CAT Exam Date 2025: Complete Schedule and Important Deadlines

Vaishali Pandey
December 18, 2024

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The CAT 2025 exam is scheduled for November 30, 2025. IIM Kozhikode is expected to conduct the exam, as IIMs rotate the responsibility. The official CAT notification will be released on July 30, 2025. Registration will open on August 2, 2025, and close on September 21, 2025. The exam will consist of 68 questions, including 2 in the DILR section, with a total score of 204 marks.

This article will provide the essential CAT Exam date 2025 and detailed information on the registration process, eligibility, exam pattern, and more. 

By the end of this article, you will know:

1. Gain clarity on the exam pattern, syllabus, and eligibility requirements to ensure you meet the criteria for CAT 2025.

2. Discover tips and resources to create a well-structured study plan and boost your performance.

3. Know the CAT Exam date 2025, application steps, and what to expect on exam day for a seamless experience.

Important CAT Exam Date 2025

Below is the key CAT exam date 2025 that every candidate must know before appearing for the exam:

Event

CAT Exam Date 2025

CAT Exam Notification Date

July 30, 2025

CAT Exam Registration Start Date

August 2, 2025

CAT Exam Registration End Date

September 21, 2025

CAT Exam Application Correction Date

September 25-28, 2025

CAT Exam Admit Card

November 07, 2025

CAT Exam Date

November 30, 2025

CAT Exam Answer Key

December 05, 2025

CAT Exam Result Date

December 21, 2025

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What is the CAT Exam?

The CAT (Common Admission Test) is an entrance exam for admission to postgraduate management programs, like an MBA, at top business schools and management institutes in India. It provides opportunities for careers in various fields, such as marketing, including roles like brand manager, market research analyst, digital marketing manager, and product manager.

CAT Exam: Highlights

CAT Exam: Highlights

Check the table below for a quick overview of all essential parameters for the CAT exam.

Parameters

Details

Exam Name

Common Admission Test by IIM Calcutta

Mode of Exam

Computer-based exam with MCQs and Non-MCQs 

CAT Exam Date 2025

November 30, 2025

CAT Exam Fee

INR 1250 for SC/ST/PWD 

INR 2500 for General/EWS/NC-OBC

Frequency

Once a year

Exam Duration 

120 minutes; 40 minutes per section

CAT Exam Syllabus

  • Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) 
  • Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
  • Quantitative Ability (QA)

Total Number of Questions

66 Questions

Total Marks for the CAT Exam

198 Marks

Total Number of Test Cities

170

Marking Scheme

+3 for a correct answer

-1 for incorrect answer

CAT Exam Timing

  • Session 1: 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM
  • Session 2: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM
  • Session 3: 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM

CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria

Graduation with 50% or above marks

Courses offered

MBA/PGDM

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CAT Exam Date 2025: Registration Date

Below is the CAT exam 2025 Registration date:

Event

CAT Exam Date 2025

CAT Exam 2025 Registration Date

August 2, 2025

CAT Exam 2025 Registration Last Date

September 21, 2025

CAT Exam 2025

November 30, 2025

CAT Exam Date 2025: Registration Process

To register for the CAT 2025 exam, follow these simple steps on the official IIM CAT website:

1. Visit the website and click on 'New Registration'.

2. Create an account and log in.

3. Complete the application form and upload your photo and signature.

4. Select your courses, IIMs, and test city preference.

5. Pay the CAT exam application fee.

Before registering for the CAT exam, review the CAT Exam Fees 2024-25 eligibility criteria and the application process.

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CAT Exam Date 2025: Application Form 

To complete your registration, make sure to have the following documents ready for CAT form 2025: 

Documents

Details

Photo

  • Candidates must upload a recent photograph that is no older than six months. 
  • The background of the photo should be white or off-white. 
  • It should have dimensions of 30mm x 45mm, with a maximum 1 MB file size. 
  • The accepted formats for the photograph are JPEG and JPG.

Signature

  • A scanned copy of the candidate's signature is required. 
  • The signature image should have dimensions of 80mm x 35mm and must not exceed 80KB in size. 
  • The file should be saved in JPEG or JPG format.

Category Certificate

  • If the candidate belongs to the SC/ST/NC-OBC/EWS categories, a valid category certificate must be uploaded

Disability Certificate

  • Candidates with disabilities need to upload a disability certificate. 
  • As required, the certificate should comply with PwD forms V, VI, or VII to confirm eligibility for related accommodations.

Academic Details

  • Applicants must provide detailed information about their academic qualifications. 
  • This includes records of Class 10th, Class 12th, graduation, and any master’s or professional degree obtained.

Work Experience

  • Details of full-time work experience gained after graduation must be provided. 
  • This experience should be calculated up to July, 2025
  • It should not include part-time or internship roles.

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CAT Exam Date 2025: Admit Card

Candidates must bring the CAT admit card to the exam center on exam day. It includes the test center location, exam slot, and reporting time. 

