Annual administration of the CAT Examination for MBA occurs in India through the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) to select candidates. CAT admission opens access to over 1300 management institutes and all 21 IIMs as well as FMS Delhi and SPJIMR Mumbai alongside MDI Gurgaon and IMT Ghaziabad.

The number of test-takers for CAT has smoothly increased throughout the previous few years. The number of candidates who applied to CAT in 2023 surpassed all previous records when 3.3 lakh applicants signed up while 2.88 lakh participated in the exam forcing it to become one of the most challenging tests in India.

The Indian Institutes of Management distribute the CAT examination once per year for one of their members to handle its administration. The Institute of Management in Lucknow directed the CAT exam during 2023.

Although IIMs serve as the main accepting institutions, the number exceeds one hundred other non-IIM business schools that rely on CAT scores for their student entrance process.

CAT EXAM 2025 DATE:    

The CAT Examination 2025 applications will become available from August 2, 2025 before concluding on September 21, 2025. The release date of CAT Exam 2025 admit cards is anticipated to occur on November 7, 2025 while admit cards normally become available about 14 days before the examination date.

The CAT 2025 examination will take place on November 30, 2025 at multiple centers across India for a duration of two hours as an English language exam. The scorecard usually becomes available to candidates approximately three weeks post-test while CAT 2025 results are predicted to be released on December 21, 2025.

Candidates must access the result information by visiting IIMs official websites. The IIMs start their program admission selection process during January before ending it in March or April.

Prepare for the key dates of CAT Examination 2025 as listed below:

• July 30, 2025: Official Notification Release
• August 2, 2025: Application Process Begins
• September 21, 2025: Application Process Ends
• November 7, 2025: Admit Card Released
• November 30, 2025: Test Date
• December 21, 2025: Result Declaration
• January-March/April 2026: Selection Process

However the official confirmation about these dates will follow due to potential changes. Potential applicants should maintain an active review of the official CAT website portal for obtaining exact information on the admissions process.

CAT EXAM SYLLABUS      

The CAT Examination for MBA syllabus contains three primary sections:

1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC):
   • Key Topics:
     • Reading Comprehension
     • Para-jumbles
     • Sentence Completion
2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR):
   • Key Topics:
     • Data Tables
     • Bar Graphs
     • Pie Charts
     • Logical Reasoning Puzzles
3. Quantitative Ability (QA):
   • Key Topics:
     • Algebra
     • Arithmetic
     • Geometry
     • Number System

SUBJECTS IN CAT:

A candidate’s aptitude gets evaluated through three distinct sections in the CAT Examination for MBA syllabus. The three sections are:

1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

As part of this section candidates demonstrate their English language abilities through tests of comprehension together with analysis and interpretation of written text.

Key Topics:

The Reading Comprehension assesses candidates through passages derived from science literature and historical materials and current affairs which demand analysis of main ideas and inference together with critical thinking skills.

The exam requires students to put jumbled sentences back in order to create proper paragraphs.

The system evaluates candidate performance in completing contextual and grammatically sound sentences correctly.

2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

The section measures students’ capability to understand data through logical problem-solving by analyzing complex situations.

Key Topics:

Data Interpretation (DI):

The evaluation of numerical information through tables demands analysis of tabular data structures.

Bar Graphs together with Pie Charts help readers obtain insights which lead to answering query-based data questions through graphical representations.

Logical Reasoning (LR):

Puzzle-based problems: Seating arrangements, blood relations, syllogisms, and other reasoning-based challenges.

The ability to identify logical conclusions through pattern recognition becomes possible through coding-decoding and series analysis of numbers and symbols.

3. Quantitative Ability (QA)

The mathematical and problem-solving abilities of candidates undergo assessment by a quantitative ability quiz that reviews fundamental and sophisticated mathematics principles.

Key Topics:

The subjects covered in Algebra include equations and inequalities and quadratic equations together with functions and progressions.

Arithmetic: Percentages, profit & loss, time-speed-distance, ratios, and averages.

The subject areas in the exam include Triangle theory alongside Circle study with Coordinate Geometry and computations of volumes and surface areas.

Number System: Factors, divisibility rules, LCM & HCF, and number properties.

CAT’s sections were developed to evaluate analytical capabilities and problem-solving competence and decision-making ability that managers need.

