CAT 2025 exam was conducted on November 30, 2025. Candidates are advised to be keen on their CAT exam timings, CAT shift timings, follow CAT 2025 exam syllabus and pattern, as many top corporate leaders who cracked the Common Admission Test (CAT) and made it to top IIMs and B-schools agree on one thing: there’s no substitute for hard work and smart preparation. CAT 2025 is not just about knowledge; it’s about applying logic with the right strategy. Candidates must emphasise all three CAT 2025 sections: QA, DILR, and Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC). To boost your chances, follow proven CAT expert tips, stick to your study plan, and don’t miss the 10 key points to know while attempting CAT 2025 for a confident CAT exam day performance.
Talking specifically about the CAT 2025 exam, we have to keep in mind that this is a computer-based test conducted annually by the IIMs to evaluate candidates on various parameters essential for managerial roles. There are three main sections: Quantitative Aptitude (QA), VARC, and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR). Each section is equally important, and the set goal is to assess different skills critical for success in the business world.
Important CAT Exam Preparation and Strategy
The first important thing that is required is effective preparation and a strategic approach to target something around like 99.99 percentile or 100 percentile. It is not difficult as closely the data is telling every year there are aspirants scoring the top percentile with a well-planned study schedule, clear conceptual understanding, and proficient time management skill sets. So the golden days of preparation have to be utilised diligently.
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Preparing for CAT 2025 requires a smart mix of consistency, concept clarity, and test-taking strategy. In this section, experts share practical tips to help you strengthen your preparation and improve your chances of getting into top B-schools.
1. Clarity with the CAT Exam Syllabus and CAT Exam Pattern
The CAT exam always tries to assess students' communication, logical reasoning and comprehension skills, as well as their ability to work with numbers. Though there is no specific CAT exam syllabus, the CAT common topics and questions can be identified by analysing the CAT previous year question papers. The CAT exam consists of three major sections with both MCQ and TITA questions:
SECTION 1: TOTAL - 24 QUES: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), which focuses on topics of English such as reading comprehension, para jumble, misfit, best fit, and para summaries.
SECTION 2: TOTAL - 22 QUES: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), which focuses on the interpretation of data through the information provided in the form of graphs, charts, and arrangements.
SECTION 3: TOTAL - 22 QUES: Quantitative Aptitude (QA), which includes topics of mathematics such as algebra, arithmetic, geometry, modern math, etc.
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It is important to know the pattern and syllabus with an in-depth analysis of all criteria. And most importantly, keep in mind that negative marking is there.
2. Maintaining a Comprehensive Study Plan
Equal importance is to be given to all sections as the CAT 2025 sectional cut-off is there. Try to divide your day very effectively as the majority of students preparing for the CAT 2025 exam usually seek a specific number or statistic to understand the level of effort required. However, it's not just about the number of hours spent on preparation but about the quality of learning derived from the process.
Throughout your preparation, it's crucial to continually assess your learning and ensure that you're reaching your learning goals. Setting clear goals with deadlines is very important, as it helps you stay focused and motivated. When goals are set with timelines, it becomes easier to track progress and make necessary revisions. It is important to set realistic goals and have a schedule that includes short breaks. Keep proper time for practice and revision.
For example -
For the CAT 2025 VARC section, Reading Comprehensions: Basics and Concepts- 3 weeks can be used like
Basics of Reading
Speed Reading
Types of questions and how to handle them
Subject-wise important terminology
Reading Comprehensions: Practice
Target Daily RC Practice: Solve 1 RC a day
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In the first phase of your preparation, you need to focus on basic concepts for different preparation areas. You need to adopt a methodical approach for your preparation and make sure you go through these concepts one at a time. Don’t be fixed for a single topic, try and test different methodologies to improve your memory retention power.
For the CAT 2025 LR section, let’s spend 10 days on each topic can be a good plan.
Linear Arrangement
Matrix Arrangement
Circular Arrangement
Blood Relation and Family Tree
Group/Team Formation, etc.
Games and Tournaments
Paths & Routes
4. Revisiting the Topics Regularly with Mock Tests
It's important to remember that even if you feel like you haven't covered the entire syllabus, you should still take practice exams at this stage. CAT is an aptitude exam, and most of the topics you'll encounter are ones you should have studied before. Taking practice exams helps you understand the demands of the exam better and refine your preparation. Play crossword pussles, take quisses, and try Sudoku or mental math-related quisses.
