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CAT Registration 2025 Started on iimcat.ac.in: Check Key Dates, Fees, Exam Pattern, Preparation, List of IIMs

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Last Updated on August 4, 2025 by MBAUniverse.com News Desk

CAT 2025 exam date is November 30, 2025. CAT Registration 2025 has begun on official CAT website iimcat.ac.in from August 1, 2025. CAT 2025 exam fees has been increased from Rs 2500 to Rs 2600 for general candidates and from Rs 1250 to Rs 1300 for SC, ST and PwD category candidates. IIM Kozhikode is conducting the CAT 2025 exam. CAT exam scores are accepted by 21 IIMs, 7 IITs, and almost all top B-schools. Read this in-depth article for complete guide on CAT 2025 exam dates, eligibility, registration, pattern, syllabus, preparation, coaching, IIMs and non-IIM CAT accepting colleges, and a lot more.

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CAT 2025 Registration begins on IIMCAT.ac.in - Official Website Updated

CAT Registration 2025 has begun on official CAT website iimcat.ac.in from August 1, 2025. CAT 2025 registration dates are from August 1 till September 13, 2025. CAT 2025 registration fees is Rs 2600 for General Candidates and Rs 1300 for reserved category candidates. CAT official website iimcat.ac.in has been updated with many important information. Here are the key highlights from CAT official website. 

1. IMPORTANT DATES
CAT official website has confirmed the following dates for CAT 2025 exam.

  • Registration opens: August 01, 2025 (10:00 am)
  • Registration closes: September 13, 2025 (5:00 pm)
  • Admit card download: November 05-November 30, 2025
  • Test date: November 30, 2025
  • Result declaration: First week of January, 2026 (Tentative)

2. CAT 2025 IN THREE SESSIONS
CAT website has confirmed that “the Indian Institutes of Management will conduct a computer-based Common Admission Test 2025 (CAT 2025) on November 30, 2025 in three sessions”.

3. CAT REGISTRATION FEES
CAT Exam Fees is as follows: 

  • ₹1300 for SC, ST and PwD category candidates.
  • ₹2600 for all other categories of candidates.

CAT Notification 2025 informs that “a candidate needs to pay the registration fees only once, irrespective of the number of institutes he/she is applying for. Fees once paid cannot be refunded under any circumstances.”

4. TEST CENTRES
CAT will be conducted in test centres spread across around 170 test cities. Candidates can select five preferred cities during registration. Check list of CAT 2025 Test Centers.

Continue reading this article for complete guide on CAT exam introduction, eligibility, registration, pattern, syllabus, preparation, coaching and a lot more. All information has been updated based on CAT official website 2025. 

What is CAT Exam?

Conducted by one of the top IIMs every year by rotation, Common Admission Test is the largest MBA entrance exam for MBA admission in 21 IIMs and other top B-schools. So, it is the mandatory entrance exam for MBA admission 2026 in all the 21 IIMs, FMS Delhi, IIFT Delhi, SPJIMR Mumbai, MDI Gurgaon, IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi and hundreds of other top B-schools in India. Total number of candidates who registered for CAT 2024 exam was 3.29 lakhs. However, total number of candidates who appeared in CAT 2024 exam was 2.93 lakhs only. Salient Points about the CAT Exam are:

  • CAT is a computer-based test conducted at more than 155 test cities and 400+ test venues
  • CAT exam duration is two hours. Time allotted for three sections is 40 minutes each.
  • CAT exam is divided into three sections of Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension; Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning and Quantitative Ability
  • CAT Exam score is mandatory requirement for IIM admissions. IIMs do not consider any other exam like XAT or GMAT for two-year full-time MBA/PGP admission.
CAT 2025 Notification

CAT 2025 Highlights

CAT 2025 will be conducted by IIM Kozhikode. CAT 2025 will be held on November 30, 2025. Check complete details about CAT exam 2025.