Follow these three simple steps to download your admit card:

1. Visit the official CAT website and log in using your application number and password.

2. Navigate to the ‘Admit Card’ section.

3. Click on ‘Download’ to save and print your admit card.

CAT Exam Date 2025: Answer key

The CAT 2025 answer key will be available only through the official website. Candidates can download the CAT answer key by following the steps:

1. Go to the official CAT website and log in using your ID and password.

2. Click on the 'CAT 2025 Answer Key' option to view it on the screen.

3. Click the ‘Download’ to save it as a PDF.

Candidates can raise objections to the CAT answer key within 3-4 days of its release by submitting an online form, uploading supporting documents, and paying a fee. Experts will review the objections; the preliminary answer key will be revised if they are valid. The final CAT 2025 result will be based on the updated answer key.  

CAT Exam Date 2025: Result and Scorecard

Candidates can download the CAT exam scorecard from the official website in the third week of December 2025. 

Follow the below steps to download the scorecard:

1. Visit the official CAT website and click on the ‘Login’ tab.

2. Enter your CAT application form 2025 number and password.

3. Go to the ‘Scorecard’ section and click the download option to save the scorecard as a PDF.

The scorecard will display raw scores and percentiles for each section. The download link will remain active for one year, and no hard copies will be issued, so candidates should download and save the scorecard promptly.

CAT Exam Date 2025: Exam Timings

The CAT is conducted in three slots, and candidates must adhere to the specified reporting and exam timings to ensure a smooth experience. 

The details for each slot are as follows:

Exam Slot

Exam Timing

Reporting Time

Late Entry Time

Slot 1

8:30 AM to 10:30 AM

7:00 AM

8:15 AM

Slot 2

12:30 PM to 2:30 PM

11:00 AM

12:15 AM

Slot 3

4:30 PM to 6:30 PM

3:00 AM

4:15 AM

CAT Exam Pattern

The CAT exam is a multiple-choice test (MCQ) with a mix of non-MCQ questions. Candidates earn +3 points for a correct answer, while one point is deducted for incorrect answers in MCQs. There is no negative marking for non-MCQs or unattempted questions.

Below is an overview of the CAT exam pattern:

Section

Number of Questions

Time Allotted

Good Attempts

Ideal Score Attempt

Difficulty Level

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension

24

40 Mins

14-16

40

Moderate to Difficult

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning

20

40 Mins

10-11

32

Moderate

Quantitative Ability

22

40 Mins

10

35

Moderate to Difficult

Total

66

120 Mins

36

90

Moderate

Check out the detailed CAT Exam Pattern 2024 information, including sectional cut-offs, syllabus, and expert preparation tips.

CAT Exam Analysis 2025

Based on the trends observed in the CAT 2024 exam, the CAT 2025 exam is expected to range from moderate to difficult. Over the past few years, all three slots of the CAT exam have been considered high difficulty. The final analysis of CAT 2025 will depend on the feedback from candidates and experts appearing for the exam.

CAT Exam Syllabus

The CAT exam consists of three sections, each with topics designed to test candidates' skills in various areas. 

Here is an overview of the syllabus for each section:

Section

Syllabus

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension

  • Long & Short Passages
  • Jumbled Paragraphs
  • Para-summary
  • Picking the Out Sentence 

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning

  • Data Charts
  • Data Tables
  • Bar Graphs
  • Venn Diagrams
  • Seating Arrangement
  • Team Formation
  • Clocks & Calendars

Quantitative Ability

  • Arithmetic
  • Modern Maths
  • Number System
  • Algebra
  • Mensuration
  • Trigonometry
  • Geometry

Discover the complete CAT Exam Syllabus for MBA, including section-wise details and weightage, to plan your preparation effectively.

CAT Exam Guidelines

The CAT 2025 exam will take place at centers across India. Candidates must follow all instructions on the admit card to avoid issues on exam day.

Documents to Carry

Below are the documents candidate must carry to appear in the CAT exam:

Documents

Details

Admit Card

Bring two printed copies of the admit card with your photo pasted on it (preferably the same as the one uploaded to the application). Entry without it is not allowed.

Photo ID Proof

Carry a valid photo ID such as an Aadhaar, PAN card, passport, voter ID, driving license, or college/employer ID supported by a debit/credit card.

Name Change Document

Bring a name change certificate or document if your ID has a different name.

PWD Certificate

PwD candidates must bring their disability certificate and, if required, a scribe certificate

Items Not Allowed Inside the CAT Exam Hall

The exam will be monitored with CCTV, and the following items are prohibited:

1. Electronic devices like calculators, phones, or smartwatches

2. Bags, purses, or personal items

3. Food or drinks

4. Metal jewellery or accessories

5. Jackets or clothing with pockets

6. Closed shoes

7. Books, notebooks, or loose paper

CAT Score vs Percentile 2025

Understanding how your CAT score relates to your percentile is important for knowing your chances of getting into top MBA colleges. 

