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CAT exam syllabus 2025 covers several topics in three main sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). IIM Kozhikode will prepare the CAT 2025 question paper considering all topics of the CAT syllabus. The CAT is known for its rigorous and challenging syllabus. Compared to other MBA entrance exams in India, CAT questions are tricky and challenging, requiring candidates to understand the concepts thoroughly. For this, it is recommended that candidates familiarize themselves with the CAT exam syllabus topics initially. Read this article to know the important topics in the syllabus of CAT 2025, section-wise weightage, etc.
CAT 2025: VARC, DILR, and Quant: MCQs & Weightages | Chapter-wise MCQs
CAT 2025 Study Material: VARC | Quantitative Aptitude | 60 Days Study Material by Experts
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The IIM is yet to provide a detailed PDF detailing the CAT syllabus 2025. However, they mention the main subjects in the CAT exam. Candidates often refer to previous year's CAT question papers to know the topics covered in the CAT 2025.
CAT Exam Year | CAT Syllabus PDF Download Link |
---|---|
CAT 2025 | To be Available |
CAT 2024 | CAT 2024 Syllabus PDF |
CAT 2023 | CAT 2023 Syllabus PDF |
For a detailed overview and explanation of CAT syllabus 2025 topics and sub-topics, candidates are advised to read this article. Careers360 provides CAT previous year question papers. Also provides CAT syllabus topics in PDF format and helps candidates to check their covered and non-covered topics.
Candidates must be familiar with the CAT 2025 exam pattern to understand the CAT syllabus topics well. There are different questions in each section of the CAT exam. However, candidates will get 40 minutes to complete each section. The marking scheme of the CAT exam allows +3 marks for each correct answer and -1 marks for each wrong answer of MCQs. There is no negative marking for TITA questions.
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The table below provides the category-wise distribution of CAT questions:
Particulars | Details |
---|---|
DILR | 22 |
VARC | 24 |
QA | 22 |
Total Number of Questions | 68 |
CAT Total Marks 2025 | 204 |
CAT 2025 Time Duration | 120 minutes (40 minutes for each section), for PwD candidates: 53 minutes, 20 seconds |
CAT 2025 Marking Scheme |
|
NOTE: IIM Calcutta revised the CAT question paper last year. According to this last year's CAT paper, it has 68 questions with a total of 204 marks. It has 22 questions instead of 20 in DILR.
The CAT syllabus 2025 sets a framework for MBAs to effectively structure their preparation journey. Understanding the CAT syllabus is very important to secure placements in top business schools across India. The CAT exam syllabus is divided into three sections:
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Download CAT 2025 Syllabus PDF
Knowing the section-wise CAT syllabus 2025 is essential for making a strategic preparation plan. Additionally, it helps candidates identify their strong and weak areas to facilitate efficient CAT 2025 preparation. Here, we have provided section-wise detailed CAT syllabus 2025.
The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) section of the CAT exam consists of 22 questions. Last year, 2 questions were added from this section. Earlier, the DILR section had 20 questions. This section is divided into two parts: data interpretation (DI) and logical reasoning (LR), each comprising 10 questions. Generally, the questions are grouped into 3-4 sets, with only a few stand-alone questions based on LR topics.
Key topics in the DILR syllabus for CAT 2025:
CAT DILR Topics | |
---|---|
Blood Relations | Clocks and Calendars |
Series | Statements |
Syllogism | Proposition |
Venn Diagram | Data Arrangement |
Direction Sense | Data Structures |
Tables | Family Tree |
Binary Logic | Coding-Decoding |
Assumptions | Pie Charts |
Data Sufficiency | Puzzles |
Seating Arrangement | Sets & Caselets |
Bars & Line Graphs |
This section is more of hands on than simply studying. Interpretation of data in various formats is tested, as is the logical reasoning ability of candidates. Topics to focus on from CAT syllabus 2025 for DILR include the following:
For DILR, practice and more practice with the above topics from CAT syllabus 2025 will work at scoring well. Candidates need to home their solving speed, analytical and deduction capabilities for good scores. Hence CAT syllabus 2025 for DILR must be practised well.
The VARC section of the CAT exam has 24 questions. This section is divided into two main areas: verbal ability and reading comprehension. Generally, reading comprehension (RC) constitutes a significant portion of this section, comprising around 12–14 questions, while the remaining 10–12 questions come from verbal ability (VA) topics.
