XAT- Xavier Aptitude Test 2026
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Preparing for CAT 2025 without coaching is not only possible but also a smart and cost-effective choice for many aspirants. Numerous toppers have secured admissions to prestigious IIMs and top B-schools purely through self-study, proving that dedication and the right approach can outweigh the need for expensive coaching. While coaching institutes offer structured programs, they don't guarantee success when it comes to admission to IIMs. Many high-scoring candidates from previous years have excelled without any formal guidance. In this article, we will guide you through effective techniques, daily schedules, essential resources, and proven tips to help you crack CAT 2025 confidently, without spending thousands on coaching.
Due to the highly competitive nature of the exam, many candidates enrol in CAT coaching institutes to enhance their exam preparation. Hence, there is a common misconception that enrolling in a CAT coaching institute is the only way to achieve great results. As a result, the number of online coaching sessions has also reached an all-time high. However, the truth is that candidates can secure high CAT percentile scores through self-study, and coaching institutes do not want them to realise this fact. In this section, we will explore how to begin CAT preparation at home.
Yes, it is possible to crack the CAT exam without coaching, but it requires a well-structured self-study plan and a strong commitment to dedication. Many candidates have successfully cleared the CAT through self-preparation, utilising the right study materials, including books and online resources. Regular practice with CAT mock tests, analysing performance, and focusing on weak areas is crucial. Online platforms provide a wealth of resources, including sample papers, video tutorials, and strategy guides. With disciplined time management and consistent efforts, self-study can be as practical as coaching when preparing for the CAT exam.
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Many CAT toppers and experts suggest that taking mentorship and coaching for the exam is highly beneficial. But it is not always mandatory. According to one of the CAT toppers, Vishesh Garg, taking coaching for the CAT exam is not the most essential part through which a candidate can secure good marks. Nowadays, what coaching institutes do not want candidates to know is the fact that they can achieve success in the CAT exam 2025 even without their help.
Also read- Online CAT Coaching.
Candidates, especially first-time CAT takers, unthinkingly follow the coaching institutes and pay huge, hard-earned money. However, some candidates are unable to join any coaching classes. The reason could be the high fees and the inability to score well with self-study.
Ashish Sen, who secured the 99.99th percentile in the CAT exam, says that self-study makes a difference while you prepare by yourself for the CAT exam.
Keeping in mind the footprints of CAT toppers, Shivam Chandak and Aditya Devalla secured 99.98 and 99.97 per cent, respectively, in the toughest exams. Shivam Chandak prepared for CAT 2019 without joining any coaching and relied solely on the internet to attempt practice papers and CAT mock tests. Whereas, CAT topper Abhilasha Balakrishnan told Careers360 that he did not join any coaching. According to him, self-study is sufficient when one has a clear-cut picture of the schedule.
How to Prepare for CAT 2025 Without Coaching - Expert Tips
How to start preparing for the CAT by self-study? It is one of the significant questions candidates ask during their CAT preparation journey. Candidates should be well-versed in preparing for the CAT at home to secure a high CAT percentile score. Given below are a few tips and tricks on CAT self study written by experts.
Before beginning your CAT preparation, the first step would be to take a CAT mock test to judge where you stand. CAT topper Adit Sanjanawala started his preparation for the CAT by taking a mock test to determine his baseline level. According to him, taking mock tests allows a candidate to understand their strengths and weaknesses. Similarly, topper Ravi Pranshu appeared in around 40 mock tests of the CAT exam to understand his mistakes and areas where he needed to focus.
Through CAT mock tests, candidates will gain an understanding of the difficulty level of the paper and how to navigate between its three different sections.
Additionally, candidates will be familiarised with the amount of effort required to excel in each section.
Remember that in CAT, candidates will have to answer non-MCQs, where they will need to read the passage and select the best sequence.
CAT mock tests also provide the option to review the questions. They will comprise CAT MCQ questions similar to real examinations, with each section having its own sectional timings.
Know the CAT 2025 Exam Pattern
Candidates are required to answer the questions within the time allotted. Topper Rahul Manglik focused on understanding and completing the CAT syllabus to ensure accuracy, and then concentrated on improving his problem-solving accuracy.
Once done with analysing what you need to know on how to prepare for CAT 2025 without coaching through a mock test, you need to check the exam pattern as well as the CAT syllabus.
