CAT 2025 Notification: Registration, Dates, Exam Pattern & Syllabus

CAT 2025: Everything You Need to Know About Registration, Dates, Documents, Changes, Exam Pattern, Syllabus, and FAQs

The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 is a critical milestone for aspiring management students aiming to secure admission to top business schools in India, including the 21 Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and over 1,200 other B-schools. Conducted annually by one of the IIMs, this year’s CAT is organized by IIM Kozhikode and is scheduled for November 30, 2025. The official notification, released on July 27, 2025, provides all the essential details for candidates to plan their preparation and registration. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about CAT 2025, including registration processes, important dates, required documents, changes from previous years, exam pattern, syllabus, and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs). Whether you're a first-time aspirant or a seasoned candidate, this blog will help you navigate the CAT 2025 journey with confidence.

-          Team TestFunda

Key Points

• CAT 2025 Exam Date: Scheduled for November 30, 2025, conducted by IIM Kozhikode.
• Registration Period: Likely from August 1, 2025, to September 13, 2025, with fees of INR 2,600 for General/EWS/NC-OBC and INR 1,300 for SC/ST/PwD.
• Exam Pattern: Expected to include three sections—Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA)—with 68 questions and a 120-minute duration.
• Changes: Registration fees have increased compared to 2024, and IIM Kozhikode is the new conducting institute.
• Official Website: Check iimcat.ac.in for updates.

Why CAT 2025 Matters

CAT is one of the most competitive entrance exams in India, with over 3 lakh candidates expected to appear in 2025. A high percentile can open doors to prestigious MBA programs, making thorough preparation and timely registration crucial.

How to Prepare for CAT 2025

Start your preparation early, ideally 9–10 months in advance, using standard study materials, mock tests, and online coaching if needed. Stay updated with official announcements on iimcat.ac.in to avoid missing deadlines.

Where to Find Reliable Information

The official CAT website (iimcat.ac.in) is the primary source for accurate information. Candidates are advised to rely solely on the official website for all updates and notifications.

CAT 2025: Comprehensive Guide

What Is the CAT 2025 Notification About?

The CAT 2025 notification, released on July 27, 2025, in leading newspapers, outlines critical details such as exam dates, registration timelines, eligibility criteria, and exam patterns. It was announced by IIM Kozhikode, which is responsible for conducting the exam this year. The notification is available on the official website iimcat.ac.in, and candidates are advised to check it regularly for updates. The exam is set for November 30, 2025, and will be conducted in 170 cities across India in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format.

Who Is Eligible for CAT 2025?

To appear for CAT 2025, candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA (45% for SC/ST/PwD candidates) from a recognized university.
• Final-Year Students: Candidates in the final year of their bachelor’s degree or awaiting results are also eligible to apply.
• Note: Meeting the minimum eligibility criteria does not guarantee shortlisting by IIMs or other B-schools, as additional selection processes apply.

When Are the Important Dates for CAT 2025?

The CAT 2025 timeline is crucial for planning your preparation and registration. Below is a table summarizing the key dates based on the latest information:

Note: These dates are based on the official notification but may be subject to minor changes. Always verify with iimcat.ac.in.

How to Register for CAT 2025?

The registration process for CAT 2025 is entirely online and must be completed on the official website iimcat.ac.in. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to iimcat.ac.in and click on “New Registration.”
2. Enter Personal Details: Provide your name, date of birth, nationality, phone number, and email ID.
3. Verify Registration: Complete the CAPTCHA and verify via OTP sent to your phone.
4. Log In: Use the CAT 2025 ID (sent via email) and password to log in.
5. Fill Application Form: Enter academic details, work experience (if any), and other required information.
6. Upload Documents: Upload a recent passport-sized photograph and scanned signature as per specifications.
7. Select Preferences: Choose preferred IIMs, courses, and test cities.
8. Pay Fees: Pay the registration fee online using a credit/debit card or net banking.
9. Submit and Save: Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.

What Documents Are Required for CAT 2025 Registration?

• Photograph: Recent (within 6 months), white/off-white background, 30mm x 45mm, max 1 MB, JPEG/JPG format.
• Signature: Scanned, 80mm x 35mm, max 80 KB, JPEG/JPG format.
• Category Certificates (if applicable): SC/ST/NC-OBC/EWS certificates in the required format.
• PwD Certificate (if applicable): Form V/VI/VII for Persons with Disabilities.

What Are the Registration Fees for CAT 2025?

• General/EWS/NC-OBC: INR 2,600
• SC/ST/PwD: INR 1,300

Note: The fees have increased from CAT 2024 (General: INR 2,400, SC/ST/PwD: INR 1,200). Payment must be made online, and candidates should keep a transaction receipt.

Can You Edit Your CAT 2025 Application?

