CAT 2025 Notification Out: Registration, Exam Date, Eligibility & Syllabus

The official CAT 2025 notification is now live at iimcat.ac.in. Registration begins on August 1, 2025, and the exam is scheduled for November 30, 2025. Read on for dates, fees, eligibility, syllabus, and more.

The moment that thousands of MBA aspirants across India have been eagerly awaiting has finally arrived. IIM Kozhikode has officially unleashed the CAT 2025 notification, marking the beginning of another transformative journey for management education seekers. This comprehensive announcement brings exceptional opportunities for ambitious candidates ready to secure their future in prestigious business schools.

Revolutionary Changes in CAT 2025: What Makes This Year Special

The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 represents more than just another entrance examination—it’s a gateway to extraordinary career opportunities. IIM Kozhikode, serving as the conducting authority, has meticulously crafted this year’s examination framework to ensure maximum accessibility while maintaining the rigorous standards that define India’s premier management entrance test.

On July 27, 2025, the official notification sent waves of excitement through the management education community. The strategic timing allows candidates ample preparation time while maintaining the traditional November examination schedule that has become synonymous with CAT’s legacy.

CAT 2025 Critical Dates: Your Success Timeline

Understanding and adhering to these crucial deadlines can make the difference between opportunity and regret:

Notification Released: July 27, 2025 Registration Period: August 1, 2025 (10:00 AM) to September 13, 2025 (5:00 PM) Admit Card Availability: November 5-30, 2025 Examination Date: November 30, 2025 (Sunday) Answer Key Publication: Early December 2025 (Tentative) Results Declaration: First week of January 2026 (Tentative)

The six-week registration window provides sufficient time for thorough preparation of documents and careful consideration of test city preferences. Smart candidates recognize that early registration eliminates last-minute stress and allows focus on intensive preparation.

Comprehensive Registration Process: Step-by-Step Success Guide

Navigating the CAT 2025 registration demands attention to detail and systematic approach. The process has been streamlined to minimize technical glitches while ensuring authentic candidate verification.

Initial Registration Steps

Begin your journey by visiting the official portal at iimcat.ac.in. The website’s user-friendly interface guides candidates through each stage methodically. Click on “New Candidate Registration” to initiate your application process.

The system requires a valid email address and mobile number for OTP verification. This dual authentication ensures account security while providing reliable communication channels for important updates. Choose an email address you check regularly, as all official communications will be sent here.

Personal Information and Documentation

Accuracy in personal details is paramount. Any discrepancy between application information and supporting documents can lead to disqualification. Fill out your complete name exactly as it appears on your graduation certificate.

Required documents include a recent photograph (10KB-200KB), signature scan (4KB-30KB), and category certificates for reserved category candidates. The photo should be a clear, recent headshot with neutral background. Signature scans must be distinct and match your usual signature style.

Academic Credentials Verification

Your bachelor’s degree details require careful entry. Include the university name, degree type, graduation year, and percentage/CGPA. Final-year students should select “Appearing” status and provide expected graduation date.

Strategic Test City Selection

The system allows selection of up to six test cities in order of preference. Choose cities strategically, considering travel convenience and accommodation availability. Popular metropolitan cities often have more test centers but may experience higher demand.

Fee Payment and Confirmation

Complete the payment process using secure online banking, credit cards, or debit cards. The system generates a unique application number upon successful payment. Download and preserve the confirmation slip, as it contains essential information for future reference.

Investment in Your Future: Fee Structure Analysis

CAT 2025 maintains an inclusive fee structure designed to ensure accessibility across economic backgrounds:

General/EWS/NC-OBC Candidates: ₹2,600 SC/ST/PwD Candidates: ₹1,300

This differential pricing reflects the commitment to educational equity and opportunity democratization. The fee covers examination costs, result processing, and administrative expenses across multiple test sessions.

Eligibility Requirements: Opening Doors to Excellence

The eligibility criteria for CAT 2025 maintain inclusive standards while ensuring academic preparedness:

Educational Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university forms the foundation requirement. The minimum aggregate should be 50% for general category candidates and 45% for SC/ST/PwD candidates. This threshold ensures basic academic competency while remaining accessible to diverse educational backgrounds.

Professional degrees including CA, CS, ICWA, and equivalent qualifications are accepted. International degrees require equivalence certification from Association of Indian Universities (AIU).

Final-Year Student Provisions

Students in their final year of graduation can apply, provided they complete their degree requirements before joining the MBA program. This provision enables early application and preparation without waiting for final results.

Age and Attempt Restrictions

CAT imposes no age limit, recognizing that career transformation can occur at any life stage. Similarly, there’s no restriction on the number of attempts, allowing candidates to improve their scores through multiple endeavors.