According to the generic CAT exam pattern, the CAT question paper is expected to comprise 66 questions in total, and the exam will be conducted in online mode.
A total of three sections, including Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability, Reading Comprehension, Data interpretation & logical reasoning form the CAT question paper.
Prepare a sectional strategy outlining how and when to start preparing for the CAT in each section.
Shivam Kumar, CAT topper, said, "Candidates should spend a lot of their time analysing the shortcut methods." Make time management your priority. It is not just about preparing for Verbal Ability, Reasoning, or Quantitative Ability, but about preparing for all sections together with proper time management.
Attempting all questions accurately within the time allotment of 40 minutes to each section is comparatively difficult if you do not have the tricks of solving questions efficiently.
Prepare short notes on formulas and techniques to save time while solving any calculation-intensive CAT question.
Set a timer to record the time taken for each question in the Quantitative Aptitude section.
Be socially active and find like-minded individuals who are equally motivated to prepare for CAT 2025 without relying on coaching articles.
A good company can make or break the results. Hence, it is advisable that candidates actively seek out people who have appeared in CAT exams or are currently taking them.
By participating in groups with like-minded individuals, new topics and discussions will be beneficial during exam time.
It is not always necessary for all candidates to be involved in preparing for CAT through self-study. Those who have joined coaching classes can help others.
Queries and fundamental issues can be answered and resolved with the help of other team members. Study group members may motivate each other and foster a healthy environment, rather than teasing and teasing each other.
The market is flooded with a wide range of CAT 2025 preparation study materials. Those who are preparing without coaching must:
Keep an eye on the best CAT books, question banks, preparation notes, CAT sample papers, and more, by top authors.
Search for books that are rich in content rather than heavier in quantity. While preparing for the CAT 2025 exam, always opt for quality over quantity when selecting books.
Try to find the best books to start your CAT preparation after checking the exam pattern and the syllabus.
Just because you are not going to any CAT coaching classes does not limit your access to the Internet. Browse through and utilise Google services. Try to determine which are the best educational sites that can assist and enhance your CAT preparation efforts. Several YouTubers are available at this time, who explain each topic of the CAT syllabus in clear and lucid language. Ronit Banerjea said that he used the internet and prepared through various preparation sites. Clear your concepts by learning new methods of solving important CAT questions from the internet.
Although not directly, this factor is of utmost importance, as it serves as a guiding force in all areas. Motivate yourself by adding a positive sticky note to your desk. Check this on a daily basis and stay positive. Notes could be "I can clear CAT with good marks", "I will get a call from IIM" or anything that inspires you. According to topper Ankit Desai, who scored in the 99.9th percentile in the CAT exam, said that the primary factor in clearing the CAT exam is constant self-motivation.
While preparing for the CAT exam at home, students must conduct regular revisions at specific time intervals to ensure they do not forget their basics. Additionally, regular revisions are essential for adequate preparation. Regular CAT revisions help reinforce key concepts, identify areas for improvement, and enhance problem-solving speed and accuracy. They also ensure that students stay on track with their study plan and retain information effectively, which is crucial for performing well in a competitive exam like CAT.
Suppose you need help with starting CAT 2025 preparation at home. In that case, you can refer to the CAT preparation strategies given below to enhance your preparation and ensure a high percentile score.
Jumping into preparation without understanding the CAT syllabus can only result in futile attempts. You must understand the CAT exam pattern before starting your preparation. The candidates should also be aware of the most important topics for the CAT exam. Understanding the exam structure and key issues will help you create a comprehensive study plan and achieve a good CAT percentile score. This is one of the first steps in answering the question, 'Can I prepare for CAT without coaching?'
Can I crack the CAT without coaching? Definitely yes. But can I crack the CAT without coaching and the best CAT study materials? Definitely no. The best CAT preparation books are essential for candidates to enhance their preparation. This strategy can not only boost the preparation of the candidates but also provide them with preparation before the CAT exam. Hence, candidates must select the most suitable resources and books for CAT 2025 preparation and schedule their studies accordingly.
Now that you have understood the CAT exam structure and have shortlisted the best CAT preparation resources, it is time to move on to the preparation. This hack is one of the key steps in preparing for the CAT exam without coaching. The candidates must put effort into understanding their strengths and weaknesses and allocate time accordingly.
