IIM CAT 2025 Notification: The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode has officially released the IIM CAT 2025 notification, opening the gateway for aspirants aiming to secure admission to prestigious MBA programs across 21 IIMs and over 1,200 B-schools in India. Scheduled for November 30, 2025, the Common Admission Test (CAT) is a highly competitive national-level entrance exam that tests candidates’ aptitude in Verbal Ability, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability. With registrations starting on August 1, 2025, this is a golden opportunity for candidates to join top-tier management institutes and kickstart a rewarding career in business management.
 Join Our WhatsApp Channe | |
|---|---|
 Join Our Telegram Channel |
Why IIM CAT 2025 is Your Pathway to Success
Aspiring to pursue an MBA from renowned institutions like IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, or IIM Calcutta? The CAT 2025 exam is your stepping stone to achieving that dream. Stay updated with the latest government job alerts and MBA entrance exam details by visiting Latest Jobs Alert for comprehensive guides and preparation tips.
![Image Prompt: A vibrant banner featuring a confident student preparing for the CAT 2025 exam, with books, a laptop, and IIM Kozhikode’s logo in the background.]
Important Dates for CAT 2025
The IIM CAT 2025 notification outlines a clear timeline to help candidates plan their preparation and application process. Below is a detailed schedule of key dates:
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Notification Release | July 27, 2025 | Official CAT 2025 notification released on iimcat.ac.in. |
| Registration Start Date | August 1, 2025 | Online registration begins at 10:00 AM on the official CAT website. |
| Registration End Date | September 13, 2025 | Last date to submit the CAT 2025 application form by 5:00 PM. |
| Admit Card Release | November 5, 2025 | Admit cards available for download until November 30, 2025. |
| CAT 2025 Exam Date | November 30, 2025 | Exam conducted in three sessions across 170+ test cities. |
| Result Announcement | First Week of January 2026 | CAT 2025 results and scorecards released on iimcat.ac.in. |
Note: Candidates are advised to regularly check iimcat.ac.in for real-time updates.
CAT 2025 Application Fee
The application fee for CAT 2025 has been revised, reflecting a slight increase compared to the previous year. Below is the fee structure:
| Category | Fee (INR) | Payment Mode |
|---|---|---|
| General/EWS/NC-OBC | 2,600 | Online (Credit/Debit Card, Net Banking, UPI) |
| SC/ST/PwD | 1,300 | Online (Credit/Debit Card, Net Banking, UPI) |
Note: The fee is non-refundable and must be paid during the application process. Candidates can pay through the official portal at iimcat.ac.in.
Eligibility Criteria for CAT 2025
To apply for CAT 2025, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Educational Qualification: A Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university with a minimum of 50% marks or equivalent CGPA (45% for SC, ST, and PwD categories). Candidates in the final year of their Bachelor’s degree or awaiting results are also eligible, provided they submit a completion certificate by the institute’s deadline. Professional degrees like CA, CS, ICWA, or FIAI are also accepted.
- Age Limit: There is no age limit for CAT 2025, allowing candidates from diverse career stages to apply.
- Work Experience: While not mandatory, relevant work experience can enhance a candidate’s profile during the IIM selection process.
- Physical Requirements: No specific physical criteria are required for CAT 2025, but candidates with disabilities must submit valid certificates (Form V/VI/VII) as per the RPwD Act 2016 during registration.
Meeting these criteria does not guarantee admission, as IIMs consider additional factors like CAT scores, Written Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD), Personal Interview (PI), academic performance, and work experience during the selection process.
![Image Prompt: An infographic showing the eligibility criteria for CAT 2025, with icons for education, age, and documents, set against a professional blue background.]
Details for CAT 2025
The CAT 2025 is not a direct recruitment exam but a gateway for admission to MBA and postgraduate management programs at 21 IIMs and over 1,200 B-schools across India, including prestigious institutes like IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, and newer IIMs like IIM Bodh Gaya and IIM Jammu. The number of seats varies by institute and program, with top IIMs offering approximately 3,000–4,000 total seats across their MBA/PGDM programs. Exact vacancy details for CAT 2025 will be updated on individual IIM websites post-result announcement in January 2026.
