The CAT 2025 exam is among the most important milestones for MBA aspirants in India. Known as the Common Admission Test, it is the gateway to prestigious management programs in IIMs and other leading B‑schools across the country. In this article, we provide a detailed overview of CAT Exam 2025, its schedule, registration process, eligibility, and how to prepare.

What is CAT Exam 2025?

The CAT Exam 2025 is a computer‑based test that evaluates candidates on Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). It is designed to test analytical thinking, problem solving, and time management under pressure. The scores are used by IIMs and many other business schools to shortlist candidates for their MBA/PGDM admissions.

CAT 2025 Exam Date

One of the most critical aspects of the exam is its schedule. The CAT 2025 Exam Date has been announced as November 30, 2025, to be conducted in three time slots in a single day. Aspirants must note this date and plan their preparation timeline accordingly. (based on various reports)
Admit cards are expected to be made available starting November 5, 2025.

CAT 2025 Registration & CAT Registration Date

To take the exam, candidates must go through the CAT 2025 Registration process. The CAT Registration Date window begins on August 1, 2025 (10:00 AM) and initially was set to close on September 13, 2025 (5:00 PM). However, the registration last date was later extended to September 20, 2025 (5:00 PM IST).
Thus, aspirants had from August 1 to September 20, 2025 for completing the registration.

During registration, candidates must fill out personal and academic information, upload scanned documents (photo, signature, certificates), select preferred test cities, and pay the application fee.

Eligibility for CAT 2025

To be eligible for CAT 2025, candidates must satisfy certain criteria:

  • Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized university with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD).

  • Candidates in the final year of their graduation are also eligible to apply, provided they submit proof of passing the degree when offered admission.

  • There is no upper age limit for the exam.

  • No specific work experience is required, though having work experience may benefit in the selection process.

Exam Pattern & Structure

Understanding the structure of CAT Exam 2025 is vital to strategize preparation:

  • The total duration is 120 minutes (2 hours), with 40 minutes per section, covering three sections: VARC, DILR, and QA.

  • Candidates must attempt the sections in a fixed order.

  • The exam typically consists of around 66 to 68 questions (varies slightly depending on year).

  • Each correct answer is awarded +3 marks, while an incorrect answer is penalized with −1 mark. There is no negative marking for non‑MCQ or TITA (Type In The Answer) questions.

  • There might be a mix of multiple choice and non‑MCQ (TITA) questions.

  • The test is computer‑based and delivered at test centres across more than 170 cities.

How to Prepare for CAT 2025

Effective CAT 2025 preparation requires a structured plan and consistent effort. Here are some tips:

  1. Understand the syllabus and pattern thoroughly: Know what topics are expected under each section.

  2. Create a study schedule that allocates dedicated time for VARC, DILR, and QA.

  3. Strengthen fundamental concepts in mathematics and logic before advancing to advanced problems.

  4. Practice mock tests under timed conditions to improve speed and accuracy.

  5. Analyze every mock: review mistakes, revisit weak areas, and avoid repeating errors.

  6. Improve reading habits: read editorials, newspapers, and novels to boost reading speed and comprehension for VARC.

  7. Focus on Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning as many aspirants find it challenging – consistent puzzle and DI practice helps.

  8. In the final few weeks, take multiple full‑length mocks to simulate exam conditions, maintain stamina, and refine strategies.

Conclusion

The CAT 2025 exam is a crucial stepping stone for aspiring management students. Mark your calendar for November 30, 2025, and ensure you complete CAT 2025 Registration between August 1 and September 20, 2025. Thorough preparation, smart strategies, and disciplined revision can help you succeed in CAT Exam 2025 and gain admission to top B‑schools.

Also Read: Difference Between CAT and NMAT: Check Exam Pattern, Marking Scheme, and Difficulty Level