A Comprehensive Guide to CAT Exam

The CAT exam is the first big hurdle for anyone thinking seriously about doing an MBA in India. Whether you’re eyeing the IIMs or looking at top private colleges like MDI, FMS, or SPJIMR, the Common Admission Test, better known as CAT, is the ticket in.

Held once a year, the CAT exam is a computer-based entrance test that checks your skills in quantitative ability, verbal reasoning, and data interpretation. While this may sound technical, it’s about how well you can think under pressure (something most B-schools value a lot).

Every year lakhs of students sign up for the CAT exam. Some take it straight out of college, some while working full-time jobs. It’s become a bit of a rite of passage for MBA aspirants in India. While that might sound a little intense, it’s very much manageable if you start early and go in with a clear plan.

In this guide, we’re covering everything you might want to know about the CAT exam, from expected CAT exam dates, eligibility, syllabus, exam pattern, to how you can prepare smartly (and even affordably). This post is meant to keep things clear, honest, and useful – just everything you need, in one place.

Since you’re reading this on BookMandee, we’ll also chat briefly about second-hand books because spending a bomb on brand-new study material isn’t always necessary. There’s a whole world of well-kept used books out there that can get the job done without burning a hole in your pocket.

The Basics You’ll Want to Know About CAT Exam 2025

It helps to get a clear picture of what the CAT exam involves before you start stressing over mock tests and prep schedules. Here’s a quick breakdown of what CAT 2025 is expected to look like:

What	Details
Name of the Exam	Common Admission Test (CAT)
Who Conducts It	One of the IIMs (decided every year)
Exam Type	National-level MBA entrance test
Mode of Test	Computer-based (held at centres)
Time Duration	2 hours
Number of Sections	3 – VARC, DILR, and QA
Marking System	+3 for right answer, -1 for wrong (MCQs)
Attempts Allowed per Year	Once
Official Portal	iimcat.ac.in

While the structure of CAT hasn’t changed much in recent years, it’s always a good idea to stay alert around July or August. This is when the official dates, changes (if any), and full exam schedule usually go live. The exam itself most likely happens in late November 2025, as per the usual pattern.

If this is your first time planning for the CAT exam, don’t overthink the format right away. Once you understand what’s being tested, it becomes more about how you practise than how much you panic.

Recommended Read: A Comprehensive Guide to JEE Exam 2025

Who Can Apply for CAT 2025?

Before you get too deep into CAT exam mock tests or coaching plans, let’s quickly sort out whether you’re eligible to sit for it in 2025. Here’s what you need to know:

Basic Eligibility for CAT 2025

• You must have a Bachelor’s degree (any stream) from a recognised university.
• You need to have scored at least 50% marks (or 45% if you belong to SC/ST/PwD categories).
• If you’re in your final year of graduation (or waiting for results), you’re also allowed to apply but ensure you can produce proof of qualification later if shortlisted.

Whether you’re an engineer, commerce graduate, literature major, or even someone from design or law, CAT is your door if you’re thinking about an MBA.

What if You Don’t Meet the Cut-Off Yet?

If you’re still in your final year and unsure about your percentage, don’t stress. You’ll still be able to sit for the CAT exam this year by providing your final scores later, usually at the time of admissions.

A Quick Reminder

Professional qualifications like CA, CS, ICWA, etc., are also accepted. So, if you’ve completed a professional course, you’re all set.

What’s the CAT Exam 2025 Exam Pattern Like?

If you’re serious about cracking the CAT exam, understanding the pattern can help you approach preparation well. Knowing exactly what to expect on exam day can make a huge difference, so let’s break down the CAT exam pattern in a way that’s easy to follow.

Mode of the Exam

The exam is completely computer-based. You’ll be sitting at a test centre with a computer screen in front of you on the exam day. The format consists mostly of Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs), with a few that require you to type in your answers.

Time Limit

You’ll have 2 hours (120 minutes) to complete the whole CAT exam.

