The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most competitive and prestigious entrance exams in India. Conducted annually by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), the CAT exam serves as a gateway to MBA and PGDM programs in top business schools. As CAT 2025 approaches, aspiring candidates need to have a solid understanding of the exam structure, key changes, preparation strategies, and important dates. In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about CAT 2025, including the expected exam pattern, eligibility criteria, registration process, syllabus, and expert tips for cracking it.

What is CAT 2025?

CAT 2025 (Common Admission Test 2025) is a national-level management entrance exam conducted for admission into MBA and related management programs offered by the IIMs and over 1,000 other prestigious business schools in India. Every year, one of the IIMs is entrusted with organizing the exam, and CAT is typically held in the last week of November.

CAT scores are widely accepted by top business schools, making it one of the most sought-after exams for management aspirants. In addition to the IIMs, top institutes like FMS Delhi, SPJIMR Mumbai, MDI Gurgaon, and IMT Ghaziabad also accept CAT scores for admission.

Important Dates for CAT 2025

While the official dates for all about CAT exam 2025 will be announced by the conducting IIM closer to the registration window, here’s a tentative timeline based on previous years:

• CAT 2025 Notification Release: July 2025

• Registration Start Date: First week of August 2025

• Registration End Date: Third week of September 2025

• Admit Card Release: October 2025

• CAT 2025 Exam Date: Last Sunday of November 2025

• Result Announcement: January 2026

It is important to stay updated on the official CAT website (https://iimcat.ac.in) for announcements and any changes to the schedule.

Eligibility Criteria for CAT 2025

Candidates who wish to appear for CAT 2025 must meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Educational Qualification:

   • Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (General Category) or 45% marks (SC/ST/PwD Category) from a recognized university.

   • Final-year undergraduate students can also apply, provided they submit proof of graduation within the stipulated timeframe.

2. Age Limit:

   • There is no age limit for appearing in the CAT exam.

3. Nationality:

   • Indian citizens are eligible to apply. NRI, PIO, and foreign nationals can also appear under specific admission guidelines.

CAT 2025 Exam Pattern

The CAT exam is known for its dynamic and challenging format. While the exact structure of CAT 2025 will be announced closer to the exam date, here is an overview of the expected pattern based on recent trends:

• Total Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes)

• Number of Sections: 3

  • Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

  • Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

  • Quantitative Ability (QA)

• Time per Section: 40 minutes

• Total Questions: 66 (subject to slight variation)

• Type of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Type-In-The-Answer (TITA) Questions

• Marking Scheme:

  • +3 marks for each correct answer

  • -1 mark for each incorrect answer (for MCQs)

  • No negative marking for TITA questions

Section-Wise Breakdown

1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC):

   • Expected Number of Questions: 22-24

   • Topics Covered: Reading comprehension, para-jumbles, summary-based questions, sentence completion, and vocabulary.

2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR):

   • Expected Number of Questions: 20-22

   • Topics Covered: Data sets, logical puzzles, seating arrangements, caselets, Venn diagrams, and charts.

3. Quantitative Ability (QA):

   • Expected Number of Questions: 22-24

   • Topics Covered: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems, time and work, probability, and mensuration.

Syllabus for CAT 2025

The CAT exam does not have a predefined syllabus, but the questions are designed to test quantitative, verbal, and logical reasoning skills. Here's a detailed breakdown of topics for each section:

1. Quantitative Ability (QA)

• Arithmetic (percentages, ratios, averages, profit and loss)

• Algebra (equations, inequalities)

• Geometry (circles, triangles, coordinate geometry)

• Number Systems

• Time, Speed, and Distance

• Probability and Permutations

2. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

• Reading Comprehension (RC) passages

• Para-jumbles

• Sentence Completion

• Grammar and Vocabulary

3. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

• Tables and Graphs

• Data Analysis

• Logical Puzzles

• Seating Arrangements

• Caselets

How to Prepare for CAT 2025

Preparing for CAT requires a disciplined approach and a clear strategy. Here are some preparation tips for CAT 2025:

1. Create a Study Plan

• Develop a 6-12 month study plan that covers all three sections.

• Allocate more time to weaker areas while maintaining balance across all sections.

2. Practice Mock Tests

• Regularly take mock tests to improve time management and identify strengths and weaknesses.

• Analyze each mock test to understand mistakes and fine-tune your strategy.

3. Focus on Conceptual Clarity

• Ensure you have a strong understanding of fundamental concepts in quantitative aptitude, reasoning, and verbal ability.

4. Enhance Reading Skills

• Reading newspapers, journals, and novels can improve your comprehension skills and vocabulary.

5. Join a Coaching Institute (Optional)

• If self-study seems challenging, consider enrolling in a coaching institute for structured learning and expert guidance.

CAT 2025 Registration Process

The CAT registration process is conducted online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the official CAT website: https://iimcat.ac.in

2. Register with your details: Provide your name, email, and mobile number to create a login ID.

3. Fill the Application Form: Enter personal details, academic qualifications, and work experience.

4. Upload Documents: Upload a recent photograph, signature, and necessary documents.

5. Pay the Application Fee:

   • General Category: INR 2,300 (subject to change)

   • SC/ST/PwD: INR 1,150

6. Submit the Form: Review and submit your application.

Final Thoughts on CAT 2025

CAT 2025 will be a crucial milestone for thousands of management aspirants. With intense competition and a rigorous selection process, thorough preparation is essential. Stay committed, follow a structured approach, and remain focused on your goals. Remember to keep an eye on official updates and changes regarding CAT 2025. With the right mindset and preparation, success in the CAT exam is well within reach.

Good luck with your CAT 2025 preparation!