TOP COLLEGES ACCEPTING CAT EXAMINATION FOR MBA

CAT scores serve as admission criteria for more than 1,300 Indian educational institutions that offer MBA and PGDM programs among which 21 IIMs and more than 100 distinguished non-IIM business schools are included. 

FMS Delhi stands alongside SPJIMR Mumbai and MDI Gurgaon together with IMT Ghaziabad and IIT Delhi, Bombay, Kharagpur, etc. as well as XIMB Bhubaneswar form the elite group of prestigious institutes.

The National Institutional Ranking Framework positions the top 50 MBA colleges in India as they use CAT scores to determine admission decisions through percentile requirements between 80 and 99. 

CAT fills approximately 5,000 seats at IIMs and private and government institutions jointly conduct admissions for tens of thousands of MBA programs. The extensive adoption of CAT makes it the primary exam which Indian students aim to pass for their management education.

Below is a detailed table highlighting top colleges accepting CAT scores, along with their approximate cut-off percentiles:

Institute Name	Approximate CAT Cut-off Percentile
CAT Percentile 99.0+
– Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM-A)	99+
– Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM-B)	99+
– Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIM-C)	99+
– Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIM-L)	99+
– Indian Institute of Management Indore (IIM-I)	99+
– Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIM-K)	99+
– Faculty of Management Studies, University of Delhi (FMS)	98.54
– Management Development Institute, Gurgaon (MDI)	94
– Department of Management Studies, IIT Delhi (DMS, IIT-D)	98
– Shailesh J. Mehta School of Management, IIT Bombay (SJMSOM)	99
– National Institute of Industrial Engineering, Mumbai (NITIE)	97
CAT Percentile 96.0+
– SP Jain Institute of Management & Research, Mumbai (SPJIMR)	85
– Department of Management Studies, IIT Madras (DoMS, IIT-M)	96
– Indian Institute of Management Raipur (IIM-R)	96
– Indian Institute of Management Tiruchirappalli (IIM-T)	96
– Indian Institute of Management Udaipur (IIM-U)	95
– Indian Institute of Management Kashipur (IIM-KS)	95
CAT Percentile 94.0+
– Vinod Gupta School of Management, IIT Kharagpur (VGSOM, IIT-KGP)	90
– Indian Institute of Management Shillong (IIM-S)	86.57
– Indian Institute of Management Ranchi (IIM-RN)	94
– Indian Institute of Management Rohtak (IIM-RH)	95
– Indian Institute of Management Nagpur (IIM-N)	95
– Indian Institute of Management Visakhapatnam (IIM-V)	95
CAT Percentile 91.0+
– Xavier Institute of Management, Bhubaneswar (XIMB)	91
– Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai	95
– International Management Institute, Delhi (IMI-D)	90
– Institute of Management Technology, Ghaziabad (IMT-G)	96
– KJ Somaiya Institute of Management, Mumbai	—
– TA Pai Management Institute, Manipal (TAPMI)	85
CAT Percentile 86.0+
– FORE School of Management, New Delhi	85
– Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA)	96
– Loyola Institute of Business Administration, Chennai (LIBA)	—
– Birla Institute of Management Technology, Greater Noida (BIMTECH)	75
– ICFAI Business School, Hyderabad (IBS)	75
– Institute for Financial Management and Research (IFMR), Chennai	—
CAT Percentile 80.0+
– Welingkar Institute of Management Development & Research, Mumbai (WeSchool)	—
– LBS Institute of Management, New Delhi (LBSIM)	—
– Institute of Management Technology, Nagpur (IMT-N)	—
– Institute of Public Enterprise, Hyderabad (IPE)	70
– Nirma University, Ahmedabad	—
– PUMBA (Department of Management Sciences, University of Pune)	—

PATTERN OF CAT EXAMINATION 2025

As of now, the official exam pattern for the CAT Examination for MBA 2025 has not been released by the conducting authorities. However, based on the trends from previous years, particularly CAT 2024, aspirants can anticipate a similar structure for CAT Exam 2025.

CAT Exam Structure (Based on CAT 2024):

Section	Number of Questions
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)	24
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)	22
Quantitative Aptitude (QA)	22
Total	68

Question Types: The exam comprises both Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and non-MCQs (also known as Type In The Answer or TITA questions).

