XAT- Xavier Aptitude Test 2026
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CAT 2025 Preparation Time Table - Every year, thousands of students dream of getting into India's top business schools - the Indian Institutes of Management. To turn this dream into reality, they must excel in the Common Admission Test 2025. Getting admission to these prestigious institutions isn't just about clearing the exam; you need an outstanding score of 100 percentile that puts you ahead of lakhs of other candidates competing for the same seats.
The moment you set your sights on an IIM admission, your entire focus should shift towards creating a study plan that maximises your chances of success. An effective preparation timeline acts as your GPS, ensuring you cover all topics systematically while building the confidence needed to perform under pressure. The proper study methods, combined with consistent daily practice, form the foundation of every successful CAT aspirant. In this article, you will find step-by-step study schedules, section-wise preparation strategies, daily routines that maximize your learning efficiency, and time management techniques that have helped thousands of students crack the CAT 2025 exam successfully.
Check out the CAT 2025 Syllabus
Also read: CAT 2025 QA Syllabus
The ability and capability of each individual vary. Therefore, before drawing up the CAT preparation timetable, one should be able to assess their strengths and weaknesses. How much time is required for CAT preparation, to complete the CAT syllabus and also be well-versed with the exam pattern of CAT? Accordingly, they can divide the CAT exam preparation time that they need to devote to each section. The CAT 2025 preparation timetable should be both realistic and the targets should be achievable.
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Adequate CAT preparation requires a strategic approach to each section, with dedicated time allocation based on the complexity of the topic and your strengths. Our comprehensive section-wise timetables provide structured study schedules that ensure thorough coverage of all critical topics while optimising your preparation time. Below you'll find detailed preparation timelines for Verbal Ability, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Ability, Basic Mathematics, Geometry and Other Topics, and Algebra with Miscellaneous Arithmetic - each designed to maximise your scoring potential in CAT 2025.
While answering questions in this section, reading habits do play a pivotal role. If the candidate is well-read, then it becomes easier for them to answer questions related to sentence rearrangement and other similar tasks. Now let us look at some of the topics from which the questions are asked in the verbal ability section, and how much time should an individual devote to each of the topics in each session. Review the daily timetable for CAT preparation, focusing on the Verbal Ability section.
Topics for Verbal Ability
Session | Topics | Hours |
Session 1 | Section Correction | 4-6 hours |
Session 2 | Sentence rearrangement | 3-5 hours |
Session 3 | Completion of paragraphs | 3-5 hours |
Session 4 | Elimination of sentences | 2-4 hours |
Session 5 | Text Completion | 2-4 hours |
Session 6 | Usage of words | 3 Hours |
Session 7 | Critical Reasoning Statement,s conclusion,s argument,s actions, and inferences | 4 hours |
Session 8 | Fact inference judgment | 4 hours |
Session 9 | Grammar | 10-15 hours |
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While working to strengthen their basics, candidates must remember that this section requires less time for preparation compared to verbal ability, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning. However, all this will depend on an individual’s grasp of the material. A CAT aspirant can perform well in this section by practising as much as possible, solving questions from the sample papers, etc. Within a span of a few hours, candidates can get a good understanding of the theoretical component of data interpretation.
Session | Topics | Time allocated |
Session 1 | Basics for Data Interpretation | 2-4 Hours |
Session 2 | Word Problems | 2-4 hours |
Session 3 | Tables | 2-4 hours |
Session 4 | Pie Charts | 3 hours |
Session 5 | Tougher Sets | 3 hours |
To train yourself well for the Logical Reasoning section of CAT 2025, candidates must try to consistently solve questions related to seating arrangements, grid puzzles, tournaments and sequences as well as various types of puzzles. Regularly solving such questions will enable candidates to gain an understanding of the types of questions asked and help them develop a better grasp of the material.
Session | Topics | Time allocated |
Session 1 | Grids and Tables | 3-4 hours |
Session 2 | Games, Tournaments, and Visualisation | 3-4 hours |
Session 3 | Sequences and Selections | 3-4 hours |
Session 4 | Math-based Puzzle | 3-4 hours |
Session 5 | Difficult Sets | 3-4 hours |
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This is a slightly exhaustive section as compared to the other two. When we look at the CAT 2025 preparation timetable for quantitative ability, then in such a case, this can be broadly divided into four sub-sections, which are
Number Systems and Counting
Geometry and allied topics
Algebra and miscellaneous
There is no specific strategy to follow for determining which topic to cover first; however, it is suggested that one complete the basics first and then start preparing for other topics.
