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How to Prepare for CAT 2025 in 4 months?: Starting your CAT 2025 preparation with only four months remaining might feel overwhelming, but here's the truth - while Common Admission Test 2025 (CAT) stands as India's most challenging MBA entrance test, thousands of students have successfully cracked it with focused preparation in this exact period of 4 months.
This Careers360 guide has been created specifically for students like you who are preparing for the CAT 2025. journey right now. We understand that starting late doesn't mean starting with less chance of success. In this article, you will find a complete month-by-month breakdown that guides you from basics to advanced concepts and expert insights. Your dedication, combined with our proven framework, will help you approach CAT 2025 with genuine confidence and a clear path to success.
With just a few months left, the CAT 2025 is expected to be conducted in November 2025. The official announcement regarding the CAT 2025 exam date is expected to be available by July 30, 2025. Before creating a study plan or preparation strategy for the CAT exam, it is essential to become familiar with the CAT exam pattern and its detailed syllabus. As per the trend of the past year, the exam pattern for CAT 2025 consists of three sections: Quantitative Ability (QA), Verbal and Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR). There are 20 questions for the QA, 24 questions in the VARC section, and DILR consists of 20 questions, totalling 64 questions. However, two questions were added in CAT 2024.
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Due to the sectional time limit, candidates can not switch between sections while taking CAT 2025. Candidates get 40 minutes for each section, for a total duration of 2 hours. This means candidates must manage their time accordingly to avoid hassle and anxiety.
Familiarity with the CAT 2025 exam pattern reduces negative marking by 18%. The CAT exam pattern has remained relatively stable over the years, but knowing the exact structure helps you allocate your study time appropriately and focus on the more weighted areas. This section outlines the CAT exam pattern, enabling you to approach your CAT preparation with confidence and clarity.
According to past trends, the CAT 2025 exam will likely consist of three main sections:
Quantitative Ability (QA)
Verbal and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
This brings the total to 68 questions you must answer within the 2-hour (120 minutes) time limit. An important point to note is that CAT has sectional time limits, which means you'll get 40 minutes for each section, and you cannot switch between sections once the time for one section ends. This makes time management crucial for success during the exam.
Successfully clearing India's top MBA entrance exams, including all twenty IIMs and hundreds of other premier business schools, depends entirely on your CAT 2025 performance. This highly respected entrance test, which will be administered by IIM Kozhikode this year, opens doors to the country's most commendable management education opportunities. An overview of the CAT exam is given below:
CAT Exam Particulars | CAT 2025 Details |
---|---|
CAT Full Form | Common Admission Test (CAT) |
Conducting Institute for CAT 2025 | IIM Kozhikode (Expected) |
CAT 2025 Exam Level | National |
CAT Exam Frequency | Once a year |
CAT 2024 Exam Date | November 30, 2025 (Tentative) |
CAT 2025 Exam Timings | Yet to be announced |
CAT Exam Fees | Rs 2,500 (General category) and Rs 1,250 (Reserved category) |
Number of CAT Test Takers | 3.29 lakh (in 2024) |
CAT 2025 Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
Number of CAT test cities | 170 |
CAT exam website | iimcat.ac.in |
CAT exam helpdesk number. | 1-800-210-1088 (Toll Free) |
If one has only four months to prepare for CAT 2025, then one should divide their preparation plan stage-wise. This makes their preparation easy, and they can handle the CAT preparation pressure with ease. Here are some tips for four-month CAT preparation.
Before starting the CAT 2025 preparation, candidates need to check where they stand currently, such as whether their basics are straightforward or not, whether they know the basic formulas to solve Quantitative Aptitude questions, etc. After knowing this, candidates can understand their strengths and weaknesses. If one is unable to assess one's level of preparation, then moving forward can be a herculean task.
After making a diagnosis report, candidates can categorise which sections they are accurate in and which ones they need to work hard on. It will hardly take 2 to 3 days to spot where one is standing.
Once candidates have reviewed the exam pattern and syllabus of CAT 2025, they need to start working on the fundamentals of every topic during the four months of CAT preparation. This will help them gain conceptual clarity and strengthen their basics. While preparing for the Verbal Ability section, one should read regularly to grasp it.
Apart from the VARC section, the other sections demand a good amount of time to practice the concepts. When one is well-versed in the basics, they should start their preparation chapter—and section-wise, and swiftly.