Sections in the CAT Exam

CAT has three sections, each with its type of questions:

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC):

This section tests how well you can understand written material. You’ll be asked to answer questions based on reading comprehension passages and some grammar-related questions.

Key Focus Areas:

• Reading strategies (how to skim, identify key points)
• Grammar (sentence structure, parts of speech)
• Vocabulary (improving word usage, understanding meanings)
• Para-jumbles (rearranging sentences to make sense)

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

Here, you’ll have to make sense of data in the form of tables, graphs, and charts. You’ll also face questions that test your logical reasoning skills, often involving puzzles or decision-making scenarios.

Key Focus Areas:

• • Interpreting data from bar graphs, pie charts, and tables
  • Solving seating arrangement puzzles and other logic games
  • Understanding series and patterns in numbers
  • Venn diagrams and critical reasoning questions

Quantitative Ability (QA)

This section tests your math skills. It’s not about solving complex equations. You can expect questions on basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number theory. A strong grasp of school-level mathematics is usually all you need.

Key Focus Areas:

• Arithmetic (percentages, time, and distance, ratios)
• Algebra (linear equations, functions)
• Geometry (shapes, areas, angles)
• Basic number theory (LCM, HCF, divisibility)

Total Number of Questions

You’ll get 66 questions in total, around 22 questions per section in the CAT exam.

Marking Scheme

• +3 marks for each correct answer
• 1 mark for each incorrect answer (only for MCQs)
• No negative marking for non-MCQ questions.

A Few Key Things to Remember

• You can decide how much time to spend on each section, but don’t get too caught up in one. A good strategy is to allocate your time wisely and move on if you get stuck.
• CAT exam is as much about strategy as it is about knowledge. Some questions might be easier for you, while others might take longer to crack. 

CAT Exam Preparation Plan: Tips You Can Follow

The CAT exam can feel like a big mountain to climb, but breaking it down into manageable chunks makes the journey much smoother. With the right approach, a bit of discipline, and smart planning, you’ll find that preparing for CAT is more about consistency than anything else. 

Let’s dive into a few strategies that can help you stay on track and boost your chances of CAT exam success.

• Create a Flexible, Realistic Study Schedule

The first step in preparing for the CAT exam is mapping out a study plan that works for you. Don’t worry if you don’t have months to study. Even a focused few months can make a huge difference. 

• You can break down your study into weekly goals. For example, you can focus on Quantitative Ability for the first month, then tackle Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning in the next. 
• While it’s tempting to spend all your time on one section, give equal attention to all three parts. A balanced approach helps in keeping your preparation on track and ensures you’re ready for anything the exam throws at you.

• Understand the Concepts, Don’t Just Memorise

CAT is about understanding concepts and applying them under time pressure. So, focus on grasping the core ideas behind the questions. Once you have the basics down, solving problems becomes a lot easier, even when the questions get tricky.

• Rather than memorising formulas, try understanding where they come from and how to use them in real-world scenarios.
• The more you practice, the easier it gets to spot patterns and make connections. These sections are about thinking on your feet, not memorising steps.
• For reading comprehension and sentence correction, focus on honing your reading skills. The more you read, the more familiar you’ll become with the types of questions that appear in the exam.

• Follow a Consistent Practice Routine

The most effective way to prepare for the CAT exam is by doing practice tests and solving sample papers. It’s all about getting into the rhythm of the exam and practising under timed conditions. This will help you manage time effectively when the real exam day comes.

• Start with one mock test a week, then gradually increase the frequency as the exam approaches. This will help you familiarise yourself with the pattern and timing.
• If you’re struggling with a particular section, like Quantitative Ability, devote extra time to it. You don’t have to be perfect in everything, but try to be well-rounded.
• After each mock test or practice session, go back and review your mistakes. This will help you avoid repeating them and improve your speed and accuracy.

• Don’t Overload Yourself

We all have those moments when we feel like we should be studying non-stop to make progress. However, overloading yourself can lead to burnout. A good study plan includes breaks and rest.

