CAT 2025: Registration Date (Open), Exam Date, Eligibility, Syllabus, Admit Card

Candidates must note that the CAT 2025 registration date will be from August 1, 2025, and the CAT 2025 registration last date is September 13, 2025. The CAT 2025 registration fees are INR 2,600 for General candidates and INR 1,300 for SC/ST/PwD candidates. Interested and eligible applicants with a minimum of 50% in the graduation should complete the CAT 2025 registration process online at iimcat.ac.in. Find comprehensive details about the CAT 2025 syllabus, pattern, eligibility, and admit card further in this guide.

CAT 2025 is a national-level entrance exam mainly used for admission to MBA and other postgraduate management courses at the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and several other leading business schools in India. It is known for its high level of competition among management aspirants. Candidates can attempt the CAT exam as many times as they want. There is also no age limit to appear for the CAT exam 2025.

The official CAT 2025 registration link is active on iimcat.ac.in, where you can access the complete registration guide. 

CAT 2025 Registration Date & Key Events

Stay updated with the CAT Exam 2025 registration date and other key events to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines. Check out some of the important key events and the CAT exam 2025 registration date in the table below.

Events	Date/Timeline
CAT 2025 registration start date	August 1, 2025 (from 10:00 AM)
CAT 2025 Registration Last Date	September 13, 2025 (till 5:00 PM)
CAT 2025 Admit Card Download	November 5, 2025
CAT 2025 Exam Date	November 30, 2025

CAT 2025 Exam Highlights

From important dates and exam patterns to participating IIMs and updated registration fees, these highlights help candidates stay informed at a glance. Check the CAT 2025 exam highlights given below in the table.

Particulars	Details
Exam Name	Common Admission Test (CAT)
Conducting Body	Indian Institutes of Management, Kozhikode (Expected)
CAT Frequency	Annual
Exam Level	National
Medium of Exam	English
Exam Mode	Computer-Based Test (CBT)
No. of Questions | Types	66 | MCQs
CAT Exam Date 2025	November 30, 2025
CAT Exam Timings	Session 1: 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM Session 2: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM Session 3: 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM
CAT Exam Fees	INR 2,600 (General category) INR 1,300 (Reserved category)
Eligibility Criteria	Graduation with 50% aggregate(45% for SC/ST/PwD students)
Number of IIMs Participating in CAT 2025	21 IIMs
Non-IIMs Accepting CAT Scores	1000+ prestigious management institutes and business schools in India
Official Website	iimcat.ac.in

CAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria

The CAT 2025 eligibility criteria define the essential qualifications and requirements candidates must meet to apply for the exam. To be eligible for the CAT 2025 exam, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum percentage of 50%, and both fresh graduates and final-year students are permitted to apply. It’s important to check the complete CAT 2025 eligibility criteria before starting the registration process to ensure you fulfill all academic and category prerequisites.

• Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC, ST, PwD) 
• Final Year Students: Eligible to apply (provisional admission) 
• Professional Degrees (CA/CS/ICWA/FIAI): Eligible with 50% marks (45% for reserved) 
• No Age Limit

CAT 2025 Reservation Criteria

The reservation policy aims to ensure equitable access to educational opportunities for candidates from various socio-economic backgrounds. A certain percentage of seats are reserved for candidates belonging to specific categories, including Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes from the non-creamy layer (NC-OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS). The table below outlines the reservation percentages allotted to each of these categories.

Category	Reservation Percentage
Scheduled Caste (SC)	15%
Scheduled Tribe (ST)	7.5%
Other Backward Classes – Non-Creamy Layer (NC-OBC)	27%
Economically Weaker Sections (EWS)	Up to 10%

CAT 2025 Registration Process: Step-by-Step

The CAT 2025 registration process is essential for candidates aspiring to appear for the exam and secure admission into top IIMs and management institutes across India. This CAT 2025 registration is conducted entirely online through the official website. To apply, candidates must follow a step-by-step CAT 2025 registration process, which includes filling out the application form, uploading required documents, and paying the CAT 2025 registration fees. Here’s a simple guide to help you complete your CAT 2025 registration before the last date without any hassle.

• Visit the official CAT website – iimcat.ac.in.
• Click the ‘Register’ button under the New Candidate Registration.

For New Candidate Registration:

To begin the registration, complete all the required details and click the “GENERATE OTP” button. This will take you to a CAPTCHA page. After completing the CAPTCHA, enter the OTP sent to your mobile number for verification.

• Candidate’s Name: Enter your name exactly as it appears on your Class 10th/SSC certificate.
• Date of Birth: Select your birth date using the calendar tool provided.
• Email Address: Use a valid and unique email. Your User ID will be sent here. (If you’re an international applicant, both your User ID and Password will be sent to this email.)
• Mobile Number: Must be a valid and unique number. You’ll receive an OTP for verification and your password via SMS on this number.
  • For numbers within India, enter a 10-digit mobile number.
  • For international numbers, include the correct country code at the beginning.
  • Avoid using special characters such as (0), +, or – in the number.

For Registered Candidate Login: 

For the candidates who have already registered, they can login by User ID and Password.