The Quantitative aptitude section carries a significant chunk of CAT preparation. Besides other sections, Quant has a vast syllabus that covers everything from algebra to percentages. The Quant section tests the fundamentals of a candidate. A proper strategy is needed to prepare for each topic systematically. Through this process, candidates can understand the basics and set a benchmark for CAT preparation. One can make the Quant section easy for them; they only need to include learning and practice while preparing for CAT in 4 months.
There is no fixed syllabus for the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning section, which makes it more challenging compared to other sections. Among the three sections, the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning section is the most crucial and challenging in the CAT 2025. If one is good at solving puzzles, they can easily tackle the Logical Reasoning section. Those unfamiliar with DILR questions should solve previous years' CAT papers and practice questions from standard templates, Einstein puzzles, and the grid puzzle, among others.
Self-study is crucial when preparing for any exam. The best part of self-study is that one can learn where they stand and anticipate accordingly. Sometimes, self-study can be frustrating, but it is often the only way to achieve any goal. One can consider the following factors while doing self-study.
Read the textbook
Read the class notes
Make colourful and proper notes
Look up other online resources
Teach someone what you have learned
CAT preparation is considered incomplete if one has not attempted the mocks. CAT mock tests, test series, or sample papers are designed to help aspirants understand the structure and level of the CAT entrance test. The result of the CAT mock test will indicate the candidate's strengths and weaknesses. Taking mocks at the beginning of preparation gives candidates ample time to improve their weak areas and strengthen their strong areas.
Candidates should set a target to solve at least six past-year papers weekly. After solving every paper, candidates should spend time analysing it. See where you scored well, where you could be good, and the main reasons for not doing better. This step should be performed in the second-to-last month of preparation. The main benefit of solving past years' papers is that candidates can know whether they are making progress.
Do not explore new topics in the last 10 to 15 days of CAT preparation. Only practice what you know and extract the maximum benefit from it. Just polish your strength and revise all the sticky notes you have made during exam preparation.
During this period, as just 2 months are left, it's also essential to prepare mentally for the exam:
Maintain a positive mindset and visualise success
Practice relaxation techniques to manage exam anxiety
Establish a healthy routine with adequate sleep, nutritious meals, and light exercise
Familiarise yourself with the exam centre location and plan your journey
Prepare all required documents and materials for the exam day
According to CAT topper Satya Sripada (99.51 percentile), focus on basics. Revise what you have studied the day before going to sleep, and schedule a revision day once a week to review all the notes again. Note down essential questions or tricks in a different notebook. Give mocks regularly and analyse them properly. Revisit the same mock a second time after a couple of weeks. You need to review the syllabus and past papers to build a strategy for the exam.
Other CAT toppers commonly suggest:
Focusing on accuracy before speed
Developing a question selection strategy to maximise scores
Creating a balanced study plan that covers all sections
Learning to let go of challenging questions during the exam
Maintaining consistency in daily study hours.
Preparing for CAT 2025 in just four months may seem like a daunting challenge, but with the right choice of study material and innovative strategies, it's achievable. Remember that many successful CAT 2025 takers have prepared in similar or shorter timeframes and achieved impressive results.
Preparing for the CAT exam in 4 months requires using various practical study resources. Focus on books that comprehensively cover quantitative aptitude, verbal ability, and logical Reasoning. Look for materials that include detailed explanations of concepts, numerous practice questions, and effective strategies for solving problems efficiently. Additionally, utilising resources that provide a variety of CAT 2025 mock tests and papers from previous years is crucial for becoming familiar with the exam pattern and improving time management. You can create a better strategic preparation plan for the CAT 2025 exam in 4 months using these study materials. Some of the most essential CAT preparation books are given below:
For CAT 2025 preparation in four months, concentrate on mastering core quantitative aptitude concepts. Regular practice is essential, starting with basic problems and gradually increasing in difficulty, to effectively enhance your problem-solving skills.
