The CAT Exam 2025 opens the door to India’s premier business schools, offering a chance to secure
admission into top-tier MBA and PGDM programs. However, cracking the CAT 2025 requires a
thorough understanding of its structure, eligibility criteria and preparation strategies. In this blog, we’ll explore all the essential details about the CAT Exam 2025, including dates, registration, eligibility, exam pattern and preparation tips. We’ll also address FAQs to clarify common doubts. Let’s dive in and make your journey toward MBA success smoother and smarter!
CAT 2025 Exam Highlights:
| Particulars Details | Details |
| CAT Full Form | Common Admission Test |
| Conducting Body | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode (Expected) |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-based |
| Questions in CAT Exam | Expected to have 68 questions, including MCQs and non-MCQs. |
| Official Website | https://iimcat.ac.in/ |
| Exam helpdesk no. | 1-800-210-1088 (Toll Free) |
What is the CAT?
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is an annual exam conducted by the Indian Institutes of
Management (IIMs) for admission to various postgraduate management programs, including MBA
and PGDM courses, offered by top business schools in India.
The exam assesses candidates on their quantitative ability, verbal ability, logical reasoning and data
interpretation skills. CAT is highly competitive and getting a good score can open doors to some of
the best business schools in the world.
Also Read: CAT 2024 Eligibility Criteria: All You Need to Know
CAT 2025 Exam Dates
The official dates for the CAT 2025 exam will be announced alongside the CAT 2025 notification.
Below are the tentative dates:
| Events | Dates (Tentative) |
| CAT 2025 Notification Release | July 30, 2025 |
| CAT 2025 Registration Start Date | August 2, 2025 |
| CAT 2025 Registration Last Date | September 21, 2025 |
| CAT 2025 Application Correction Dates | September 25–28, 2025 |
| CAT 2025 Admit Card Release Date | November 7, 2025 |
| CAT 2025 Exam Date | November 30, 2025 |
| CAT 2025 Answer Key Release Date | December 5, 2025 |
| CAT 2025 Result Declaration Date | December 21, 2025 |
Stay updated on the official website: iimcat.ac.in.
Eligibility Criteria for CAT 2025
Before you begin your CAT Exam 2025 journey, it’s important to check if you meet the eligibility
criteria. Here’s what you need to know:
Before you begin your CAT Exam 2025 journey, it’s important to check if you meet the eligibility
criteria. Here’s what you need to know:
- Educational Qualification:
- A recognized bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks (45% forreserved categories) is essential.
- Final-year undergraduate students can also apply, provided they finish their degreebefore the admission process.
- Age Limit:
- There is no upper age limit for CAT exam applicants.
- Number of Attempts:
- The CAT exam can be attempted an unlimited number of times.
Who cannot apply for the CAT 2025?
- Candidates whose graduation percentage is below the required minimum (50% forGeneral/EWS/NC-OBC; 45% for SC/ST/PwD).
- Candidates without a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualifications such as CA/CS/ICWA.
- Candidates with degrees not recognized by UGC, AICTE, or MHRD-Govt.
- Candidates who are in the second year or earlier stages of their undergraduate program.
CAT Exam Pattern 2025
The CAT Exam 2025 follows a specific pattern, which is essential for you to understand for your
preparation. Here’s a look at the exam format:
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Duration | Type of Questions |
| Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 24 | 40 minutes | MCQs & Non-MCQs |
| Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 20 | 40 minutes | MCQs & Non-MCQs |
| Quantitative Ability (QA) | 22 | 40 minutes | MCQs & Non-MCQs |
| Total | 66 | 120 minutes | MCQs & Non-MCQs |
- Total Duration: 2 hours
- Mode: Online (Computer-based)
- Negative Marking: 1 mark for each wrong answer in MCQs. No negative marking for nonMCQs.
The CAT 2025 exam pattern emphasizes a mix of time management and subject knowledge. The
questions are designed to test your analytical skills, logical thinking and quantitative aptitude, so
mastering these areas is key to success.
How to Register for CAT 2025?
The registration process for CAT 2025 is simple, but you must follow the steps carefully. Here’s what
you need to do:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the official CAT website and create a login account.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Provide your personal, academic and contact details.
- Upload Documents: Upload your recent photograph, signature and academic documents as
- per the required specifications.
- Pay the Application Fee: The fee varies depending on your category:
| General/NC-OBC | ₹2,500 |
| SC/ST/PwD | ₹1,250 |
- Submit Your Application: Review all the details and submit your form.
- Download the Admit Card: Once released, download your admit card to appear for the exam
Note: Applicants can expect a potential increase in registration fees this year.
Approximately 4+lakh candidates are expected to appear for the CAT 2025 exam, based on historical
data. Scoring a 95+ percentile significantly boosts your chances of admission to premier institutes
like 21 IIMs, IITs and 1,200+ other B-schools.
Also Read: PGDM vs. MBA: Which is the Right Choice for Your Career?
How to Prepare for CAT 2025?
Preparation is the key to cracking the CAT Exam 2025. Here are some expert tips to help you
succeed in your preparation:
Understand the Exam Pattern
Familiarize yourself with the CAT exam pattern to know the type of questions you will face. This will
help you strategize your preparation.
Time Management
Time is crucial in the CAT exam. Focus on solving questions within the allotted time frame by
practicing regularly. Utilize mock tests to enhance both your speed and accuracy.
Focus on Core Areas
- Quantitative Ability: Concentrate on topics like algebra, arithmetic and geometry.
- Verbal Ability: Enhance your reading comprehension and grammar proficiency.
- Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning: Focus on solving puzzles, analyzing graphs and
- interpreting tables.
Refer to Good Books
Here are some of the best books to help you prepare for CAT 2025:
Subject | Books |
| Quantitative Ability | “Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations” by R.S. Aggarwal. |
| Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension | “Word Power Made Easy” by Norman Lewis. |
| Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning | “A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning” by R.S. Aggarwal. |
Join a Coaching Class (Optional)
If you prefer structured learning, consider joining a coaching center that specializes in CAT
preparation. However, with the right resources, self-study can be just as effective.
Conclusion: Start Your Journey Towards MBA Success
The CAT Exam 2025 offers a golden opportunity to elevate your career. By following a wellstructured preparation plan, familiarizing yourself with the exam pattern and staying updated on
important dates, you can maximize your chances of success in this competitive exam.
Start your preparation today—success is just one step away!
Remember, preparation is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay focused, practice consistently and keep
your goal in sight. Your dream MBA or PGDM awaits you!
For more tips, updates and insights on CAT Exam 2025, make sure to follow us!
Common FAQs About CAT Exam 2025
Q1: When is the CAT 2025 exam
The CAT 2025 exam will take place on the last Sunday of November 2025.
Q2: What is the maximum number of attempts allowed for the CAT exam?
There is no limit to the number of attempts you can make for the CAT exam. You can appear as
many times as you wish, provided you meet the eligibility criteria each year.
Q3: What is the syllabus for CAT 2025?
The syllabus covers quantitative ability, verbal ability, data interpretation and logical
reasoning.
Q4: Can I appear for the CAT exam if I am in my final year of undergraduate studies?
Yes, final-year students can apply for the CAT exam, as long as they complete their degree
before the admission process begins.
I Business Institute, Greater Noida
top B-schools in India
Website: www.ibusinessinstitute.org
Email: admissions@ibusinessinstitute.org
Help Line No.: +91-7065333326/27
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