The basic mathematics lays the foundation to solve even the trickiest of questions. If the candidates master the basics of mathematics, it will be easy for them to solve questions related to linear and quadratic equations. They would also be able to solve questions related to ratios, as well as challenging modules.
Topics | Hours |
2-3 hours | |
2-4 hours | |
Linear Equations in One Variable, Quadratic Equations | 2 hours |
2-4 hours | |
2- 4 hours | |
2-4 hours | |
2-4 hours | |
3 hours | |
2 hours |
This section includes slightly tricky questions, and the total number of questions asked in this section is not very substantial. This assessment is based on past trends in question papers. Candidates should practice as many questions as possible regarding number systems and counting. Most importantly, they should not give up till they are confident about the concepts.
Topics and time allocated
Topics | Time allocated |
Number theory | 2-3 hours |
Combinatorics -Basics | 3-4 hours |
3-4 hours | |
Combinatorics - Tough concepts | 2- 3 hours |
Factors and Multiples | 3-4 hours |
SET theory | 3-4 hours |
As part of the CAT 2025 preparation strategy, one critical point that candidates must keep in mind is to ensure that, first and foremost, they gain a thorough understanding of how the questions need to be solved. This will happen only once the candidate has a clear understanding of the fundamentals. To score well in the geometry section, there is no substitute for practice. The more the candidate practices, the higher the score. Hence, one of the methods that can be adopted as you prepare for the CAT 2025 exam is to first learn and understand the concepts related to Geometry and then apply them by solving the questions.
Topics on Geometry and hours allocated
Topics | Time allocated |
Geometry - Circles | 3-4 Hours |
Triangles and their properties | 3-4 hours |
3-4 hours | |
Geometry - Additional concepts | 3-4 hours |
3- 5 hours | |
Mensuration | 3-4 hours |
Coordinate Geometry | 4- 6 hours |
One of the essential terminologies in solving algebra-related questions is the use of “x” and “y”, and candidates must become comfortable with this language. Moreover, it is observed that the candidates build on the algebra section based on what they have learned about quadratic and linear equations. Candidates will be confident that they have understood all the topics only when they can correctly draw inferences from the information provided in the question. It is only then that they will be able to solve the questions with ease.
Topics | Hours |
4 hours | |
Exponent, Surds, and andLogarithmsm | 3-4 hours |
Functions | 2-3 Hours |
2-3 hours | |
Progressions | 2-4 hours |
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A sincere, consistent, and desiccated preparation for CAT 2025 would require a maximum of six months. A slight adjustment can be made to the CAT 2025 timetable, depending on the self-assessment. However, the individual must mentally assess themselves as to how much time they would require for adequate CAT preparation.
When you divide your CAT preparation time into clear monthly goals, you can track your progress better and stay motivated throughout your revision journey. The first month focuses on learning basic concepts of CAT 2025, the second month helps you practice different types of Important questions, and the third month is all about taking Mock tests and improving your weak areas. This step-by-step approach helps students build confidence gradually, rather than trying to learn everything at once.
Preparing for the CAT 2025 in one month requires a focused and strategic approach. Begin by reviewing the key concepts and syllabus for each section—Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability, and Data Interpretation. Prioritise practising with mock tests and previous years' papers to get familiar with the exam pattern and identify areas where you need improvement. Allocate time each day for targeted practice and review, focusing on your weaker areas. Lastly, make sure to incorporate regular breaks and maintain a healthy routine to keep your mind sharp.
For a 3-month CAT 2025 preparation plan, start by creating a balanced study schedule. Divide your time between understanding core concepts, practising problems, and taking mock tests. Focus on mastering each section—Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability, and Data Interpretation—by working through study materials and previous years' papers. Regularly review your performance in mock tests to identify and address areas for improvement. As the exam approaches, shift to intensive revision and practice to refine your strategies and boost your confidence.
A 6-month CAT 2025 preparation plan should be thorough and well-organised. Begin by familiarising yourself with the exam pattern and syllabus. Spend the first few months building a strong foundation in each subject area—Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability, and Data Interpretation. Incorporate regular practice through exercises and mock tests to gauge your progress. In the next phase, focus on solving advanced problems and improving your speed and accuracy. During the final month, focus on revision and taking full-length mock tests to refine your strategies and boost your confidence.