CAT 2025 Highlights

CAT Exam ParticularsKey Details
CAT Exam Full Form to CAT Full FormCommon 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 CAT 2025 paper?66-68 Questions
How many sections will be there in CAT 2025 paper?Three Sections; Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability
What is the Scoring Pattern for CAT 2025 exam?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 CAT 2025 Exam?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 in pre-defined order from section 1 to 3.
What is the Testing Mode of CAT 2025?CAT 2025 will be held as Computer based exam at test centres across the country.
What is CAT 2025 Notification Release date?CAT 2025 Notification was released on Sunday, July 27, 2025
Which are 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?CAT Application process can be done online on CAT official website iimcat.ac.in
What will be 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 Exam Date 2025

CAT 2025 Exam Date is November 30, 2025. CAT exam important dates for registration, admit card and other events are given below:

CAT 2025: Important Dates

CAT 2025 Important Dates & TimelineCAT 2025 Timeline
CAT Notification Release Date 2025July 27, 2025
CAT 2025 Registration Start Date August 01, 2025 (10:00 am)
CAT 2025 Registration Last DateSeptember 13, 2025 (5:00 pm)
CAT Admit Card Release 2025November 5, 2025 
CAT Exam Date 2025 November 30, 2025
CAT Answer Key Release DateDecember 3, 2025 (Tentative)
CAT Result Release DateFirst week of January, 2026 (Tentative)

CAT Eligibility Criteria 2025

Below are the important points regarding CAT 2025 eligibility criteria:

  • A candidate with minimum 50% marks in graduation is eligible
  • A final year student in graduation is also eligible
  • There is no age limit to apply and appear in the exam
  • Note that IIMs have different eligibility criteria for MBA Admissions


Note that IIMs have different CAT exam eligibility criteria for MBA Admissions

Also Read: CAT Eligibility Criteria 2025

CAT Registration 2025

CAT registration process has started on iimcat.ac.in. CAT 2025 registration start date is August 1, 2025. CAT 2025 registration last date is September 13, 2025. How to Apply for CAT 2025? CAT registration 2025 process can be completed by following these simple steps: 

Step 1: Registration for User ID and Password 
Visit the CAT official website iimcat.ac.in and register for getting your User ID and password. 

Step 2: Login to CAT 2025 Website
After receiving your User ID and password, login to CAT website and enter the same to login to your account.

Step 3: Fill Application Form
This is the main step for CAT registration. CAT Application Form is categorized into the following six sections:

  1. PERSONAL DETAILS
  2. ACADEMICS
  3. WORK EXPERIENCE
  4. PROGRAMMES
  5. TEST CITY
  6. DECLARATION  

List of Documents Required for CAT Registration

  • Valid email address & mobile number for entire exam duration
  • Passport size photograph (within 1200 x 1200 pixels, < 80 KB)
  • Scanned signature (within 80mm x 35mm, < 80 KB)
  • Educational qualification details (SSC, HSC, Bachelor's, Master's, etc.)
  • Valid EWS/NC-OBC/SC/ST certificate (if applicable)
  • Valid PwD certificate (if applicable)
  • Caste/Tribe certificate (for reserved category candidates)
  • Additional documents as per the selected category, if applicable

Read Guide to CAT 2025 Registration Process covering all the above steps in detail. 

CAT registration highlights are presented in table below. CAT 2025 registration link is given below. 
 

CAT Registration 2025 Highlights

Key Highlight Details
CAT Registration Start DateAugust 1, 2025 
CAT Registration Last DateSeptember 13, 2025
CAT Registration LinkCAT 2025 Registration Direct Link 
CAT Registration FeesRs. 2600 for General/EWS /OBC Candidates; Rs. 1300 for SC/ST/PWD candidates
Time Required to Fill CAT Form1 Hour 
CAT Registration Documents Required Educational qualification details; Work experience details; Valid email address & mobile number; Passport size Photograph; Scanned Signature; Valid EWS/NC-OBC/SC/ST/PWD certificate/s (if applicable)