• Set aside time for yourself. Whether it’s a walk, spending time with family, or watching your favourite show, you must recharge so you stay focused when studying.
• Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night, especially as the exam approaches. Skipping sleep won’t help you retain information.

• Revise, Revise, Revise

It’s easy to forget things you’ve studied, so revisiting your notes regularly is essential. A solid revision plan will ensure you’ve covered everything before the exam.

• Jot down key points, formulas, and concepts that are easy to forget during your study sessions. These notes will be handy when you need to quickly revise in the final weeks.
• Focus your revision on high-priority sections that carry the most marks in the last month before the exam.

• Don’t Forget the Basic Books and Resources 

While there are tons of online materials and exam preparation apps, traditional books still work best. Don’t underestimate the power of a good study guide as it can help you cover all the basics and offer structured practice.

• If you’re on a budget, consider buying second-hand books online. BookMandee offers second-hand CAT prep books at a fraction of the cost of new ones. You can find everything you need from question banks to detailed guides.
• Choose a couple of good, recommended resources instead of collecting piles of books. This will keep you from feeling overwhelmed and help you focus on mastering the material.

Top Books to Help You Crack the CAT 2025

When you’re preparing for the CAT exam, the right resources can make a world of difference. While there’s a lot of digital content floating around, there’s something incredibly effective about going back to basics with a good book. Not only do they offer in-depth insights, but they also help you build a strong foundation and give you the space to absorb concepts at your own pace.

Now, let’s talk about some of the best books for the CAT exam 2025 and ahead:

• ‘How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT’ by Arun Sharma
• ‘Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT’ by Nishit Sinha

• ‘Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT’ by Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay

• ‘CAT 2025: 15 Practice Sets for the CAT’ by Disha Experts

• ‘The Pearson Guide to CAT’ by Nishit K. Sinha

• ‘Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT’ by Sarvesh Kumar Verma

• Second-hand books available online

Also Read: A Complete Guide to CAT Exam Syllabus

Coaching or Self-Study: Which Route Should You Take for CAT Exam Prep?

When preparing for the CAT exam, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to go the route of coaching classes or tackle everything on your own with self-study. Both options have their advantages, and what works best really depends on your personal learning style, schedule, and budget. 

Let’s consider the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed choice that suits your needs.

Coaching Advantage: A Structured Path to Success

For many students, the idea of attending CAT coaching classes is appealing because they offer a well-organised, structured way to prepare for the exam.

• One of the biggest perks of coaching is that you’ll be guided by experienced trainers who understand the ins and outs of the CAT exam. They know what to focus on and can clear any doubts you might have along the way.
• Coaching classes come with a set syllabus, which ensures you don’t miss out on any critical topics. This can be helpful if you’re someone who prefers a clear, step-by-step approach.
• You’ll also have access to regular mock tests and practice papers. This helps you get used to the format of the exam and develop the time-management skills needed to tackle it effectively.

However, CAT coaching isn’t always the perfect fit for everyone. Let’s explore the other side.

Drawbacks of CAT Coaching

• The fees for coaching centres can be pretty steep, and this might not be an option for everyone. If you’re on a tight budget, the price tag might make you reconsider.
• Coaching classes generally have fixed timings, which can clash with your personal schedule. Whether you’re working, have other commitments, or prefer to study at your pace, this might feel restrictive.
• In larger classes, it can sometimes be difficult to get personalised attention, especially if you’re struggling with a specific topic or concept. This can leave you feeling a bit lost at times.

Self-Study: The Freedom to Learn at Your Own Pace

On the other hand, self-study offers a completely different approach that many students find incredibly effective.

• One of the main benefits of self-study is the freedom to set your pace. You can study when it fits your schedule and take breaks whenever you need to. No fixed class timings or rigid structure.
• Self-study is far cheaper than paying for coaching classes. You can make use of second-hand CAT prep books available on BookMandee and save money while still getting access to quality material.
• With self-study, you’re in full control of what and how you study. If you struggle with certain sections like Quantitative Aptitude, you can devote extra time to that area without feeling rushed. You can focus on your weak spots and adjust your approach accordingly.