Here is how different scores in each section of the CAT exam can affect your overall percentile:

DILR Score

VARC Score

QA Score

Overall Score

Percentile

30

42

30

86

99.5

25

36

25

74

99

20

30

22

52

95

14

24

13

42

90

11

20

9

35

80

9

18

7

30

70

IIM CAT Exam Cut-Off

The CAT exam cut-off varies across different Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and is an important factor for admission. 

Below are the cut-off scores for various IIMs for CAT 2025:

After clearing the CAT exam, check out the CAT Exam Colleges and their fees, admission criteria, and future opportunities.

IIM Selection Process After CAT Exam

The IIMs use CAT scores to select candidates for their MBA and other programs. Candidates must also appear for the WAT-PI (Written Ability Test and Personal Interview) for full-time MBA admission. 

Below is an overview of the three stages of the IIM CAT selection process MBA:

1. Candidates are shortlisted based on their CAT scores.

2. Shortlisted candidates appear for the WAT-PI round.

3. Final selection and admission offer is made.

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CAT Exam Cut-Off: Non - IIMs

Many top business schools outside the IIMs also have competitive CAT cut-offs for admission into their MBA programs. Below are the cut-off scores required for various prestigious colleges:

CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria

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

1. Educational Qualification

Candidates must have completed a bachelor's degree with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for SC, ST, and PWD/DA candidates) from a recognised university.

2. Final Year Students

Candidates in the final year of their bachelor's degree or awaiting results can also apply.

3. Professional Degrees 

Candidates with the required percentage of professional degrees (CA, CS, ICWA, FCAI) are eligible.

CAT Exam Preparation Tips

Here are some simple CAT preparation tips to help you prepare effectively for CAT 2025:

1. Create a daily study schedule 

Break the syllabus into sections and assign time for each part.

2. Choose self-study or join classes 

Opt for self-study or enroll in coaching classes using reliable study resources.

3. Make notes and flashcards

Write down key points and create flashcards with important formulas and techniques.

4. Practise regularly 

Solve previous year’s CAT papers and take mock tests. Review your performance to identify areas for improvement.

5. Manage time during practise 

While solving questions, track the time spent on each one.

6. Improve general knowledge 

Read newspapers daily to stay updated.

The CAT 2025 exam is essential for those looking to join a top management program in India. By keeping track of the key dates and understanding the registration process, eligibility requirements, and exam pattern, you can prepare effectively for this competitive exam.

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FAQs for CMAT Exam Date 2025

What is the last date to apply for CAT 2025?

The last date to apply for the CAT 2025 exam is September 20, 2025. Candidates must submit their applications online through the official CAT website before this deadline to be considered for the exam.

What is the syllabus for the CAT exam 2025?

The main topics covered in the CAT exam are Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Percentage, Graphs, Coding-Decoding, and Series Completion. The Reading Comprehension section is the dominant section with 12-14 questions. 

When is the CAT exam 2025 registration date?

The registration period for the CAT 2025 exam started on August 1, 2025. Candidates were required to complete their registration before the deadline.

How many times has the CAT exam been held?

The CAT exam is held once a year, typically in either November or December.

What is the CAT score for IIM?

To gain admission to the prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), candidates must score a 99 percentile or higher in the CAT exam. However, the exact percentile requirement may vary slightly depending on the IIM and the specific program.

What is the CAT exam fee?

The CAT exam fee is differentiated based on candidate categories:

  • For ST/SC/PWD candidates, the fee is INR 1250.
  • For general and OBC candidates, the fee is INR 2500.

How many attempts are allowed for the CAT exam?

There is no limit on the number of attempts for the CAT exam. Candidates can take the exam as many times as they wish if they meet the eligibility criteria for each year. Some candidates may retake the exam to improve their scores, while others may appear only once. 

What subjects are in the CAT exam?

The CAT exam consists of three sections designed to test a candidate’s reasoning, mathematical, and verbal skills.

  • Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
  • Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation (LRDI)
  • Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

Which subject is tough in the CAT exam?

The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (LRDI) section is often considered the toughest part of the CAT exam. The questions in this section are lengthy, complex, and time-consuming.

Can we use a calculator in the CAT exam?

Candidates are not allowed to use personal calculators in the CAT exam. However, an online calculator will be available on the computer screen during the exam. 

What type of maths is asked in the CAT exam?

The mathematics portion of the CAT exam (Quantitative Aptitude) covers a wide range of topics, including Geometry, Algebra, Trigonometry, Mensuration, and Modern Math.

What is the safe score in the CAT exam?

A safe score in the CAT exam is typically considered to be in the range of 104-108 marks. Achieving this score would place you in a good position for selection in top business schools. However, scoring above 120 will place you in the 90th percentile, meaning you performed better than 90% of all test-takers. 

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