CAT IIM List with Programs

CAT 2025 exam scores will be accepted by 21 IIMs for more than 50 general and specialized MBA programs. Check list of IIMs accepting CAT scores with their Post Graduate Programmes in Management (PGP) programs and website in table below. Please note that Admission process for each IIM is independent of CAT exam. While performance in the CAT 2025 examination is an important component for consideration in IIM admission process, each IIM has their own eligibility criteria (including academic cut-offs and relative weights) and follow different selection processes. IIMs may also use the previous academic performance of the candidates, relevant work experience and other similar inputs in short-listing of candidates. Each IIM will release their own admission policy in coming months.

CAT Cut Off for IIM admission is fixed by each IIM by category. While the qualifying CAT cut offs range between 80 and 90 percentile (General category), the final cut offs are much higher. For the top IIMs, the final CAT cut offs for general candidates are usually between 98-100 percentile, whereas for other IIMs, the cut offs range between 92-97 percentile.

CAT 2025 List of IIMs with MBA Programs

IIMProgrammesWebsite
IIM Ahmedabad  PGP, PGP-FABM, ePGD-ABA (ePost Graduate Diploma in Advanced Business Analytics)  www.iima.ac.in  
IIM Amritsar  MBA, MBA-Business Analytics, MBA-HRM, EMBA, M.Sc. in 
Data Science (MSDSM) jointly offered with IIT Ropar 
www.iimamritsar.ac.in  
IIM Bangalore  PGP, PGPEM, PGPBA, PGPPM www.iimb.ac.in 
IIM Bodh Gaya MBA, MBA (Digital Business Management), MBA (Hospital and Healthcare Management), Executive MBA (EMBA) www.iimbg.ac.in  
IIM Calcutta MBA www.iimcal.ac.in
IIM Indore  PGP, PGP-HRM, MSDSM (Master of Science in Data Science and Management), PGPMX www.iimidr.ac.in 
IIM Jammu MBA, MBA (Healthcare), Executive MBA www.iimj.ac.in 
IIM Kashipur MBA, MBA (Analytics), EMBA, EMBA (Analytics) www.iimkashipur.ac.in  
IIM Kozhikode  PGP, PGP-BL, PGP-FINANCE, PGP-LSM, EPGP-IL, EPGP Kochi www.iimk.ac.in
IIM Lucknow  MBA, MBA-ABM, MBA-SM, PGPWE, Blended MBAwww.iiml.ac.in
IIM Mumbai  MBA, MBA (Operations and Supply Chain Management),www.iimmumbai.ac.in 
IIM Nagpur  MBA, Executive MBA(Hybrid)www.iimnagpur.ac.in  
IIM Raipur  MBA, MBA in Public Policy and Governance www.iimraipur.ac.in  
IIM Ranchi  MBA, MBA-HRM, MBA (Business Analytics) www.iimranchi.ac.in
IIM Rohtak  PGP, EPGDSM, PGPx www.iimrohtak.ac.in
IIM Sambalpur MBA, MBA-BA, Executive MBA, MBA for Working Professionals www.iimsambalpur.ac.in  
IIM Shillong  PGP, PGPEX, PGP(WE) www.iimshillong.ac.in
IIM Sirmaur MBA, MBA (Tourism Management), MBA (Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Management), ExMBA, PGPEX-LSM, ExMBA (Digital Transformation & Analytics) www.iimsirmaur.ac.in 
IIM Tiruchirappalli PGPM (MBA), PGPM-HR (MBA-HR), PGPBM (MBA for Working Executives in Chennai) www.iimtrichy.ac.in  
IIM UdaipurMBA, MBA-DEM (Digital Enterprise Management), MBA-GSCM (Global Supply Chain Management), Executive MBA (Online) www.iimu.ac.in 
IIM Visakhapatnam  PGP, EMBA, PGPMCI, EPGDPM, PGDMEx www.iimv.ac.in 

CAT 2025 Exam Pattern

CAT Exam pattern is divided in three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability. Each section can be further divided into sub-sections. Since CAT exam is held in three slots, there are minor changes in the exam pattern for each slot. Also, from year to year, there are minor changes in CAT pattern, but the overall structure has remained the same.

