IIFT 2026 exam pattern is replaced by CAT 2025 exam pattern, which is a significant change, as IIFT is now accepting CAT scores for admission to its MBA (IB) and other programs. As a result, candidates aspiring for IIFT in 2026 will have appear in the CAT 2025 exam. Therefore, they must familiarize themselves with the previous year's, CAT 2024 exam pattern, which has replaced the previously distinct IIFT test format.
Unlike the old IIFT exam, which had sections on General Knowledge, Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability, Logical Reasoning, and Data Interpretation, the CAT exam consists of three core sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). CAT is a computer-based exam lasting 120 minutes, comprising a combination of multiple-choice and non-MCQ questions. Each of the three sections is individually timed, with 40 minutes allotted to complete each one. With this change, candidates must now align their preparation strategy with the CAT exam structure to secure admission to IIFT in 2026.
IIFT 2025 Exam Pattern
To know details about IIFT 2026 exam pattern, marking scheme, paper format, duration and more you need to visit the webpage as mentioned in the table below:
| IIFT Exam Pattern | Page Link |
| IIFT 2026 Exam Pattern | CAT 2024 Exam Pattern |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: The IIFT 2025 exam will not follow the previous IIFT pattern, as the institute has discontinued its entrance exam from the 2024–25 session. Instead, admissions will be based on the CAT 2024 exam pattern.CAT is divided into three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Each section is timed for 40 minutes, with the entire test lasting 120 minutes.
Ans: Although the number of questions may vary slightly each year, CAT generally comprises approximately 66 questions spread across the three sections. These questions are a mix of multiple-choice (MCQs) and non-Multiple-Choice Questions (TITA – Type in the Answer). Each correct answer usually carries 3 marks, with a 1-mark penalty for wrong MCQ answers. There is no negative marking for non-MCQs.
Ans: Yes, CAT enforces sectional time limits, which means you get 40 minutes per section and cannot switch between sections during the exam. This makes time management within each section crucial. Candidates must complete all questions in one section before moving on to the next, which adds to the exam’s difficulty level and requires focused preparation.
Ans: No, IIFT is unlikely to release mock tests or pattern-specific guidelines, as it does not conduct its own exam anymore. However, aspirants should rely on CAT 2024 official mock tests, past papers, and preparation resources made available by the IIMs. IIFT may release admission guidelines and cut-off criteria, but not materials specific to CAT preparation.
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