It’s important to note that while the above information is based on the CAT 2024 pattern, the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) reserve the right to modify the exam structure annually. Therefore, candidates are advised to regularly check the official CAT website for the most up-to-date information regarding the exam pattern and other related details.

MARKING SCHEME AND TIME DURATION OF CAT EXAMINATION 2025

Marking Scheme and Time Duration of CAT Examination 2025

The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 follows a structured marking scheme and a fixed time duration. Candidates must be aware of these aspects while preparing for the exam to optimize their strategies for answering questions effectively.

CAT Marking Scheme 2025

The marking scheme for Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Type In The Answer (TITA) questions differs. The following tables provide a clear breakdown of how marks are awarded and deducted.

Marking Scheme for MCQ Questions

Response Type	Marks Awarded
Correct Answer	+3 Marks
Incorrect Answer	-1 Mark (Negative Marking)
Unanswered Question	No Deduction

Marking Scheme for Non-MCQ (TITA) Questions

Response Type	Marks Awarded
Correct Answer	+3 Marks
Incorrect Answer	0 Marks (No Negative Marking)
Unanswered Question	No Deduction

Note: TITA (Type In The Answer) questions do not carry negative marking, making them a safer attempt for candidates who are unsure about their answers.

CAT Exam Duration 2025

The total duration for the CAT exam is 120 minutes (2 hours). Candidates must answer each section within a designated time limit of 40 minutes. The sequence of sections is fixed, and test-takers must attempt them in the given order.

Time Allocation per Section

Section	Number of Questions	Time Limit (Minutes)
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)	24	40
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)	22	40
Quantitative Aptitude (QA)	22	40
Total	68	120

Key Point: Candidates are not allowed to switch between sections before the allotted time is up.

CAT EXAMINATION OVERALL AND SECTIONAL TIME LIMITS 

The CAT 2025 exam follows a sectional time-limit format, meaning candidates must complete each section in a fixed order within a specific time frame. Unlike some other exams, you cannot choose which section to start with or switch between sections. Once the allotted time for a section is over, candidates cannot return to it to make any changes or corrections.

The exam consists of three sections, which must be attempted in the following order:

1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

Each section has a time limit of 40 minutes for general candidates. However, for PwD (Persons with Disabilities) candidates, the allotted time per section is 53 minutes and 20 seconds. The total exam duration is 120 minutes for general candidates and 160 minutes for PwD candidates.

CAT Exam Sections	No. of Questions	Time Limit (General Candidates)	Time Limit (PwD Candidates)
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)	24	40 minutes	53 minutes 20 seconds
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)	20	40 minutes	53 minutes 20 seconds
Quantitative Aptitude (QA)	22	40 minutes	53 minutes 20 seconds
Total	66	120 minutes	160 minutes

Candidates must manage their time efficiently within each section, as they will not be allowed to revisit a section once its time has elapsed. Proper preparation and strategic time management are crucial to performing well in the CAT 2025 exam.

CAT PREPARATION 2025  PLAN AND TIPS 

Preparing for the CAT exam is a long journey that requires patience, dedication, and consistent effort. Most students start their preparation around 9 months in advance, which gives them a significant advantage. 

If you begin today, you’ll have ample time to prepare effectively. However, staying motivated throughout the 9 to 12 months of preparation can be challenging. Regular self-motivation and confidence are essential to keep moving forward. Here are some crucial tips that every CAT aspirant should follow to maximize their chances of getting into a top B-school.

Key Preparation Tips:

• Give Equal Time to All Sections: CAT consists of three sections, and it’s crucial to allocate equal time to each. Focusing too much on one section while neglecting others can hurt your chances of success. To clear the overall cut-off, you must also clear sectional cut-offs. Even if you score 99+ percentile overall, failing to meet the cut-off in one section can render your efforts ineffective.
• Study Relevant Content: Many students believe that studying more means better preparation, but that’s not always true. CAT is a competitive exam where quality matters more than quantity. Stick to the syllabus and focus on high-weightage topics. Understanding the exam pattern and prioritizing important subjects will help you study efficiently and save valuable time.
• Consistency is Key: CAT preparation isn’t about random bursts of hard work; it’s about maintaining consistency. Regular practice, even if it’s just for 30 minutes to an hour daily, is more beneficial than irregular long study sessions. Being disciplined in your study routine will show noticeable improvements within 1-2 months.
• Join a Coaching Institute: The CAT syllabus is vast, covering three sections that require structured preparation. Self-study can be draining, especially when making a study plan and staying on track. Coaching institutes help with systematic learning, provide guidance, and keep you motivated throughout the journey. Since understanding concepts is only 20% of your preparation while practice accounts for 80%, joining a coaching institute—whether online or offline—can be a game-changer.
• Start Early: Beginning your CAT Exam 2025 preparation early significantly boosts your chances of success. Ideally, you should start at least six months before the exam, which is tentatively scheduled for November 2025. This timeline allows you to cover the syllabus thoroughly, practice extensively, and take multiple mock tests. An early start enables a steady preparation pace and helps you avoid last-minute stress.

