises.
Read daily from quality newspapers and non‑fiction magazines. Maintain a vocabulary journal.
Start Arun Sharma’s QA and VARC books, focusing on Level I difficulty problems.
Take a diagnostic test and identify weak areas.
November 2024 – January 2025: Practice & Sectional Tests
Begin timed sectional tests for QA, DILR and VARC.
Progress to Level II problems in Arun Sharma’s books and solve DILR sets from Nishit Sinha and R.S. Aggarwal.
Participate in online discussion forums and peer study groups to exchange strategies.
Continue reading and summarising articles; analyse editorial arguments and style.
February 2025 – April 2025: Advanced Practice & Mock Tests
Solve Level III questions and attempt full‑length mocks every two weeks.
Analyse mock results thoroughly, revisiting topics where your accuracy is low.
Practise writing essays and summarising articles to prepare for WAT.
Attend webinars or workshops on GD/PI to polish interpersonal skills.
May 2025 – July 2025: Fine Tuning & Revision
Increase mock frequency to one per week. Focus on test‑taking strategy rather than learning new concepts.
Revise high‑frequency topics and maintain formula sheets or flashcards.
Practise mental math daily to improve calculation speed.
Schedule mock interviews with mentors or peer groups and solicit feedback.
August 2025 – November 2025: Final Stretch
Take at least three full‑length mocks under exam conditions.
Review past year CAT papers to familiarise yourself with question style.
Prioritise sleep, health and stress management. Lighten your workload in the final week to stay fresh on exam day.
Conclusion
CAT 2025 is more than an exam—it is a stepping stone to leadership roles, entrepreneurial ventures and global networks. With registrations opening on 1 August 2025 and the exam scheduled for 30 November 2025, now is the time to prepare strategically. Equip yourself with the right resources, follow the guidelines for eligibility and documentation, and invest in consistent, disciplined preparation. Your dream of an MBA from a premier institute is within reach—approach CAT 2025 with confidence and clarity, and you’ll be one step closer to the career you envision.
What is the CAT exam given for?
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is India’s premier management aptitude exam. It is used primarily as an entrance test for flagship Post‑Graduate Programmes (PGP/MBA) and Fellow/Doctoral programmes at the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). Scores are also accepted by many non‑IIM institutions for MBA, PGDM and executive programmes.
What is the use of CAT exam?
It serves as a standardized benchmark to assess a candidate’s quantitative aptitude, data interpretation, logical reasoning and verbal skills for admission to management programmes.
What is the job after a CAT exam?
CAT itself doesn’t offer a job; it enables admission to MBA/PGDM programmes. Post‑MBA careers span consulting, finance, marketing, operations, product management and entrepreneurship, with compensation varying widely by institute and industry.
What is the use of a CAT?
Beyond IIM admissions, CAT scores are used by over 100 B‑schools across India for their MBA/PGDM/PGP programmes. Some institutions also consider CAT for executive or specialized programmes.
What is the CAT exam only for?
CAT is solely an admission test for management and related programmes; it is not used for engineering, medical or civil‑services recruitment.
Is CAT compulsory for MBA?
CAT is mandatory for entry into the flagship PGPs of IIMs. However, many private schools and universities accept other exams such as XAT, NMAT, GMAT or their own tests. Some mid‑tier institutions even offer direct admissions based on academic record or work experience.
Which is the toughest exam in India?
“Toughness” is subjective. CAT is highly competitive because of the limited seats at top IIMs, but exams like UPSC Civil Services, IIT‑JEE Advanced and the CA Final are often considered tougher due to their broader syllabus or lower success rate.
Is CAT for MBA only?
While CAT is most commonly associated with MBA/PGP programmes, it is also accepted for Post‑Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) programmes, one‑year MBA/Executive MBA, and sometimes for certain Master of Science programmes (e.g., IIM Indore’s MSDSM). It is not used for non‑management degrees.
Is CAT only for MBA?
No. It is accepted for a variety of management‑oriented programmes (PGP, PGDM, Executive MBA) and even some specialized Master’s degrees.
Can I join an MBA without a CAT?
Yes. Institutes like XLRI use XAT; SPJIMR accepts both CAT and GMAT; some private universities conduct their own tests. For international programmes, GMAT or GRE may suffice.
Can a BSc student give a CAT exam?
Yes. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree in any discipline (science, arts, commerce, engineering) with at least 50 % marks or equivalent CGPA (45 % for SC/ST/PwD) are eligible.
