Whether you’re fresh out of college or working a job and thinking about switching lanes, you might have got your sights set on a top MBA college in India. There is where knowing the CAT exam dates is one of the first things you’ll need to sort out.
The CAT schedule decides your prep strategy, including when to start studying, when to take mocks, when to revise, and when not to panic. Each year, thousands of students sit for the CAT, but the ones who do well usually are well-prepared, and that starts with being on top of the timeline.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the CAT exam dates 2025 – expected timelines for registration, admit cards, exam day, and results.
Mark Your Calendar: Key Dates for CAT 2025
Keeping track of CAT exam dates is one of the smartest things you can do early on. Knowing the schedule helps you plan your prep and ensures you don’t miss anything important (like the last date to register or download your admit card).
Here’s a quick look at the tentative CAT exam dates for 2025 based on past years (since the official notification usually drops around July). Once that’s out, we’ll update this page with the confirmed details.
CAT Exam Dates 2025 (Tentative)
| Event | Tentative Date |
| CAT 2025 Notification Release | Last week of July 2025 |
| Start of Online Registration | First week of August 2025 |
| Last Date to Register | Second or Third week of September 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | Mid-October 2025 |
| CAT 2025 Exam Date | Likely the last Sunday of November 2025 |
| Result Declaration | First week of January 2026 |
Note: These dates are subject to change once the official IIM CAT notice is out. Always refer to the official CAT website for the final schedule.
Planning ahead with these dates in mind will help you avoid last-minute panic and make better use of your prep time.
Also Read: A Comprehensive Guide to CAT Exam
Registering for CAT 2025: What Should You Know Before You Begin?
Once the CAT exam dates are out, the next thing on your to-do list is registration. It’s not the most exciting part of the journey, but it’s definitely one of the most important. No matter how well you’ve been preparing, you’ll have to wait an entire year to try again if you miss the registration deadline.
Thankfully, the registration process isn’t complicated. Like most things online, it’s always better to do it calmly, with all your documents ready rather than rushing through it on the last day. Here’s a no-fuss guide to help you get it done properly the first time.
When Does CAT 2025 Registration Begin?
Here’s what the CAT registration timeline might look like based on the last few years:
| Event | Likely Dates |
| Registration Opens | First week of August 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | Mid to late September 2025 |
| Application Correction Window | Last week of September 2025 (if offered) |
It’s a good idea to register in the first two weeks. The server tends to get overloaded during the final days, and staring at a frozen screen while the clock ticks down isn’t fun.
How to Register for CAT Exam?
Here’s how you’ll go about it:
1. Type in iimcat.ac.in in your browser.
2. Enter the basic info here – your name, mobile number, and a working email ID.
3. Once you’re in, you’ll be asked about your academic background, work experience (if any), preferred exam cities, and a few other things. Take your time here.
4. Upload documents, including
- A passport-sized photo (recent one, with a clear face)
- Your signature (on white paper, scanned clearly)
- Category certificates if you’re applying under a reservation quota
5. Pay the fee online
6. Submit and download a copy
Things Most People Forget About CAT Exam Registration (But Shouldn’t)
- Use an email ID you actually check. This is where you’ll get updates about the admit card, exam centre, and even your result.
- Choose your test cities carefully. You’ll get one of your preferences, but there’s no guarantee – so pick familiar locations.
- Don’t use someone else’s phone or email. Once submitted, you can’t change it.
Admit Card for CAT Exam 2025: What to Expect and Why It Matters?
The next big thing to keep an eye on is the CAT 2025 admit card – your hall pass to one of the most important Sundays of your year. It’s worth knowing what’s coming, when to expect it, and what to do once it’s in your hands.
When Can You Download It?
The admit card usually shows up about six weeks before the exam. For CAT 2025, you can expect it to go live somewhere around mid-October. Here’s a rough timeline:
| Event | Expected Date |
| Admit card available online | Around 15–20 October 2025 |
| Exam date | Likely the last Sunday of November 2025 |
How Do You Get It?
- Head over to iimcat.ac.in.
- Log in using your CAT User ID and password.
- You’ll see an option to download the admit card. Click it.
- Save the PDF and take a couple of prints – black and white is fine, just ensure the photo and details are visible.
What Should You Double-Check?
Before you toss it into your bag and forget about it until the night before, take a moment to go through the details:
- Your name – it should match your ID proof exactly.
