CAT 2025 Exam Details – Dates, Syllabus, Pattern, and Fees

CAT Exam Details 2025: Dates, Eligibility, Syllabus, Pattern, and Fees

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of India’s most prestigious entrance exams, serving as a gateway to top management institutes, including the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other leading B-schools. Conducted annually by one of the IIMs on a rotational basis, CAT 2025 is expected to be administered by IIM Kozhikode on November 30, 2025, based on recent updates. This comprehensive guide covers all essential details about CAT 2025, including exam dates, eligibility, syllabus, pattern, fees, and preparation tips, incorporating the latest information available from reliable sources.

CAT 2025 Exam Overview

CAT is a computer-based test designed to assess candidates’ aptitude for management education. It evaluates skills in Quantitative Ability (QA), Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR). The exam is highly competitive, with over 2.5 lakh candidates appearing annually for approximately 5,000 seats across 21 IIMs and other top B-schools like FMS Delhi, SPJIMR Mumbai, and MDI Gurgaon.

Key Highlights of CAT 2025

• Conducting Body: IIM Kozhikode (tentative, based on recent announcements).
• Exam Date: November 30, 2025 (last Sunday of November, as per tradition).
• Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT).
• Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes).
• Sessions: Three slots (morning, afternoon, evening).
• Application Mode: Online via the official website, iimcat.ac.in.
• Purpose: Admission to MBA/PGDM programs at IIMs and other B-schools.

CAT 2025 Important Dates

The official CAT 2025 notification is expected to be released in late July or early August 2025. Below is a tentative schedule based on historical trends and recent updates:

• Notification Release: July 25, 2025 (tentative).
• Registration Start: First week of August 2025 (likely August 1–2).
• Registration Deadline: Mid-September 2025 (likely September 15–20).
• Admit Card Release: Late October 2025 (likely October 25–30).
• Mock Test Link Activation: Early November 2025.
• Exam Date: November 30, 2025.
• Response Sheet Release: First week of December 2025.
• Answer Key Release: First week of December 2025.
• Result Announcement: Third week of December 2025 (likely December 19–21).

Candidates should regularly check iimcat.ac.in for official updates, as dates may vary slightly.

CAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for CAT 2025 remain consistent with previous years, ensuring broad access to candidates. To apply, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Educational Qualification:
  • A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA from a recognized university.
  • For SC/ST/PwD candidates, the minimum requirement is 45% marks or equivalent CGPA.
  • Candidates in the final year of their bachelor’s degree or awaiting results are eligible to apply, provided they complete their degree with the required percentage by the time of admission.

• Age Limit: There is no upper age limit for CAT 2025.
• Work Experience: Not mandatory but considered by some IIMs during the selection process.

• Reservation Policy:

Candidates must provide valid certificates for reserved categories during the application process.

CAT 2025 Registration Process

The registration process for CAT 2025 is entirely online and conducted through the official website, iimcat.ac.in. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to iimcat.ac.in and click on the “Register” link under the CAT 2025 section.
2. Create a User Profile: Provide your name, date of birth, email address, and mobile number to generate login credentials.
3. Fill the Application Form:
   • Enter personal details, academic qualifications, and work experience (if any).
   • Select up to six preferred test cities.
   • Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and category certificate (if applicable).
4. Pay the Application Fee:
   • General/NC-OBC/EWS candidates: ₹2,500 (tentative, based on CAT 2024 fees).
   • SC/ST/PwD candidates: ₹1,250 (tentative).
   • Payment modes include credit/debit cards, net banking, or UPI.
5. Submit and Download: Review the form, submit it, and download the confirmation receipt.

Note: The application fee is non-refundable. Candidates should double-check details before submission to avoid errors.

