The Common Admission Test (CAT) is the most prestigious and competitive MBA entrance exam in India, conducted annually by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). Thousands of aspirants take this test each year to secure admission into IIMs and other top business schools in the country.
The CAT exam assesses candidates on Quantitative Aptitude (QA), Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR).
Why is Understanding the Timeline Important?
Planning is crucial for CAT preparation. Knowing the exact dates and deadlines helps aspirants:
- Create an effective study plan aligned with key milestones.
- Avoid last-minute stress related to registration and documentation.
- Prepare strategically by setting section-wise targets based on available time.
What Does This Article Cover?
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover:
- The expected exam date and timeline for CAT 2025.
- Key strategies to prepare efficiently and essential FAQs.
By the end of this article, you will have a clear roadmap to tackle CAT 2025 successfully. Let’s dive in!
Overview of the CAT 2025 Exam
What is CAT?
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national-level MBA entrance exam conducted annually by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). It is a computer-based test (CBT) that assesses a candidate’s aptitude in three key areas:
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
CAT scores are accepted not just by IIMs but also by other prestigious B-schools like FMS Delhi, SPJIMR, MDI Gurgaon, and IMT Ghaziabad.
Who Conducts the CAT Exam?
Each year, one of the IIMs rotates the responsibility of conducting the CAT exam. In 2025, IIM Kozhikode is expected to take charge of administering the exam.
Here’s a look at the previous years’ CAT conducting bodies:
| Year | Conducting IIM |
| 2024 | IIM Calcutta |
| 2023 | IIM Lucknow |
| 2022 | IIM Bangalore |
Purpose of the CAT Exam
The primary objective of CAT is to shortlist candidates for admission into top-tier MBA programs. The exam evaluates a candidate’s:
- Analytical & problem-solving skills
- Language proficiency
- Decision-making ability under time constraints
Many private and government management institutes also consider CAT scores for MBA/PGDM admissions, making it the most sought-after entrance exam for management aspirants.
Expected Number of Test-Takers in 2025
Each year, the number of CAT applicants increases as more students aim for top B-schools. Below is a look at past trends:
| Year | Total Applicants | Candidates Appeared |
| 2024 | 3.29 lakh | 2.93 lakh |
| 2023 | 3.23 lakh | 2.88 lakh |
| 2022 | 2.55+ lakh | 2.22+ lakh |
For CAT 2025, the number of applicants is expected to cross 3.5 lakh, given the rising demand for IIMs and top MBA colleges in India.
CAT 2025 Exam Date and Important Events
Understanding the timeline of the CAT 2025 exam is crucial for aspirants to plan their preparation effectively. The CAT exam usually takes place on the last Sunday of November, and the notification is released months in advance.
Expected CAT 2025 Exam Date
Although the official exam date will be announced by the conducting IIM in July 2025, based on past trends, CAT 2025 is expected to be held on:
- Tentative CAT 2025 Exam Date: November 23, 2025 (Sunday)
The pattern demonstrated below suggests that CAT 2025 is likely to be scheduled for November 23, 2025. However, candidates must keep checking the official CAT website for confirmation.
| Year | Exam Date | Last Sunday of November |
| 2024 | November 24 | Yes |
| 2023 | November 26 | Yes |
| 2022 | November 27 | Yes |
Key Events and Timeline
Below is the tentative schedule for CAT 2025 based on past years’ trends:
| Event | Expected Date |
| CAT 2025 Notification Release | July 2025 |
| Start of Online Registration | August 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | September 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | October 2025 |
| CAT 2025 Exam Date | November 23, 2025 (Sunday) |
| Answer Key Release | December 2025 |
| CAT 2025 Result Declaration | January 2026 |
Key Notes on the CAT 2025 Timeline:
- Notification Release (July 2025): The official CAT notification will be published on iimcat.ac.in.
- Registration Window (August–September 2025): Candidates must apply online, upload documents, and pay the exam fee before the deadline.
- Admit Card Availability (October 2025): The admit card will be available for download from the official website.
- Exam Day (November 30, 2025): The test is expected to be conducted in three slots: Morning, Afternoon, and Evening.
- Result Declaration (January 2026): Scorecards will be available online, and candidates can download them from the official portal.
Key Strategies to Prepare Efficiently for CAT 2025
Preparing for CAT 2025 requires a well-structured plan and consistent Practice. Here are some key strategies to help you prepare efficiently and maximize your chances of scoring high.
1. Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus
Before starting your preparation, familiarize yourself with the CAT exam pattern and syllabus.
- Focus on section-wise preparation to improve weak areas.
- Prioritize high-weightage topics like Reading Comprehension, Arithmetic, and Logical Reasoning.
2. Create a Realistic Study Plan
A structured study plan helps in covering the syllabus efficiently.
- Phase 1 (First 3 months): Focus on building conceptual clarity in all sections.
- Phase 2 (Next 3 months): Start taking sectional tests & improving accuracy.