- Date and slot of your exam – CAT is held in three shifts.
- Reporting time – they’re pretty strict about this.
- Exam centre address – look it up on Google Maps and check how far it is from your place.
- Photo and signature – if either is blurry or wrong, flag it early.
If something looks off, don’t sit on it. Reach out to the CAT helpline and get it sorted before the big day.
What to Carry on CAT Exam Day
Here’s the short version of what should be in your hand (and what shouldn’t):
- A printed copy of your admit card
- A valid photo ID (Aadhaar, passport, driving licence, etc.)
- A simple pen (they usually provide one, but bring a spare just in case)
You May Like to Read: A Comprehensive Guide to JEE Exam 2025
CAT Exam Date: Timings, Shifts, & Guidelines
Knowing exactly what’s going to happen on the day of the exam can make a huge difference. Let’s break it all down to ensure you’re stress-free and ready to perform your best.
CAT 2025 Timings and Shifts
CAT is held on a single day, but it’s divided into three different shifts to accommodate all the candidates. Here’s the usual schedule breakdown (note that the exact timings for CAT 2025 may vary slightly):
| Shift | Reporting Time | Exam Start Time | Exam End Time |
| Shift 1 | 7:30 AM | 9:00 AM | 11:00 AM |
| Shift 2 | 12:30 PM | 2:00 PM | 4:00 PM |
| Shift 3 | 4:30 PM | 6:00 PM | 8:00 PM |
When Should You Arrive at the Centre?
They recommend reaching the exam centre at least 1 hour before the scheduled start time. Here’s what you can do:
- If you’re in the first shift, try leaving home around 5:30 AM.
- For the second shift, aim for 9:30 AM.
- For the third shift, 1:30 PM should give you enough time.
Remember, latecomers aren’t allowed, so get there early to avoid unnecessary stress.
CAT Exam Guidelines: What You Can and Can’t Do
Before you get there, take note of these basic guidelines. No one wants to be the one standing outside because they forgot something important.
- What You Can Bring
- Admit card (printed)
- A valid photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving Licence)
- A black or blue pen (they often provide pens, but it’s a good idea to carry one)
- What You Can’t Bring
- Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, or any other electronic devices
- Bags, wallets, books, or notes
- Food, water, or beverages (unless medically necessary)
Post-Exam Timeline: Answer Keys, Results, and Scorecards
So, the CAT exam date is done and dusted. You’ve finished the race. Now, you’re probably itching to know how you did. While you’ll have to wait a little while for the official results, here’s a breakdown of what happens after you’ve submitted your last answer:
Answer Key Release
Once the exam is over, there’s no need to panic. The official CAT answer key usually gets released within a week or so. It gives you a chance to estimate how you’ve performed, but keep in mind that it’s not the final score.
Here’s what you can do when the answer key is out:
- Check for updates on the official CAT website
- Use the answer key to get a rough idea of your performance, but don’t get too caught up in the details. It’s more of a ballpark figure. Mistakes happen, and it’s all part of the process.
When Will CAT 2025 Results Be Released?
Patience is key, but the results are usually out around 3-4 weeks after the exam.Once you’ve crossed that exam day milestone, it’s time to kick back (but not for too long!) and wait for your results to pop up on the website.
What happens then?
- You’ll need to log into the official CAT website with your registration details to access your results.
- Along with your result, you’ll see the overall percentile. It reflects how you performed relative to others, which can tell you a lot about your chances.
What Happens After You Get Your Results?
Once you have your results, it’s time to start thinking about what’s next.
- If your percentile is good enough, you’ll get called for the GD (Group Discussion) and Interview rounds at some of the top IIMs or other B-schools.
- Each institute has its own process, so it’s important to know when their interview rounds begin and what they’re looking for.
What to Do While Waiting for Your CAT Exam Results?
Waiting for results can be stressful, but this is also a time to stay proactive:
- Get started with your mock interviews and think about the questions that may come up.
- Many universities might have different deadlines or interviews scheduled around the same time, so it helps to stay on top of it.
- If you’ve got old CAT preparation books lying around, now’s a great time to clear some space. Selling them on BookMandee can help other students while making a little extra cash for you.
How Does Knowing CAT Exam Dates Early Help You Plan Better?