CAT 2025 Exam Pattern

The CAT exam pattern is designed to test analytical, logical, and verbal skills under time constraints. The structure for CAT 2025 is expected to remain similar to previous years, with minor tweaks possible. Here’s the anticipated pattern:

• Total Questions: 66 (based on CAT 2024).
• Duration: 120 minutes (40 minutes per section).
• Sections and Question Distribution:
  • Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC): 24 questions.
  • Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR): 20 questions.
  • Quantitative Ability (QA): 22 questions.
• Question Types:
  • Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): 70–75% of questions, with four options each.
  • Type-In-The-Answer (TITA) Questions: 25–30%, requiring candidates to enter numerical or text answers.
• Marking Scheme:
  • +3 marks for each correct answer.
  • -1 mark for each incorrect MCQ answer.
  • No negative marking for TITA questions or unattempted questions.
• Sectional Time Limit: Candidates must complete each section within 40 minutes, with no option to switch sections during the exam.

The exam is conducted in three slots, and scores are normalized to ensure fairness across different question sets.

CAT 2025 Syllabus

The CAT syllabus is not officially prescribed but is derived from past exam trends. It covers three core sections, with key topics outlined below:

1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

• Reading Comprehension: 4–5 passages (500–700 words each) on topics like economics, science, history, or literature, with questions on inference, main ideas, tone, and vocabulary.
• Verbal Ability:
  • Para-jumbles (sentence rearrangement).
  • Para-summary.
  • Odd sentence out.
  • Sentence completion and error correction.
• Key Skills: Reading speed, comprehension, vocabulary, and logical structuring of sentences.

2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

• Data Interpretation:
  • Tables, bar graphs, line charts, pie charts, and caselets.
  • Calculations involving percentages, ratios, and averages.
• Logical Reasoning:
  • Arrangements (linear, circular, tabular).
  • Puzzles, blood relations, coding-decoding, and syllogisms.
• Key Skills: Data analysis, pattern recognition, and logical deduction.

3. Quantitative Ability (QA)

• Arithmetic: Percentages, profit and loss, time and work, speed and distance, ratios, and averages.
• Algebra: Linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, functions, and progressions.
• Geometry: Lines, angles, triangles, circles, and coordinate geometry.
• Number System: Divisibility, LCM, HCF, and prime numbers.
• Modern Math: Permutations and combinations, probability, set theory, and logarithms.
• Key Skills: Numerical problem-solving, formula application, and time management.

The syllabus emphasizes conceptual clarity and application under time pressure. Candidates should focus on high-weightage topics like arithmetic and RC passages.

CAT 2025 Application Fee

The application fee for CAT 2025 is expected to follow the previous year’s structure:

• General/NC-OBC/EWS: ₹2,500.
• SC/ST/PwD: ₹1,250.

Fees are subject to change, so candidates should verify the exact amount during registration. The fee covers the exam and access to the response sheet post-exam.

CAT 2025 Selection Process

The CAT selection process involves three stages:

1. CAT Exam: Candidates must secure a qualifying percentile (overall and sectional) to be shortlisted by IIMs and other B-schools.
2. Shortlisting for WAT/GD/PI:
   • IIMs release cutoffs (typically 90–99 percentile for General category, lower for reserved categories).
   • Shortlisted candidates are invited for Written Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD), and Personal Interview (PI).
   • Some IIMs may conduct only WAT and PI.
3. Final Selection:
   • Composite score based on CAT score (40–50% weightage), WAT/GD/PI performance, academic record, work experience, and diversity factors.
   • Each IIM has its own selection criteria, published on their respective websites.

Non-IIM B-schools may have different selection processes, often including additional tests like XAT or GMAT scores.

 CAT 2025 Expected Cutoffs

Cutoffs vary by IIM and category. Based on past trends, here are the expected sectional and overall percentiles for CAT 2025:

Top IIMs (Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta) typically require 98–99+ percentiles for General category candidates, while newer IIMs may accept 90–95 percentiles. Non-IIM institutes like FMS Delhi may have cutoffs around 95–97 percentiles.