Category-Wise Reservation for CAT 2025
As per Government of India norms, CAT 2025 offers reservations for various categories to ensure inclusive opportunities. The table below outlines the reservation percentages:
| Category | Reservation Percentage | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Caste (SC) | 15% | Reserved for SC candidates as per GoI norms. |
| Scheduled Tribe (ST) | 7.5% | Reserved for ST candidates as per GoI norms. |
| Other Backwards Classes (NC-OBC) | 27% | Reserved for NC-OBC candidates as per GoI norms. |
| Economically Weaker Section (EWS) | 10% | Reserved for EWS candidates as per GoI norms. |
| Persons with Disability (PwD) | 5% | Reserved for PwD candidates as per RPwD Act 2016. |
Note: Candidates must upload valid caste or disability certificates in PDF format during registration. No changes in category will be allowed post-submission.
Important Links for CAT 2025
Access all essential resources for CAT 2025 through the following links:
- Official CAT Website: iimcat.ac.in – For notifications, registration, and admit card download.
- CAT 2025 Notification PDF: Download the official notification from MBAUniverse.com for detailed information.
- Application Portal: iimcat.ac.in
| Activity | Important Links |
|---|---|
| For Registration | Click Here |
| Join WhatsApp Group | Click Here |
| For more jobs | LatestJobsAlert |
| website | CAT Official Website |
CAT 2025 Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The CAT 2025 exam will be a computer-based test (CBT) conducted in three sessions on November 30, 2025, across 170+ test cities in India. The exam tests candidates in three core sections:
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC): Tests reading, grammar, and verbal reasoning skills. Expected questions: 24 (MCQs and TITA).
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR): Focuses on data analysis and logical problem-solving. Expected questions: 22 (increased from 20 in 2024).
- Quantitative Ability (QA): Covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number systems. Expected questions: 20.
Each section is timed (40 minutes), with a total exam duration of 120 minutes. The marking scheme awards +3 marks for correct answers and -1 mark for incorrect MCQs, with no negative marking for TITA (Type In The Answer) questions. The syllabus is based on Class 10th and 12th-level topics, with a moderate to high difficulty level.
![Image Prompt: A colorful chart illustrating the CAT 2025 exam pattern, with sections (VARC, DILR, QA) and their respective question counts and time limits.]
Selection Process for IIM Admissions
The selection process for IIM admissions via CAT 2025 involves multiple stages:
- CAT 2025 Exam: Candidates must score above the minimum cutoff percentile (typically 90–99+ for top IIMs) to qualify for shortlisting.
- Shortlisting for GD/PI/WAT: IIMs shortlist candidates based on CAT scores, academic records, work experience, and diversity factors.
- Group Discussion (GD): Some IIMs conduct GD to assess communication and analytical skills (not all IIMs include this stage).
- Written Ability Test (WAT): Candidates write essays to evaluate written communication and critical thinking.
- Personal Interview (PI): A panel assesses candidates’ personality, leadership, and career goals.
- Final Selection: Based on a composite score including CAT performance, academic records, work experience, and GD/PI/WAT performance.
Each IIM has its own weightage for these components, so candidates should check individual institute websites for specific criteria.
Salary and Benefits After CAT 2025
While CAT 2025 is an entrance exam for MBA programs, securing admission to top IIMs can lead to lucrative career opportunities. Graduates from top IIMs (e.g., IIM Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta) often secure placements with average CTCs of INR 20–30 LPA and highest international offers exceeding INR 1 crore. Roles include consulting, finance, product management, and analytics, with top firms like McKinsey, BCG, Goldman Sachs, and Google recruiting from IIMs. Additional benefits include:
- Career Growth: Access to leadership roles in global corporations.
- Networking: Connections with industry leaders and alumni networks.
- Skill Development: World-class education in management and strategy.
![Image Prompt: A professional image of IIM graduates in business attire, celebrating placement success with a backdrop of corporate logos.]
How to Apply for CAT 2025
Follow these step-by-step instructions to apply for CAT 2025:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to iimcat.ac.in or https://latestjobsalert.in/apply for the application link.
- Register: Click on “New Registration” and enter your name, date of birth, nationality, email ID, and mobile number. Verify using the OTP sent to your phone.
- Fill Application Form: Log in with your CAT 2025 ID and password to provide personal, academic, and work experience details.
- Upload Documents: Upload a recent passport-size photo (30mm x 45mm, max 1 MB, JPEG/JPG), scanned signature (80mm x 35mm, max 80 KB, JPEG/JPG), and category certificates (SC/ST/NC-OBC/EWS/PwD) in PDF format.
- Select Preferences: Choose preferred IIMs, programs, and up to five test cities.
- Pay Application Fee: Pay INR 2,600 (General/EWS/NC-OBC) or INR 1,300 (SC/ST/PwD) via online modes.
- Submit and Download: Review the form, submit it, and download the confirmation page for future reference.