CAT mock tests are also essential for any aspirant. The major answer to the question of how to self-study for the exam is through mock tests. CAT 2025 mock tests are invaluable for candidates as they help them understand the level of difficulty of the questions. Through this, candidates can structure their preparation accordingly and enhance their CAT percentile scores.
Preparing for the CAT exam from home has become more accessible thanks to a wide range of reliable resources. Whether you're just starting or looking to strengthen specific sections, using the right materials books, question papers, sample tests, and mock exams, can dramatically improve your score and confidence.
Books play a crucial role in CAT preparation, offering structured content, conceptual clarity, and topic-wise coverage. They help candidates build strong fundamentals and allow for consistent self-study at their own pace. Choosing the right CAT books ensures efficient use of time and focused learning.
Section | Book Title | Author/Publisher |
Quantitative Aptitude | How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude | Arun Sharma |
Verbal Ability | How to Prepare for Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension | Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay |
Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation | How to Prepare for Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning | Arun Sharma |
General Preparation | The Pearson Guide to Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning | Nishit K. Sinha |
All-in-One Guide | Complete Guide for CAT | Arihant Publications |
Practicing previous years' CAT question papers helps candidates understand the exam pattern, difficulty level, and frequently asked topics. These papers are valuable tools for assessing preparation levels and improving time management. Solving them under timed conditions can simulate the real exam environment and reduce anxiety.
CAT sample papers are mock versions of the actual test created by coaching institutes and experts. They provide a balanced mix of expected question types and serve as a diagnostic tool to identify strengths and weaknesses. Solving sample papers regularly enhances speed, accuracy, and strategy refinement.
Mock tests are a cornerstone of CAT preparation. They simulate the exam's format and pressure, helping candidates build stamina and mental readiness. Taking full-length CAT mock tests regularly helps in performance tracking, improving test-taking strategies, and boosting confidence. Analysing mock test results also aids in identifying areas needing improvement.
Preparing for the CAT 2025 exam at home can be challenging, and students often make mistakes that can hinder their chances of success. Therefore, avoiding these common mistakes can significantly enhance the effectiveness of CAT exam preparation at home.
Lack of a Study Plan: Not having a structured study plan can lead to unorganised preparation. A well-thought-out plan helps to cover all the topics systematically.
Ignoring Basics: Jumping directly to advanced topics without mastering the basics can create confusion and hinder understanding of complex concepts.
Inconsistent Practice: Irregular practice can result in a loss of momentum. Consistent practice is essential for building and maintaining proficiency in various sections.
Overlooking Weak Areas: Focusing only on strong areas and neglecting weaker sections can be harmful to your preparation. Balanced preparation is crucial for a good overall score.
Not Taking Mock Tests: Avoiding mock tests can leave students unprepared for the actual exam scenario. Regular mock tests help with time management and identifying areas that need improvement.
Lack of Revision: Failing to revise regularly can lead to forgetting essential concepts. Regular revisions reinforce learning and improve retention.
Ignoring Time Management: Poor time management during preparation and the exam can result in incomplete sections. Practising with a timer can help in efficient time allocation.
Procrastination: Delaying study sessions or key topics can pile up work, causing stress and rushed preparation towards the end.
Over-reliance on a Single Resource: Relying on a single book or resource limits exposure to diverse types of questions. Utilising multiple resources provides a broader perspective and varied practice.
Neglecting Mental and Physical Health: Ignoring health can affect concentration and performance. Regular breaks, exercise, and a healthy diet are essential for maintaining overall well-being.
Below are some of the CAT essential ebooks and CAT materials designed by Careers360 to enhance candidates' CAT preparation and help them secure a very high CAT percentile score. The candidates are also strongly encouraged to refer to the various important CAT books to enhance their CAT 2025 performance.
eBook Title | Download Links |
3000+ Most Important Words - Vocabulary Builder | |
500+ Most Important Idioms and Phrases | |
300+ Most Important Phrasal Verbs | |
Permutation & Combination - Video Lectures and Practice Questions | |
Mastering DILR Questions with Expert Solutions |
No, coaching cannot guarantee CAT success despite what their marketing claims. Many toppers, such as Shivam Chandak (99.98%) and Abhilasha Balakrishnan, achieved excellent results through pure self-study, proving that personal effort and consistency matter more than expensive coaching fees.