Book Title | Authors | Features |
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT | Arun Sharma | Detailed coverage of quantitative topics includes shortcuts and tips for solving problems |
NCERT Mathematics Books (Class 6 to 10) | NCERT | Fundamental concepts of mathematics, clear explanations, are essential for building a strong foundation in maths |
Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT | Sarvesh Sharma | Comprehensive coverage of quantitative topics includes advanced-level problems and solutions |
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | Abhijit Guha | Detailed coverage of quantitative topics includes numerous practice questions and solved examples |
For CAT preparation in four months, prioritise improving verbal ability and reading comprehension skills. Focus on practising a variety of passages and questions to enhance comprehension, vocabulary, and speed. Regularly review and analyse different types of texts to strengthen your understanding and interpretation abilities effectively.
Book Title | Authors | Features |
How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT | Arun Sharma and Meenakshi Upadhyay | Step-by-step approach to improve verbal ability and comprehension, including practice questions |
30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary | Wilfred Funk & Norman Lewis/Simon & Schuster | Enhances vocabulary through practical exercises and quick learning strategies |
High School English Grammar and Composition | Wren & Martin | Covers the entire syllabus of English grammar, includes practice exercises, and self-assessment sections |
PSC for VA for CAT | Nishit Sinha | Covers verbal ability topics, a practical approach with practice questions, and previous year papers |
For CAT 2025 preparation in four months, concentrate on enhancing your data interpretation and logical reasoning skills. Use practice books that offer a range of exercises and strategies to improve your ability to analyse data and solve logical puzzles. Regular practice and systematic review of different types of problems will help you build confidence and proficiency in these areas, which are essential for the CAT exam.
Book Title | Authors | Features |
How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for the CAT | Arun Sharma | Comprehensive coverage of DI topics, self-sufficient for preparation |
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT | Nishit K. Sinha | Strong concept building, practical application of problems, graded difficulty levels |
Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency | Ananta Ashisha | Focuses on the interpretation of data and the sufficiency of information, a practical approach |
CAT Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning | Gautam Puri | Practical approach to DI and LR topics, includes practice questions and mock tests. |
We wish you all the best for CAT 2025! With determination, innovative work, and the strategies outlined in this guide, you're well-equipped to achieve your goal of securing admission in prestigious Business Schools. Remember, the journey of CAT 2025 preparation is as valuable as the title itself..
Some people can crack CAT in 4 months even if they are an average student and some may take 6 months. By this, you can understand that an average student needs at least 6 to 7 months to prepare for CAT exam.
Generally, candidates should give at least 4-5 months of time to prepare for CAT. This way, they will have enough time to go through all the material, practice questions and mock tests, and improve their weak areas. If you are short on time, you can also opt for a crash course.
You should start with sectional tests in the first month and full-length mocks from the second month onwards.
CAT is generally considered the most difficult among Indian MBA entrance exams due to its unpredictable pattern and competitive environment. However, the difficulty level varies every year and with different sections.
Aim for 4-6 hours on weekdays and 6-8 hours on weekends, but the quality of preparation is what matters more than quantity.
Self-study is completely viable for a 4-month preparation. Focus on good books, online resources, and mock tests. Coaching may consume your limited time. However, if you need structured guidance, consider online courses that offer flexibility and convenience.
Hello aspirant,
The question papers for CAT MGU University can be found on their official website, or you can also visit careers360 website for the same.
The link of which, I am attaching here,
https://university.careers360.com/articles/mgu-cat-2025
Regards
Hello Anshuman!!!
You have gotten 86% in 10th, which is a good score. 70% in graduation is not the best but decent. But the main problem is your 12th score which is 62%.
You would be already aware that the Top IIMs (BLACKI) give a big emphasis on your academic score. Let me tell you one example of IIM Ahmedabad,
According to a research i read a few days ago, in IIM Ahmedabad,
70.8%
of students has 90+ percent in 12th,
25.8%
has 80-90 percent and around
3.8%
has less than 80% with the bracket of 60-69 having only
0.26%
students of the total batch. Nearly same is the case of the other top IIMs like IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, IIM Lucknow, IIM Kozhikode and IIM Indore.
Statistically, getting into these TOP IIMs is possible with 62% in 12th is possible (0.26% has done it) but practically you cannot get into these TOP IIMs unless you top the CAT exam.
See, I don't wish to dishearten or demotivate you but I wish to tell you the truth. Although the probability of you getting into these TOP IIMs is very less, but trying is better than doing nothing. You have a good score in 10th which will certainly help you. The least you could do is try your best.
My advice would be that you should not focus on these things like "Will I get top IIM" or negative talk like " I got low marks I won't qualify" etc.