You might feel like you haven't covered the entire syllabus and that you shouldn't be taking practice exams at this point. Don't let yourself fall into this mindset. At the very least, taking practice exams helps you understand the exam's requirements better and allows you to improve your preparation. Try to work according to the analysis i.e. the strength area and the weak area. The constant hunt for improving your weakness should be ongoing.
5. Managing Time Management Skills
The target should be first on concept building along with syllabus completion. Once achieved the focus should be on developing effective time management strategies during both preparation and the exam. Practice should be done by sticking to time as each section is allocated 40 minutes only. So, accuracy plus time management have to be balanced out distinctly. If you are falling short of time in a certain section, then this is the time to fix this. Cutting down even 15 seconds from every question will help you reduce substantial time in each section. If you already save a lot of time, focus on improving your reviewing and double-checking skills. Try to prioritise the needs and take steps to maintain the schedule accordingly.
6. Honing your Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension
It is important to read on a daily basis if you are working on the VARC segment. Read from different topics and have a good hold on a variety of areas. The first target is accuracy then speed. Work on speed reading simultaneously. Try to set clear goals with an integrated study schedule and don’t forget to practice reading comprehension daily. Side by side work on vocabulary and terminology based on different areas like history, technology, etc so that in the exam you appear confidently.
7. Strengthening your Quantitative Aptitude
Try to manage the topics that are important like arithmetic, geometry, algebra and etc. Focus on basic maths requirements like calculation, tables, square roots and etc. Be fast and accurate in the basic area and then practice all sets of questions from different levels of difficulty. Try to follow a different range of shortcut tricks to be faster and more accurate. Use wide resources to solve the questions from different levels of difficulty.
8. Revising Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning Skills
Here are two segments for LR just practice as much as possible by understanding the concepts with clarity. And for DI increase your comprehension skill set as much as possible. The strategy should be to focus on different types of data sets, along with regular practice, and simulate test conditions. It is important to solve from diverse sets as much as possible to increase your comprehension skills.
9. Staying Consistent and Motivated
Please review your list of strengths and weaknesses to ensure that there are no major topics in your weaker areas. If you are still making mistakes in certain areas, re-watch the relevant lessons. If there are topics where you feel you don't have enough time to start from scratch, consider leaving them and not spending time on them if they come up in the CAT exam. Track your progress closely and logically.
10. Prioritising your Health and Well-being
Say bye-bye to apprehension and try to reduce anxiety, it's recommended to practice mindfulness techniques such as breathing exercises and visualisation. Cultivating a positive mindset is the key to improving your performance.
Breathing Exercises: Practice deep breathing exercises to calm your nerves, enhance focus, and achieve relaxation. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth, thereby releasing tension and promoting relaxation.
Visualisation Techniques: Visualise yourself approaching the exam with confidence, answering questions with clarity and precision, and achieving your desired outcomes. Positive visualisation can bolster your confidence and alleviate apprehension. Remember, a confident and positive mindset is the key to success. You must be ready on the CAT exam day guidelines 2025.
CAT 2025 Exam Day Guidelines and Tips
1. Follow the Invigilator’s Instructions
It is very important to follow the instructions with clarity. So try to strictly follow the exam rules and instructions provided by the invigilator. If you have any doubts, don’t hesitate to seek clarification or additional help.
2. Start With Known Questions
The art of success lies in how you arrange your problem-solving algorithms. Manage your time effectively by allotting it based on each question's weightage and complexity. Start with the section you feel most confident about. Quickly skim the entire question paper to gauge the difficulty level and identify easy questions. Mark is challenging questions for later. Read questions carefully, double-check your answers for accuracy, and avoid rushing. Utilise time-saving strategies and shortcuts to solve problems more efficiently.
3. Keep in Mind the Sectional Time Management
Each section is important and timed so allocate time effectively across sections based on your strengths and weaknesses. Divide the available time strategically among the different sections, maximising your chances of answering questions accurately and comprehensively.
4. Select TITA Questions Meticulously
The approach to non-MCQ (TITA) questions should be carefully planned to ensure accuracy and efficiency. It's important to decide when to attempt the TITA questions and whether to attempt them at all.
5. Use the On-Screen Calculator
If basic and fundamentals are strong for every question one has to be not dependent on calculators. Yet utilise the calculator provided on the screen for calculations to save time. So balance out and use it accordingly.