NOTE: If you forget your User ID or password in the future, use the “Forgot Password” option on the Registered Candidate login page. Your User ID and a password reset link will be sent to your registered email address, not your mobile number.

• Once you log in, you’ll be taken to the Applicant Details page. Click on the “GO TO APPLICATION”. Fill the Application Form with Personal Details, Academics, Work Experience, Programmes, Test City, and Declaration.

• Upload required documents like photo, signature, caste/PwD certificate if applicable.
• Provide the required personal details, including your First Name, Middle Name, Last Name, Father’s or Guardian’s Name, Mother’s or Guardian’s Name, Spouse’s Name, Gender, and Nationality, as applicable.
  1. Choose your Nationality from the dropdown menu. If it is not listed, select the option labeled “Others.”
  2. Indicate the Category you are applying under. If you are not applying under the General category, you must also provide additional information such as the date the certificate was issued, the Serial or Entry Number, the State or Union Territory where your caste or tribe is recognized, and the specific name of the caste or tribe.

• Select Programs & Test Cities – Choose your MBA/PGDM programs and up to five preferred exam cities.
• Pay the CAT 2025 registration fees: 

1. General/EWS/NC-OBC: INR 2,600 
2. SC/ST/PwD: INR 1,300

Submit and keep a printout of the confirmation. No changes allowed after payment. 

Required Documents for CAT Registration 2025 

• Passport-size photograph (within last 6 months, white background) 
• Scanned signature 
• Category certificate (if applicable) 
• PwD certificate (if applicable) 

• SSC/10th/Equivalent Details
• HSC/12th/Equivalent/Diploma Course Details
• First Bachelor’s Degree Details
• Second Bachelor’s Degree Details
• Master’s Degree Details
• Professional Degree Details 

Mistakes to Avoid While Filling out the CAT 2025 MBA Form

Filling out the CAT 2025 MBA form is a critical step that demands attention to detail from the very beginning. Being thorough and vigilant during every stage will ensure your application is accepted without unnecessary stress. Here are the most important mistakes to avoid during the CAT 2025 registration.

• Errors While Creating CAT Login ID & Registration: The CAT Login ID creation and registration are the first and most basic steps. Double-check your Name, Date of Birth, Email ID, and Mobile Number at this stage, as these cannot be edited later. 
• Entering Incorrect Personal Details: Be careful while entering your name, parental names, contact, and address details exactly as they appear on your official documents (10th/12th certificates), as discrepancies may lead to issues during verification and the admission process. These details are checked at multiple stages by authorities. 
• Filling Academic Details Incorrectly: Always refer to your original mark sheets for 10th, 12th, and graduation details. Incorrect entries can lead to instant rejection or later complications. Keep all academic documents handy while filling out the form, as these details are irreversible after submission.
• Improper Document Uploads: Upload your scanned passport-sized photo, signature, mark sheets, degree certificates, and work experience certificates (if applicable) in the precise format and size prescribed (usually JPG/JPEG, specific size limits). Blurry or incorrectly sized documents may result in rejection. Keep all required documents ready in advance. 
• Choosing Wrong Test City Preferences & Programs: Carefully select up to 6 test city preferences, ranking them by convenience, as allocation of your first choice isn’t guaranteed. Also, make informed choices when selecting preferred programs; don’t just use “select all”; decide in advance which programs you wish to apply for. 
• Using an Unsupported Browser: Always use a recommended browser.
  • Google Chrome: version 59+,
  • Mozilla Firefox: version 56+, or
  • Microsoft Edge: version 89–103

to avoid technical glitches. Avoid mobile browsers or outdated browsers, which may cause form errors. 

• Not Reviewing All Form Sections Before Submission: After entering all details, review each section minutely. Most fields cannot be edited after submission, and only a limited correction window is provided for very few fields. 
• Waiting Until the Deadline Approaches: Don’t wait for the last day to fill out your form. Technical issues, internet outages, or a simple rush can lead to avoidable mistakes or missed deadlines.

CAT 2025 Help Desk Contact Details

Due to the high number of applicants each year, candidates frequently encounter technical or procedural challenges during processes like registration, fee payment, document submission, or downloading the admit card. To assist with these issues, IIM Kozhikode will offer dedicated support for CAT 2025, including helpline numbers, email assistance, and specified helpdesk hours. For all queries related to CAT registration, application, payment processing, and document uploading, candidates are advised to contact the dedicated CAT Help Desk. The toll-free number 1-800-210-0175 is available from Monday to Saturday between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM, excluding national holidays. Alternatively, you can email your concerns to cathelpdesk@iimcat.co.in.

For academic queries such as eligibility criteria, category classification, or PwD certificate verification, candidates should contact the CAT Centre office directly. The Centre operates Monday to Friday from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, excluding holidays. You can reach them by phone at +91 495 2809219 or +91 495 2809696, or via email at cat2025_helpdesk@iimk.ac.in.

