The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a pivotal step for MBA aspirants aiming for admission to top-tier B-Schools like the IIMs, FMS, MDI, and others across India. With thousands of students appearing annually, the CAT exam is not just competitive—it’s strategic. This article provides a comprehensive guide to CAT 2025, covering exam dates, registration details, fees, eligibility criteria, syllabus, and tips to excel.
CAT 2025 Exam Key Dates
Stay updated with these important CAT 2025 milestones:
| Event | Tentative Date |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release | July 28, 2025 (Expected) |
| Registration Start Date | August 2, 2025 |
| Registration Last Date | September 13, 2025 |
| Admit Card Release Date | October 25, 2025 |
| CAT 2025 Exam Date | November 24, 2025 (Sunday) |
| Result Announcement | January 6, 2026 |
How to Register for CAT 2025?
The CAT 2025 registration is entirely online. Here’s how you can apply:
Step-by-Step Registration Process:
- Visit the official website: iimcat.ac.in
- Click on “Register” and generate your User ID.
- Log in using the credentials.
- Fill in personal, academic, and work experience details.
- Upload documents (photo, signature, category certificate if applicable).
- Select preferred IIM programs and test cities.
- Pay the application fee and submit.
CAT 2025 Registration Fee
| Category | Fee (INR) |
|---|---|
| General/EWS/NC-OBC | ₹2,400 |
| SC/ST/PwD | ₹1,200 |
CAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, check if you qualify for the exam:
-
Educational Qualification:
Bachelor’s degree with minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD). -
Final Year Students:
Eligible to apply, subject to certification by their institution. -
Age Limit:
No age restrictions for CAT 2025. -
Reservation Policy:
Follows Government of India guidelines (SC: 15%, ST: 7.5%, OBC-NCL: 27%, EWS: 10%, PwD: 5%).
CAT 2025 Syllabus & Exam Pattern
The CAT syllabus is not officially prescribed, but it is generally consistent. Here’s a breakdown:
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
-
Reading comprehension (passages + questions)
-
Sentence correction
-
Para-jumbles
-
Odd one out
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
-
Graphs and charts
-
Tables and caselets
-
Logical sequences
-
Puzzle sets
Quantitative Ability (QA)
-
Arithmetic: Ratios, Percentages, Time-Speed-Distance
-
Algebra: Equations, Inequalities
-
Geometry & Mensuration
-
Number System
CAT 2025 Exam Pattern
| Section | Duration | No. of Questions | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| VARC | 40 minutes | ~24 | MCQ + TITA |
| DILR | 40 minutes | ~20 | MCQ + TITA |
| QA | 40 minutes | ~22 | MCQ + TITA |
| Total | 120 mins | 66 Questions | Computer-based |
Tips to Prepare for CAT 2025
Maximize your score with these smart strategies:
-
Start early with basics (July–September), intensify practice (October–November).
-
Take full-length mock tests biweekly, then weekly in final month.
-
Use apps like Gradeup, Unacademy, and BYJU’S for voice-search optimized prep.
-
Join online forums (like Pagalguy, Quora CAT groups) for doubt-clearing and peer support.
-
Analyze mock performance to fine-tune weaker sections.
Final Thoughts
The CAT 2025 is your gateway to the IIMs and elite B-schools in India. Mark your calendar, keep your documents ready, and begin prep with a solid plan. Stay proactive, stay focused, and use this guide as your go-to reference throughout the process.
FAQs: CAT Exam 2025
When is the CAT 2025 exam scheduled?
The exam is expected to be held on November 24, 2025 (Sunday).
What is the registration fee for CAT 2025?
₹2,400 for General/EWS/OBC candidates, ₹1,200 for SC/ST/PwD candidates.
Can final year students apply for CAT 2025?
Yes, they are eligible to apply with a certificate from their college/university.
Is there negative marking in CAT 2025?
Yes, MCQs have -1 for wrong answers. TITA questions have no negative marking.
Where can I register for CAT 2025?
You can register online at the official website: iimcat.ac.in