6. Focus on Your Work
The game is on for concentration and solving so avoid distractions and maintain focus on solving each question accurately. Be calm and relaxed while attempting the paper.
7. Do Not Waste Time on Tricky Questions
The areas or sub-areas that are challenging should be avoided as negative markings are there. If a question seems too challenging, move on to maximise your attempt rate.
8. Remember Quality Over Quantity Matters
It is about attempting with maximised accuracy and minimised mistakes, so try to prioritise accuracy and thoroughness in your answers rather than attempting all questions.
9. Double-Check the Answers
In case time permits, try to review each answer before moving on to ensure accuracy and correctness. Negative marking challenges should be kept in mind.
10. Say No to Panic Moment
CAT preparation in the last phase is all about keeping your wits. You need to make sure you are calm and composed at this stage and do not let negative thoughts cloud your judgment.
CAT Mock Test 2025 plays a vital role in exam preparation by simulating the actual test environment. It helps aspirants build speed, accuracy, and confidence. Regular practice with the CAT 2025 mock test series allows students to identify weak areas and improve their test-taking strategy effectively.
1. Get Used to the CAT 2025 Exam Syllabus and Exam Pattern
Mock tests look and feel just like the real CAT exam. They help you understand how the questions are asked, how much time you get per section, and what to expect on exam day.
2. Learn to Manage Your Time Better
CAT has strict time limits for each section. By taking mock tests, you’ll learn how to divide your time smartly between VARC, DILR, and Quant so that you don’t feel rushed.
3. Know What You’re Good At and What Needs Work
Mocks help you see which topics you’re strong in and which ones need more practice. If you struggle with puzzles or geometry, you’ll know exactly where to focus next.
4. Build Focus and Stamina
The CAT exam is long and needs full focus. Regularly solving mock tests helps you stay sharp for the entire duration and prepares you to stay calm under pressure.
5. Improve Accuracy and Avoid Negative Marks
With regular practice, you’ll get better at spotting tricky questions and avoiding silly mistakes. You’ll also learn when it’s smarter to skip a question instead of guessing and risking negative marking.
10 Common Mistakes to Avoid for CAT Preparation
CAT 2025 exam gives us a lesson that nothing is fixed so work on strategies and planning and while doing it kindly avoid the common 10 mistakes to gain success in mind as some best CAT Expert Tips 2025.
CAT Common Mistakes
Description
CAT 2025 Exam Mistrake Avoidance Tip
Lagging with a Study Plan
Many students feel the need very late so working on a perfect study plan is a must.
Try to divide the schedule minutely like day-wise or week-wise to closely approach the trajectory.
A big No to Mock Tests
Many students have a phobia of not attempting mocks which acts as a great barrier in their preparation journey.
Stay calm and with a strategic approach give mocks.
Running away from Weak Areas
Focusing only on strengths and avoiding weaker subjects.
Spend extra time with different variety of strategies to start visiting your weak areas with positivity.
Confidant is my One Resource
The wrong approach of considering one resource as the best.
Be an explorer in this journey and start using a variety of study materials, including books, online resources, and coaching material.
Yes or no mentality for Practice
Only focusing on concepts not doing enough practice. Cramming like early birds will not help.
Maintain a consistent study routine with regular practice and revision.
Lag of fundamental Clarity
Memorising formulas and shortcuts without understanding the underlying concepts.
Use mind mapping techniques or association methods to get a connection with your preparation.
Skipping the Basics
Jumping to advanced topics without mastering the basics.
First basic concept then solve 3 levels of questions easy, moderate, and difficult.
Not focusing on Time Management
Syllabus accuracy and time management are three areas that are important for achieving good results.
Practice time management techniques and take timed mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
Ignoring Health and Well-being
Overworking, overthinking, and anxiety are enemies in this golden period. So come out of these.
Maintain a balanced lifestyle with regular breaks, exercise, and a healthy diet.
Ignoring analysis segment
Running away from analysis. Not giving enough time for analysis.
While analysing, try not to study. Find out every small pointer and have a positive outlook towards it.
Following expert advice i.e., CAT expert tips can significantly enhance your chances of success in CAT. By incorporating these tips into your preparation, you will see a big change. Try to follow and listen to successful candidates' interviews so that you can understand the requirements. Follow the path shown by your mentors for your upcoming success story. Dedicated patience and perseverance throughout this journey will make you motivated a lot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can we expect some last-minute changes in the paper?