CAT 2025 Preparation Tips

Effective preparation is key to cracking CAT 2025. Here are actionable tips based on expert advice and recent trends:

1. Understand the Syllabus and Pattern:
   • Familiarize yourself with the exam structure and high-weightage topics. Use resources like previous year papers and mock tests.
2. Create a Study Plan:
   • Allocate 3–4 hours daily for 6–8 months, or 6–8 hours for 3–4 months if starting late.
   • Divide time equally across VARC, DILR, and QA, with extra focus on weaker areas.
3. Practice with Mock Tests:
   • Take full-length mock tests to simulate exam conditions. Aim for 20–30 mocks before the exam.
   • Analyze performance to identify strengths and weaknesses.
4. Strengthen Fundamentals:
   • For QA, master arithmetic and algebra concepts. Use shortcuts for faster calculations.
   • For VARC, read diverse articles (e.g., The Hindu, Aeon,Smithsonian Magzine, LAtimes, NYtimes, Medium etc. ) to improve comprehension and vocabulary.
   • For DILR, practice puzzles and data sets from previous papers.
5. Time Management:
   • Practice solving questions within 1–2 minutes to build speed.
   • Prioritize easier questions in each section to maximize scores.
6. Join Coaching or Online Platforms:
   • Consider reputed platforms for structured guidance, live classes, and mentorship.
7. Stay Updated:
   • Regularly check iimcat.ac.in for notifications and updates.
   • Use free resources like  study material, PDFs, and video solutions for cost-effective preparation.

New Developments for CAT 2025

Recent updates indicate several enhancements for CAT 2025:

• Increased Test Cities: The number of test centers may increase beyond the 155 cities used in CAT 2024 to improve accessibility.
• Digital Initiatives: IIMs are likely to enhance the online mock test portal with more realistic simulations, as seen in previous years.
• Focus on Diversity: IIMs are emphasizing gender and academic diversity, potentially giving weightage to non-engineering backgrounds and female candidates in the selection process.
• Free Resources: Platforms like Cracku have expanded free offerings, including 3 full-length mock tests with video solutions, daily articles for RC practice, and 5,000+ practice questions with detailed explanations.

 Why Take CAT 2025?

CAT opens doors to prestigious MBA programs, offering:

• Top IIMs: IIM Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, and others provide world-class education and placements (average packages: ₹20–35 LPA).
• Non-IIM B-Schools: Institutes like SPJIMR, FMS, and MDI offer excellent ROI and career opportunities.
• Career Growth: An MBA enhances leadership skills, networking, and career prospects in consulting, finance, marketing, and more.
• Entrepreneurial Opportunities: IIMs provide incubation centers and networks to support startup ventures.

Resources for CAT 2025 Preparation

Official Website: iimcat.ac.in for notifications, registration, and mock tests.

Free Mock Tests: Link

Purchase Mock Test At Discounted Price: Link

Conclusion

CAT 2025 is a critical opportunity for aspirants aiming to join India’s top B-schools. With a clear understanding of the exam pattern, syllabus, and preparation strategies, candidates can approach the exam with confidence. Start early, practice consistently, and leverage resources like mock tests and expert guidance to maximize your score. Stay updated via iimcat.ac.in and trusted platforms like Cracku for the latest information and study materials. Begin your MBA journey today and aim for the top

(Disclaimer The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the content related to the Common Admission Test (CAT), including preparation tips, exam strategies, and other relevant information, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information contained on this blog. The content on this blog does not constitute official guidance from the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) or any other authority responsible for conducting the CAT exam. Readers are advised to verify all information with official sources, such as the official CAT website or relevant authorities, before making any decisions based on the content provided here. Any reliance you place on the information provided on this blog is strictly at your own risk. The blog authors, contributors, and publishers are not liable for any losses or damages, including but not limited to indirect or consequential losses, arising from the use of this blog or its content. The blog may contain links to external websites for additional resources or reference. We have no control over the nature, content, or availability of those sites and are not responsible for their content or any issues arising from their use. All opinions expressed on this blog are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of any educational institution, organization, or entity associated with the CAT exam. For official updates, guidelines, or specific queries regarding the CAT exam, please refer to the official CAT website or contact the relevant authorities directly.)