Can a 12th pass give a CAT exam?
No. You must be in the final year of a bachelor’s degree or already hold one to appear.
Can I join IIM without a CAT?
For the flagship two‑year PGP at IIMs, CAT is mandatory. Some IIMs accept GMAT for executive programmes or for foreign/NRI candidates.
Is a CAT very tough?
CAT is challenging because it measures speed and accuracy under time pressure, and competition is intense. Nevertheless, with systematic preparation, many candidates from diverse backgrounds clear it each year.
Which is harder, JEE or CAT?
Direct comparisons are tricky because the exams test different skill sets. JEE (Main/Advanced) assesses physics, chemistry and mathematics at a high‑school level for engineering admission, while CAT focuses on aptitude and reasoning for management entry.
Is JEE tougher than CAT?
Candidates with strong maths and science may find JEE more rigorous, while those with strong reasoning and comprehension may find CAT manageable. Success depends on your background and preparation.
Is IIM harder than IIT?
These are institutions, not exams. Admission to IITs requires clearing JEE; admission to IIMs requires clearing CAT plus interviews. Each has its own level of competition and rigor.
Is CAT easy for IITians?
Graduates of IITs or engineering colleges often have an advantage in quantitative sections, but they still need to prepare thoroughly for verbal ability and data interpretation. Many non‑engineers outperform engineers in CAT because of strong reading and reasoning skills.
Is CAT more difficult than NEET?
NEET tests biology, physics and chemistry for medical admission. Difficulty is relative; NEET requires memorization of science concepts, whereas CAT emphasizes logical reasoning and problem‑solving speed.
Is CAT harder than UPSC?
The Civil Services Examination (UPSC) has a vast syllabus covering history, polity, economy, geography and current affairs, and has a lower success rate than CAT. Most aspirants consider UPSC more demanding.
Which is harder, JEE or CA?
Chartered Accountancy (CA) exams, particularly the CA Final, are notorious for their depth and low pass rates. JEE, though highly competitive, focuses on high‑school science. Many consider CA tougher due to its professional depth and duration.
What is CAT exam eligibility?
Eligibility for CAT 2025 is straightforward:
You need a bachelor’s degree with at least 50 % marks or equivalent CGPA (45 % for SC/ST/PwD) from a recognised university.
Final‑year students can apply, provided they obtain the minimum marks and submit a certificate from their institution confirming completion.
Candidates with professional qualifications like CA, CS or ICWA with the requisite percentages are also eligible.
Who is eligible for CAT entrance?
Any graduate (or final‑year student) meeting the above criteria, regardless of discipline or age, can appear for CAT.
What is the CAT exam salary?
There is no “CAT salary.” Compensation depends on the job you secure after completing your MBA/PGDM. Graduates from top IIMs often command high packages (sometimes exceeding ₹20 lakh per annum), but salaries vary widely by institute, industry and work experience.
Who is eligible for CAT exam?
As above, any candidate with a bachelor’s degree (50 % or 45 % for reserved categories) or equivalent professional qualification is eligible.
What is the CAT exam pattern?
CAT comprises three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) and Quantitative Ability (QA). The 2025 exam will have around 68 questions (a mix of multiple‑choice and type‑in‑the‑answer), divided into 24 VARC, 22 DILR and 22 QA questions, with 40 minutes allotted per section. You cannot switch between sections during the test.
How many times can I attempt the CAT?
There is no limit to the number of times you can take CAT. You may appear in the exam every year, provided you meet the eligibility criteria. Many candidates take it multiple times to improve their percentile.
What is considered a good CAT percentile?
A “good” percentile depends on your target institute. Top IIMs typically shortlist candidates above the 97–99 percentile, whereas newer IIMs and reputed private schools may consider 90–95 percentile. Reserved category candidates may receive calls at lower percentiles due to quota relaxations.
What is the application fee for CAT 2025?
The registration fee for CAT 2025 is ₹ 1,300 for SC/ST/PwD candidates and ₹ 2,600 for all other categories. The fee is paid online during the application process and is non‑refundable.
How many questions are there in CAT?
In recent years (2021–2024), CAT had 66–70 questions. For 2025, the tentative structure includes 68 questions: 48 multiple‑choice and 20 type‑in‑the‑answer questionsimsindia.com. Each section has its own mix of MCQs and TITA questions.
Is there negative marking in CAT?
Yes. Typically, each correct answer earns three marks, while a wrong answer to a multiple‑choice question results in a one‑mark penalty. There is no negative marking for TITA questions, so you should attempt them even if you are unsure.