By following these strategies with dedication and consistency, you can increase your chances of acing the CAT exam and securing admission to your dream B-school.

WEIGHTAGE OF EACH SECTION IN CAT 

Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR).

Quantitative Aptitude (34%)

This section carries the highest weightage, contributing 34% to the overall assessment. Key topics include Geometry, Arithmetic, Algebra, Mensuration, and Number System. Mastering these concepts is crucial for achieving a strong score in this area.

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (32%)

The DILR section is divided into two key parts:

• Data Interpretation (16%): Focus areas include Tables, Pie Charts, Graphs, and Venn Diagrams. These topics require strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret data quickly.
• Logical Reasoning (16%): This sub-section includes Seating Arrangement, Blood Relation, Syllogism, and Caselets, which test logical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (34%)

The VARC section, also carrying 34% weightage, is divided into:

• Reading Comprehension (24%): This involves questions based on passages, order of sentences, and para meaning. Strong reading and comprehension skills are essential for this segment.
• Verbal Ability (10%): This part tests proficiency in Para Summary, Para Jumbles, Inferences, and Sentence Completion.

By understanding the distribution of weightage across these sections, candidates can prioritize their preparation effectively to maximize their overall score.

IMPORTANCE OF CAT EXAMINATION FOR MBA

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most crucial entrance exams for MBA aspirants in India. A high CAT score significantly enhances the chances of securing admission into top B-schools that offer world-class management education. 

Since CAT is widely accepted by leading MBA institutes across the country, it serves as the gateway to reputed business schools that are known for their exceptional academic curriculum, industry-oriented learning, and outstanding placement records. 

Moreover, scoring well in CAT not only ensures a seat in premier institutes but also helps candidates develop essential management competencies required to excel in the corporate world.

Key Reasons Why CAT is Essential for MBA Aspirants

• Nationwide Acceptance: CAT scores are recognized by IIMs and top-tier B-schools, making it the most preferred MBA entrance test in India.
• Admission to Top B-Schools: A high percentile in CAT increases the chances of getting into renowned MBA institutes, which offer industry-aligned learning and leadership development.
• Excellent Placement Opportunities: Colleges that accept CAT scores are known for their strong corporate connections, ensuring high placement rates and lucrative salary packages.
• Management Skill Development: The CAT exam pattern focuses on Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation, and Verbal Ability, helping students build critical problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Career Advancement: Graduates from top CAT-accepting institutes often secure high-paying managerial roles, gaining a competitive edge in the business world.

By excelling in CAT, MBA aspirants can unlock doors to prestigious institutions, high-growth career opportunities, and robust management training, making it a crucial step toward professional success.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR CAT EXAMINATION

1. Age Limit

• Minimum Age: No minimum age limit (must have a bachelor’s degree).
• Maximum Age: No age restriction; anyone can apply.

2. Academic Qualifications

Candidates must meet specific academic qualifications based on their degree type:

Academic Qualification	Affiliation Required	Minimum Marks Required
B.Tech / B.E.	MHRD/AICTE	50% (General/EWS/NC-OBC), 45% (SC/ST/PWD)
Any Other Bachelor’s Degree	UGC	Final-year students eligible
CA / CS / ICWA / FIAI	MHRD/AICTE/UPSC	50% (General), 45% (SC/ST/PWD)

3. Eligibility Criteria by Category

General and NC-OBC Candidates

• Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
• Minimum 50% marks in graduation.
• Final-year students can apply.
• CA/CS/ICWA holders must also have 50% aggregate marks.

SC/ST and PWD Candidates

• Minimum 45% marks in graduation.
• Final-year students can apply.
• CA/CS/ICWA holders must have 45% aggregate marks.

