
CAT 2025 exam date is November 30, 2025. The exam will be conducted by IIM Kozhikode in three shifts which will be of 2 hours each. There is no change in the CAT syllabus or pattern. Candidates can expect moderately difficult paper this year. CAT 2025 admit card will be released on November 5, 2025. Registered candidates will be able to download it through login.
CAT 2025 registration process started on August 1 and ended on September 20, 2025. CAT 2025 form correction window opened on October 4 and the deadline to edit the application form was October 7, 2025.
Over 3.20 lakh aspirants are expected to have applied for the exam. The total number of CAT 2025 applicants will be shared by IIM Kozhikode soon. Read all about CAT exam 2025 below including eligibility, fees, admit card, syllabus, pattern, preparation, question paper PDFs.
- What is CAT Exam?
- CAT 2025 Exam Dates & Schedule
- CAT 2025 Exam Highlights
- CAT 2025 Admit Card
- CAT 2025 Syllabus and Pattern
- CAT Question Paper PDFs Download (Previous Years)
- CAT Exam Preparation 2025
- CAT Answer Key 2025
- CAT 2025 Result and Scorecard PDF
- IIM CAT Cut Offs
- CAT Registration 2025
- CAT Eligibility Criteria 2025
- IIMCAT Contact Information
- Important FAQs on CAT 2025
What is CAT Exam?
Common Admission Test or CAT is a national level management aptitude test conducted by the Indian Insitute of Management (IIM) for admission to MBA and other postgraduate courses offered by its 21 campuses (NITIE Mumbai has been added to the cluster and has been renamed as IIM Mumbai). CAT exam is a speed based test that includes questions from Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) and Quantitative Ability (QA). Difficulty level of the exam is moderate to high.
Over two lakh candidates apply for the CAT exam every year. In CAT 2023, applications touched the record high of 3.30 lakh. The total number of CAT 2024 registration was 3.29 lakh. Candidates who clear the CAT exam are eligible for admission to over 1300 MBA colleges in India, apart from the IIMs.
Latest Updates:
CAT 2025 form correction started, edit application form now
CAT 2025 registration extended, check new deadline
CAT 2025 registration started, last date September 13
Courses Offered Through CAT at IIMs
Apart from full-time MBA programmes, the CAT score is valid for admission to Executive MBA, PhD and FPM programmes of IIMs and other B-Schools. This exam is open for not only graduates but also post graduates and working professionals. Check below the list of courses offered by the IIMs through CAT and MBA seats offered.
IIM |
Courses Offered Through CAT |
Number of Seats |
---|---|---|
PGP, PGP-FABM, ePGD-ABA (ePost Graduate Diploma in Advanced Business Analytics), PhD |
PGP-385 |
|
MBA, MBA-Business Analytics, MBA-HRM, EMBA, M.Sc. in Data Science (MSDSM) jointly offered with IIT Ropar, PhD |
MBA-240 |
|
PGP, PGPEM, PGPBA, PhD |
PGP-430 |
|
MBA, MBA (Digital Business Management), MBA (Hospital and Healthcare Management), PhD |
MBA-120 |
|
MBA, PhD |
MBA-462 |
|
PGP, PGP-HRM, MSDSM (Master of Science in Data Science and Management) |
PGP-451 |
|
MBA, MBA (Hospital Administration & Healthcare Management), Executive MBA, PhD, PhD (Working Professionals) |
MBA-350 |
|
MBA, MBA (Analytics), EMBA, EMBAA (Executive Master of Business Administration Analytics), PhD |
MBA-321 |
|
PGP, PGP-BL, PGP-F, PGP-LSM, EPGP-IL, EPGP Kochi, PhD, Fellow Programmes in Management PhD (PT) |
MBA-484 |
|
MBA, MBA-ABM, MBA-SM, PGPWE, PhD |
MBA-436 |
|
IIM Mumbai |
MBA, MBA (Operations and Supply Chain Management), MBA (Sustainability Management), PhD, PhD (Executive) |
MBA-278 |
MBA, E-MBA, PhD, E-PhD |
MBA-267 |
|
MBA, PhD, PhD (Practice Track) |
MBA-377 |
|
MBA, MBA-HRM, MBA (Business Analytics), PhD, EPhD |
MBA-246 |
|
PGP, EPGDSM, PGPx, PhD |
MBA-399 |
|
MBA, Executive MBA, MBA for Working Professionals, PhD, Executive PhD |
MBA -197 |
|
PGP, PGPEX, PGP (WE), Doctoral Program, Doctoral Program (WP) |
MBA -382 |
|
MBA, MBA (Tourism Management), MBA (Travel, Tourism and Hospitality), ExMBA, ExMBA (Digital Transformation & Analytics), MBA (Family Business), PhD, PhD (Executive) |
MBA- 281 |
|
PGPM (MBA), PGPM-HR (MBA-HR), PGPBM (MBA for Working Executives in Chennai), PhD, Executive PhD |
MBA-378 |
|
MBA, MBA- DEM (Digital Enterprise Management), MBAGSCM (Global Supply Chain Management), Executive MBA (Online), PhD |
MBA-361 |
|
PGP, EMBA, PGPMCI, PhD, Executive PhD |
MBA-383 |
Also Read: CAT 2025 important dates
Commonly asked questions
On an average, about 10-15 CAT aspirants score 100 percentile. Given below is the data of CAT 100 percentilers of last 3 years:
Exam year | CAT 100 percentilers | State wise numbers |
---|---|---|
CAT 2024 | 14 | 1- Andhra Pradesh |
CAT 2023 | 14 | 1 – Andhra Pradesh |
CAT 2022 | 11 | 2 - Delhi 1 - Gujarat 1 - Haryana 1 - Kerala 1 - Madhya Pradesh 2 - Maharashtra 2 - Telangana 1 - Uttar Pradesh |
In the last one month before the CAT exam, candidates must start focusing on the most important topics. These may include strong and weak areas. Practice sample questions from these topics and do not start any new topic. Here's what to do in the last month of CAT preparation:
· Attempt CAT mock tests regularly and anaylse your performance. Spend time on filling the gaps.