Overall, the exam pattern has become more focused on conceptual clarity, time efficiency, and reasoning ability. Over the last five years, the CAT pattern has undergone several notable changes in its pattern, number of questions, and difficulty level. Check key changes in exam pattern below.

1. Total Number of Questions:

  • In 2019 and 2020, CAT had 100 questions (VARC: 34, DILR: 32, QA: 34).
  • From 2021 onwards, the number of questions was reduced to 66 (VARC: 24, DILR: 20, QA: 22), making the test shorter but more intense.
  • This pattern has continued through CAT 2023 and is expected to remain in CAT 2025.

2. Time Duration:

  • Until 2019, CAT had a 3-hour duration (60 minutes per section).
  • From 2020 onwards, the exam duration was reduced to 2 hours, with 40 minutes per section, which increased the pressure on time management.

3. Sectional Pattern & Difficulty Level:

  • The VARC section has seen a greater emphasis on Reading Comprehension, with fewer Verbal Ability questions like Odd One Out and Para Summary.
  • DILR has become more reasoning-focused, with tougher logic-based sets and fewer straightforward data interpretation questions.
  • QA has shifted towards Arithmetic, making it more accessible for non-engineering background candidates.

4. Question Types – MCQ vs. TITA:

  • The TITA (Type in the Answer) questions have fluctuated but generally make up 25-30% of the total paper.
  • The number of MCQs has reduced, making the paper more unpredictable, as TITA questions do not have negative marking.

5. Slot-wise Variations & Normalization:

  • Since CAT is conducted in multiple slots, the level of difficulty has varied across different slots, requiring score normalization to ensure fairness in percentile calculations.


CAT 2025 Exam pattern (expected) and CAT previous year paper pattern is given below. 

CAT 2025 Exam Pattern (Expected) 

Section No.Section NameDurationMCQsTITATotal
I
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension
40 min20424
IIData Interpretation & Logical Reasoning40 min121022
IIIQuantitative Ability40 min141822
Total-120 min462268

CAT 2024 Exam Pattern 
CAT 2024 Exam Pattern was same across all the three slots. Check table below. However, there were minor changes in section wise compositions. Check complete CAT 2024 exam analysis for details.  

CAT 2024 Exam Pattern for Slot 1, 2, 3 

Section No.Section NameDurationMCQsTITATotal
I
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension
40 min20424
IIData Interpretation & Logical Reasoning40 min121022
IIIQuantitative Ability40 min14822
Total-120 min462268

CAT Section wise Paper Pattern 
The CAT exam pattern is divided into three sections, each of which can be further categorized into sub-sections. Since the exam is conducted in three different slots, there are minor variations in the exam pattern within the sections across slots. Check CAT Sectionwise composition for Slot 1 of CAT 2024 exam. 

CAT 2024 - Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension Section Breakdown

AreaTopicNo. of QuestionsType
Reading ComprehensionRC 1: An exploration of the concept of craftsmanship, discussing its relevance and evolution over time.4MCQ
Reading ComprehensionRC 2: An analysis of how Netflix influences global culture, examining its role in shaping viewing habits and cultural trends4MCQ
Reading ComprehensionRC 3: A discussion on kangaroos, covering aspects such as their behavior, habitat, and significance in the ecosystem4MCQ
Reading ComprehensionRC 4: An examination of economic principles or phenomena, potentially discussing market dynamics, economic theories, or financial systems4MCQ
Verbal AbilityParajumble3MCQ
Verbal AbilityPara Summary3MCQ
Verbal AbilityOdd Sentence2TITA

CAT 2024 - Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning Section Breakdown