Exam Architecture: Mastering the CAT 2025 Format

The examination structure reflects extensive research into optimal assessment methodologies for management aptitude evaluation.

Session Distribution Strategy

Three distinct time slots accommodate different candidate preferences and logistical considerations:

Morning Session: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Afternoon Session: 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Evening Session: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

This multi-session approach reduces crowding and provides flexibility for working professionals and students with varying schedules.

Sectional Breakdown and Question Distribution

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC): 24 Questions, 40 Minutes This section evaluates language proficiency, comprehension skills, and analytical thinking through diverse question types including reading comprehension passages, para jumbles, and vocabulary-based questions.

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR): 22 Questions, 40 Minutes Focusing on analytical and logical thinking capabilities, this section presents data sets, logical puzzles, and reasoning challenges that mirror real-world business scenarios.

Quantitative Ability (QA): 22 Questions, 40 Minutes Mathematical proficiency assessment covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and modern mathematics applications relevant to business decision-making.

Revolutionary Marking Scheme

The scoring system balances accuracy encouragement with penalty deterrence:

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): +3 for correct answers, -1 for incorrect responses
Type In The Answer (TITA) Questions: +3 for correct answers, no negative marking

This hybrid approach allows candidates to attempt TITA questions with confidence while maintaining caution with MCQs.

Comprehensive Syllabus Deep Dive

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension Mastery

Reading comprehension passages span diverse topics including economics, sociology, science, and philosophy. Success requires rapid comprehension, inference drawing, and critical analysis skills. Para jumbles test logical sequence understanding, while vocabulary questions assess language sophistication.

Key Areas:

Reading comprehension with inference questions
Para jumbles and para completion
Grammar and sentence correction
Critical reasoning and assumption identification
Vocabulary in context

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning Excellence

This section demands pattern recognition, logical deduction, and data analysis capabilities. Questions range from straightforward chart interpretation to complex multi-variable puzzles requiring systematic approach and time management.

Critical Topics:

Charts, graphs, and table interpretation
Seating arrangements and scheduling puzzles
Blood relations and family trees
Syllogisms and logical deductions
Caselets and business scenario analysis

Quantitative Ability Proficiency

Mathematical concepts span from basic arithmetic to advanced applications. Success requires formula mastery, rapid calculation skills, and strategic problem-solving approaches.

Essential Areas:

Number systems and arithmetic progressions
Algebra and quadratic equations
Geometry and coordinate geometry
Probability and permutations-combinations
Trigonometry and logarithms

Strategic Preparation Blueprint for Success

Foundation Building Phase (August – September)

Begin with comprehensive syllabus coverage and concept clarification. Focus on understanding fundamental principles before advancing to complex applications. Create detailed study schedules with realistic daily targets.

Develop strong reading habits through diverse materials including business magazines, newspapers, and academic journals. This practice enhances both vocabulary and comprehension speed essential for VARC success.

Intensive Practice Phase (October – November)

Increase mock test frequency to simulate actual examination conditions. Target 25-30 full-length practice tests with detailed performance analysis. Identify weak areas and allocate additional study time accordingly.

Focus on sectional time management, aiming to complete each section within the allocated 40-minute window. Practice switching between question types rapidly while maintaining accuracy.

Final Preparation Phase (November)

Concentrate on revision and confidence building. Review key formulas, important concepts, and common mistake patterns. Reduce new topic introduction and focus on strengthening existing knowledge.

Maintain optimal physical and mental health through regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques. Peak performance requires holistic preparation beyond academic study.

Test Day Excellence: Maximizing Performance

Pre-Examination Preparation

Plan travel and accommodation well in advance, especially for outstation test centers. Visit the examination center beforehand to familiarize yourself with the location and reduce day-of stress.

Prepare required documents including admit card, valid photo ID, and backup identification. Keep digital and physical copies safely stored.

During the Examination

Read instructions carefully for each section before beginning. Time allocation should allow for question review and strategic guess elimination. Start with questions within your comfort zone to build confidence and momentum.

For DILR section, identify easier question sets first and complete them before attempting complex puzzles. This strategy maximizes score potential within time constraints.

Post-Section Strategies

Use transition time between sections for mental reset and stress management. Avoid discussing questions with fellow candidates during breaks, as this can create unnecessary anxiety.

Beyond CAT: Admission Landscape Analysis

CAT scores unlock opportunities across India’s premier management institutions beyond the 21 IIMs. Faculty of Management Studies (FMS) Delhi, Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), and SP Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) represent additional excellent options.

Over 1,200 MBA colleges across India accept CAT scores, providing diverse specialization options and career pathways. This extensive acceptance makes CAT preparation a valuable investment regardless of specific institutional preferences.