Like CAT coaching, self-study comes with its set of challenges.

Challenges of Self-Study

• Without the clear guidance of a coaching institute, it can be hard to know where to start and when to stop. Some students find themselves drifting off-track or losing focus.
• If you get stuck on a particular problem or concept, you don’t have the luxury of turning to a teacher for quick clarification. You’ll need to rely on online resources or peer discussions to get answers.
• Self-study requires a great deal of motivation. Without the external pressure of classes and peers around you, it can sometimes be hard to stay disciplined and focused.

A Blended Approach: Combining the Best of Both Worlds

If you’re still unsure which route to take, you don’t have to pick one over the other. A blended approach might just be the solution.

• You can attend coaching sessions on weekends or online to get expert guidance, and then study at your pace during the week.
• If you prefer self-study, consider using online platforms that offer practice tests, study groups, and expert advice. These can complement your books and materials.

Also Read: Self-Study or Coaching for JEE Advanced: What’s the Best Fit for You?

How to Register for the CAT Exam: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by the CAT exam registration process, we’ve got you covered. It’s not as complicated as it might seem at first. Once you know the steps, the entire process will be smooth sailing.

Let’s break it down into simple steps so you can focus on preparing for the big day rather than worrying about paperwork.

• Head Over to the Official CAT Website

Open your browser and head to the official CAT exam website. This is where all the action happens. Bookmark it so you can easily access it whenever you need to.

• Create Your Account

On the website, you’ll see an option to register as a new user. Click on Register and you’ll be prompted to enter basic details and set up your account.

• Fill Out the Application Form

Once your account is set up, it’s time to fill out the application form. You’ll be asked for details like:

• Your full name, date of birth, and contact info
• Your highest qualification and details about your previous education
• You’ll need to choose your preferred cities for the exam. Pick wisely, keeping in mind your travel plans and convenience.

• Upload Documents

Now comes the paperwork part. You’ll need to upload a few documents, including:

• A recent photograph that meets the required specifications
• A scanned copy of your signature
• Category Certificate (if applicable)

• Pay the Application Fee

Next, you’ll need to make the payment. The fee for the CAT exam 2024 was as follows (subject to change over time):

• General/OBC Candidates: ₹2,500
• SC/ST/PWD Candidates: ₹1,250
  

You can pay online via credit/debit cards, net banking, or UPI. Just ensure the payment goes through smoothly.

• Submit the Application

After filling out the form and uploading all required documents, it’s time to hit the Submit button. Double-check everything before you click that button, as any errors could cause delays later on. Take your time to make sure the details are correct.

• Check Confirmation Email

Once your application is submitted successfully, you’ll get a confirmation email. This email will include your application number and all the important details. You may need it for future reference and download your admit card later.

• Download Your Admit Card

A few weeks before the exam date, your CAT exam admit card will be available for download on the website. The admit card will be your entry pass to the exam centre, so don’t forget to print it out and carry it with you on the day of the exam.

Your CAT Exam Centre & Admit Card – What to Expect and How to Be Ready?

The last thing you want after going through the entire CAT registration process is to get caught off guard because you forgot to download your admit card or didn’t check where your exam centre is. Happens more often than you’d think.

This section is just about clearing that up. 

When & How Will You Get Your CAT Exam Admit Card?

The CAT 2025 admit card will be made available about a month before the exam, most likely in late October or early November. You won’t get it by post or email; it’ll only be up on the official CAT website.

Here’s what you need to do:

• Log in to your CAT user account using the same credentials you created while registering.
• Look for the download link right on the dashboard. 
• Download the PDF and take at least two printouts – one to carry and one as backup 

The admit card is not just a formality but your entry ticket. No card means no entry. Simple as that.

What All Will Be Mentioned on the CAT Admit Card?

