The CAT exam is one of the most critical and challenging entrance exams. This exam is conducted at the national level. In India, this exam is conducted by IIMs. It provides opportunities for admission to more than 20 IIMs and thousands to top business schools. 3 lakh plus candidates appear in this exam every year. If you want to crack the CAT exam, you must know the preparation steps and how to start with a good plan. This article discusses essential information, the eligibility format, exam pattern, and fee structure etc. A good preparation strategy plan is beneficial in CAT 2025.
Overview of the CAT Exam Syllabus
The CAT exam syllabus has no strict pattern; it is only based on trends from past years. The syllabus is divided into three parts. First is the VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension) part, which includes reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, sentence correction, and para-jumbles topics. The DILR (Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning) section provides pie charts, bar graphs, puzzles, seating arrangements, and caselets. Quantitative Ability (QA) section includes all the topics: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, mensuration, and modern mathematics. CAT does not limit the questions by type, and the syllabus may slightly change every year. Questions are generally challenging, requiring clarity in concepts and strong problem-solving abilities.
CAT 2025 Exam Marking Scheme pattern
The CAT (Common Admission Test) exam 2025 is expected to follow the same pattern as last year. This exam is conducted using CBT(Computer-Based Test) in multiple cities in India. You must complete your exam in 120 minutes. The time is divided into three parts, 40 minutes for each section. The CAT 2025 includes MCQ (Multiple Choice Questions) and TITA(Type in the Answer). According to the marking scheme, you will get + 3 marks for the right answer and -1 for the wrong answer. There is no negative marking for the TITA question. Understanding the syllabus and exam pattern is crucial to cracking the exam. Complete your syllabus by choosing good study material. And learn more important tips and tricks to improve your performance. Regular practice of mock tests will help you to analyze your performance.
CAT Eligibility Criteria for Students
Knowing the eligibility criteria for the CAT exam before applying for it is essential. The candidate should have passed a Bachelor’s degree from any University or Institution established by law or recognized authority. Professional degree holders- CA/ ICWA/ CS will also apply. The candidate must have secured at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA. Regarding SC/ ST & PwD, 45% marks will be required. However, the percentage of marks may be calculated according to the procedure followed by the respective institution/ university. There is no age limit barrier for appearing in the CAT examination and no limit barrier for attempting the CAT. Candidates appearing in the final year of their degree will also be eligible to apply.
Important dates for the CAT Exam
The CAT 2025 exam date is expected on the Sunday of November month. Official notification will be announced in the last week of July or the first week of August 2025. The CAT exam fees are based on the candidate’s category. The fee is approximately ₹2,400 for the General and NC-OBC categories. For SC, ST, and PwD students, it is around ₹1,200. The fee must be paid online at the time of registration. It is a non-refundable fee. The CAT exam 2025 registration date will be announced in August 2025. The registration process is completed online through the official websites. Candidates must create a login ID, fill in all the personal and academic details, upload the required documents, and complete the registration process. Once submitted, the correction window is open in September. Prepare your documents and understand the registration steps to complete the registration process.
How to Prepare for the CAT Exam
For the CAT 2025 exam, if you want to pass the exam, stay consistent with your focus on study. First, start to understand the exam pattern and syllabus. With the help of a basic book, you should clear all the fundamental concepts. After completing the syllabus, start practicing the mock test and the previous question paper, which will help you to analyze your performance and identify your weak areas and mistakes. It helps you to build confidence, time management, accuracy, and speed. Learn more essential tips and tricks to overcome exam stress and easily attempt the CAT exam.
Conclusion:
The CAT exam is essential for all MBA students. This article discusses important facts and CAT eligibility criteria 2025 for the CAT exam. Students need to know all the essential details, which are helpful when filling out the application form. Make a good plan with strategies to complete your syllabus. Firstly, complete the basic concept, then move to the next level. Practice mock tests on a regular basis to increase your stamina and boost your confidence. It will help you to know how to attempt exams under pressure.