Technology and Innovation in CAT 2025

The computer-based testing format incorporates advanced security measures and user-friendly interfaces. Candidates can flag questions for review, navigate freely within sections, and utilize on-screen calculators for quantitative problems.

Anti-cheating measures include biometric verification, CCTV monitoring, and question randomization. These security protocols ensure fair evaluation while maintaining examination integrity.

Success Stories and Inspiration

Every year, CAT creates transformation stories of candidates from diverse backgrounds achieving their management education dreams. Working professionals, fresh graduates, and career changers all find success through dedicated preparation and strategic approach.

The examination’s merit-based selection ensures that talent and hard work triumph over background or circumstances. This democratic process continues attracting India’s brightest minds to management education.

Financial Planning for MBA Education

While CAT represents the gateway to premier institutions, candidates should plan for MBA program costs including tuition, accommodation, and opportunity costs. Many institutions offer scholarships, loans, and financial aid to deserving candidates.

Research funding options early in the preparation phase to make informed decisions about program selection and financial commitments.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

1. When does CAT 2025 registration begin and what are the exact timings?

Registration for CAT 2025 opens precisely on August 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM IST and closes on September 13, 2025, at 5:00 PM IST. The registration portal will be accessible at iimcat.ac.in throughout this period. Candidates are advised to register early to avoid technical issues that may arise due to heavy traffic near the deadline.

2. Which IIM is responsible for conducting CAT 2025 and what does this mean for candidates?

IIM Kozhikode serves as the designated exam authority for CAT 2025. This rotation system among IIMs ensures fresh perspectives in exam administration while maintaining consistent quality standards. IIM Kozhikode’s expertise in educational administration guarantees smooth examination conduct and reliable result processing.

3. What is the complete fee structure for different categories in CAT 2025?

The examination fee is ₹2,600 for General, EWS (Economically Weaker Section), and NC-OBC (Non-Creamy layer Other Backward Classes) candidates. SC (Scheduled Caste), ST (Scheduled Tribe), and PwD (Persons with Disability) candidates pay a reduced fee of ₹1,300. This differential pricing ensures accessibility across economic backgrounds while covering examination administration costs.

4. How many cities will host CAT 2025 examination centers?

CAT 2025 will be conducted across more than 170 cities throughout India, ensuring geographical accessibility for candidates from diverse locations. The extensive network includes metropolitan cities, state capitals, and smaller urban centers to minimize travel requirements for test-takers.

5. Can final-year graduation students apply for CAT 2025?

Yes, students currently in their final year of graduation are eligible to apply for CAT 2025. However, they must complete their degree requirements and obtain the minimum required percentage before joining any MBA program. Provisional admission may be offered subject to final result submission.

6. What happens if I make an error in my CAT 2025 application form?

The registration system typically provides a correction window after the registration deadline closes. However, certain details like name and category cannot be modified after submission. Candidates should verify all information thoroughly before final submission to avoid complications during the admission process.

7. How should I prepare for the different question types in CAT 2025?

Success in CAT requires section-specific strategies. For VARC, focus on speed reading and comprehension techniques. DILR demands pattern recognition and logical thinking development. QA requires formula mastery and quick calculation skills. Practice with varied question types and maintain consistent mock test schedules.

8. What is the validity period of CAT 2025 scores and which institutions accept them?

CAT 2025 scores remain valid for one year and are accepted by all 21 IIMs, numerous other premier institutions like FMS Delhi, IIFT, SPJIMR, and over 1,200 MBA colleges across India. This extensive acceptance makes CAT preparation valuable for diverse management education opportunities.

Conclusion: Your Journey to Management Excellence Begins Now

The release of CAT 2025 notification marks the beginning of an extraordinary opportunity for aspiring management professionals. With registration opening on August 1, 2025, candidates have a clear roadmap toward achieving their academic and career ambitions.

Success in CAT 2025 requires more than academic preparation—it demands strategic planning, consistent effort, and unwavering determination. The examination’s comprehensive evaluation of analytical, verbal, and quantitative abilities ensures that successful candidates possess the skills necessary for management education excellence.

As you embark on this transformative journey, remember that every successful MBA graduate once stood where you stand today, facing the same challenges and opportunities. The path to prestigious management institutions runs through CAT 2025, and with proper preparation and dedication, that path leads to unlimited professional possibilities.

The notification is live, the dates are set, and the opportunity awaits. Your future in management education begins with the decision to excel in CAT 2025. Make this year the turning point that defines your career trajectory and opens doors to leadership positions across industries.

Start your preparation today, stay committed to your goals, and let CAT 2025 become the catalyst for your management education success story.