4. Equivalent Degree Calculation

If a university uses CGPA or grades, the percentage is calculated as:

1. University method (if specified).
2. Standard method:
   • (CGPA ÷ Max CGPA) × 100

5. Who is Not Eligible?

• Graduation score below 50% (45% for SC/ST/PWD).
• No bachelor’s degree or equivalent (CA/CS/ICWA).
• Incomplete professional degree (CA/CS/ICWA not completed).
• Degree from an unrecognized institution (not approved by UGC/AICTE/MHRD).

Candidates should ensure their qualifications meet the CAT eligibility requirements before applying.

FREE ONLINE COURSES FOR CAT EXAM

Preparing for the Common Admission Test (CAT) can be expensive, but several platforms offer free online courses to help aspirants build a strong foundation in Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR). 

Websites like Unacademy, Udemy, YouTube, and Khan Academy provide high-quality video lectures, practice quizzes, and mock tests without any cost. Additionally, platforms like iQuanta and 2IIM CAT offer free trial classes and concept-based lessons to help candidates grasp important topics effectively. Aspirants can also access previous year CAT question papers, sectional tests, and strategy sessions through these platforms, enabling them to prepare systematically.

Free resources also include Telegram groups, WhatsApp study communities, and CAT preparation forums where aspirants can interact with mentors and fellow students. Some IIM graduates and CAT toppers regularly conduct free webinars on YouTube, sharing their preparation strategies, time management techniques, and shortcut methods for problem-solving. 

Government platforms like NPTEL (National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning) also provide free video lectures on mathematical concepts that are crucial for CAT. By leveraging these free online courses and study materials, aspirants can prepare effectively without financial constraints, making quality CAT preparation accessible to everyone.

BEST COACHING INSTITUTE TO PREPARE FOR CAT EXAMINATION

Choosing the right coaching institute for CAT preparation plays a crucial role in achieving a high percentile. Some of the top CAT coaching institutes in India include TIME (Triumphant Institute of Management Education), IMS Learning Resources, and Career Launcher (CL). 

These institutes offer structured study materials, experienced faculty, and regular mock tests that simulate the actual CAT exam. TIME is known for its comprehensive study modules and AIMCAT test series, while IMS provides mentorship programs and personalized doubt-clearing sessions. Career Launcher is preferred for its smart learning techniques and extensive online and offline support.

Apart from traditional coaching, online platforms like 2IIM, iQuanta, and Unacademy have gained popularity due to their flexibility and affordability. 2IIM is widely known for its self-paced courses and in-depth concept explanations, while iQuanta specializes in live interactive classes with shortcut techniques for problem-solving. 

Unacademy offers affordable CAT preparation through live and recorded sessions by experienced educators. These coaching institutes, whether online or offline, provide structured learning, mock test series, and expert guidance, making them some of the best options for serious CAT aspirants.

CAT EXAM CENTRES 

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is conducted across multiple exam centres in India, ensuring accessibility for candidates from different regions. The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), which organize the exam, designate around 150+ cities as official CAT test centres each year. 

Major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Pune host multiple exam centres due to high demand, while smaller cities and state capitals also have designated locations. 

Candidates can choose their preferred test city while registering, and the final exam centre is allotted based on availability. To avoid last-minute confusion, candidates must check their CAT admit card for the exact location and reporting time.

Each CAT exam centre follows strict security and operational guidelines to ensure smooth conduct of the exam. Candidates must carry their admit card, a valid photo ID proof, and follow all instructions given by the exam authorities. 

Electronic devices, calculators, and study materials are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall. The centres are equipped with computer-based test (CBT) systems, and technical support is provided in case of any issues. 

To avoid delays, candidates are advised to reach the exam centre at least an hour before the scheduled time. With widespread exam centres across India, the CAT ensures that aspirants from different regions have equal opportunities to appear for the test conveniently.