· Practice time management through time bound practice sessions and mock tests
· Attend online study groups for problem solving and doubt clearing sessions.
· Keep revising key concepts and formulas of CAT. Have a daily session of 2 hours for revision only.
· Solve previous years' question papers to understand the trends of past years and work on topics that appear most frequently.
· Attempt official IIM CAT mock test to know the expected CAT 2025 exam pattern
· Focus on your health. It is very important to stay healthy in this phase so that your study time is not affected. Sleep well and take breaks from study to indulge in a hobby or a recreational activity to relax.
14 candidates have scored 100 percentile in CAT 2024, out of a total of 2.93 Lacs candidates. Out of 14 toppers, 1 is a woman candidate. Check below CAT 2024 result data:
Check the below table for data and statistics of CAT 2024 test takers and toppers.
CAT Toppers | Gender and Discipline | State |
---|---|---|
100 percentiles 14 - Nos | Female - 1 Male - 13 Engg – 13 Non-Engg – 1 | Andhra Pradesh 1 Delhi 2 Haryana 1 Kerala 1 Maharashtra 5 Odisha 1 Rajasthan 1 Telangana 2 |
99.99 percentiles 29 -Nos. | Female - 2 Male - 27 Engg – 25 Non-Engg - 4 | Chandigarh 1 Delhi 4 Gujarat 2 Haryana 1 Karnataka 3 Kerala 1 Madhya Pradesh 1 Maharashtra 5 Odisha 1 Punjab 1 Rajasthan 3 Tamil Nadu 1 Telangana 1 Uttar Pradesh1 Uttarakhand 1 West Bengal 2 |
99.98 percentiles 30-Nos | Female - 1 Male - 29 Engg – 20 Non-Engg -10 | Bihar 1 Delhi 2 Gujarat 2 Haryana 4 Karnataka 4 Madhya Pradesh 3 Maharashtra 3 Tamil Nadu 2 Telangana 3 Uttar Pradesh 2 West Bengal 4 |
CAT 2025 Exam Dates & Schedule
Take a look at the table below for the complete schedule of CAT 2025 exam
Dates | Upcoming Exam Dates |
---|---|
05 Nov ' 25 - 30 Nov ' 25 | CAT 2025 admit card download |
30 Nov ' 25 | CAT 2025 exam |
Dec ' 25 | CAT 2025 answer key challenge TENTATIVE |
Dec ' 25 | CAT 2025 result announcement TENTATIVE |
Dates | Past Exam Dates |
---|---|
Oct ' 25 | CAT 2025 form correction |
Sep ' 25 | CAT 2025 form correction process |
01 Aug ' 25 - 20 Sep ' 25 | CAT 2025 registration |
CAT 2025 Exam Highlights
CAT is India's top MBA entrance exam. The competition is very high and preparation requires about 6 to 9 months. Candidates who wish to appear for the CAT must make sure they are capable of dedicating so much time to it. Here are the key CAT 2025 highlights for reference:
CAT Exam Particulars |
CAT 2025 Details |
---|---|
CAT Full Form |
Common Admission Test (CAT) |
Conducting Institute for 2025 |
IIM Kozhikode |
Exam Level |
National |
CAT Entrance Exam Frequency |
Once a year |
CAT Exam Date 2025 |
November 30, 2025 |
CAT Exam Timings |
|
CAT Exam Fees |
INR 2,600 (General category) and INR 1,300 (Reserved category) |
Eligibility Criteria |
Graduation with 50% aggregate (45% for SC/ST/PwD students) |
Number of Applications |
3.29 lakh (in 2024) |
Number of Test Takers |
2.93 lakh (in 2024) |
Exam Purpose |
Admission to IIMs, SPJIMR, FMS, MDI, IMT and over 1,300 B-Schools in India |
Courses Offered |
|
CAT syllabus |
|
CAT exam mode |
Computer Based Test (CBT) with MCQs and non-MCQs |
No. of test cities |
170 |
CAT exam website |
|
Exam helpdesk no. |
1-800-210-1088 (Toll Free) |
Also read: CAT exam on screen calculator
Commonly asked questions
CAT score is a national level test and is not accepted by B-Schools outside India. For pursuing MBA in foreign countries GMAT score is accepted. Indian B-Schools accept GMAT score for admitting foreign/NRI/PIO students.