Here are the important topics in CAT VARC Syllabus 2025:
CAT VARC Topics | |
---|---|
Fill in the Blanks | Reading Comprehension |
Subject-Verb Agreement | Verbal Logic |
Sentence Completion | Paracompletion and Inference |
Verbal Reasoning | Article Usage |
Different Usages of the Same Word | Grammar |
Idioms | Analogies |
Errors in Tenses | Antonyms |
Foreign Language Words Used in English | Syllogisms |
Sentence Correction | One Word Substitution |
Prepositions | Types of Clauses |
Parts of Speech | Phrase Modifiers |
NOTE: Last year, Para-Jumble topics were completely removed from the CAT 2023 question paper. Hence, the CAT 2025 conducting body is expected to follow the same this year as well. Anyway, candidates are advised to study and practice Para-Jumble topics as well.
Also Read: Best Books for CAT VARC
CAT Syllabus: Download VARC Study Material
1. Reading Comprehension (RC): Since passages can be drawn from literature, science, social sciences, business, and technology, students should practice the following:
2. Vocabulary: An important aspect of the CAT 2025 exam, candidates are required to be familiar with a wide range of words and their meanings. Vocabulary-related questions may include:
3. Grammar and Usage: To accurately answer the CAT question paper for VARC, candidates require a strong grasp of grammar rules and a command over language usage. Topics to focus from CAT 2025 syllabus for VARC include
4. Critical Reasoning: This section requires the ability to evaluate arguments and make logical deductions. Topics include:
5. Paragraph Completion: To answer questions of this type, candidates need to select the most appropriate sentence that will complete a given paragraph both logically and cohesively.
6. Summary: These questions require condensing the main ideas of a passage into a concise summary. Candidates must retain the essential information in the summary.
7. Reading and Comprehending Different Text Forms: Essays, articles, editorials, literary excerpts, etc. may be given. Candidates must be adept at understanding various writing styles and textual structures. This requires much practice from the CAT syllabus 2025.
8. Contextual Understanding: These questions require the ability to understand the usage of certain words, phrases, or sentences within a passage and the context in which they are used.
The Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section contains the most challenging questions in CAT. To score well in this section, candidates must have a thorough understanding of key mathematical concepts, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and mensuration.
Here are important topics and concepts in the CAT 2025 QA syllabus:
CAT QA Topics | |
---|---|
Logarithms | |
Trigonometry | |
Surds and Indices | |
Partnership (Accounts) | |
Binomial theorem | |
Mensuration | Inequalities |
- |
Understanding the distribution of topics in the CAT exam will help candidates streamline their preparation strategy. Here is the section-wise weightage of the main topics of CAT 2025:
CAT Sections | CAT Key Topics | CAT Syllabus Weightage (Expected) |
---|---|---|
Reading Comprehension |
| 24% |
Verbal Ability |
| 10% |
Quantitative Aptitude |
| 34% |
Logical Reasoning |
| 16% |
Data Interpretation |
| 16% |
Check out how to crack CAT: Strategies from toppers to get deeper insights on tackling the CAT 2025 syllabus, putting theory into
CAT Last Minute Preparation Tips
IIM CAT syllabus has seen significant changes over the past few years. Details are below;
Changes in CAT Exam | CAT 2024 | CAT 2023 | CAT 2020 | CAT 2021 |
---|---|---|---|---|
VARC questions | 24 questions | 24 questions | Further reduced to 24 | Reduced from 34 to 26 |
DILR questions | Increased from 20 to 22 questions | 20 questions | Cut down further to 20 | Reduced from 32 to 24 |
QA questions | 22 questions | 22 questions | Reduced to 22 | Reduced from 34 to 26 |
Questions in CAT exam | Increased from 66 to 68 | 66 | Further cut to 66 | Cut down from100 to 76 |
CAT exam Score | Increased from 198 to 204 | 198 | Reduced to 198 | Reduced from 300 to 228 |
If one looks at the competition, a record 3.29 lakhs students registered for the CAT 2024 with 2.93 lakhs appearing for it and thus, the need for a good CAT 2025 strategy can be seen. This not only mean an overall preparation strategy but also for individual sections. Candidates can refer to the following section wise strategy for CAT 2025 to kick start their own CAT preparation efforts.
The best books for CAT preparation are available online and offline, but choosing the right ones can be a challenge. If you are planning to appear in CAT 2025 then only refer CAT preparation books which have detailed explanation of each topic included in CAT syllabus and sample questions for practice. Read only from CAT books recommended by experts. We have prepared section-wise lists of best CAT books to help candidates choose the best books to prepare for the CAT exam.
CAT Books | Author/ Publisher Name |
---|---|
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning | Gautam Puri |
How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT | Arun Sharma |
PSC for VA for CAT | Nishit Sinha |
30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary Mass Market Paperback | Wilfred Funk & Norman Lewis/ Simon & Schuster |
NCERT Mathematics books (Class 9-10) | NCERT |
Quantitative Aptitude | RS Aggarwal |
Quantum CAT | Arihant Publications |
Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis |
The CAT exam syllabus is considered one of the most challenging syllabi in India, as it tests a wide range of skills. The CAT syllabus tests the comprehension, logical, and quantitative skills of the candidates.