A 12-month CAT 2025 preparation plan offers ample time to build a strong foundation and excel. Start by thoroughly understanding the exam pattern and syllabus. Use the initial months to grasp basic concepts and gradually move to advanced topics. Incorporate regular practice sessions and mock tests to track your progress. As you approach the second half of your preparation, focus on refining your problem-solving techniques and improving your speed. In the final months, intensify your revision, take full-length mock tests, and review your performance to fine-tune your strategies and boost your confidence.
A CAT 2025 aspirant must design their own CAT preparation timetable, which can be followed consistently on a daily basis. During CAT 2025 exam preparation, candidates must practice questions in all sections. Do not divide the CAT exam preparation section-wise. In the last days of CAT preparation, candidates are advised to take the CAT 2025 mock test and solve previous year question papers. Additionally, it is essential to apply these CAT QA, DILR, and VARC tricks during preparation.
Time | Activity |
6:00 AM - 7:00 AM | Wake up and start the day with light exercise or meditation. |
7:00 AM - 7:30 AM | Breakfast. |
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM | Study Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC). Focus on reading comprehension passages, vocabulary, and grammar exercises. |
8:30 AM - 9:00 AM | Short break. Stretch, hydrate, and relax. |
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM | Study Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Practice problem-solving techniques and work on math fundamentals. |
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM | Break. Have a snack and refresh. |
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM | Study Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DI & LR). Work on data puzzles and logical reasoning questions. |
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM | Lunch break. |
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM | Review the previous day's work. Go through mistakes, understand concepts, and revise key topics. |
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM | Take a practice test or work on a mock test. Simulate exam conditions to build stamina and time management skills. |
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM | Break. Rest and recharge. |
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM | Study a different section in the morning. Rotate between QA, VARC, and DI & LR to keep things fresh and engaging. |
5:30 PM - 6:00 PM | Break. Have a light snack and relax. |
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM | Focus on weak areas. Use targeted exercises or seek help on challenging topics. |
7:00 PM - 7:30 PM | Dinner. |
7:30 PM - 8:30 PM | Revise essential formulas, shortcuts, and strategies. Work on a few additional practice questions if needed. |
8:30 PM - 9:00 PM | Relax and unwind. Read a book or engage in a hobby. |
9:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Light revision or review notes. |
10:00 PM | Prepare for bed. Ensure you get adequate sleep for effective learning. |
Master your CAT 2025 preparation with targeted practice questions designed for each section. Links are given below to access detailed CAT 2025 MCQ collections that mirror the actual exam pattern.
You should aim to study about 2 to 4 hours a day for CAT preparation. Consistency is more important than the number of hours; regular, focused study sessions will help you improve steadily.
The minimum preparation time for CAT is usually around 3 to 6 months. This can vary depending on your starting point and how much time you can dedicate each day. Adequate preparation involves understanding the exam pattern, practicing regularly, and refining your strategies.
To prepare a CAT timetable, start by listing all the topics you need to cover and how much time you can dedicate each week. Break your study sessions into manageable chunks and include time for practice tests and revision. Be sure to adjust your plan as needed based on your progress and strengths.
Yes, it's possible to prepare for CAT in 3 months, but it will require intense and focused study. You'll need to cover the syllabus thoroughly, practice regularly, and work on your weaknesses to maximize your chances of success.
Coaching is not mandatory if you possess strong self-discipline and have access to high-quality study materials. Many successful candidates have cracked the CAT through self-study with proper planning.
Begin taking mock tests after completing 50-60% of your syllabus, typically three to four months before the exam. Take 2-3 mocks per week in the final 2 months.
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!!!
Hello Ayush
This is definitely a myth that with 0 work-ex you can't get IIM ABC because freshers still get into them although the competition is brutal but if you have good academics (9/9/9) and a good CAT (99.5%+), you have a chance.
These are some other good colleges except IIM ABC which you can aim for:
TIER 1:
Tier 2:
To know more about CAT: CAT by Careers360
Hope this answer helps! Thank You!!!
Hello Aspirant,
With an AIR (All India Rank) of 1,60,000 in NEET and in the OC (Open Category) there is a very slim chance of getting an MBBS seat in a government medical college, especially in General Category seats through All India Quota (AIQ), but here are some options:
You can also participate in state counselling rounds, as sometimes, seats remain vacant/unfilled, including mop-up rounds.
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
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