Query Type	Contact Information	Timings	Notes
CAT Registration, Application, Payment & Document Uploading	Toll-Free Number: 1-800-210-0175 Email: cathelpdesk@iimcat.co.in	Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (excluding National holidays)	Use only for registration, application, payment, and document uploading issues
Academic Queries (Eligibility, Category, PwD Certificate)	Phone: +91 495 2809219 +91 495 2809696 Email: cat2025_helpdesk@iimk.ac.in	Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (excluding holidays)	Do Not contact for registration, application, or payment-related issues

CAT 2025 CENTER ADDRESS

C/o Admissions Office

INDIAN INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT KOZHIKODE

IIMK Campus P.O., Kozhikode, Kerala,

PIN – 673 570

Note: The CAT Centre office should NOT be contacted for any matters related to CAT registration, application, or payment processing.

CAT 2025 Exam Pattern

The CAT 2025 exam pattern outlines the structure and format of this year’s test, helping candidates strategize their preparation. Conducted online, CAT 2025 comprises three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA) with a total duration of 120 minutes. Understanding the latest exam pattern is essential for maximizing your performance and scoring well on test day.

Parameter	Details
Mode	Computer-based Test (CBT)
Duration	120 minutes (2 hours), approx. 40 minutes per section
Number of Sections	3
Section 1: VARC	Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (approx 24 questions)
Section 2: DILR	Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (approx 22 questions)
Section 3: QA	Quantitative Ability (approx 22 questions)
Total Number of Questions	66–68
Marking Scheme	+3 for correct answer -1 for incorrect MCQ No negative for TITA (non-MCQ)
Exam Slots	3 slots: Morning, Afternoon, Evening

Latest Changes in the CAT Exam 2025 Pattern

The latest changes in the CAT exam pattern 2025 are minor and mainly focus on the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) section. The CAT 2025 pattern remains largely similar to the previous year, with the main change being the increase in the number of DILR questions and the overall total marks. This pattern demands careful time management and strategy due to the sectional time limits and fixed question order.

Section	No. of Questions (2024)	No. of Questions (2025)	Marks (2024)	Marks (2025)	Time Limit per Section
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension	24	24	72	72	40 minutes
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning	20	22	60	66	40 minutes
Quantitative Aptitude	22	22	66	66	40 minutes
Overall (Total)	66	68	198	204	120 minutes

Additional Points: 

• Each question carries 3 marks, with 1 mark deducted for each incorrect MCQ.
• The exam has a fixed sectional order: VARC → DILR → QA. Section switching is not allowed.
• The CAT 2025 is computer-based and scheduled for November 30, 2025.
• No changes to the time allotment per section; each remains at 40 minutes.
• The increase in questions and marks is primarily due to the DILR section expansion.

CAT 2025 Syllabus and Preparation Tips

The CAT 2025 syllabus is designed to assess candidates on a wide range of skills essential for success in management education. It covers three primary areas: Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension. Each section evaluates the conceptual understanding, analytical abilities, and language proficiency. Check out the syllabus given below in the table.

Section	Key Topics	Preparation Tips
VARC	Reading Comprehension, Para-jumbles, Para Summary, Odd Sentence Out.	Read editorials, novels, and diverse articles daily. Practice RCs and para-jumbles. Work on grammar and vocabulary regularly.
DILR	Graphs, Charts, Data Arrangements, Puzzles, Series, Deductions, Tables.	Solve a wide variety of puzzles and DI sets. Focus on logic, not just calculations. Practice with timers to improve speed and accuracy.
QA	Arithmetic: Percentages, Ratio & Proportion, Time & Work, Profit & Loss Algebra: Equations, Functions, Inequalities Geometry & Mensuration: Circles, Triangles, Trigonometry Modern Math: Probability, Permutations & Combinations, Set Theory Number Systems: Divisibility, Remainders, LCM, HCF	Start with clear concepts, then practice with a formula sheet. Solve prior years’ papers and keep revising. Practice mental math for quick calculations.

How to Download the CAT 2025 Admit Card

To download your CAT 2025 admit card and check your exam center details, follow these steps: 

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to iimcat.ac.in. 
2. Login: Use your registered User ID and Password to log in to the “Registered Candidate Login” section. 
3. Access Admit Card: After logging in, look for the “Download Admit Card” link on your dashboard. 
4. Download & Print: Click on the link to download your admit card as a PDF. Verify all details carefully. Print at least two clear copies on A4 paper. 

Note: The admit card will be available for download from November 5, 2025, up to the exam day. No hard copies will be sent online only. 

Exam Center Details 

• Your allotted test city and exam center address will be mentioned on your CAT admit card. 
• During registration, you could select up to five preferred test cities. The actual center is allotted based on availability and displayed on the admit card. 
• CAT 2025 will be conducted in over 170 cities, with centers chosen for comfort, infrastructure, and security. 

Important Instructions 

• Affix the same passport photo (as in your application) to your admit card. 
• Carry a valid photo ID (like Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License). 
• Arrive at your designated exam center at least 90 minutes before the reporting time noted on your admit card. 

Double-check all admit card details such as your name, registration number, exam date, time, and center address for accuracy. If you encounter any issues with your admit card or center details, contact the CAT helpdesk immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions