Table of Contents
Q: What is CAT And how many times a year is it conducted?
Ans: The CAT is a national–level entrance exam which exam conducted by IIMs. CAT exam is a Computer Based Test. This exam is basically admission for a standardized assessment for entry into postgraduate management programs, especially MBA (Master of Business Administration) courses, at renowned business schools and management institutions in India. CAT exam is held annually.
Q: When to apply for the CAT exam 2025
Ans: The CAT registration procedure is expected to start from the first week of August 2025, and to continue until the third week of September 2025.
Here is more detailed below,
Official Notices: The official notices of CAT registration 2025 are expected to be published in the last week of July. To get the current notice must visit the CAT website.
CAT exam date: The expected date of CAT exam is 30 November 2025. This date is not the final date; the exam schedule will be announced through official notice.
Registration Steps:
Q: What is the CAT 2025 exam syllabus chapterwise?
Ans: CAT exam has three sections the syllabus of the three sections is given below
Q: Is there any negative marking of CAT exam 2025?
Ans: The CAT exam is in MCQ patten. In this exam, every correct answer you will get +3 and every wrong attempt you will get –1. No number will be dropped if you skipping any answer.
Q: What is the Full marks of CAT exam?
Ans: The full marks of CAT exam are 204 out of 68 questions. +3 for each correct answer and –1 for each wrong answer. If you don’t attempt any question no number will be deducted.
Q: Are there any qualifying marks of CAT exam 2025?
Ans: These types of entrance exams are not specific passing percentage, there are no qualifying marks for CAT exam. The CAT exam is scored on a percentile basis rather than a fixed passing score, meaning your percentile rank reflects your performance compared to other candidates, with no minimum marks required to qualify.
Q: What is the Exam duration of CAT exam 2025?
Ans: 120 minutes (2 hours) are allotted for the CAT examination. A total of 68 questions carries 204 numbers. This exam paper is divided into three stages such as Quantitative Aptitude, Data interpretation & Logical reasoning, Verbal ability and reading comprehension.
Q: What is the CAT exam mode?
Ans: The CAT exam is conducted in computer-based-test (CBT) mode. The duration of the examination is 120 minutes (2 hours) for a total of three sections. Among them 40 minutes for each of the sections.
Q: What are the exam day guidelines of CAT 2025?
Ans: CAT examination guidelines as per authority specific guidelines on exam day are essential. Here is a summary of the important guidelines for CAT 2025 on exam day
Arriving Before Exam Timimg: Arriving at the test center well ahead of time ideally 90 minutes prior to the start of the exam, bringing your admit card and complying with the dress code and prohibited items regulations are all critical components of a successful exam experience.
Timely Arrival: It is advisable to reach the examination center early, preferably 90 minutes before the exam begins, to prevent any last-minute complications.
Verify Admit Card Information: Make sure to bring your CAT admit card, as it is mandatory for gaining entry into the examination venue. Thoroughly check all the information on your admit card, including the test center location, reporting time, and any additional instructions.
Engage with Staff: Fully cooperate with the examination personnel and invigilators throughout the duration of the exam.
Prohibited Items: Refrain from bringing any electronic devices, such as mobile phones, smartwatches, or other gadgets, into the examination hall. It is recommended to avoid wearing jewelry, as it may lead to delays during the security checks. Watches: Wearing watches is prohibited in the exam hall.
Q: What is the format CAT exam 2025? / How are the marks divided into three sections in CAT exam?
Ans: The CAT exam consists of 68 questions totaling 204 marks, with 24 VARC questions worth 72 marks, 22 DILR questions valued at 66 marks, and 22 Quantitative Aptitude questions also contributing 66 marks.
Q: What documents should be carried out on the day of CAT exam?
Ans: The details of mandatory documents that you need to take to the exam centre are given below
CAT Admit card: You must carry the original printed copy of CAT admit card.
Passport Size Photograph :Two copies of colored photograph which was given in the registration form.
Valid ID Proof: A valid identity proof including Aadhaar Card, PAN card, Voter ID card or Driving License. Or any documents like Scribe affidavit or medical certificate (If applicable).
Q: What are the guidelines of CAT 2025 for PWD candidates?
Ans: The Government of India offers a 5% reservation for candidates with disabilities (PwD) in the CAT examination for admission to the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). This provision is in accordance with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPwD Act, 2016) . The reservation for PwD candidates in the CAT is applicable only to individuals who have a minimum of 40% disability as defined by the Act.
The guidelines of PWD candidates given below,
Q: How much extra time will PWD candidates get in CAT exam?
Ans: The actual time of CAT examination is 2 hours (120 minutes). But 20 minutes extra time especially for PWD/DA candidates. The total duration of 160 minutes to finish the exam.
Q: When will the admit card be available for CAT exam?
Ans: The CAT admit card is expected to be released on November 7,2025. To know the final date CAT, admit card, keep an eye on the official website of the CAT. Then it can be downloaded as per official date.
Q: Which part of the CAT is easy?
Ans: As per the analysis of the CAT 2024 exam conducted by our expert mentors, the overall difficulty of the CAT 2024 was found to be less challenging compared to CAT 2023, particularly in the DILR and Quant sections. Additionally, the difficulty level varied across the three slots, with Slot 1 being the least difficult and Slot 3 presenting the greatest challenge.
Q: How many shifts are there for CAT examination?
Ans: The Common Admission Test is held in three different slots. The timewise shift of CAT exam is given below,
Morning shift timing: 8am to 10 am
Afternoon Shift timing: 10 am to 12 pm
Evening Shift timing: 4 pm to 6 pm
Q: Can a calculator be used in the CAT Exam?
Ans: No, you are not allowed to use your own calculator in the CAT exam; however, a simple on-screen calculator is available for use during the test, particularly for the Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation/Logical Reasoning sections.
Here's a more detailed explanation
Q: What are the three slots in the CAT exam?
Ans: As the CAT MBA entrance test is held in more than one session to allow the huge volume of applicants to take the test, these sessions are split into various slots commonly morning, afternoon, and evening. All such slots are at the same time and have the same pattern of exams to treat all the examinees equally.
Q: What jobs can i do after the CAT exam?
Ans: This is among the most sought-after career prospects in cat exam. Common Roles: Management Consultant, Strategy Consultant, Operations Consultant, IT Consultant. Skills Required: Analytical mind, problem-solving, communication, and presentation skills. This corresponds to skills built through cat exam preparation.
Q: How much are the fees for the CAT examination?
Ans: The application fee for CAT for General, EWS and NC-OBC candidates is INR 2,500. The fee for SC/SCT/PWD candidates is INR 1,250. The fee needs to be paid at the time of form filling.
Q: What is basic knowledge about CAT exam 2025?
Ans: The Common Admission Test (CAT) is an annual computer-based test of aptitude administered by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for admissions to their graduate management programs, testing skills in Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and
Q: What is the CAT exam 2025?
Ans: The minimum age requirement for has to be 20 years as the minimum eligibility for CAT exam graduation. Any candidate who has passed Graduation with 50 percent aggregate (45 percent for SC/ST candidates). Any candidate in the final year of bachelor's degree course can sit for the CAT exam.
Q: How to calculate CAT score?
Ans: To find your CAT percentile, apply the formula P = (R/N) * 100, where 'P' denotes the percentile, 'R' denotes the candidates who scored lower than you, and 'N' denotes the candidates who have appeared for the CAT.
Below is a detailed explanation
Concept of Percentile: Your CAT percentile shows what percentage of the candidates scored below or equal to you.
Formula P = (R/N) * 100 P= Percentile score, R= Number of candidates having lower scaled scores than you, N=Total number of candidates who appeared for CAT exam.
Q: What are the common mistakes candidates make while appearing for the CAT 2025 exam?
Ans: CAT is a highly respected entrance test for graduate management studies, mainly MBA course in business administration, and necessitates meticulous preparation and shunning of common error such as management studies;
Forgetting the Mock Test: Students often neglect taking mock tests, which help in comprehending patterns in the test, spotting weaknesses, and practicing time management.
Poor Time Management: CAT tests should be managed with proper time management to solve the paper, so do not waste too much question-based time and practice mock tests for better poor time management.
Neglecting Weak Areas: Few students even neglect their weak areas and concentrate on the strong areas. Because CAT is a section-based test, it will be better to score well in all the sections.
Over-Reliance on Shortcuts: Shortcuts do save time, but over-reliance without knowing the concept can result in errors. Therefore, use shortcuts only when, you are sure.
Ignoring Negative Marking: CAT follows a negative marking system. Therefore, answer your questions cautiously, and if you are not sure of your answer, skipping is preferable to getting a negative mark.
