CAT 2025: Complete Guide to Exam Dates, Pattern, Eligibility & Preparation
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If you want to pursue an MBA from a top school like the IIMs, FMS Delhi, or SPJIMR, the Common Admission Test (CAT) is your first big step. Every year, over two lakh students take the CAT to compete for a limited number of seats in India’s best business schools. CAT 2025 is expected to follow the same format as in previous years. With increasing competition, you will need more than just hard work; you will need a smart strategy.
In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about CAT 2025: the exam pattern, important dates, eligibility, and how to start preparing.
What is CAT?
One of the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) administers the Common Admission Test (CAT), a nationwide admission exam, every year. In addition to all 20 IIMs, more than 1,200 prestigious B-Schools in India accept the score. It assesses your capacity for logical thought, problem-solving under duress, and data interpretation—skills that are essential for every future corporate leader.
Why CAT 2025 Is Important
Not only can a high CAT score get you into a B-School, but it also opens you access to top-notch teachers, international exposure, robust alumni networks, and some of the highest-paying placements in the nation.
CAT is the common route for everyone, regardless of whether your goal is to enroll in an MBA program at IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, or institutions like MDI Gurgaon and IIT Bombay.
CAT 2025: Tentative Important Dates
|
Event |
Date (Tentative) |
|
CAT 2025 Notification Release |
Last week of July 2025 |
|
Start of Online Registration |
First week of August 2025 |
|
Last Date to Apply |
Second or Third week of September 2025 |
|
Correction Window |
Last week of September 2025 |
|
Admit Card Release |
Third or Fourth week of October 2025 |
|
CAT 2025 Exam Date |
Sunday, 30th November 2025 |
|
Answer Key Release |
First or Second week of December 2025 |
|
Result Declaration |
First week of January 2026 |
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for CAT 2025, you must:
-
Hold a Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD)
-
Be in the final year of your graduation (if not already graduated)
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Be from any stream (Arts, Science, Commerce, etc.)
-
There is no age limit
How to Prepare for CAT
Here are some practical tips for aspirants:
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Start Early: Begin your preparation at least 10–12 months before the exam. Early starters have more time to work on weak areas.
-
Understand the Syllabus: Focus on key topics like Arithmetic, Algebra, Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation, and Logical Puzzles.
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Regular Mock Tests: From May or June onwards, start taking mock tests. These help in understanding the pattern and improving time management.
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Analyze Your Mistakes: Don’t just attempt mocks, review every wrong answer. This helps in identifying gaps in your preparation.
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Read Daily: Improve your reading speed and comprehension by reading editorials, magazines, or business articles regularly.
Final Thoughts
Cracking the CAT Exam is not just for the top students; it requires consistency, strategy, and focus. It doesn't matter if you come from an engineering background or study humanities. With the right preparation and mindset, you can reach the top B-Schools in the country.
If you’re serious about your MBA goals, start preparing today. CAT 2025 could be your path to a future filled with opportunities and leadership.
Hello, I'm Neha — a Digital Marketing professional with a strong academic foundation from Laxmibai College, Delhi University, and specialized training from DIDM Institute. I focus on driving online growth through strategic SEO, engaging social media management, and impactful content creation.