CAT is also accepted for Executive MBA, PhD, FPM and other such management programmes in top colleges in India. Similarly, GMAT is also accepted for admission to domestic students in to Executive MBA and such programmes.
CAT score is valid for one year at the IIMs and top B-Schools. In some tier 3 and government institutions, CAT score of previous two years are also acceptable. Many B-schools including IIMs have an option of deferment of admission, wherein you can confirm your admission and pay the nominal fee but join the batch in the next year. It is advised that candidates take admission in the same year as their CAT attempt so that they don't have to reappear next year. Given the competition in MBA space, it is difficult to get a good college whether you have a low score or average score. So, incase one is getting a good college, they should take admission and not drop a year to appear for CAT again.
Yes, you can apply for CAT. The main criteria of eligibility for CAT is graduation from a recognised university. So, whether the education mode is full-time or correspondence, if the university is recognised by the UGC, the candidates will be eligible to appear for the CAT exam.
CAT 2025 Admit Card
Admit Card: 05 Nov ' 25 - 30 Nov ' 25
CAT admit card is a mandatory document to be carried to the exam centre. Check CAT admit card 2025 download process:
- Log on to CAT website: iimcat.ac.in
- Click on 'login' tab
- Enter CAT 2025 application number and password
- Go to 'admit card' section
- Click on 'download'
Also Read:
Commonly asked questions
CAT admit card is not sent to any candidate by post. Every candidate has to download their CAT hall ticket from the IIMCAT website by using their login credentials created at the time of exam registration. The announcement of release of CAT admit card is done by the exam convening IIM about 10-15 days before the exam. The CAT admit card release date is also shared beforehand so that candidates can download their admit cards in time.
Candidates will know their allotted CAT exam centre only from the admit card. There is no way to know the test centre before the release of the CAT admit card. The examination authority allots a test centre to aspirants in the city of their first preference as mentioned in the city. So, candidates can atleast be assured that they will get a test centre in the city they had chosen as first preference in the CAT application form. However, the venue will be mentioned only on the candidate’s admit card. So as soon as the CAT admit card is released, candidates must check the test city and test centre details. In order to avoid any confusion, they must visit the centre at least once before the exam day.
Yes, the CAT 2025 exam will be conducted in three shifts. The exam was earlier conducted in 2 shifts, but since 2020, the CAT is conducted in three shifts - morning, afternoon and evening. In CAT 2025 too, there will be three slots which will be allotted to applicants in no particular order.
The CAT exam slot timings will be -
- First shift: 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM,
- Second shift: 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and
- Third shift: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
CAT 2025 Syllabus and Pattern
CAT exam syllabus is broadly divided into three sections - VARC, DILR and Quantitative Aptitude. Check below the main topics of CAT syllabus 2025. Maximum questions are asked from the following topics. Candidates are advised to pay special attention on these topics during exam preparation:
CAT Syllabus sections |
CAT Syllabus topics |
---|---|
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) |
Reading Comprehension, Para Jumbles, Para Summary and Odd Sentence Out |
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) |
Set Theory (Variables), Set Theory + Puzzles, Puzzles with Additional Data, Coding-Decoding and Series |
Quantitative Aptitude (QA) |
Number System, Algebra, Arithmetic, Geometry and Mensuration |
Also Read:
CAT Syllabus 2025 PDF Download
Download Free PDF of CAT Exam Syllabus by Clicking on the Link Below |
CAT Exam Pattern 2025
As per the latest notification, the CAT question paper 2025 will have MCQs and TITA questions. There will be negative marking for incorrect attempts. The exact test pattern of CAT 2025 will be known once the official CAT mock test is released. Check the highlights of CAT 2025 exam pattern below:
CAT Paper Pattern 2025 |
|
---|---|
Mode of CAT exam |
Computer Based Test |
Duration of exam |
|
CAT exam slots |
|
Number of questions |
66 68 |
CAT total marks |
198 204 |
Language of question paper |
English |
Number of answer choices |
4 |
Question Type |
MCQ and non-MCQ |
Commonly asked questions
Yes, CAT syllabus is difficult to crack if you do not have enough time. There are three subjects in CAT- VARC, DILR and Quantitative Aptitude. Most of the candidates find RC passages tough to crack. In Quants, Arithmetic, Algebra and Geometry pose significant challenge during preparation. In DILR, Reasoning questions often turnout to be tricky and confusion.
In the last one month before the CAT exam, candidates must start focusing on the most important topics. These may include strong and weak areas. Practice sample questions from these topics and do not start any new topic. Here's what to do in the last month of CAT preparation:
· Attempt CAT mock tests regularly and anaylse your performance. Spend time on filling the gaps.
· Practice time management through time bound practice sessions and mock tests
· Attend online study groups for problem solving and doubt clearing sessions.
· Keep revising key concepts and formulas of CAT. Have a daily session of 2 hours for revision only.
· Solve previous years' question papers to understand the trends of past years and work on topics that appear most frequently.
