The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national-level management entrance exam conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for admission to MBA and other postgraduate programs. IIM Mumbai (formerly NITIE Mumbai) now joins the CAT cluster. The test, known for its speed and difficulty, covers Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA).
Each year, over two lakh candidates apply for CAT, with registrations reaching a record 3.30 lakh in 2023 and 3.29 lakh in 2024. Clearing CAT opens doors to more than 1,300 MBA institutes across India, including the prestigious IIMs.
CAT 2025: Key Dates & Timeline
CAT 2025 – Quick Facts
Exam Fees:
General category: ₹2,600
Reserved category: ₹1,300
Eligibility:
Graduation with at least 50% aggregate (45% for SC/ST/PwD candidates)
Applications (2024): 3.29 lakh
Test Takers (2024): 2.93 lakh
Purpose:
Admission to IIMs, SPJIMR, FMS, MDI, IMT, and over 1,300 B-Schools in India
Courses Offered:
MBA / PGDM
Syllabus:
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
Quantitative Ability (QA)
Exam Mode:
Computer-Based Test (CBT) with MCQs and non-MCQs
Test Cities: 170
Official Website:
https://iimcat.ac.in
CAT 2025 Syllabus Overview
The CAT exam syllabus is divided into three main sections: VARC, DILR, and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Below are the key topics from each section that candidates should focus on:
1. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Reading Comprehension
Para Jumbles
Para Summary
Odd Sentence Out
2. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
Set Theory (Variables)
Set Theory with Puzzles
Puzzles with Additional Data
Coding-Decoding
Series
3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
Number System
Algebra
Arithmetic
Geometry
Mensuration
CAT 2025 Exam Pattern
As per the latest update, the CAT 2025 paper will include both MCQs and non-MCQ (TITA) questions. There will be negative marking for wrong answers. The exact pattern will be confirmed once the official mock test is released.
CAT 2025 Preparation Tips
A smart approach to CAT 2025 preparation includes completing the syllabus in phases, consistent mock test practice, and regular revision.
Cover the entire CAT syllabus — questions can appear from any topic.
Take frequent mock tests to build speed, accuracy, and time management.
Revise regularly to retain key concepts and formulas.
Strengthen mental math for faster calculations in Quantitative Aptitude.
Practice DILR questions through sectional tests and sample papers.
Develop shortcuts and solving techniques for quick accuracy.
Attempt multiple RC passages from past papers to improve comprehension.
Join online problem-solving sessions to learn new strategies.