The main focus should be on your preparation.
Give 100% in your preparation because that's the only thing in your hand. You can't change your 10th/12th/Graduation scores but you can put some more effort in your preparation which would certainly help to get better percentile.
Keep working hard and give your best. You might surprise yourself!!! And if not BLACKI, there are many other good colleges like FMS, MDI, newer IIMs etc.
Hello,
Yes, with a 622 rank in IPU CET for MBA and being a Delhi candidate, you have a good chance of getting admission in MAIT (Maharaja Agrasen Institute of Technology).
You don’t need to worry about not giving the CAT exam. IPU CET rank is enough for admission in MAIT under the CET quota.
Just make sure to keep MAIT high in your preference list during counselling.
Hope it helps !
Hello,
A NEET 2025 score of 333 marks, an All India Rank (AIR) near 3,56,000, and belonging to the SC category from Andhra Pradesh suggest a fair possibility of obtaining an MBBS seat within the state quota, especially in private medical colleges under Category A (government quota seats in private institutions).
In Andhra Pradesh, SC category cut-offs for Category A seats in private institutions generally vary from 320 to 370, influenced by the college and the counselling round. Government medical colleges tend to be more competitive, with the SC cut-off for MBBS frequently rising, often exceeding 400 marks.
Although obtaining a government MBBS seat is improbable, you stand a feasible opportunity in private medical colleges within A category (which offer lower tuition than B and C categories). In Round 2 or the Mop-Up round, you can anticipate improved opportunities, since cut-offs generally decrease when other students move to superior colleges or vacate seats.
Colleges such as NRI Medical College (Guntur), Katuri Medical College (Guntur), Great Eastern Medical School (Srikakulam), Alluri Sitarama Raju Academy of Medical Sciences (Eluru), and Fathima Institute of Medical Sciences (Kadapa) are among those where seats could become available for SC students in subsequent rounds under Category A.
Hope this helps. All the best!
Yes, candidates who qualify in CUSAT CAT can gain admission to various participating institutes based on their rank. These include engineering colleges associated with CUSAT, such as its own School of Engineering in Kochi, Model Engineering College, and over 20 government and private engineering colleges across Kerala like College of Engineering Thrikkaripur, Co-operative Institute of Technology Vadakara, and MG College of Engineering Thiruvallam. The final seat allotment is based on your rank and your choice of program during the counselling process.
A career as Marketing Director is also known as a marketing expert who is responsible for the overall marketing aspect of the company. He or she oversees plans and develops the company's budget. The marketing Director collaborates with the business team to plan and develop the marketing and branding strategies for the company's products or services.
A Business Development Executive identifies and pursues new business opportunities to drive company growth. They generate leads, build client relationships, develop sales strategies, and analyse market trends. Collaborating with internal teams, they aim to meet sales targets. With experience, they can advance to managerial roles, playing a key role in expanding the company’s market presence and revenue.
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A Sales Manager leads a sales team to meet targets, formulates strategies, analyses performance, and monitors market trends. They typically hold a degree in management or related fields, with an MBA offering added value. The role often demands over 40 hours a week. Strong leadership, planning, and analytical skills are essential for success in this career.
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A Marketing manager plans and executes marketing initiatives to create demand for goods and services and increase consumer awareness of them. A marketing manager prevents unauthorised statements and informs the public that the business is doing everything to investigate and fix the line of products. Students can pursue an MBA in Marketing Management courses to become marketing managers.
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Digital marketing is growing, diverse, and is covering a wide variety of career paths. Each job function aids in the development of effective digital marketing strategies and techniques. The aims and objectives of the individuals who opt for a career as a digital marketing executive are similar to those of a marketing professional: to build brand awareness, promote company services or products, and increase conversions. Individuals who opt for a career as Digital Marketing Executives, unlike traditional marketing companies, communicate effectively through suitable technology platforms.
Individuals who opt for a career as a business analyst look at how a company operates. He or she conducts research and analyses data to improve his or her knowledge about the company. This is required so that an individual can suggest the company strategies for improving their operations and processes.
In a business analyst job role a lot of analysis is done, things are learned from past mistakes and the successful strategies are enhanced further. A business analyst goes through real-world data in order to provide the most feasible solutions to an organisation. Students can pursue Business Analytics to become Business Analysts.
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