· Attempt official IIM CAT mock test to know the expected CAT 2025 exam pattern
· Focus on your health. It is very important to stay healthy in this phase so that your study time is not affected. Sleep well and take breaks from study to indulge in a hobby or a recreational activity to relax.
CAT Question Paper PDFs Download (Previous Years)
CAT previous year papers, provide an insight into sectional weightage, difficulty level of questions and types of questions. Candidates must solve previous year CAT question papers of atleast last 5 years. Given below are previous years' CAT papers PDFs (links) for free download.
Evolution of CAT Exam
CAT exam has evolved a lot in the last decade. Over the years, IIM has taken several measure to make it more academically inclusive and diverse so that more and more students from non-technical streams appear for CAT. The exam used to be of 180 minutes with every section having sectional time limit of 60 minutes. In 2020, the CAT was reduced to 120 minutes and in order to balance it out, the number of questions were reduced from 100 to 76. Last year, the number of questions were lesser - 68. CAT still it remains the toughest MBA entrance exam in India. Check the table below for changes in the CAT exam pattern over the years.
CAT Exam Year |
Sections |
No. of Questions |
CAT Exam Time Duration |
---|---|---|---|
2024 |
QA, DILR, VARC |
68 |
120 minutes |
2023 |
QA, DILR, VARC |
66 |
120 minutes |
2022 |
QA, DILR, VARC |
66 |
120 minutes |
2021 |
QA, DILR, VARC |
66 |
120 minutes |
2020 |
QA, DILR, VARC |
76 |
120 minutes |
2019 |
QA, DILR, VARC |
100 |
180 minutes |
2018 |
QA, DILR, VARC |
100 |
180 minutes |
2017 |
QA, DILR, VARC |
100 |
180 minutes |
2016 |
QA, DILR, VARC |
100 |
180 minutes |
2015 |
QA, DILR, VARC |
100 |
180 minutes |
2014 |
QA & DI, LR & VARC |
100 |
170 minutes |
2013 |
QA & DI, LR & VARC |
60 |
140 minutes |
2012 |
QA & DI, LR & VARC |
60 |
140 minutes |
2011 |
QA & DI, LR & VARC |
60 |
140 minutes |
2010 |
QA, DILR, VARC |
60 |
150 minutes |
Prepare for CAT exam with previous years' question papers & prep guides. Get topper tips & expert advice.
Download HereCommonly asked questions
CAT has a total of 68 question. Each section carries 3 marks for correct attempt and -1 marks for incorrect attempt. There is no deduction of marks for unanswered questions. Therefore, the total marks of CAT is 204.
CAT question papers are released within a week of the exam in the form of a PDF as a response sheet and answer key. Candidates who have appeared for the test are able to access the CAT question paper and answer key. The question paper of every slot is released on the same day along with candidate response sheet and official answer to all question. If any candidate needs previous year CAT question papers for preparation purpose, then they can download them from Shiksha website. We have hosted last five years' CAT question papers for aspirants to download and practice. These official CAT question papers are available for download free. You can download the CAT question paper PDFs at this link: https://www.shiksha.com/mba/cat-exam-question-papers Candidates must check and practice the latest CAT question paper to know the latest exam pattern and difficulty level.
Generally, the official mock tests are available on the official website of CAT which is https./iimcat.ac.in. The examination is conducted by Indian Institutes of Management. Check out the below steps to know how get official CAT mock tests online:
- Aspirants are requested to visit the official website of CAT (https./iimcat.ac.in)
- Login in through the CAT credentials.
- Click on the "mock test" button on the left side of screen.
- Official CAT mock test is available for practise to candidates who have registered for exam.
- After that, the screen will display the instructions.
- After reading the instructions carefully, click on 'I am ready to begin' tab and start writing the exam.
Please keep checking the official website of CAT to have up-to-date information.
CAT Exam Preparation 2025
The preparation for CAT exam 2025 should include phase wise completion of the CAT syllabus, mock test practice and revision. For effective CAT preparation 2025 aspirants must keep in mind the following:
- Cover CAT syllabus thoroughly. Try not to leave any topic as questions can be asked from anywhere.
- Attempt a good number of CAT mock tests to develop speed and accuracy.
- Dedicate time on regular revision so that you're always well versed.
- Learn mental maths for quick calculation.
- For Quantitative Aptitude be thorough with important CAT formulas
- DILR syllabus coverage is to be done with practice papers and sectional mocks.
- Develop short cuts and learn tricks to solve questions quickly and accurately.
- Practice a good number of RC passage from previous years' CAT question papers.
- Opt for online problem solving sessions to learn new tricks and techniques.
The most effective way of CAT preparation is completing the syllabus in first three months and practicing mock test in rest of the three months. In the last one month, candidates must increase frequency of revision.
Check the below list of important articles on CAT 2025 exam preparation.
- CAT Preparation Plan 2025: Ultimate Tips from Experts
- CAT VARC: Strategy to Improve RC Accuracy
- Strategies to Score 99+ Percentile in CAT 2025
- 2 Months to CAT Exam: These Many Mock Tests will Optimise Your Score
- Important CAT Quant formulas
- CAT Preparation 2025: Tips From Toppers
CAT Topper Tips
Learn tips and tricks for optimising performance in the exam from CAT toppers. Check below CAT topper tips and know how the previous year toppers prepared for the exam
CAT Mock Test
Practice free CAT mock test by Shiksha to assess your preparation level. These mock tests are on par with official CAT mock test in terms of difficulty level. You can use below CAT mock tests by simply clicking on the link. The CAT mock tests are accompanied by solutions and answers.