Can I reschedule my test slot?
No. CAT is conducted in three slots on the same day; candidates cannot choose or change their slot. Your slot is assigned by the testing authority based on preference and availability, as indicated during registration.
What happens after the CAT results?
After results are declared (usually in early January), institutes release their shortlists based on cut‑offs. Shortlisted candidates then go through Written Ability Tests (WAT), Group Discussions (GD) and Personal Interviews (PI)toprankers.com. Final selection considers CAT score, academic record, work experience and performance in these roundstoprankers.com.
Can international students take CAT?
Yes. Foreign nationals, Non‑Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) can appear for CAT provided they meet the eligibility criteria. Some IIMs also accept GMAT scores from international candidates, so check each institute’s policy.
Do CAT scores expire?
CAT scores are valid for one admission cycle. Scores from CAT 2025 will be valid until 31 December 2026, after which you must retake the exam if you wish to apply again.
These supplemental Q&As, alongside the earlier ones, should cover most queries prospective candidates have about the CAT exam and its role in securing a management education.
Registration & Eligibility FAQs
Do I need to enter my marks as per my university’s norms?
Yes. When filling the application, enter your percentage/CGPA following the conversion formula prescribed by your university. If your university doesn’t provide a conversion scheme, divide your CGPA by the maximum possible CGPA and multiply by 100 to compute the percentage.
What if I’m in the final year of my Bachelor’s degree?
You should report your aggregate percentage based on the latest marks statement available. Final‑year candidates must upload a certificate from their institution affirming that they have completed all degree requirements.
Is there an age limit to take CAT?
No. There is no upper age limit for CAT.
What is the CAT 2025 registration fee and how do I pay?
The fee is ₹1,300 for SC/ST/PwD candidates and ₹2,600 for all other categories. Payment is made online via credit/debit card, net banking, UPI or wallet during registration.
When does CAT 2025 registration open and close?
Online registration for CAT 2025 opens on 1 August 2025 and closes on 13 September 2025 at 5 p.m. (IST).
Can I use someone else’s email to register for CAT Exam Dates 2025?
No. You must use your own valid and unique email address and mobile number, as all correspondence and login credentials will be sent there.
What if I make a mistake during registration?
Personal details (name, date of birth, email, phone) cannot be edited after submission. If you enter them incorrectly, you must re‑register with a new email ID; only the latest application will be considered. Application‑form details such as academics or work experience also cannot be edited post‑submission, so preview your form carefully before finalising.
Admit Card & Exam Scheduling
When will I get my admit card?
Admit cards can be downloaded from the CAT website starting 5 November 2025 after successful submission of the application. They won’t be sent by post—use your registered User ID and password to view/print the card.
What information appears on the CAT admit card?
Your name, test date, PwD status (if applicable), test centre address, session and reporting time. You must affix the same photograph used during registration and bring the printed admit card to the exam centre.
Can I choose my CAT exam date and slot or appear in multiple slots?
No. CAT 2025 will be held on 30 November 2025 across three sessions (forenoon, afternoon and evening). The testing authority allocates your session based on city preference and availability. Attempting to appear in more than one slot is considered fraudulent.
Exam Day Logistics
Is CAT an “online” exam?
It is a computer‑based test (CBT) administered at designated test centres, not a remote internet‑based exam. You will read questions on a workstation at your centre and select or type your answers.
Can I bring rough paper or my own calculator?
No. You will receive one scribble pad and a pen from the test centre. An on‑screen calculator is provided; personal calculators or extra paper are not permitted.
How is the marking scheme structured?
Each correct MCQ or non‑MCQ earns three marks. Incorrect MCQ answers incur a one‑mark penalty. There is no negative marking for non‑MCQ (TITA) questions, and no marks are awarded or deducted for unattempted questions.
Special Provisions for Disabled Candidates
What additional time do PwD candidates receive?
Candidates with benchmark disabilities (with or without a scribe) receive an extra 20 minutes per hour—totalling 40 minutes for the two‑hour exam. This time is evenly distributed across the three sections.
Who provides the scribe or testing aids?
Candidates must arrange their own scribe (no eligibility criterion for the scribe), but the test centre will supply a magnifying screen and wheelchair if requested in the application. PwD candidates need to upload their certificate and carry a scribe affidavit if using a scribe.
Are charts and diagrams removed for visually impaired candidates?
Yes. CAT papers for candidates with visual impairment are designed to avoid graphs or diagrams.