Yes. The CAT course syllabus has been the same over so many years. The questions asked from the syllabus of CAT have also been mostly the same. But last year, Para-Jumbled was completely removed from the VARC category.
The topics covered in the official CAT exam 2025 syllabus are:
As per the CAT syllabus, arithmetic and algebra dominate the CAT paper every year.
CAT has basic maths based on class 9 to 12 levels. CAT QA syllabus 2025 is more maths-based while DILR is more logical reasoning that requires very basic maths skills. Students who are weak in maths are advised to check the CAT past-year question papers to know the type of questions asked before starting their preparation.
CAT exam syllabus includes reading comprehension, data interpretation, logical reasoning, and quantitative aptitude.
The total marks one can get in CAT exam are 198. The marking scheme in CAT allows 3 marks to be awarded for a correct answer. 1 mark is deducted for each incorrect question. Non MCQs do not carry any negative marking. No marks are given or deducted for unattempted questions. There is no fixed exam pattern for CAT.
The following are important topics for CAT 2025:
Start by checking CAT syllabus 2025 and topics. Search for the best CAT books and study material. start studying after establishing a daily schedule. Also check CAT previous years question papers to understand the type of questions asked and practice. Make sure to use CAT mock tests and sample papers for regular practice purposes.
The ideal time to start CAT 2025 preparation is 6–8 months before the CAT exam date. Important factors that help crack CAT 2025 are an analysis of the CAT syllabus and topics, a good timetable for time management, a dedicated focus on strengths and goal accomplishments, and practicing with mock tests.
Reading comprehension forms a major portion of VARC. In additions topics like Sentence completion, Inferences, Odd one out, Syllogism and Analogies, One word substitution, Sentence Correction are also covered under CAT VARC syllabus.
Candidates preparing for CAT exam need to prepare for topics like Graphs, Tables, Blood Relation, Data Caselets, Clocks and Calenders, Seating Arrangement, Syllogism. These form part of the CAT syllabus for DILR.
The CUSAT CAT previous year question papers are available on the Careers360 website. You can find question papers from 2012 to 2023, which can be downloaded in PDF format HERE
Additionally, the official website of Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) also provides previous year question papers. To access them, you can follow these steps:
- Visit the CUSAT official website - admissions.cusat.ac.in.
- Click on the resources tab from the homepage.
- Select the previous year's question papers from the drop-down menu.
- Select the Common Admission Test (CAT) question papers link.
- Now click on the B.Tech course.
By practicing with these previous year question papers, you can get familiar with the exam pattern, identify important topics, and improve your time management skills.
Hey Shathvika,
Let's dive deep into MBA Entrance Exams (Other than CAT)
1. XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test)
Conducted by: XLRI, Jamshedpur
Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline.
Exam Pattern:
- Sections: Decision Making, Verbal & Logical Ability, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge.
- Duration: 3 hours.
- Marks: No negative marking for General Knowledge.
Key Highlights:
- The Decision-Making section tests analytical and situational judgment skills.
- General Knowledge is evaluated during interviews, not for percentile calculation.
Official Website: https://xatonline.in
---
2. SNAP (Symbiosis National Aptitude Test)
Conducted by: Symbiosis International (Deemed) University
Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks (45% for reserved categories).
Exam Pattern:
- Sections: General English, Quantitative, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency, and Analytical & Logical Reasoning.
- Duration: 1 hour.
- Marks: Total 60 marks (MCQs).
Key Highlights:
- Specifically for admission to Symbiosis institutes like SIBM Pune and SCMHRD.
- Easy-to-moderate difficulty level.
Official Website: https://snaptest.org
---
3. CMAT (Common Management Admission Test)
Conducted by: National Testing Agency (NTA)
Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline.
Exam Pattern:
- Sections: Quantitative Techniques & Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Language Comprehension, General Awareness, and Innovation & Entrepreneurship.
- Duration: 3 hours.
- Marks: 400 marks.
Key Highlights:
- Accepted by over 1,000 AICTE-approved institutes.
- Includes an optional Innovation & Entrepreneurship section.
Official Website: https://cmat.nta.nic.in
---
4. MAT (Management Aptitude Test)
Conducted by: All India Management Association (AIMA)
Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline.
Exam Pattern:
- Sections: Language Comprehension, Mathematical Skills, Data Analysis & Sufficiency, Intelligence & Critical Reasoning, and Indian & Global Environment.
- Duration: 2.5 hours.
- Marks: 200 marks.
Key Highlights:
- Held multiple times a year in PBT, CBT, and IBT modes.
- Accepted by more than 600 MBA colleges in India.