For detailed instructions, download the CAT 2025 Notification PDF from MBAUniverse.com.
Preparation Tips for CAT 2025
To excel in CAT 2025, candidates should adopt a strategic preparation plan:
- Understand the Syllabus: Focus on VARC, DILR, and QA topics based on Class 10th and 12th concepts.
- Practice Previous Year Papers: Solve CAT PYQs to understand question patterns and difficulty levels. Access free papers at Shiksha.com.
- Take Mock Tests: Attempt regular mock tests to improve speed and accuracy. Platforms like CrackU offer affordable prep materials.
- Time Management: Practice sectional time management, as each section is strictly timed at 40 minutes.
- Join Coaching (Optional): Enrol in reputed coaching like iQuanta or IMS for structured guidance and doubt-solving support.
With only four months left, start your preparation early to aim for a 99+ percentile and secure admission to top IIMs.
![Image Prompt: A student studying for CAT 2025, surrounded by study materials, a laptop, and a timer, emphasizing focused preparation.]
Why Choose IIMs for Your MBA?
IIMs are globally recognised for their academic excellence, industry connections, and placement records. Here’s why pursuing an MBA through CAT 2025 is a game-changer:
- Prestigious Institutions: IIMs like Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and Calcutta are ranked among the top B-schools globally.
- High ROI: Graduates enjoy high-paying jobs and long-term career growth.
- Holistic Development: Programs focus on leadership, strategy, and innovation, preparing candidates for dynamic business challenges.
External Resources for CAT 2025 Preparation
To enhance your preparation, explore these trusted resources:
- IMS India: Offers comprehensive CAT coaching and mock tests. Visit www.imsindia.com.
- Shiksha.com: Provides free CAT previous year papers and preparation guides. Visit www.shiksha.com.
- MBAUniverse.com: Download the CAT 2025 Notification PDF and access expert tips. Visit www.mbauniverse.com.
Don’t Miss Out on CAT 2025!
The IIM CAT 2025 notification marks the start of an exciting journey toward a transformative MBA experience. With registrations opening on August 1, 2025, now is the time to prepare and apply. Don’t miss this chance to join India’s top B-schools and unlock a world of opportunities. Visit https://latestjobsalert.in/ for the latest updates on government jobs 2025, MBA entrance exams, and CAT preparation tips. Apply now at iimcat.ac.in and take the first step toward your dream
CAT 2025 Highlights
| CAT Exam Particulars | Key Details |
|---|---|
| CAT Exam Full Form to CAT Full Form | Common Admission Test, popularly known as ‘CAT’ |
| Who Conducts CAT Exam? | One of 6 old IIMs conducts CAT every year |
| Who is conducting CAT 2025? | IIM Kozhikode |
| What is the date of CAT 2025? | Sunday, November 30, 2025 |
| What is CAT exam timing? | Slot 1: 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM; Slot 2: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM; Slot 3: 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM |
| How many questions are expected in the CAT 2025 paper? | 66-68 Questions |
| How many sections will be there in the CAT 2025 paper? | Three Sections ; Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability |
| What is the Scoring Pattern for the CAT 2025 exam? | The CAT marking scheme is +3 for every correct and -1 for incorrect. There was no negative marking for TITA Questions. |
| How many CAT 2025 exam slots will be there? | CAT 2025 will be conducted in 3 slots: Morning, Afternoon and Evening |
| What is the duration of the CAT 2025 Exam? | The CAT 2025 exam duration is 2 hours |
| What is the time limit for each section? | CAT 2025 Sectional Limit is 40 Minutes for each Section |
| Can I choose which section to attempt first? | No, candidates must answer the sections ina pre-defined order from section 1 to 3. |
| What is the Testing Mode of CAT 2025? | CAT 2025 will be held as a Computer-based exam at test centres across the country. |
| What is the CAT 2025 Notification Release date? | CAT 2025 Notification was released on Sunday, July 27, 2025 |
| Which arethe top MBA Colleges accepting CAT 2025? | Top MBA colleges accepting CAT 2025 are 21 IIMs, FMS, IIFT, MDI, SPJIMR, IITs, IMI |
| How to Apply for CAT 2025? | The CAT Application process can be done online on CAT official website iimcat.ac.in |
| What will be the CAT 2025 Fees? | CAT 2025 Exam Fees is Rs. 2600 for general candidates, and Rs. 1300 for reserved category candidates. |
| What is CAT Official Website for Form Filling? | CAT official website is iimcat.ac.in |
| How many candidates are expected to register for CAT 2025 exam? | About 3.15 lakhs candidates are expected to register for CAT 2025 exam. |
CAT 2025 Exam pattern (expected) and CAT previous year paper pattern is given below.