Once you download the card, go through every bit of it. It’ll mention:

• Your name, application number, and category
• The date and slot of your exam
• Reporting time (don’t ignore this)
• Complete address of your exam centre
• A section for your photograph and signature
• A list of things to carry, and things not to

If something looks wrong (like your name’s misspelled or the photo is blurry), reach out to the helpdesk quickly. Better to fix it now than explain it to a stern exam invigilator later.

How Are CAT Exam Centres Decided?

When you filled out the form, you chose six preferred cities. One of those gets picked based on availability and your order of preference. You can’t change it afterwards, so pick one close to home or somewhere you’re familiar with.

Here are a few popular CAT exam cities:

City	State
Ahmedabad	Gujarat
Bengaluru	Karnataka
Chandigarh	Punjab
Hyderabad	Telangana
Mumbai	Maharashtra
Delhi	Delhi NCR
Bhopal	Madhya Pradesh
Jaipur	Rajasthan
Kochi	Kerala
Lucknow	Uttar Pradesh

Some smaller towns may also have centres. The list grows every year to make travel easier for candidates.

What to Carry on CAT Exam Day (And What to Skip)?

Here’s your quick checklist:

To Carry:

• Printed CAT admit card 
• Original photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence)
• A pen (even though the test is online)

To Leave Behind:

• Bags, wallets, or any study material
• Smartwatches, phones, calculators (even if switched off)
• Water bottles (they usually provide one)

Quick Tips for CAT Exam Centre Planning

• Visit the centre a day or two before the exam. It’ll save you from last-minute scrambling.
• If you’re travelling from out of town, book your ticket and accommodation early.
• Aim to reach at least an hour before the reporting time. It’ll help you settle in and breathe.

What to Know on the Day of the CAT Exam?

So, the months of prep are behind you. The mocks, the missed weekends, the endless problem-solving marathons all come down to one morning (or afternoon). CAT exam day is less about genius and more about getting the basics right and keeping your cool.

This isn’t the time to overthink but the opposite. You just need to show up prepared, on time, and mentally steady. Let’s break down what your exam day might look like.

A Simple Timeline to Keep Things on Track

Depending on your exam slot, the timing might shift a bit. But here’s a rough idea if you’re slotted in for the morning paper:

Time	What You Should Be Doing
6:00 AM	Wake up. No snoozing.
6:30 AM	Light breakfast. Nothing too greasy.
7:00 AM	Recheck documents.
7:15–7:30 AM	Leave for the centre.
8:30 AM	Expected reporting time.
9:00 AM	Test instructions begin.
9:30 AM – 12:30 PM	Test window (varies by slot).

The goal here isn’t to be early for the sake of it but to avoid panic. Running late can mess with your head, even if you’re well-prepared.

What Actually Happens Inside the CAT Exam Centre?

Once you’re in, expect a queue for security and document checks. You’ll go through:

• Basic frisking (be prepared)
• Biometric data collection (fingerprint, photo)
• Seat allocation with a printed slip
• A set of instructions before the test begins

Most centres are fairly strict, but the process is smooth if you follow directions. The test software is user-friendly and there are rough sheets available for calculations.

Reading Your CAT Scorecard: What Does It Really Mean?

The exam’s done. You’ve waited weeks. You’ve refreshed the IIM CAT portal more times than you’d like to admit. And finally, the exam result is out. Now what? For many, this is the moment of both relief and confusion. The CAT scorecard can look a bit overwhelming at first glance if you’re unsure what all those columns, numbers, and percentiles mean. 

Let’s walk through what to expect and what to keep in mind when reading your CAT exam result.

What Does the CAT Scorecard Include?

Here’s what you’ll typically see on your CAT 2025 scorecard:

Section	What It Shows
Name & Registration No.	Your basic details
Sectional Scores	Raw and scaled scores for VARC, DILR, QA
Sectional Percentiles	How you performed within each section
Overall Scaled Score	Normalised total score
Overall Percentile	Where you stand among all test takers

The scorecard will be available as a downloadable PDF on the official IIM CAT website, and you’ll need your login credentials to access it.

Raw Score vs Scaled Score vs Percentile: What’s the Difference?