Not Following a Strategy: It is essential to have a sound plan for the CAT exam in order to manage time effectively and prevent wild guessing.
Inadequate Revision: Failing to revise important ideas and formulas prior to the test can cause errors at the last minute because of stress. Therefore, earmark time for sufficient revision.
Not Reading the questions Correctly: in haste, most students read the questions incorrectly and provide wrong answers. So, take care to read every question slowly.
Overconfidence or panic: Overconfidence in an individual causes' careless errors, and panic causes forgetting important answers at the time when it matters. So, get calm while taking the test.
Q: Do all MBA colleges accept CAT scores?
Ans: Yes, there are more than 100 MBA colleges in India that accept CAT score. Among them the fees of various colleges vary depending on the college's infrastructure. Some of the top MBA colleges accepting CAT scores are listed here.
IIM Bangalore, MDI Gurgaon, IIFT Delhi, NMIMS Mumbai, IIM calcutta , SPJIMR Mumbai.
Q: Are there any relaxations for PWD candidates in CAT exam?
Ans: These are the accommodations PwD candidates will get in CAT exam:
Application Fee: The CAT exam 2025 fees for PwD candidates are reduced to INR 1250, General/OBC INR 2500 for the others.
Minimum Marks Requirements: PwD candidates will need 45% marks in the bachelor's degree to apply for the CAT exam 2025.
Reservation: There will be a 5% reservation for PwD candidates in the seats of IIMs.
Q: How to fix if there is something error with the CAT admit card 2025?
Ans: After downloading the admit card the candidate should verify all details stated in it. If there is any mistake in the CAT admit card, the candidate should inform the conducting authority of the exam and have it corrected immediately. The authority will give the contact numbers along with the CAT admit card or you can get connected through the following connect details.
Q: What are the common issues that can be on CAT admit card?
Ans: The common issues that need to be checked are mentioned in the CAT admit card.
Spelling Errors: Mistakes in your name, parent's name, or any other personal information.
Incorrect Date of Birth: A wrong or mismatched date of birth.
MisplaceExam Time or Date: An inconsistency in the scheduled exam session.
Photograph/Signature Problems: Incorrect, or absent photograph or signature.
Wrong Category Information: Discrepancies within the category (General, SC/ST, OBC, etc.).
Q: Why take the CAT exam?
Ans: The purpose of the Commision Aptitude Test is admission to MBA and other postgraduate programs at various business schools and management institutes in India. CAT exam conducting authority is Indian Institute of Management (IIMs).
Q: What is the CAT eligibility?
Ans: The eligibility for the CAT exam, you must have a bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification from a recognized university with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD).
Here is a more detailed description of the eligibility criteria for CAT:
Educational Qualification: You must have a bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification from a recognized university. A minimum of 50% marks (or equivalent CGPA) is required for the general category, while 45% marks are required for SC/ST/PwD.
Final Year Students: Final year students with a bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification are also eligible to appear for the CAT exam. However, they must submit a certificate from their institution stating that they have fulfilled all the requirements for their degree within the specified time frame.
Professional Degree: Those who have completed a professional degree like CA, CS, or ICWA/FCAI with the required percentage are also eligible.
Age Limit: There is no age limit to appear for the CAT exam. To be eligible to appear for the CAT exam, you must have graduation or equivalent qualification from a recognized university with at least 50% marks and 45% for SC/ST/PwD.
Q: What is the CAT exam given for?
Ans: The Common Admission Test exam is primarily used for admission to postgraduate management programs, especially MBA (Master of Business Administration) programs at prestigious business schools and management institutions in India, including the Indian Institute of Management (IIM).
Here is a more detailed explanation for CAT exam 2025:
Purpose of the examination: The CAT exam is a national-level entrance exam designed to assess candidates' skills in areas important to management education and careers, including quantitative ability, verbal ability, logical reasoning and data interpretation.
Audience needs: It is primarily taken by individuals interested in pursuing an MBA or other post-graduate management program at top business schools in India.
CAT Score Accepting B-school: Many top-tier business schools, including IIM, FMS Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, XLRI Jamshedpur and SPJIMR Mumbai, consider the CAT score as part of their admission process.
Skill Ability : The CAT exam assesses a candidate's problem-solving and analytical abilities in three key areas: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA).
Benefits of a good CAT score: A good CAT score can significantly increase your chances of getting into a top management institution, leading to career opportunities in marketing, finance, consulting and more
Q: How am i self preparation for CAT Exam?