CAT Mock Test 1 | CAT Mock Test 1 Solutions |
CAT Mock Test 2 | CAT Mock Test 2 Solutions |
Watch video on CAT preparation:
Commonly asked questions
The best resources for Quantitative Aptitude preparation is sample papers and previous years' CAT question papers. Since both Quantitative Aptitude is all about Mathematics, it can only be mastered by having enough practice. But only solving question papers and practice papers will not be enough. You will need to first be thorough with the topics and their concepts/formulae. For that refer to books like Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by Abhijit Guha, Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Nishit Sinha and Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT by Sarvesh Sharma. Sectional mock tests for Quants are also very important for preparation.
CAT Answer Key 2025
Answer Key: Dec ' 25
CAT answer key 2025 will be released 2-3 days after the exam. Here's how to download CAT 2025 answer key and response sheet from the official website:
Download previous years' CAT answer key and question papers
Download HereCommonly asked questions
CAT cut-offs are not announced along with the CAT result. The cut-offs are also not released publicly. They are known after a few days of the result announcement when the IIMs and other colleges start their shortlisting process. The IIMs will open the shortlist window based on the CAT cut-offs two to three days after the result announcement. The CAT percentile of candidates shortlisted for the Written Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD), and Personal Interview (PI) can be considered the cut-off for that IIM. For example, if a candidate with a CAT percentile of 99 belonging to the General category is selected for the WAT/GD-PI of IIM Calcutta, then the CAT cut-off for IIM Calcutta is 99 percentile. Only those candidates who make it to the WAT/GD-PI round of IIMs will get to know the cut-offs.
The main benefit of CAT answer key and response sheet is that through this document, candidates can analyse their performance in the exam. The CAT answer key contains, candidate's response as well as correct answer to every question. This can help them in calculating how much marks they will score out of the total marks. They can use that information to see how much percentile will they score, even before the result has been declared. They can use the estimated CAT score and percentile to take further decisions regarding MBA Admission such as which colleges to shortlist or which other MBA entrance exams to appear for. Taking these decisions is crucial as many colleges close their application window before the CAT result declaration. Candidates can calculate their CAT score with the help of answer key in the following way: For every correct answer in CAT three marks are awarded, which means if the candidate has got 50 answers correct, the score will be 50x3 i. e. 150 marks. For each incorrect answer, one mark is deducted. So, if a candidate has marked 10 questions incorrectly, then -10 marks will be awarded. So, the score of the candidate out of 198 (total marks in CAT will be: 150 - 10, I. e. 140. For CAT score and percentile click here: https://www.shiksha.com/mba/cat-percentile-predictor.
CAT 2025 Result and Scorecard PDF
Result: Dec ' 25
Commonly asked questions
CAT toppers are determined on the basis of candidate percentiles. Those whose overall percentiles are 100 and 99.99, they are declared the toppers of CAT exam. To calculate CAT percentiles, raw scores of every CAT candidate is normalized on the same scale and the following formula is applied:
P = (R/N) * 100
where,
P= Percentile score
R= Rank of the candidate arrived at on the basis of scaled CAT score or the total number of test takers ranking below a particular candidate.
N= Number of candidates who appeared in CAT exam (all three sessions)
After the declaration of CAT results, IIMs and other top MBA colleges start the candidate shortlisting process. The institutes fix CAT cut offs category wise and invite applicants to appear for Written Ability Test, Group Discussion GD and Personal Interview PI rounds for MBA Admission. In case of IIMs, the institutes release PI shortlist form which the candidates have to fill before a certain deadline. In the PI form, candidates have to mention their personal, academic and professional details along with CAT score. Depending on the application received and the range of CAT scores the institutes the shortlist candidates for What-GD-PI. The What-GD-PI round is conducted by the institutes individually in March and April in online or offline mode. With the result of What-GD-PI and candidates' overall profile, the institutes finalise the list of students for admission. Offer of admission letters to selected candidates are sent via email in May.
Yes, the CAT results for all the exam slots are announced on the same day. In 2022, the exam was conducted in three slots. The results of all the three slots were announced on the same day, I. e. December 21, 2022. In CAT 2023 too, the results of all three slots were declared on the same day. The slot name will be mentioned on the CAT scorecard. The link to download the scorecard for all the slots will be same. Candidates will be required to log into their CAT accounts and download the scorecard from student dashboard. The CAT result is declared in the first week of January but for the last two years, it has been declared in December. If the CAT convening IIM for 2024 follows the same trend, then the CAT 2024 result can also be released in December instead of January.
IIM CAT Cut Offs
Commonly asked questions
IIM shortlist of top IIMs is released in the first week of January soon after CAT result declaration. All IIMs release their shortlist one by one after that in the same month. By the end of January, all 21 IIMs release their MBA/PGP shortlist. The WAT-PI shortlists for admission is released individually by the institutes but for the CAP participating IIMs. For them, the CAP conducting IIM releases the PI shortlist form and guidelines on behalf of rest of them.