Let’s simplify it:

• Raw score: Actual marks you got, based on correct/incorrect answers
• Scaled score: Your raw score, adjusted for difficulty across shifts
• Percentile: The percentage of students who scored less than you

If your overall percentile is 98, it means you performed better than 98% of the test takers.

What’s a Good CAT Score?

This depends on where you want to go.

Target B-School Tier	Approx. Percentile Required
Top IIMs (A, B, C)	98–99.9+
Newer IIMs, MDI, SPJIMR	90–97
Decent private B-schools	80–89
Tier-2 & Tier-3 options	70–79 (varies)

But CAT is only one piece of the puzzle. B-schools also look at academic history, work experience, diversity, and even how you write or speak in an interview.

CAT Exam 2025 Result Date (Expected)

The CAT result date for 2025 will likely be around the first week of January 2026, if we go by past trends. The scorecard remains valid for one year.

Where Can Your CAT Score Take You?

If you’ve taken the CAT, your score may turn out just the way you hoped or it may surprise you in other ways – -good or bad. Either way, the big question now is: What next?

The CAT isn’t just for IIMs. Several other brilliant management institutes across India accept CAT scores too. Here’s a breakdown of where your CAT score might get you through the doors.

The Big Leagues: IIMs in Focus

India has 21 IIMs now, each with its own character, cut-offs, and strengths.

The Older IIMs

These are the crème de la crème and highly competitive:

IIM	Known For	General Cut-off (approx.)
IIM Ahmedabad	Case-study pedagogy, legacy	99–100 percentile
IIM Bangalore	Balanced profile intake	99+ percentile
IIM Calcutta	Quant heavy, finance edge	99+ percentile
IIM Lucknow	Solid placement records	97–99 percentile
IIM Kozhikode	Diversity-friendly intake	95–98 percentile
IIM Indore	Popular IPM and MBA options	95–98 percentile

The Newer IIMs

They are still part of the IIM family, but with slightly more forgiving cut-offs:

IIM	Estd.	General Cut-off (approx.)
IIM Udaipur	2011	90–94 percentile
IIM Trichy	2011	90–93 percentile
IIM Ranchi	2009	90–93 percentile
IIM Rohtak	2010	90–94 percentile
IIM Nagpur	2015	85–92 percentile

Other Highly-Rated B-Schools Accepting CAT Exam Scorecard

B-School	Location	Notes
FMS, Delhi	Delhi	Incredible ROI, part of DU
SPJIMR	Mumbai	Profile-based shortlisting
MDI	Gurgaon	Industry-oriented curriculum
IMT Ghaziabad	Ghaziabad	Popular for marketing
IMI	Delhi	Strong corporate tie-ups
TAPMI	Manipal	Well-regarded for finance and HR
XIMB	Bhubaneswar	Known for rural management
IITs (MBA programmes)	Across India	CAT score + technical background bonus

Choose Based on Fit, Not Just Rank

While rankings help, your choice should factor in:

• Location: Metro cities often mean better industry exposure.
• Specialisation: Some colleges shine in marketing, others in analytics or HR.
• Fee vs ROI: FMS, for instance, charges far less than most private B-schools.
• Alumni Network: Crucial for job switches, mentorship, and growth.

If you’re still on the fence about where to apply, keep your CAT score handy, compare your profile with previous years’ data, and shortlist wisely.

Done with the CAT Exam? Time to Let Your Books Go

If you’ve just wrapped up your CAT exam, you might find yourself staring at a mountain of prep books (stacks of mocks, guides, and textbooks) that you’ve used over the past few months (or even years). Now that the exam is behind you, what should you do with them?

Instead of letting these books pile up and gather dust on your shelf, you can turn those old books into something useful for someone else and even earn a bit of cash in the process.

Why Should You Sell Your CAT Exam Prep Books?