CAT CUTOFF SCORES 

The CAT cut-off score refers to the minimum percentile required to qualify for admission to top IIMs and other prestigious B-schools. The cut-off varies annually based on factors like exam difficulty, the number of applicants, and available seats. Below is the expected cut-off range for top institutes:

CAT Cut-Offs for Top MBA Colleges (General Category)

Institute	Expected Cut-Off Percentile
IIM Ahmedabad	99-100%ile
IIM Bangalore	98-100%ile
IIM Calcutta	98-100%ile
IIM Lucknow	95-98%ile
IIM Kozhikode	95-98%ile
IIM Indore	95-98%ile
FMS Delhi	98-99%ile
SPJIMR Mumbai	90-95%ile (Profile-Based)
MDI Gurgaon	90-95%ile
IITs (MBA Programs)	90-95%ile

Apart from overall cut-offs, candidates must also clear sectional cut-offs in Quantitative Aptitude (QA), Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR). For reserved categories (SC, ST, and PWD), the cut-off is lower, as shown below:

CAT Cut-Offs for Reserved Categories

Category	Expected Cut-Off Percentile
NC-OBC	70-85%ile
SC	60-70%ile
ST	50-60%ile
PWD	45-55%ile

Besides CAT scores, institutes consider academic performance, work experience, and personal interviews for final selection. To secure admission into a top-ranked MBA college, candidates should aim for a 99+ percentile in CAT.

CAT ADMIT CARD 

The CAT admit card is a crucial document that every candidate must carry to the exam centre. It is released by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) approximately 4-5 weeks before the exam date on the official website (iimcat.ac.in). 

Candidates must use their User ID and Password to download the admit card, which contains key details such as Candidate Name, Registration Number, Exam Date, Exam Timing (in a 2-hour slot), Test Centre Address, and Exam Day Instructions. 

The admit card typically has a QR code or barcode for verification at the test centre. If candidates find any mistakes in their details, they should immediately contact CAT helpdesk to rectify the issue.

On the exam day, candidates must bring a printed copy of the admit card along with a valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License). Candidates should arrive at the exam centre at least 90 minutes before the scheduled exam time to complete security and biometric verification. 

The admit card also includes COVID-19 and security guidelines, such as prohibited items (electronic devices, watches, calculators, study materials). Without the admit card, entry to the exam hall is strictly prohibited. Since the admit card is also required during the MBA admission process, candidates should keep it safely stored until the admission process is complete.

CAT EXAMINATION ANSWER KEYS 

The CAT answer key is released by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) a few days after the exam, typically within 5-7 days of the test. It contains the official answers to all questions from the exam, allowing candidates to evaluate their performance before the final results. 

The answer key is made available on the official CAT website (iimcat.ac.in) and can be accessed by logging in with the CAT registration credentials. Along with the answer key, IIMs also release the candidate’s response sheet, which displays their marked answers for each question. 

This helps candidates compare their responses with the official answers and estimate their raw scores before the official percentile is declared. Candidates also have the option to challenge the answer key if they find discrepancies. The objection window is open for about 3-4 days, during which candidates can submit challenges by paying a fee of ₹1,200 per question. 

If the challenge is found valid, necessary corrections are made, and the final answer key is released before the CAT result announcement. The raw score calculated from the answer key follows CAT’s scoring pattern: +3 marks for every correct answer and -1 mark for each incorrect answer in MCQs (non-MCQ questions have no negative marking). 

The CAT answer key plays a crucial role in giving candidates an early assessment of their performance and helps them prepare for the next stages of MBA admissions.

CAT EXAMINATION RESULTS 

The CAT results are officially released by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) around four to five weeks after the exam, usually in the first week of January. Candidates can check their CAT scorecard by logging into the official website (iimcat.ac.in) using their User ID and Password. 

The scorecard includes sectional scores, overall score, and percentile rank. The CAT percentile is calculated based on the candidate’s performance relative to all other test-takers, with a scaled score ranging from 0 to 300. The top IIMs typically shortlist candidates with a 99+ percentile, while other leading business schools consider percentiles between 85-98 for admissions.

Candidates do not receive a hard copy of the scorecard; they must download and save it for the MBA admission process. The CAT results remain valid for one year, meaning candidates can only use their score for admission in the immediate academic session. 

After the results are declared, IIMs and other top B-schools start their shortlisting process, which includes Written Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD), and Personal Interview (PI) rounds. Since cut-offs vary for each institute, candidates must check individual B-school admission criteria to plan their next steps effectively.

REGISTRATION DATE OF CAT 2025

The registration process for CAT Examination 2025 is a crucial step for candidates aspiring to take admission into top IIMs and other prestigious business schools. The registration will begin on August 2, 2025, and will close on September 21, 2025. 