CAT cut-offs are not announced along with the CAT result. The cut-offs are also not released publicly. They are known after a few days of the result announcement when the IIMs and other colleges start their shortlisting process. The IIMs will open the shortlist window based on the CAT cut-offs two to three days after the result announcement. The CAT percentile of candidates shortlisted for the Written Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD), and Personal Interview (PI) can be considered the cut-off for that IIM. For example, if a candidate with a CAT percentile of 99 belonging to the General category is selected for the WAT/GD-PI of IIM Calcutta, then the CAT cut-off for IIM Calcutta is 99 percentile. Only those candidates who make it to the WAT/GD-PI round of IIMs will get to know the cut-offs.
CAT exam score has the weightage of about 40-60 per cent in IIM shortlist. The weightage varies for each IIM but is in the range of 40-60 per cent. Rest of the weightage is divided between academics, gender and work experience. However, in the final shortlist, weightage of CAT score is less than that of WAT-PI.
CAT Registration 2025
Commonly asked questions
No, the candidates do not have to pay any fee for CAT form correction. The facility is provided to candidates free of cost. However, if they have made an error in a field that will not be available for editing during form correction, then they will have to fill a fresh form before the submission deadline and pay the CAT application fee again. So, candidates must review the CAT application form before submitting to check whether they have filled all the information correctly or not. Once submitted, the form will not be editable but of photo, signature and test city.
The CAT application fee is INR 2,600 for General, EWS and NC-OBC candidates. For the SC/SCT/PWD candidates, the fee is INR 1,300. Applicants have to pay the fee at the time of form filling. The application form is not accepted without the payment of fees. Candidates must also keep in mind that the CAT application fee is non-refundable under any circumstances. Thus, candidates must fill their forms carefully as if they make a mistake they will have to fill the application form again and pay the fees again. There is a provision of form correction in CAT but only test centre, photo and signature can be edited in the already submitted form. In case, you, ve made a mistake in any other field, you will have to fill the form again.
Candidates need the following documents while filling the CAT application form:
- A recent passport size photo (color against white background)
- Scanned signature with black pen on white paper
- Any photo ID card like PAN card, Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport
- Class 10 marksheet
- Class 12 marksheet
- Graduation marksheet
- Permanent address proof
- Work experience documents Reserved category students need to upload Category Certificate along with the CAT application form. The Certificate is available on the CAT website. Candidates can download, fill it, get it attested by competent authority and upload it as PDF with the CAT application form.
- The PwD category students also have to fill the PwD form and Scribe affidavit along with the exam application form. This is necessary for getting scribe facility and PwD facility at the test centre. The CAT application form is same for students from all categories. Those belonging to a particular category (SC/ST/PwD) will be required to mention it in the relevant field of the CAT form.
CAT Eligibility Criteria 2025
Commonly asked questions
There is no upper age limit to appear in CAT exam. Any individual can apply for CAT at any phase of their career. Candidates need to have only bachelor's degree with minimum 50 per cent aggregate (45 per cent for SC/ST/PwD) candidates. It means the CAT aspirant must be of at least 20 years of age at the time of appearing for the exam.
There is no age limit to appear for CAT. The CAT exam is open for fresh graduates as well as working professionals. Since CAT is accepted by over 1300 B-schools across India for their full-time as well as executive MBA or online professional courses, a lot of working professionals appear for the CAT to pursue such courses. CAT score is accepted by Iims for full time MBA, executive MBA and FPM programmes.
Other top MBA colleges in India also shortlist candidates for executive MBA or part-time MBA on the basis of CAT score. The minimum age limit for has to be 20 years as the minimum qualification for CAT exam graduation. Any candidate who has completed Graduation with 50 per cent aggregate (45 per cent for SC/ST candidates).
Any candidate in final year of Bachelor's degree course can appear in CAT exam. Any candidate having a professional degree like CA/CS/ICWAI with a minimum of 50 per cent in aggregate.
For PwD candidates, facilities in CAT exam include, relaxation of marks in graduation. The minimum score required by PwD candidate in graduation for appearing in CAT exam is 45 per cent aggregate. Apart from that, such candidates are provided scribe service at the exam centre. To avail the service such candidates have to fill the relevant form during registration process.
IIMCAT Contact Information
For queries regarding CAT Registration, Application and Payment Processing, Document uploading please call only on 1-800-210-0175 (Toll Free) Monday to Saturday 9:00AM to 6:00PM (excluding National holidays).