Mock test of CAT are considered as an important factor for candidates as they get the exact exam day environment at the time of solving it. Although not compulsory, candidates are advised to solve mock tests.
You can definitely clear the CAT 2025 exam with high percentile by following the below steps;
Working professionals should aim for 4-6 hours of daily study time, while students can dedicate 8-10 hours. The key is consistency and quality study time, rather than just logging hours. Focus on understanding concepts and regular mock test practice.
One can start preparing for CAT exam 2025 by following the steps:
Avoid these key mistakes: not having a structured study plan, ignoring basic concepts, inconsistent practice, focusing only on strong areas while neglecting weak ones, not taking enough mock tests, poor time management, procrastination, over-relying on single resources, and failing physical and mental health during preparation.
No, it is not necessary to join coaching for CAT entrance test, one can ace this national level MBA entrance test by doing self study at home.
Absolutely yes! Many CAT toppers, such as Shivam Chandak (99.98%), Aditya Devalla (99.97%), and Abhilasha Balakrishnan, have successfully cleared the CAT through self-study alone. What matters most is having a structured study plan, quality resources, and consistent practice with mock tests.
Yes, CAT preparation can be done without coaching. With the right books, study plan, and consistent practice using mocks and online resources, many aspirants successfully crack CAT independently.
Absolutely. Many toppers prepare for CAT through self-study by following a disciplined routine, solving previous papers, using quality study materials, and regularly analysing their performance in mock tests.
Yes, scoring 99 percentile without coaching is possible. It requires smart planning, strong basics, regular mock tests, and in-depth analysis of mistakes to improve speed, accuracy, and time management.
Start by understanding the exam pattern and syllabus. Build strong basics in Quant, LRDI, and Verbal. Use recommended books, follow a study plan, and take regular mock tests for practice.
CAT ( Common Addmission Test ) is for those students who want to study MBA or other post-graduation program in mangement field. Who have Bachelor's degree with minimum 50% recognised university can apply for CAT .final year graduation students are also eligible to apply for CAT exam .
The CAT (Common Admission Test) is a national-level entrance exam conducted in India for admission to MBA and other postgraduate management programs offered by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and many other top B-schools. It tests candidates on Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation, and Logical Reasoning.
The exam is important because a high CAT score opens the door to prestigious institutions like the IIMs, which are known for excellent education, high-paying placements, and global recognition
If there's a slight variation in your name between your government ID and school marksheets, it's best to use the name exactly as it appears on your 10th or 12th marksheet while filling out the CAT form, since academic records are the primary documents used for verification during admission. However, ensure that the variation isn’t too major if it is, you might consider getting an affidavit or correction done in the future. For now, stay consistent with your academic records to avoid any mismatch during document verification after the exam.
With a CAT rank of 5419, your percentile is around 95 to 97. This means you may not get into the top IIMs like Ahmedabad, Bangalore, or Calcutta, because they usually take students above 98 or 99 percentile. But you still have good chances at newer IIMs and other top MBA colleges.
You can get admission into IIMs like Amritsar, Raipur, Jammu, Udaipur, and Bodh Gaya. These IIMs accept students with lower percentiles, usually between 90 and 94.
Apart from IIMs, you can also get colleges like MDI Gurugram, IMI Delhi, Great Lakes Chennai, and maybe even FMS Delhi or JBIMS Mumbai depending on your category and performance in interview rounds.
You should now start preparing for the interview, group discussions, and written tests that most colleges will conduct after shortlisting you based on your CAT rank.
Here are websites you can check for cut-off and admission details:
https://www.imsindia.com/blog/cat-cutoff/
Hello Sahitya
For FMS Delhi, your percentile should be 99%+ and it should be 99.5%+ to be on the safer side.
Now coming to the academics:
1. 10th marks: 75%+ are given 10 out of 10
2. 12th marks: 75%+ are given 10 out of 10
3. Graduation marks: FMS doesn't considers graduation marks for screening.
So if you have 75%+ in both 10th and 12th, you will get full marks in academic score.
To know more about FMS: FMS
Hope this answer helps! Thank You!!!
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