Yes, an application correction window will be available (likely in late September 2025) to edit specific details such as:

• Photograph
• Signature
• Test city preferences

Log in using your CAT 2025 ID and password to make changes. Other details, like personal information, may not be editable, so ensure accuracy during registration.

What Is the CAT 2025 Exam Pattern?

The CAT 2025 exam is expected to follow a structure similar to previous years, with minor updates. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Key Notes:

• The exam is conducted in three shifts to accommodate the large number of candidates (over 3 lakh expected).
• Sectional time limits mean you cannot switch between sections during the exam.
• The exact number of questions per section will be confirmed closer to the exam date via the official mock test (released in October 2025).

What Is the CAT 2025 Syllabus?

The CAT syllabus is broad but consistent with previous years. It is divided into three sections:

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

• Reading Comprehension: Passages with questions testing comprehension and inference.
• Verbal Ability: Grammar, vocabulary, sentence correction, para-jumbles, and summary writing.

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

• Data Interpretation: Tables, charts, graphs, and caselets.
• Logical Reasoning: Puzzles, seating arrangements, blood relations, and syllogisms.

Quantitative Ability (QA)

• Arithmetic: Numbers, percentages, ratios, time and work, profit and loss.
• Algebra: Equations, inequalities, quadratic equations.
• Geometry: Triangles, circles, coordinate geometry.
• Modern Math: Permutations, combinations, probability, set theory.

Preparation Tip: The official CAT mock test, released in October 2025, will provide clarity on question types and difficulty.

What Has Changed in CAT 2025?

While the core structure of CAT 2025 remains consistent, a few updates have been noted:

• Increased Registration Fees:
  • General/EWS/NC-OBC: INR 2,600 (up from INR 2,400 in 2024).
  • SC/ST/PwD: INR 1,300 (up from INR 1,200 in 2024).
• Conducting Institute: IIM Kozhikode takes over from IIM Calcutta (CAT 2024).
• Exam Date: Set for November 30, 2025, continuing the trend of the last Sunday of November.
• Test Cities: Remains at 170, consistent with CAT 2024.
• Exam Pattern: No major changes; expected to have 68 questions across three sections, with the same marking scheme and sectional time limits.

Note: Any additional changes will be clarified in the official mock test or further announcements on iimcat.ac.in.

Who Is Conducting CAT 2025?

The CAT 2025 exam is being conducted by IIM Kozhikode, with Prof. Ram Kumar P.N as the CAT 2025 Convenor. IIMs rotate the responsibility of conducting the exam each year, and IIM Kozhikode’s expertise ensures a smooth and fair examination process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About CAT 2025

Here are answers to common questions about CAT 2025:

 When will the CAT 2025 registration start?

 Registration starts on August 1, 2025.

 What is the last date to apply for CAT 2025?

 The last date to apply is September 13, 2025.

 How much is the registration fee for CAT 2025?

 INR 2,600 for General/EWS/NC-OBC candidates and INR 1,300 for SC/ST/PwD candidates.

 When will the CAT 2025 admit card be released?

 The admit card will be released on November 5, 2025.

 What is the exam date for CAT 2025?

 The exam is scheduled for November 30, 2025.

 Which institute is conducting CAT 2025?

 IIM Kozhikode is conducting CAT 2025.

 How many sections are there in CAT 2025?

 There are three sections: VARC, DILR, and QA.

 Is there negative marking in CAT 2025?

 Yes, -1 for incorrect MCQ answers; no negative marking for TITA questions.

Can I change my test city after registration?

Yes, during the application correction window (likely in late September 2025).

Where can I find the official notification?

On iimcat.ac.in or in leading newspapers.

How to Prepare Effectively for CAT 2025?

• Start Early: Begin preparation 9–10 months in advance to cover the syllabus thoroughly.
• Use Reliable Resources: Refer to standard CAT preparation books such as those by Arun Sharma and Nishit Sinha. Additionally, practice with previous years’ papers and official mock tests.
• Take Mock Tests: Practice with official mock tests (released in October 2025) and previous years’ papers.
• Join Coaching (Optional): Enroll in online or offline coaching for structured guidance.
• Stay Updated: Regularly check iimcat.ac.in for announcements.

CAT 2025 is a golden opportunity for management aspirants to secure admission to top B-schools in India. With the notification released and key dates announced, now is the time to start your preparation and complete your registration on time. This guide has provided a detailed overview of the registration process, important dates, required documents, exam pattern, syllabus, changes, and FAQs. Stay focused, plan strategically, and rely on the official CAT website for all updates and notifications.

(Disclaimer

The information contained in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and is based on sources believed to be reliable as of July 27, 2025. While we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the blog post or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the blog post for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. We strongly recommend that you visit the official CAT website at iimcat.ac.in for the most accurate and up-to-date information. In no event will we be liable to any party for any direct, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages arising out of or in connection with the use of this blog post or the information contained herein.)