Set No.AreaSet DescriptionNo. of QuestionsQuestion Type
1Data InterpretationA candlestick plot displays opening, closing, and price trends for seven shares43 MCQ, 1 TITA
2Data InterpretationA chart details the number of countries visited by three individuals across Asia, Europe, and ROW42 MCQ, 2 TITA
3Data InterpretationTwo candidates campaign with different strategies, affecting student votes54 MCQ, 1 TITA
4Logical Reasoning4Six teams play a structured QUIET tournament with intra- and inter-group matches.55 TITA
5Logical Reasoning3Six web surfers distributed stars among four bloggers, with partial data provided.43 MCQ; 1 TITA

CAT 2024 Section wise Exam Pattern: Quantitative Ability 

AreaNo. of QuestionsType of Questions
Arithmetic8SICI, Time and Work, Time-Speed-Distance, Ratio Proportion, Mixtures & Alligations, Multiple operations, and Profit & Loss
Algebra7Quadratic equations, Inequality with graph, Functions, and Identity-based questions
Geometry3Quadrilaterals, Sphere with Cuboid
Modern Math3Logarithms, Sequences, Permutations
Number System1Remainders and Numbers

Check CAT 2024 exam analysis for details. 

CAT EXAM PATTERN 2025

CAT Syllabus 2025

  • CAT 2025 exam syllabus covers three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). While IIMs do not release a fixed syllabus, the CAT exam syllabus can be derived from CAT exam pattern.
     
  • The VARC section includes Reading Comprehension (RC), Paragraph Completion, Summary Writing, and Odd Sentence questions, testing candidates on their reading speed, comprehension, and verbal reasoning. The DILR section assesses analytical and problem-solving skills through data-based caselets, logical puzzles, seating arrangements, tournaments, and graphs/charts-based interpretation.
     
  • The Quantitative Ability (QA) section focuses on mathematical concepts, with questions from Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Modern Math, and Number Systems. Arithmetic topics such as Percentages, Ratios, Profit & Loss, and Time & Work form a significant portion of the QA section. Algebra includes Linear & Quadratic Equations, Inequalities, and Logarithms, while Geometry covers Circles, Triangles, and Mensuration. Modern Math topics like Permutation & Combination and Probability also appear in the exam. Check complete details in tables below.


Read more about CAT 2025 Syllabus for different sections.

CAT EXAM SYLLABUS 2025

CAT Preparation 2025: How to Prepare?

CAT 2025 exam date is November 30, 2025. So, can you crack CAT in 5 months or less? Yes, it is possible to prepare for CAT in less than five months. However, right CAT preparation strategy and focused execution is needed. Check tips on how to prepare for CAT 2025 exam.

  • Understanding the CAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus: The CAT exam consists of three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Each section is time-bound, with 40 minutes per section, making time management crucial. The syllabus covers key topics such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, modern math, logical reasoning, and reading comprehension. While IIMs do not release an official syllabus, past trends indicate the key areas to focus on.
     
  • Section-wise Preparation Strategy: For VARC, candidates should develop strong reading habits, focus on comprehension, and practice summary writing and para jumbles. DILR requires regular practice with logical puzzles, graphs, seating arrangements, and data caselets. In QA, arithmetic and algebra are the most important areas, and aspirants must focus on conceptual clarity, speed, and accuracy through mock tests and topic-wise practice.
     
  • Importance of Mock Tests and Analysis: Mock tests are the best preparation tool for CAT, helping aspirants adapt to the exam pattern, improve time management, and assess strengths and weaknesses. Leading test series providers like IMS, TIME, Career Launcher, and Cracku offer mocks with varying difficulty levels. Analyzing performance after each mock is crucial to identify mistakes and improve accuracy.
     
  • Best CAT Preparation Books and Resources: Some of the most recommended books include Arun Sharma’s Quantitative Aptitude, Nishit K. Sinha’s Logical Reasoning, and Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis for VARC. Coaching institutes like Elites Grid, Rodha, and 2IIM also provide structured study materials for effective preparation.
     