CAT 2025 Exam Pattern (Expected)
| Section No. | Section Name | Duration | MCQs | TITA | Total |
| I | Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension | 40 min | 20 | 4 | 24 |
| II | Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning | 40 min | 12 | 10 | 22 |
| III | Quantitative Ability | 40 min | 14 | 18 | 22 |
| Total | – | 120 min | 46 | 22 | 68 |
CAT 2024 Exam Pattern
The CAT 2024 Exam Pattern was the same across all three slots. Check the table below. However, there were minor changes in section-wise compositions. Check the complete CAT 2024 exam analysis for details.
CAT 2024 Exam Pattern for Slot 1, 2, 3
| Section No. | Section Name | Duration | MCQs | TITA | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension | 40 min | 20 | 4 | 24 |
| II | Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning | 40 min | 12 | 10 | 22 |
| III | Quantitative Ability | 40 min | 14 | 8 | 22 |
| Total | – | 120 min | 46 | 22 | 68 |
CAT 2024 – Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension Section Breakdown
| Area | Topic | No. of Questions | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | RC 1: An exploration of the concept of craftsmanship, discussing its relevance and evolution over time. | 4 | MCQ |
| Reading Comprehension | RC 2: An analysis of how Netflix influences global culture, examining its role in shaping viewing habits and cultural trends | 4 | MCQ |
| Reading Comprehension | RC 3: A discussion on kangaroos, covering aspects such as their behavior, habitat, and significance in the ecosystem | 4 | MCQ |
| Reading Comprehension | RC 4: An examination of economic principles or phenomena, potentially discussing market dynamics, economic theories, or financial systems | 4 | MCQ |
| Verbal Ability | Parajumble | 3 | MCQ |
| Verbal Ability | Para Summary | 3 | MCQ |
| Verbal Ability | Odd Sentence | 2 | TITA |
CAT 2024 – Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning Section Breakdown
| Set No. | Area | Set Description | No. of Questions | Question Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Data Interpretation | A candlestick plot displays opening, closing, and price trends for seven shares | 4 | 3 MCQ, 1 TITA |
| 2 | Data Interpretation | A chart details the number of countries visited by three individuals across Asia, Europe, and ROW | 4 | 2 MCQ, 2 TITA |
| 3 | Data Interpretation | Two candidates campaign with different strategies, affecting student votes | 5 | 4 MCQ, 1 TITA |
| 4 | Logical Reasoning | 4Six teams play a structured QUIET tournament with intra- and inter-group matches. | 5 | 5 TITA |
| 5 | Logical Reasoning | 3Six web surfers distributed stars among four bloggers, with partial data provided. | 4 | 3 MCQ; 1 TITA |
CAT 2024 Section-wise Exam Pattern: Quantitative Ability
| Area | No. of Questions | Type of Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Arithmetic | 8 | SICI, Time and Work, Time-Speed-Distance, Ratio Proportion, Mixtures & Alligations, Multiple operations, and Profit & Loss |
| Algebra | 7 | Quadratic equations, Inequality with graph, Functions, and Identity-based questions |
| Geometry | 3 | Quadrilaterals, Sphere with Cuboid |
| Modern Math | 3 | Logarithms, Sequences, Permutations |
| Number System | 1 | Remainders and Numbers |
CAT Registration Numbers: Year-wise Trends
CAT Registration Numbers
| CAT Year | Registered Candidates | Appeared Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 329,000 | 293,000 |
| 2023 | 328,000 | 288,000 |
| 2022 | 255,501 | 222,184 |
| 2021 | 229,969 | 191,660 |
| 2020 | 227,835 | 190,144 |
| 2019 | 244,169 | 209,926 |
| 2018 | 240,338 | 209,405 |
| 2017 | 231,067 | 199,632 |
| 2016 | 232,434 | 195,679 |
| 2015 | 218,664 | 179,602 |
| 2014 | 196,988 | 170,000 |
| 2013 | 194,516 | 173,714 |
| 2012 | 214,000 | 195,000 |
| 2011 | 205,000 | 186,000 |
| 2010 | 204,000 | 185,000 |
| 2009 | 241,000 | 230,000 |
| 2008 | 290,000 | 276,000 |
| 2007 | 250,000 | 230,000 |
| 2006 | 191,000 | 180,000 |
| 2005 | 170,000 | 155,000 |