- Phase 3 (Last 2 months): Take full-length mock tests, analyze mistakes and finalize your exam day strategies.
Tip: Study at least 3-4 hours daily and revise regularly.
3. Strengthen Your Conceptual Knowledge
Many CAT aspirants struggle with Quantitative Aptitude and Logical Reasoning due to weak conceptual knowledge.
- Learn shortcuts & tricks for solving questions faster.
- Practice mental calculations to improve speed in QA.
- Improve your reading speed & comprehension skills for VARC.
Use NCERT books for Quant basics and editorial reading (The Hindu, Economic Times) for VARC.
4. Take Mock Tests and Analyze Performance
Mock tests are crucial for CAT preparation.
- Analyze each mock test to understand mistakes.
- Identify weak areas and work on improving them.
- Practice time management by setting time limits.
5. Focus on Accuracy and Time Management
CAT is not just about attempting all questions—it’s about maximizing accuracy within a limited time.
- Follow the 80-20 rule – Focus on high-weightage topics first.
- Skip difficult questions instead of wasting time.
- Use the option elimination technique in MCQs.
6. Maintain a Balance Between Speed and Accuracy
Speed without accuracy leads to negative marking.
- Practice solving questions in a timed environment.
- Avoid guesswork in MCQs with negative markings.
- Develop a strategy for attempting each section based on strengths.
7. Stay Consistent and Avoid Burnout
Consistency is the key to success in CAT.
- Set daily and weekly goals for better tracking.
- Take short breaks to refresh your mind.
- Stay motivated with a support system (mentors, peers, or online groups).
Final Tip: Stay updated with CAT 2025 official announcements, practice regularly, and refine your strategy as you progress.
Conclusion: Stay Ahead with Proper Planning for CAT 2025
The CAT 2025 exam is one of the most competitive entrance tests for MBA aspirants in India. Understanding the exam dates, timeline, and selection process is crucial for adequate preparation. Here’s a quick recap of key takeaways:
- CAT 2025 exam date (tentative): November 23, 2025
- Registration starts in August 2025
- Admit card release: October 2025
- Result declaration: January 2026
- Selection process: Shortlisting, WAT/GD/PI, final merit list
With millions of aspirants competing for a limited number of seats in top IIMs and B-schools, early and strategic preparation is the key to success.
Ace CAT 2025 with Tarkashastra
At Tarkashastra, we are committed to helping MBA aspirants achieve their dream of getting into top B-schools. Our expert faculty, data-driven study plans, and AI-powered learning tools ensure that you get the best preparation for CAT 2025.
Why Choose Tarkashastra for CAT 2025 Preparation?
- Comprehensive study material aligned with the latest CAT pattern.
- Live & recorded sessions by experienced mentors.
- AI-based performance analysis for personalized improvement.
- Mock tests & section-wise practice questions for real exam experience.
- One-on-one mentorship for strategy building and doubt resolution.
Don’t wait! Start your CAT 2025 journey with Tarkashastra today and take the first step towards your dream MBA college!
Visit Tarkashastra.co.in to learn more and enrol now!
FAQs on CAT 2025 Exam Dates and Timeline
1. When is the CAT 2025 exam expected to be held?
The CAT 2025 exam is expected to be conducted on the Sunday of November 2025, which falls on November 23, 2025 (tentative). IIMs will announce the official date in July 2025.
2. How can I stay updated on the CAT 2025 exam date?
To stay updated, candidates should regularly check:
- The official CAT website is iimcat.ac.in.
- Notifications from IIMs and leading coaching institutes like ours (Tarkashastra).
3. When will CAT 2025 registration begin?
The CAT 2025 registration is expected to start in August 2025 and will remain open until mid-September 2025. Candidates should complete the registration process well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
4. How long is the CAT 2025 exam?
The CAT 2025 exam duration is 2 hours (120 minutes). It consists of three sections, each with a 40-minute time limit:
- VARC (Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension) – 40 minutes
- DILR (Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning) – 40 minutes
- QA (Quantitative Ability) – 40 minutes
There is no option to switch between sections once a section’s time is up.
5. What is the application deadline for CAT 2025?
The CAT 2025 application deadline is expected to be in mid-September 2025. However, IIMs may provide a one-week extension in some cases. Candidates should complete their applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
6. What are the key milestones in the CAT 2025 timeline?
All the key milestones in the CAT 2025 timeline have already been mentioned above. Please refer to the details provided earlier.
7. Can I change my exam centre after registering for CAT 2025?
No, once the CAT application form is submitted, the exam centre cannot be changed. Candidates should carefully select their preferred exam cities while filling out the application form.
8. Will there be any changes to the CAT 2025 exam format due to unforeseen circumstances?
The CAT exam format has mainly remained the same in recent years. Still, IIMs may introduce changes due to technological advancements or unforeseen situations. Candidates should refer to the official CAT website for the latest updates.