A:
Yes, that’s the aroma of CAT. Every time there are minor changes in the test pattern of the paper so be ready and flexible.
Q: Can someone prepare by working the last 5 months before the CAT exam?
A:
It is possible. Follow the methodology and clear goal set. Follow the pointers as discussed in the above article.
Q: How can I improve my comprehension speed?
A:
The obvious target should be to enhance comprehension speed by gradually increasing reading pace, practicing with diverse passages, minimizing distractions, and refining skimming and scanning techniques.
Q: How can one improve speed in solving quantitative aptitude questions?
A:
Practice regularly and focus on time-saving techniques such as mental math and shortcut methods. Don’t be overly dependent on the calculator.
Q: How can one effectively maintain balance in preparation for all three sections of the CAT exam?
A:
Try to create a balanced study schedule that allows specific time slots for Analytical Ability, Mathematical Ability, and Communication Ability based on your strengths and weaknesses.
Q: What should I know about the CAT 2025 exam pattern?
A:
CAT 2025 has three sections, VARC, DILR, and Quant. Each section is timed, and the paper includes both multiple-choice and non-MCQ (TITA) questions. It’s important to know the structure well so you don’t get confused during the exam.
Q: Why is a proper study plan so important for CAT 2025?
A:
You can’t just focus on one section; CAT has cut-offs for each. A good study plan helps you give time to all three sections, revise regularly, and improve steadily without burning out.
Q: How do mock tests help in CAT preparation?
A:
Mocks give you real exam practice. They help you learn time management, spot weak areas, and build confidence. If you take them seriously and review your mistakes, your score will improve over time.
Q: What’s the best way to handle tough questions during the exam?
A:
Don’t waste time on anything that feels confusing right away. If you’re unsure about an MCQ, skip it wrong answers lead to negative marks. But attempt TITA questions since there’s no penalty.
Q: What should I avoid doing on CAT exam day?
A:
Don’t panic or try to cram last minute. Reach the centre early, carry all necessary documents, and stay calm. Avoid discussing tough topics with others before the exam.
The results for the CAT 2025 entrance, which is conducted on November 30, 2025, were declared on December 22, 2025. Candidates can download and see their results on the official IIM CAT website. On the website, click on the "CAT 2025 Result/Scorecard" link to download the result by entering the required details.
The link to the website where you can check the published result is attached herewith. The result will be out soon. You can also check the cutoffs on the website of Careers360.
CAT does not restrict eligibility based on stream. Candidates from commerce, arts, science, engineering or any other background can appear for CAT and apply to MBA programmes offered by IIMs and other top B-schools.
The basic eligibility criteria for CAT are:
You must hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognised university with at least 50 percent marks (45 percent for SC, ST and PwD categories). Final-year graduation students are also eligible to apply.
Being a commerce graduate can actually be an advantage in areas such as accounting, finance, economics and business studies, especially during MBA coursework in finance, marketing and operations.
After qualifying CAT, admission depends on multiple factors including CAT percentile, academic background, work experience (if any), performance in GD, WAT and personal interview rounds. Many IIMs and B-schools follow a diverse academic background policy, which means non-engineering candidates, including commerce graduates, often receive additional weightage.
Apart from IIMs, several reputed institutes such as FMS Delhi, SPJIMR Mumbai, MDI Gurgaon, IMT Ghaziabad, and many state and private universities also accept CAT scores for MBA admissions.
So, as a commerce graduate, you are fully eligible to appear for CAT and pursue an MBA, provided you meet the minimum academic requirements and perform well in the selection process.
If you want, I can also help you with realistic CAT percentile targets based on your academic profile or suggest suitable MBA colleges.
With a CAT 2025 raw score of 84 and strong sectionals, your expected percentile may fail in the high 98 range , depending on scaling. Your excellent academics and 2 years of work experience strengthen your profile .IIM Lucknow calls are possible but competitive for EWS engineers , while FMS Delhi looks mainly at CAT score and VARC , so you have a reasonable chance there . Final calls depend on cutoffs and composite score.
For a raw score of 56 in CAT 2025 Slot 3, your expected overall percentile is likely to be in the range of the 90th-95th percentile. The exact percentile can vary slightly on the final normalization process and the process and performance of all test-takers. In this
article
you'll find more about the CAT result.
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