Ans: When deciding how to prepare for the CAT exam, aspiring candidates should carefully consider their needs and goals. Success in CAT exam preparation requires dedication, persistence and self-discipline to achieve high percentage and get admission in a prestigious IIM.Candidates must consolidate their basic knowledge, maintain a consistent study routine, use reliable study materials, and participate in mock tests regularly. Mastering CAT preparation is a challenging endeavor that requires you to hone your skills through independent study or professional guidance.
Q: What is the cutoff for CAT 2025?
Ans: The qualifying cut off are also fixed by category, with the general category having a higher cut off around 90 percent than the reserved category (70 percent).CAT 2025, IIMs usually announce the qualifying cut off percentiles and the expected eligibility cutoffs range between 75 and 90 percentiles, with variations for different IIMs and departments
Q: IS 3 months enough for crack the CAT examination?
Ans: Successfully preparing for the CAT within the final 90 days can be challenging, yet it is certainly achievable with an effective strategy and method. By adhering to a study plan tailored to your specific requirements and areas for enhancement, you can be definitely in your CAT preparation in just three months.
Q: What if I need special seating arrangements for the CAT exam?
Ans: If you need special arrangements for CAT exam 2025 because of the disability, then you must submit a medical certificate and scribe affidavit. You must submit these documents along with your application and make sure that all these documents are verified by the CAT exam centre.
Q: In how many cities can CAT exam registration be done?
Ans: Registration for the CAT exam can be done within 170 countries. It is important to choose your test cities carefully, as requests to change them later may not be accepted due to limited availability.
Q: Why will CAT application form be rejected?
Ans: Every single detail you include in the CAT application form is checked by the relevant authorities. So, if you provide any incorrect information, your form could be rejected. The IIM will review your submitted application forms before they issue the CAT admit card. CAT form is rejected for this specific reason.
Q: Is it possible to fill in the caption twice?
Ans: If you make any mistake, you will have to fill in a new CAT application form and pay the fee again. However, you are allowed to edit some fields like photograph, signature and exam city preference during the exam form correction process which starts2 to 3 days after the completion of the CAT registration process.
Q: If there is a problem with fee payment for CAT exam, how can it be fixed?
Ans: If you're having trouble paying the CAT exam fee, immediately reach out to the CAT helpdesk. You can also explore other payment options like UPI. If you're still facing issues, it might help to fill out the form again. Here’s a closer look at some common problems and their solutions. There are some Common Problems about Failed Transactions, Occasionally, payments can get stuck during registration, particularly when trying to retrieve the OTP (One-Time Password). You might run into issues with the payment gateway or even the website itself.
Q: How to prepare for PWD candidate for CAT exam?
Ans: Focus on CAT exam 2025 syllabus and exam pattern as per the examination. Practice mock tests from any online course as many as possible. The main thing is to practice only for PwD students with a scribe.
Q: What should I do if I face any problem of CAT 2025 exam?
Ans: Immediately inform the exam center staff about any problem during the examination. Another step is contacting CAT customer support if necessary.
Q: In how many cities can CAT exam registration be done?
Registration for the CAT exam can be done within 170 countries. It is important to choose your test cities carefully, as requests to change them later may not be accepted due to limited availability.
Q: Is the official mock test given by IIMs for CAT exam?
Ans: Yes, the official mock test will be released before the CAT exam day from the official website of CAT. The mock test features a curated set of questions taken from past CAT papers.
Q: How to access CAT exam mock test?
Ans: By following a few steps, you can take mock tests from the official CAT website
Q: How will CAT mock test help in the CAT examination?
Ans: Carrying out mock tests for the CAT is a crucial element of my preparation plan. There are many benefits from regularly conducting mock tests and analyzing your results. These mock CAT tests let you improve in the following ways:
Q: Which colleges accept CAT score 2025?
Ans: There are many MBA colleges in India which are accepting CAT score. And there are some international colleges that accept CAT scores. Some colleges are given below,
IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, IIM Lucknow, IIM Indore, FMS Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, IIM Kozhikode, IIFT New Delhi, MICA, TISS, IMI New Delhi, XIM Bhubaneshwar, SPJIMR Mumbai.
International colleges : Emlyon Business School (Lyon, France), AUDENCIA Business School (Nantes, France), HEC Paris (Jouy-en-Josas, France), SKEMA Business School (Euralille, France).
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