  • Month-wise CAT Preparation Strategy: Aspirants should start by building fundamentals in the first few months (January-April), move to intensive practice (May-June), and focus on mock tests and time management (July-September). The last two months should be dedicated to final revision and exam strategy. In the final weeks, candidates should avoid learning new topics and focus on light revision and mental preparation.


With a structured approach, consistent practice, and regular mock tests, aspirants can significantly improve their chances of scoring well in CAT 2025.

How did CAT Toppers Prepare for Each Section? Check Strategy

Topper Name & CollegeVARCDILRQuant
Shubham Bajaj, IIM Calcutta Student1.Attempt 80% with 80% accuracy, much better than 100% attempt with 50% accuracy
2.VARC is not a lot about having a very good vocabulary knowledge or extremely great grammatical skills. It is more about comprehending what you are reading
1. Learn better methods for solving a particular LRDI set
2. Use Elimination Option, you can easily eliminate 2 options out of four and for the remaining 2 options, you need a little bit careful attention
1. Found Rodha YouTube playlist on Quants quite helpful

2. Referred to Prepzone daily events 

3.Attended free workshops organized by CrackU on YouTube
Nandan Goel, IIM Calcutta Student1.VARC is one section which requires existing acumen and little of current preparation
2. I solely focused on mocks and sectional tests
3.I made a point of attempting every question in this section, unless I can’t understand the meaning of a problem.
1.Refined my basics using the material I had by attempting some questions from some chapters
2.Major preparation was through sectional tests and mock exams
3.There was no test in my student portal which was not attempted by me 
1. Completed the material (TIME books) and had for 3 times, attempted each and every question.
2. Took sectional tests on a regular basis

CAT Mock Test - 2024 Slot-1

CAT Mock Tests: Importance, Free Online 

Toppers recommend that taking Mocks is of utmost importance as it is a very important preparation tool. If you are seriously preparing for the exam and wish to score high percentile, it is necessary to attempt more and more Mock Tests to get ready for the exam day. IMS, TIME, and Career Launcher (CL) are most popular paid mock test series. 

If you are looking for free high quality CAT Mock Tests, check MBAUniverse.com CAT Mock Tests. They are based on last 10 Years’ actual CAT papers (based on CAT 2024, CAT 2023, CAT 2022, CAT 2021 and other previous year’s CAT paper). You can take them free online after a simple registration. 

CAT Coaching 2025

Should I enroll for CAT 2025 coaching? This is a common question in the minds of CAT aspirants. Read the advantages and disadvantages of CAT coaching.

If you decide for coaching, selecting the right CAT coaching institute is an important step. Check key details to help you decide.

a) Top National CAT Coaching Institutes
Top three CAT coaching institutes with national presence are TIME, IMS and Career Launcher. They offer both offline and online CAT coaching course with fees ranging from Rs 15,000 to Rs 75,000. TIME is known for tough Mocks. Career Launcher Mock Tests was appreciated by CAT 2024 toppers. IMS Learning has strong online courses.

b) Top Regional CAT Coaching Institutes
Many coaching institutes have strong presence in some cities or states like MBA Guru in Delhi NCR.

c) Top Online CAT Coaching Institutes 
Cracku has emerged as a strong alternative to traditional coaching institutes like TIME and IMS. Similarly, many YouTube channels like Rodhas are also popular.

d)  Specialized Verbal or Quantitative Coaching Institutes

CAT Coaching Fees 
The cost of CAT coaching varies based on the mode and institute:

  • Online Programs: Generally, range from Rs 5,000 to Rs 30,000.
  • Offline Programs: Typically range from Rs 25,000 to Rs 75,000.

Selecting the Right Institute
When choosing a coaching institute, consider the following:

  • Student Feedback: Look for reviews from former students who have taken CAT recently. Also check CAT Toppers interview where they reveal their coaching institutes.
  • Faculty Expertise: Research the qualifications and experience of the teaching staff.
  • Study Material: Ensure the institute provides comprehensive and up-to-date materials.
  • Mock Tests and Analysis: Regular testing and performance analysis are crucial for tracking progress.