Email: cathelpdesk@iimcat.co.in
For Academic queries like eligibility, category and PwD certificate , please contact CAT Centre office with contact details as follows. (
Monday to Friday excluding holiday, from 9:30am to 5:30pm
Phone: +91 495 2809219 | +91 495 2809696
Email: cat2025_helpdesk@iimk.ac.in
CAT 2025 CENTRE
C/o Admissions Office
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT KOZHIKODE
IIMK Campus P.O, Kozhikode, Kerala,
PIN - 673 570
Important FAQs on CAT 2025
Commonly asked questions
IIM waitlist means the number students who are kept waiting for the second shortlist. The institutes select a number of students for admission out of which some miss the first list due to a few points. Such students are kept in waitlist incase any candidate from the first list chooses to not appear for WAT-PI. Those who are kept in the waitlist are invited for WAT-PI if there are seats remaining to be filled after WAT-PI round of the first batch of the students. Also read: IIM Waitlist Movement - Meaning and Past Trends
Yes, after being shortlisted for the WAT-PI round, candidates have to fill an online form expressing interest in participating in the WAT-PI round. The admission panel examines all the applications and then shortlist some candidates for WAT-PI round. Selected candidates are informed about date and venue of the WAT-PI round via email. Final selection is based on candidate's performance in WAT-PI and other parameters.
CAT is an annual exam, thus one can appear for it only once in the same academic year. However, one can appear for it any number of times over several years. There is no cap on number of appearance. There is no age limit either. Many candidates appear for the CAT two-three times to achieve their desired percentile.
Yes, you can apply for CAT 2025, but you will have to ensure you score as much in the final year so that the overall aggregate in graduation is at least 50 per cent. So, your performance in the final year of graduation will be crucial and play a decisive role in your selection to an MBA college.
CAT syllabus includes all the important topics of subjects that are relevant for business aptitude. For CAT exam, candidates have to study, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension VARC Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning DILR and Quantitative Aptitude. Given below are the key topics included in the CAT syllabus.
- VARC topics: Parajumbles, Paracompletion, Parasummary, Verbal Reasoning and Reading Comprehension.
- Quantitative Aptitude topics: Arithmetic, Geometry, Algebra Trigonometry Modern Math, Number System and Mensuration.
- DILR topics: Puzzles, Pie Charts, Venn Diagram, Tables and Bar Graphs, etc.
No, the students who don't make it to the IIM shortlist of a particular year, they will not be considered for admission. Such candidates can appear for CAT again the next year and try for admission. If a candidate doesn't make it to the first shortlist, they can wait for the second shortlist to release in which they might be selected.
IIM shortlist can be defined as the list of CAT test takers who make it to the second phase of IIM admission process, which is Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI). The IIM shortlist is the list of candidates who are eligible to participate in the WAT-PI rounds of IIMs for MBA admission.
CAT exam full form is Common Admission Test. It is a national level MBA entrance exam conducted by the IIMs. The CAT score is accepted by the IIMs for MBA, PGP, Executive MBA, FPM and Ph.D admissions. The Common Admission Test or CAT is the most recognised entrance test for MBA admission in India. Apart from the IIMs, over 1300 MBA colleges in India select candidates on the basis of their performance in CAT. The exam is conducted annually on the last Sunday of November. The exam is conducted in over 150 cities across India. The CAT 2025 will be conducted by IIM Kozhikode on November 30, 2025.
Yes, you are eligible. Candidates with bachelor's degree in any subject is eligible for CAT exam. However, the degree must be from a UGU recognised university and the candidate must meet the minimum aggregate score criteria for CAT, which is 50 per cent for General category and 45 per cent for SC/ST category students.
No, the CAT application form can only be filled out online on the official website iimcat.ac.in. There is no option to submit the CAT form in offline mode. Candidates will have to create an account on the CAT website once the registrations begin and fill out the CAT form through that candidate account. Candidates must also note that no other website hosts the CAT form other than iimcat.ac.in
There is no provision of paying CAT fees in cash, challan or Demand Draft either. The CAT registration fee can be paid online only through Internet banking, credit/debit cards or mobile wallets only. The payment window will be available in the candidate dashboard as part of the CAT application form. Candidates have to simply follow the instructions to pay the fee. Candidates must note that fee payment is mandatory for CAT form filling. Until the fee is paid successfully, the form will not be accepted. Thus, candidates must check the fee payment acknowledgement slip after making the payment.
IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore and IIM Calcutta have the highest CAT cut off. Every year, the cut off percentiles of these three top IIMs hover around 99-100 percentile. even though the qualifying CAT cut off is lower at 80 or 85 percentile, the final cut offs are the highest among all MBA institutes in India. For, reserved category students the final CAT cut offs of these IIMs are a few percentiles lower.
Yes, you are eligible to apply for CAT provided your aggregate is 50 per cent in the first and second year of bachelor's degree programme. The aggregate marks are to be filled in the CAT 2025 application form and only those forms will be accepted that meet the minimum academic requirement fixed by the examination authorities.
IIM shortlist is prepared on the basis of CAT cut off, class 10 score, class 12 score, graduation score, work experience (if any). To encourage diversity in the classroom the IIMs award extra points to female and transgender candidates at the time of shortlisting as well as final selection.
CAT result is announced at the iimcat.ac.in website. Candidates who appear for the test can download their scorecards from the official website by using their login credentials. The CAT result download link is made live about 20 days after the exam. Candidates can download their scorecards by using their login credentials.
Given below is the process to follow for downloading the CAT result.