Selling your used CAT prep books has multiple benefits:

• There are always new aspirants preparing for CAT. Those books could be exactly what they need to ace their own prep journey.
• If you’re not using those books again, they’re just taking up valuable shelf space. Selling them frees up room for something else (like your MBA textbooks!).
• Used books might not fetch full price, but you can definitely make back a decent chunk of what you spent.

Where to Sell Your CAT Prep Books?

• BookMandee

BookMandee has made it simple to sell your old CAT prep books. You can list your books, set a price, and connect with buyers who are actively looking for the resources you used to ace the exam.

• Local Resale Groups

If you’re more comfortable with face-to-face transactions, check out local online groups or forums where students buy and sell educational materials. 

• Bookstores or Libraries

Some local bookstores or libraries accept second-hand books, especially if they’re in good condition. While you might not get the best price here, it’s a quick way to offload your prep material.

Tips to Sell Your Used CAT Exam Books

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Be honest about the condition of your books. If they have torn pages, highlighter marks, or are a bit worn out, mention it in your listing. Buyers appreciate transparency.
• Don’t overcharge, but also don’t undervalue your books. Check what others are charging for similar books to get a sense of the market.
• If you’re selling online, coordinate a safe and convenient exchange location.

College Applications After CAT: Process and More

Not every college that accepts CAT scores is going to come knocking. You’ll need to fill out their forms separately. This includes institutes like MDI, SPJIMR, IMI, and others. Each college values different things, which you must consider.

Shortlists, GDs, and Interviews

Once the CAT result is out, the second phase begins. IIMs and many private institutes will publish shortlists and invite selected candidates for the next round.

These often include:

• A written test (WAT)
• A group discussion (GD)
• A personal interview (PI)

If Things Didn’t Work Out This Time…

Not everyone appearing for the CAT exam makes it in the first go, and that’s okay. CAT is a tough nut to crack. If you’re planning to take another shot next year, you’re not starting from scratch. You’ve already built the base.

You could also use this time to work, pick up a few certifications, or mentor someone else. It keeps your learning curve alive.

Your Top Questions About CAT Exam 2025, Answered

When will the CAT Exam 2025 be conducted?

The exact date for CAT 2025 has not been announced yet, but it is expected to be held in the last week of November, as is the tradition. Keep an eye on the official website for the confirmed date once it’s released.

What is the eligibility criteria for CAT exam?

To appear for CAT exam, you need to meet the following eligibility criteria:

• A bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for SC, ST, and PwD candidates) from a recognised institution.
• Final-year students of bachelor’s degree programmes can also apply, provided they complete their degree before admission.

How can I register for CAT 2025?

Registration for CAT 2025 will be online and should start a couple of months before the exam. You’ll need to visit the official CAT website, create a profile, fill in your details, upload required documents (like your photo and signature), and pay the registration fee.

What is the CAT exam pattern?

CAT exam follow the same structure as previous years (unless changed in a specific year):

• Total Duration: 2 hours
• Sections: 3 (Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension)
• Question Type: MCQs and Non-MCQs
• Marking Scheme: 3 marks for each correct answer, -1 for wrong answers (for MCQs

How many times can I appear for the CAT?

There is no limit to the number of times you can appear for the CAT exam. You can take the test every year as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.

What is the syllabus for CAT exam?

CAT typically focuses on:

• Quantitative Aptitude: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, and Number Systems
• Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning: Data Tables, Graphs, Puzzles, and Logical Reasoning Problems
• Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension: Vocabulary, Grammar, and Reading Comprehension Passages

Check the official site closer to the exam for any updates or changes.

How is the CAT score used for admissions?

CAT scores are used primarily for admission to MBA and PGDM programmes at IIMs and other top business schools across India. Each institute has its selection criteria, including CAT score and other factors, such as academic performance, work experience, and personal interview (PI) 

Can I change my exam centre after submitting the CAT application?

Once your CAT application is submitted, the exam centre cannot be changed. So, select a centre that is convenient for you when you fill out the form.

When will CAT 2025 results be announced?

CAT exam 2025 results are usually announced around the second week of January 2026. You’ll be able to check your scores and download your scorecard from the official website.

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