Read this article on CAT coaching for complete details. 

CAT Registration Numbers: Year wise Trends

Over the years, the number of CAT exam registrations has seen a fluctuating trend, with a significant increase in last two years. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021 led to a slight decline in registrations and appearances, but the numbers rebounded in 2022 and 2023.

Total number of candidates who registered for CAT 2024 exam was 3.29 lakhs. However, total number of candidates who appeared in CAT 2024 exam was 2.93 lakhs only. Below is the year-wise breakdown of CAT registrations and appearances.

CAT Registration Numbers

CAT YearRegistered CandidatesAppeared Candidates
2024329,000293,000
2023328,000288,000
2022255,501222,184
2021229,969191,660
2020227,835190,144
2019244,169209,926
2018240,338209,405
2017231,067199,632
2016232,434195,679
2015218,664179,602
2014196,988170,000
2013194,516173,714
2012214,000195,000
2011205,000186,000
2010204,000185,000
2009241,000230,000
2008290,000276,000
2007250,000230,000
2006191,000180,000
2005170,000155,000

CAT Exam Centers in India

CAT exam 2025 will be held in 170 test cities and 400+ exam centers across the country. You can select five centers of your choice that are most convenient for you. CAT authorities will try to give you the closest available center. Last year, for CAT 2024, the number of CAT test cities were increased to 170 from 160 last year. The choice of CAT 2024 Test Cities was reduced to 5 from earlier 6 cities. Check List of CAT Exam Test Cities

CAT Help Desk Contact Details

CAT 2025 help desk has been set up at IIM Kozhikode. Candidates can contact and share any queries at: [email protected]. CAT helpdesk number is 1800 210 017. IIM Kozhikode has also said that is a candidate encounters any fraudulent websites or suspicious request, they should report them immediately to the CAT help desk. 

CAT 2025 Exam Do’s and Don’ts & Guidelines

CAT Exam 2025 Do’s and Don’ts are important guidelines and instructions that are issued by IIMs for candidates to ensure smooth conduct of the exam.  

Dos: Recheck Admit Card details, Print and Carry CAT Admit Card Hard Copy, Keep Specified Photo ID Ready, Locate and Visit CAT Exam Centre in advance and Ensure to Mark Attendance.

Don’ts: Don’t carry Prohibited Articles in CAT Exam Centre, Follow Dress Code, Do Not Carry Electronic Gadgets, Don’t Apply Mehndi (Henna) on Palm Side.

CAT Result 2025

CAT 2025 results are expected to be released in the third week of December. Registered candidates can view their results by visiting the official CAT website. Candidates have to use their login details, namely CAT ID and password, to access their CAT result 2025. 

In conclusion, CAT exam date is November 30, 2025. CAT 2025 registration dates are from August 1 till September 13, 2025. CAT Convenor is IIM Kozhikode. CAT Exam Pattern is divided into three key areas: VARC, DILR, and QA. CAT preparation requires building a strong foundation and mastering the art of test-taking through CAT mock test. Above article is a complete guide on CAT exam dates, eligibility, registration, pattern, syllabus, preparation, coaching and a lot more. Stay focused, trust yourself, and aim for excellence in CAT exam 2025!

CAT 2025 FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

CAT official website is iimcat.ac.in. This is a permanent website and doesn’t change from year to year. CAT Form filling and registration is done on this website only.
CAT 2025 Notification will be released on Sunday, July 27, 2025.
CAT 2025 exam duration is 2 hours.
CAT Exam will be held on Sunday, November 30, 2025.
CAT test fees is Rs. 2600 for General/EWS /OBC candidates and Rs. 1300 for SC/ST/PWD candidates.
IIM Kozhikode will be conducting CAT 2025 exam. Official announcement is expected in July.
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