- Visit the official website of CAT exam
- Click on CAT scorecard download
- Enter your CAT ID and password
- Click on the scorecard tab
- Download the CAT result PDF
Process to check the CAT result on smart phone:
- Open a web browser on the mobile phone
- Type the url of CAT exam: iimcat.ac.in
- Click on CAT scorecard tab
- Enter your CAT application number and password
- Click on the scorecard tab to open the document
No, CAT eligibility criteria and MBA eligibility criteria are same i.e. graduation. However, the minimum marks criteria may vary from institute to institute. Also, in case of stream specific MBA courses such as MBA in Pharma or MBA in Agri-Management etc., the requirement is graduation in specific subject.
The CAT exam is held for 2 hours. There are three slots of CAT exam. Every slot will have 40 minutes of sectional time limit. Which means candidates will have to finish solving each of the three sections of CAT question paper within 40 minutes. Candidates must take care of saving their answers at every step as the moment 40 minutes will get over, the screen will automatically move to the next section. PwD candidates will get 53 minutes for each section. The exam slot allotted by the exam authorities cannot be changed. There is no provision to apply for the same. Candidates will have to appear for the exam in the allotted slot only. CAT exam timings: Slot 1: 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM, reporting time: 7:00 AM, Last entry allowed: 8:15 AM Slot 2: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM, reporting time: 11:00 AM, Last entry allowed: 12:15 PM Slot 3: 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM, reporting time: 3:00 PM, Last entry allowed: 4:15 PM.
The digital copy of the CAT 2025 admit card will not be accepted at the test centres as a valid document, thus you cannot show it, to gain entry. As per the official guidelines, only the colour print out of the admit card on A4 size sheet will be accepted as valid. Candidates must also affix a passport size photo, preferably the same as uploaded in the CAT application form.
The examination authority does not accept digital admit card as valid document as it is to be signed and stamped by the test centre staff for proof of candidate’s attendance. One copy of the CAT admit card of every candidate is also retained by the authorities, thus the need for the print out.
Yes, the CAT accepting MBA colleges conduct either GD/PI or WAT/PI. Since MBA is a professional course about business and team management, personality assessment round is essential to ensure that the aspirant has the flair for management which can be polished during the programme. Communication skills, problem solving ability, management and leadership are essential qualities for MBA thus, every B-School conducts GD/PI or WAT/PI.
CAT Exam
Student Forum
Answered a week ago
With a 300 SC category rank in CAT, your chances for NIT Trichy MBA are relatively high. Based on 2025 data, NIT Trichy generally shortlists SC candidates with CAT percentiles around 60-65. To achieve a 300 rank under SC category, you would need about a 65-70 percentile, or a score of roughly 60-65
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
PGCET and CAT serve distinct purposes. The PGCET is primarily conducted for MBA admissions in colleges in the state of Karnataka, specifically for government colleges and private universities with lower fees. CAT is a national level exam for top-ranking B-schools and colleges such as the IIMs that h
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 weeks ago
That's a wonderful goal to push your son toward right at the start. To obtain previous CAT model papers, you can check many available popular exam preparation books in any bookstore or online store. Coaching interest such as TIME, IMS, Career Launcher, etc., usually have mock tests and sample papers
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 weeks ago
Yes, you can get admission to Jaypee Business School (JBS), Noida for MBA even if you don't have CAT. JBS accepts scores from several other exams such as MAT, CMAT, XAT, GMAT, ATMA, and also CUET-PG. Just make sure you have a bachelor's degree with at least 50% marks, then apply with any of those va
Answered 3 weeks ago
I
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 3 weeks ago
For candidates pursuing MBA, the eligibility criteria includes merit and entrance based selection. Whereas, for BBA, candidates must qualify Class 12 with a minimum aggregate. JIIT CDOE MBA on the other hand, is offered based on the minimum aggregate of graduation. However, for the final admission,
M
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 3 weeks ago
Yes, students can get MBA admission into Galgotia University without CAT. The university accepts other national entrance exams for MBA programme. The university accepts entrance exams such as MAT, CMAT, XAT, SAT, and other. It is mandatory to qualify one of the entrance exams.
K
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 3 weeks ago
Yes, students can get admission in Greater Noida Institute of Technology without CAT. CAT is one of the accepted entrance exams at Greater Noida Institute of Technology. The other accepted entrance exams are MAT, NMAT, XAT, CMAT, and others. If a student's CAT score is not good, worry not other acce
A
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 3 weeks ago
Indian Institute of Foreign Trade, Delhi offers various programmes and specilisations across various streams. For obtaining IIFT Delhi admission, candidates are required to appear for the prescribed entrance tests. Students can visit the official website of the IIFT Delhi to learn more regarding the
U
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 3 weeks ago
No, candidates can not get into Management Development Institute, Gurgaon without CAT as the college offers admissions to students on the basis of their entrance exam scores. The college accepts various national level exams such as CAT, MAT, XAT, GMAT, etc. for admission to its PGDM programmes, foll
A
Contributor-Level 8
1640 Institutes accepting CAT
S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research, Mumbai
Andheri West, Mumbai • Private
Jagdish Sheth School of Management (JAGSoM)
Electronic City, Bangalore • Private
Can I get NIT trichy with 300 sc CAT rank and tell me the marks needed to get 300 or under sc CAT rank according to 2025 data