CAT 2025 Exam: Dates, Eligibility, Syllabus, and Preparation Tips
The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 is one of the most prestigious entrance exams in India for admission into top business schools, including the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other leading B-schools. If you’re planning to pursue an MBA, staying updated on the CAT 2025 exam date, registration process, syllabus, eligibility criteria, and preparation strategy is crucial.
In this blog, we will provide detailed insights into CAT 2025, helping you plan your preparation effectively and boost your chances of securing admission to a top MBA college.
CAT 2025 Exam Overview
- Exam Name: Common Admission Test (CAT)
- Conducting Body: One of the IIMs (To be announced)
- Exam Level: National
- Mode of Exam: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Frequency: Once a year
- Exam Duration: 2 hours
- Sections:
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD)
- Official Website: (To be announced)
CAT 2025 Important Dates
| Event | Date (Expected) |
|---|---|
| CAT 2025 Notification Release | July 2025 |
| CAT 2025 Registration Start | August 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | September 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | October 2025 |
| CAT 2025 Exam Date | November 2025 |
| Result Declaration | January 2026 |
Note: These dates are tentative and will be updated once officially announced.
CAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for CAT 2025, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Educational Qualification:
- A bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
- Minimum marks required:
- General/EWS/OBC: 50%
- SC/ST/PwD: 45%
Final-Year Students:
- Candidates appearing for their final year exams in 2025 are also eligible.
Age Limit:
- No age restrictions for appearing in the CAT exam.
CAT 2025 Registration Process
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for CAT 2025
- Visit the Official Website (To be announced).
- Register yourself with a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill out the application form with personal, academic, and work experience details.
- Choose your preferred exam cities (up to 6 choices).
- Upload required documents:
- Passport-size photograph
- Signature
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Pay the application fee:
- General/EWS/OBC: ₹2,400
- SC/ST/PwD: ₹1,200
- Submit the application form and take a printout for future reference.
CAT 2025 Syllabus & Exam Pattern
The CAT 2025 syllabus is divided into three sections:
1. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Reading Comprehension
- Para jumbles
- Sentence Completion
- Error Detection
- Vocabulary
2. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Bar Graphs & Pie Charts
- Caselets
- Blood Relations
- Seating Arrangement
- Syllogisms
3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
- Arithmetic (Percentage, Profit & Loss, Time & Work)
- Algebra
- Geometry & Mensuration
- Number System
- Probability & Permutation
Exam Pattern Overview
| Section | No. of Questions | Time (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|
| VARC | 22-26 | 40 |
| DILR | 18-22 | 40 |
| QA | 22-26 | 40 |
| Total | 66-72 | 120 |
CAT 2025 Preparation Strategy
1. Create a Study Plan
- Divide your preparation into 3 phases – Basic Concept Learning, Practice & Revision, and Mock Tests.
- Allocate at least 3-4 hours daily for study.
2. Focus on Strong & Weak Areas
- Identify your weaker sections and give extra time to improve them.
- Strengthen high-scoring topics to maximize marks.
3. Solve Mock Tests & Previous Papers
- Attempt at least 20-25 full-length mock tests before the exam.
- Analyze mistakes and improve accordingly.
4. Work on Time Management
- Learn to solve questions faster without compromising accuracy.
- Avoid spending too much time on difficult questions.
5. Read Newspapers & Improve Vocabulary
- Reading The Hindu, Economic Times, or Business Standard can improve your RC & VARC skills.
6. Enroll in Coaching or Online Courses
- If needed, join a coaching institute or an online course for structured guidance.
Best Books for CAT 2025 Preparation
| Section | Recommended Books |
|---|---|
| VARC | “How to Prepare for Verbal Ability & RC” by Arun Sharma |
| DILR | “Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation” by Nishit Sinha |
| QA | “Quantitative Aptitude for CAT” by Sarvesh Verma |
| Mock Tests | “CAT Previous Year Papers” by Arun Sharma |
CAT 2025 Cutoff (Expected)
| Category | Expected Cutoff for IIMs |
|---|---|
| General | 98-99+ percentile |
| OBC | 95+ percentile |
| SC/ST | 85+ percentile |
Note: The cutoff varies for different IIMs and other top B-schools.
Top MBA Colleges Accepting CAT 2025 Score
- IIM Ahmedabad
- IIM Bangalore
- IIM Calcutta
- FMS Delhi
- SPJIMR Mumbai
- MDI Gurgaon
- XLRI Jamshedpur (via XAT, but some programs accept CAT)
Final Words
The CAT 2025 exam is a gateway to top MBA colleges in India. Start your preparation early, practice consistently, and stay focused to achieve your target percentile. Stay updated with the latest announcements regarding CAT 2025 on the official website.
For personalized guidance on MBA admissions, college selection, and preparation tips, feel free to connect with us!
FAQs
1. Can I apply for CAT 2025 if I have a backlog?
Yes, candidates with backlogs can apply, but they must clear them before admission.
2. How many times can I attempt CAT?
There is no limit; you can attempt CAT as many times as you wish.
3. Is there a sectional time limit in CAT?
Yes, each section has a 40-minute time limit (total 120 minutes).
4. What is the best time to start CAT 2025 preparation?
Start at least 8-12 months in advance for a strong preparation.
Good luck with your CAT 2025 preparation! 🚀