Official Website: https://mat.aima.in
---
5. NMAT (NMIMS Management Aptitude Test)
Conducted by: Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC)
Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks.
Exam Pattern:
- Sections: Language Skills, Quantitative Skills, and Logical Reasoning.
- Duration: 2 hours.
- Marks: 360 marks.
Key Highlights:
- Allows three attempts, with the best score considered.
- Accepted by NMIMS and partner universities worldwide.
Official Website: https://www.mba.com/exams/nmat
---
6. IIFT (Indian Institute of Foreign Trade)
Conducted by: National Testing Agency (NTA)
Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree (final-year students can also apply).
Exam Pattern:
- Sections: Quantitative Analysis, Reading Comprehension & Verbal Ability, Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge.
- Duration: 2 hours.
- Marks: 300 marks.
Key Highlights:
- Specifically for IIFT’s flagship MBA in International Business.
- General Knowledge plays a significant role in shortlisting.
Official Website: https://iift.nta.nic.in
---
7. TISSNET (Tata Institute of Social Sciences National Entrance Test)
Conducted by: Tata Institute of Social Sciences
Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree.
Exam Pattern:
- Sections: English Proficiency, Mathematics & Logical Reasoning, and General Awareness.
- Duration: 100 minutes.
- Marks: 100 marks.
Key Highlights:
- Focused on social sciences, HRM, and public policy programs.
- General Awareness is crucial (with emphasis on current affairs).
Official Website: https://admissions.tiss.edu
---
8. MICAT (MICA Aptitude Test)
Conducted by: MICA, Ahmedabad
Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree and a valid CAT/XAT/GMAT score.
Exam Pattern:
- Sections: Psychometric Test, Verbal Ability, Quantitative Ability, General Awareness, Divergent-Convergent Thinking, and Descriptive Test.
- Duration: 2.5 hours.
Key Highlights:
- Psychometric Test is a qualifying section.
- Specifically for MICA’s flagship PGDM-C program in Strategic Marketing and Communications.
Official Website: https://www.mica.ac.in
---
9. GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
Conducted by: Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC)
Eligibility: No specific eligibility; bachelor’s degree recommended.
Exam Pattern:
- Sections: Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning.
- Duration: 3 hours 7 minutes.
- Marks: 800 (scaled score).
Key Highlights:
- Globally recognized for MBA programs.
- Popular for Indian B-schools like ISB, SPJIMR, and Great Lakes.
Official Website: https://www.mba.com
---
10. MAH-CET (Maharashtra Common Entrance Test)
Conducted by: Maharashtra State CET Cell
Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for reserved categories).
Exam Pattern:
- Sections: Logical Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension.
- Duration: 2.5 hours.
- Marks: 200 marks (MCQs).
Key Highlights:
- Accepted by top Maharashtra B-schools like JBIMS, SIMSREE, and PUMBA.
- Known for its speed-intensive nature with 200 questions in 150 minutes.
Official Website: https://cetcell.mahacet.org
Let me know if you have any doubts regarding a specific exam or any other query.
Have a nice day !!
Hello Ayush,
K.R. Mangalam University utilizes a blend of MCQs, descriptive formats, and practical assessments to evaluate student performance. The continuous evaluation system ensures that students are assessed regularly throughout the semester, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of their academic progress.
Hello,
Here are some simple tips to prepare for the CUSAT CAT exam:
1. Focus on Physics, Chemistry, and Maths (PCM).
2. Give equal time to all subjects.
3. Use NCERT Books as they are best for basics.
You can refer to following study materials for better practice :-
Hope it helps !
Hello there,
Yes, you can apply for CAT examination after completion of Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm D) .
The Common Admission Test (CAT) has no restrictions regarding your educational background thus allowing you to submit your application following your completion of a Pharm. D degree.
The Common Admission Test permits candidates to take the exam after completing any undergraduate degree without any restrictions to the area of study. The professional doctoral degree of Pharm. D (Doctor of Pharmacy) functions as an equivalent to bachelor's level for CAT eligibility recognition.
Therefore, Candidates who received their Pharm. D degree can pursue the CAT exam application process based on their qualification standards.
Hope this will help!
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Content Marketing Specialists are also known as Content Specialists. They are responsible for crafting content, editing and developing it to meet the requirements of digital marketing campaigns. To ensure that the material created is consistent with the overall aims of a digital marketing campaign, content marketing specialists work closely with SEO and digital marketing professionals.
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The Sales Manager work also includes hiring and laying off sales personnel after evaluating his or her work performance. In bigger entities, sales quotas and plans are usually set at the executive level. He or she is responsible for overseeing the set target or quotas met by salespeople or upholding any policy. He or she guides his or her fellow salespeople and allows them to sell.
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