Here’s why it’s crucial to know your CAT exam dates timely:
-
Time to Create a Realistic Study Plan
When you know exactly your CAT exam date, you can create a well-paced study plan. Whether it’s weeks or months away, having those dates marked means you can:
- Break down your CAT exam preparation into manageable chunks.
- Give yourself time to focus on weaker areas instead of cramming everything at once.
- Track progress without feeling overwhelmed, as you have a clear timeline in front of you.
2. Targeting Key Milestones Before the Exam
By knowing your CAT exam dates in advance, you can plan specific milestones leading up to the big day. These could include:
- Mock tests.
- Revision periods
- Rest days
Finding the Right Books and Materials in Time
Knowing the exam dates gives you ample time to:
- Research the best CAT preparation materials.
- Buy or sell old books in advance on BookMandee for second-hand CAT books at great prices.
- Keep an eye on new books, notes, or guides that could give you an edge.
Save Money, Study Smart: Get Pre-Loved CAT Books
When it comes to preparing for the CAT exam, the last thing you want to do is break the bank on books that could be just as useful in their second-hand form. Books can get pricey, especially when you’re looking to buy multiple resources across subjects. Pre-loved CAT books offer the same content and valuable insights at a fraction of the cost.
You might be thinking, “Can a used book really be just as good?” The answer is absolutely. Here’s why:
- Second-hand books are usually a lot cheaper, which is a huge relief for most students. You can get the same valuable information without having to pay full price.
- The core material in a second-hand book is the same as a new one. A few dog-eared pages won’t take away from the content, and in fact, those notes from previous readers might even help you out.
- The latest edition might have a couple of updates, but older editions will still serve you well for most of the CAT syllabus. After all, concepts in maths and verbal reasoning don’t change overnight.
Where to Find Pre-Loved CAT Books?
You don’t need to settle for expensive new editions. Here are some great places to look for second-hand CAT prep books:
- BookMandee: It connects you with people selling their used CAT books, often at a much lower price than new ones. Plus, it’s a chance to recycle and reuse valuable resources that can help others too.
- Local Bookshops: Many small bookshops stock second-hand books. They might not always have the latest editions, but you’ll often find books in great condition for a fraction of the price.
Why Should You Consider Reselling Your CAT Exam Books?
You’ve worked hard to gather all those resources, and once your prep is over, there’s no point letting them go to waste. Here’s why reselling your books is a good idea:
- You might not get back the full amount you spent, but you can still get a decent return on your CAT books. This could be money you use for future courses, mock tests, or even a treat for yourself after all that hard work.
- Not everyone can afford the newest edition of every book on the market. By reselling your CAT prep books, you’re making them accessible to those who might not otherwise be able to afford them. It’s a great way to pay it forward and support someone else’s exam journey.
- Your CAT books have served their purpose. Why let them take up space when you could pass them on to someone else? Selling them is a simple way to tidy up your room and make room for new things (or just a bit of breathing space).
CAT Exam Dates FAQs
When is the CAT exam usually held?
The CAT exam typically takes place in November every year, though the exact date is announced by IIMs a few months before. It’s essential to stay updated on the official website for any changes.
How can I know the official CAT exam dates?
The official CAT exam dates are released on the IIM website (Indian Institutes of Management). Keep an eye on their announcements, especially during the application period, to stay informed.
Will the CAT exam be held online or offline?
The CAT exam is conducted online as a computer-based test (CBT). This means that all sections, including quantitative ability, verbal ability, and logical reasoning, will be available on the computer screen at the exam centre.
How many times can I attempt the CAT exam?
There is no limit to the number of times you can attempt the CAT exam, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria. However, most candidates take the exam one or two times in their academic journey, depending on their preparation.
What is the last date to register for the CAT exam?
The last date for CAT exam registration typically falls in September. However, this may vary from year to year, so it’s crucial to check the official website for precise deadlines and avoid any last-minute issues.
Can I change my CAT exam centre after submitting the application?
Once you’ve selected your CAT exam centre during registration, it generally cannot be changed. However, it’s always good to double-check the details during the application period to avoid any issues later.
Will the CAT exam be held in multiple slots?
Yes, the CAT exam is conducted in multiple slots over a few days to accommodate a large number of candidates. The exam slot allocation is typically random, and candidates are notified about their slot in advance.
Can I appear for the CAT exam in multiple cities?
No, you can only appear for the CAT exam in the city and exam centre you selected during the application process.