CAT Exam 2025: Complete Schedule, Eligibility, Syllabus and Application Guide

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national-level entrance examination conducted every year for admission into prestigious management programs across India, including the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). CAT 2025 will be organized by one of the IIMs on a rotational basis, as per tradition. It serves as a gateway to MBA/PGDM programs at more than 1,200 top B-schools in India.

CAT is known for testing candidates on logical reasoning, quantitative aptitude, data interpretation, and verbal ability. It is considered one of the most competitive and career-defining exams for business and management aspirants.

Eligibility Criteria for CAT 2025

Before applying, candidates should ensure they meet the following eligibility requirements:

Educational Qualification:
A Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD categories) from a recognized university or institution.

Final Year Students:
Candidates appearing in the final year of their Bachelor’s degree or awaiting results are also eligible to apply, provided they meet the mark criteria upon graduation.

No Age Limit:
There is no age restriction to appear for the CAT exam.

Important Dates for CAT 2025 (Tentative)

CAT 2025 Exam Pattern

The CAT 2025 exam is conducted in a computer-based format and comprises three sections:

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

Quantitative Ability (QA)

Each section is allotted 40 minutes (total exam duration: 120 minutes). The paper consists of both MCQs and non-MCQs (Type In The Answer – TITA).

Total Questions: 66

Total Marks: 198

Marking Scheme: +3 for each correct answer, -1 for each wrong MCQ. No negative marking for non-MCQs.

CAT 2025 Syllabus Highlights

The CAT syllabus is not officially defined, but typically includes the following key topics:

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension:

Reading comprehension (passage-based questions)

Grammar, vocabulary

Para jumbles and sentence completion

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning:

Tables, graphs, charts

Puzzles, arrangements

Logical sequences and data sufficiency

Quantitative Ability:

Arithmetic (percentages, ratios, time-speed-distance)

Algebra and Geometry

Number system

Modern math (permutations, probability)

How to Apply for CAT 2025 – Step-by-Step

Follow these steps to complete your CAT 2025 application smoothly:

Visit the official CAT 2025 portal (URL will be shared in the notification).

Register as a new user by entering your name, email ID, and mobile number.

Log in using the generated credentials and start filling the application form.

Enter personal, academic, and work experience details.

Select preferred test cities (you can select up to 6).

Upload scanned documents – passport-size photo, signature, and required certificates.

Pay the application fee online through net banking/UPI/card.

Submit and download a copy of the confirmation page for future reference.

Tips for Effective CAT 2025 Preparation

Start Early – Ideally, begin 8–10 months in advance to cover all topics.

Understand the Exam Pattern Thoroughly – Familiarity improves speed and confidence.

Practice Mocks Regularly – Analyze mock tests to identify weak areas.

Work on Accuracy and Time Management – Avoid negative marking by staying calm and focused.

Read and Stay Updated – Build vocabulary and comprehension by reading daily.

Join a Study Group or Online Forum – Peer discussions help clarify doubts and keep motivation high.

Use Standard Study Material – Stick to trusted authors and coaching institute resources.

FAQ for CAT Exam Date 2025

Q1. When will the CAT exam 2025 be held?
The CAT 2025 exam is expected to be conducted on the last Sunday of November 2025.

Q2. When will the CAT 2025 application process start?
The online registration is expected to begin in the first week of August 2025.

Q3. Who conducts the CAT exam in 2025?
One of the IIMs (Indian Institutes of Management) will be the official conducting body for CAT 2025, usually announced with the notification.

Q4. What is the age limit for CAT 2025?
There is no age limit to appear for the CAT exam.

Q5. Can final year students apply for CAT 2025?
Yes, final-year undergraduate students are eligible to apply, subject to fulfilling graduation marks criteria at the time of admission.

Q6. Is CAT mandatory for MBA admissions?
CAT is mandatory for IIMs and many other top management institutes, but other exams like XAT, MAT, and GMAT are also accepted by some B-schools.

Q7. How many times is CAT conducted in a year?
CAT is conducted once every year, usually in November.