Candidates must complete their registration online at iimcat.ac.in by filling in their personal, academic, and work experience details. The registration fee is expected to be ₹2,400 for General and NC-OBC candidates and ₹1,200 for SC, ST, and PWD candidates. 

Once the application is successfully submitted, candidates will receive a confirmation email and SMS containing their User ID and Password, which should be saved for future logins.

It is advisable to register early to avoid last-minute technical glitches and to secure a preferred test city. A form correction window will open for a limited time after the registration deadline, allowing candidates to edit specific details such as uploaded images and test city preferences, but changes to core details (name, email, mobile number) will not be permitted. 

Since CAT is conducted once a year, missing the registration deadline would mean waiting until CAT 2026. Hence, candidates should complete the process well before the last date to ensure a smooth application experience.

CAT Exam 2025 Registration Details

Event	Important Dates
CAT 2025 Registration Start	August 2, 2025
CAT 2025 Registration End	September 21, 2025
Mode of Registration	Online (iimcat.ac.in)
Registration Fee (General/NC-OBC)	₹2,400
Registration Fee (SC/ST/PWD)	₹1,200
Form Correction Window	After registration closes (limited period)
Test City Selection	Available during registration
Exam Conducting Body	Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs)
Next CAT Attempt If Missed	CAT 2026

HOW TO PREPARE FOR CAT 2025 FREE 

Candidates are advised to register early and double-check their details before submitting the form to ensure a hassle-free application process.

Preparing for CAT Examination 2025 requires a strategic approach, consistent effort, and the right resources. Start by understanding the CAT exam pattern—it consists of three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). 

Begin with a detailed study plan that covers the syllabus systematically, allocating more time to weaker areas. Utilize free online resources like YouTube tutorials, mock tests, and previous years’ papers. 

Developing strong reading habits by engaging with newspapers, novels, and editorials can significantly improve verbal skills. For quantitative aptitude, focus on concept clarity and shortcut techniques, while regular puzzle-solving can enhance logical reasoning skills.

To maximize efficiency, adopt a structured revision plan and take full-length mock tests to build exam temperament. Analyze mock test performances to identify mistakes and refine strategies. Free online platforms like Unacademy, Gradeup, and Cracku offer valuable content, including free study material and practice questions. 

Engage in peer discussions and study groups to exchange insights and solve doubts. Maintaining a disciplined study schedule, practicing time management, and staying consistent is key to success. Lastly, ensure mental well-being through regular breaks, exercise, and a positive mindset to stay motivated throughout the preparation journey.

Quick Preparation Tips:

• Understand the CAT syllabus & exam pattern
• Use free online resources (YouTube, study apps, free PDFs)
• Develop strong reading habits for VARC improvement
• Practice quant concepts daily with shortcut methods
• Solve logical puzzles & past papers for DILR
• Take regular mock tests & analyze mistakes
• Join study groups & discussions for better learning
• Stay disciplined, manage time well & stay motivated

Books and Journal for Cat 2025

📚 Best Books for CAT Preparation

1. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

• How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT – Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay
• Word Power Made Easy – Norman Lewis
• High School Grammar & Composition – Wren & Martin
• The Hindu / The Economist / Business Standard (for reading practice)

2. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

• How to Prepare for Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning for CAT – Arun Sharma
• Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation for CAT – Nishit K. Sinha
• Puzzles to Puzzle You – Shakuntala Devi (for logic-building)

3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

• How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT – Arun Sharma
• Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations – R.S. Aggarwal
• Fast Track Objective Arithmetic – Rajesh Verma
• NCERT Mathematics (Class 9 & 10) (for basic concepts)

4. Mock Tests & Practice Papers

• Past CAT papers (official IIM website)
• TIME, IMS, CL Test Series (trusted coaching institutes)

📖 Best Journals & Magazines for CAT Aspirants

• The Harvard Business Review (for business & management insights)
• The Economist & Forbes (for economic and global awareness)
• India Today & Business Line (for current affairs and financial news)
• IIM CAT Official Notifications (for pattern updates & changes)  

 

CAT EXAMINATION PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION PAPER FOR MBA 

Basically , the previous CAT EXAMINATION Question papers help student to understand the pattern and difficulty of each section included ( DILR , VARC , QA ) . 

 

YOU CAN CHECK THE PREVIOUS QUESTION PAPERS OF LAST 10 YEAR –  CHECK NOW !

 

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