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Is CAT Exam Tough? Factors, Difficulty Level, Trends & Preparation Strategy 2025
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Is the CAT exam really tough? For many aspirants, yes, it is challenging, testing not just knowledge but speed, accuracy, and smart thinking. The questions are designed to push your reasoning, problem-solving, and analytical skills to the limit. But with the right preparation for CAT 2025, strategy, and consistent practice, what seems tough becomes manageable. Understanding the CAT Exam Pattern 2025, practising regularly, and learning shortcuts can turn the CAT from a daunting challenge into an opportunity to shine and secure a top B-school admission.
This Story also Contains
- Is CAT Really Tough? Myth vs Reality
- Factors That Make the CAT Exam Tough
- CAT Exam Difficulty vs Other MBA Entrance Exams
- How to Score 100 Percentile in CAT 2025 Quant, VARC, and DILR
- CAT Exam Difficulty: Section-Wise Analysis
- Is CAT Getting Tougher or Easier Over Time?
- How to Handle CAT’s Growing Difficulty Level
- Who Finds CAT More Challenging?
- CAT Preparation Resources by Careers360
Is CAT Really Tough? Myth vs Reality
Many students believe that the CAT exam is insanely tough, but that’s only half the truth. Yes, it’s competitive, but it’s not impossible. The actual syllabus includes topics you’ve already studied in school: basic Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, and Logical Reasoning. What makes CAT challenging is the time pressure and smart question framing. The real test is how well you manage time, stay calm, and make smart choices during the exam. Thousands of students crack it every year with consistent practice, CAT 2025 mock tests, and the right guidance. So, it’s not about being a genius, it’s about being prepared.
Factors That Make the CAT Exam Tough
Before understanding the CAT exam difficulty, it is necessary for the aspirants to understand all the factors that make the CAT exam difficult. Every year, the difficulty of the CAT examination is determined by a combination of these factors. The list of factors that greatly influence the difficulty level of the Common Admission Test is:
High Competition
The surge in the number of candidates who appear for the CAT examination has become immense in recent times. A few of the reasons for this are the management goals of the candidates and no necessary prerequisite courses for joining the MBA degree. Also, the handsome salaries that the candidates are offered for their job roles after completing their MBA degrees are like no other. So, the number of candidates who appear for the CAT examination is also high and immense. This increases the competitiveness of the CAT examination manifold.
CAT 2025: VARC, DILR, and Quant MCQs & Weightages
Comprehensive CAT prep guide with focused practice on Verbal Ability, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude.
Download NowStrict Time Constraints
According to the latest CAT exam pattern, the candidates should attempt 68 questions within a time limit of 120 minutes. The important sections of the CAT examination, such as Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, as well as Quantitative Aptitude, are often tricky and time-consuming. Due to this, the candidates often find it difficult to answer all the questions within the given time limit. Hence, CAT time management has become necessary, and due to this, the difficulty level of the exam has also gone up.
Unpredictable Exam Pattern
The Common Admission Test is one of the most dynamic management entrance examinations out there. Only recently, in 2024, the CAT exam introduced a change in the exam pattern by introducing 2 extra CAT 2025 DILR questions and making the total number of questions 68 from the previous 66. This unpredictability in the CAT exam pattern might catch a few candidates off guard, and due to this, they might feel slightly uneasy. The expected CAT exam pattern for 2025 is provided below for the reference of the candidates. The CAT 2025 examination will be conducted by the Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode.
Particulars | CAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus |
CAT exam time duration | 2 Hours (120 Minutes) & (160 Minutes for PwD) |
Name of the Section | - Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) - Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) - Quantitative Aptitude (QA) |
Section-wise CAT exam time duration | - 40 Minutes for Each Section (VARC, DILR, QA) - 53 Minutes 20 Seconds for PwD candidates for each section |
Number of Questions | 68 |
Total Marks | 204 |
Mode of the CAT 2025 exam | Computer-Based Mode (CBT) |
CAT Marking Scheme | - For every right answer, +3 will be awarded - For every wrong answer in MCQs, -1 will be deducted - No negative marks for Non-MCQs |
No Fixed Syllabus
One of the major difficulties faced by the candidates during their CAT 2025 preparation is the non-availability of an official CAT 2025 syllabus. The conducting bodies have not revealed any official CAT syllabus. This means that the candidates should refer to the CAT previous year question papers, shortlist the CAT important topics and prepare their own CAT 2025 preparation timetable. However, we have provided below the sectionwise syllabus for CAT 2025, to help you understand it clearly and boost your preparation:
| CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus |
| CAT 2025 Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning Syllabus |
| CAT 2025 Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension Syllabus |
High Cut-offs for Top Colleges
To accommodate the highly competitive nature of the CAT exams, the cutoffs for the best management institutions of the country are high. The top-rated IIMs have CAT cutoff marks as high as 99 percentile. This is done to ensure a fair selection of candidates for the limited number of seats available at the top institutions of the country. This means that the candidates are missing out on joining their dream colleges by a variation of 0.05 percentile, which is very unfortunate. This adds up to the CAT exam difficulty.
CAT Exam Difficulty vs Other MBA Entrance Exams
CAT is one of the toughest MBA entrance exams in India, mainly because of tricky questions and very limited time. The DILR section in CAT is especially hard, as it has long sets and confusing logic. When compared to other exams, like XAT, SNAP, NMAT, and MAT, CAT is more about smart thinking and time management.
XAT also feels tough, but it includes Decision Making and an essay, which are different from CAT. SNAP and NMAT are easier, with simpler questions but faster timing. MAT is the easiest among these and used by many smaller colleges. So, CAT is not the only difficult one, but it does need more practice and a clear plan to score well.
How to Score 100 Percentile in CAT 2025 Quant, VARC, and DILR
Achieving a 100 percentile in CAT 2025 demands consistent practice, strong fundamentals, smart time management, and a focused exam strategy. Each section—Quantitative Aptitude (QA), Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), and Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)—requires a tailored approach. Accuracy, careful question selection, and daily revision are key to boosting speed and confidence on exam day.
Quantitative Aptitude (QA):
Build a rock-solid foundation in Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, and Number Systems.
Memorise essential formulas and practise applying them in mocks and topic-wise questions.
Prioritise high-weightage topics identified from previous years’ papers.
Start with topic-specific questions before attempting mixed problem sets.
Regularly take quantitative aptitude sectional tests under timed conditions to improve both speed and accuracy.
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC):
Read newspapers, editorials, articles, and fiction daily to enhance reading speed and comprehension.
Solve 3–4 RC passages each day, focusing on understanding rather than guessing.
Avoid blind guesses; use elimination techniques to choose the right options.
Build vocabulary naturally through reading instead of rote memorisation.
Approach VA questions like para jumbles or odd-sentence-out logically, rather than relying on instinct.
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR):
Practise a variety of DILR sets daily, covering puzzles, seating arrangements, charts, and graphs.
In mocks, choose solvable sets strategically; don’t waste time on overly difficult ones.
Use timers to track your pace and refine your solving strategy.
Learn calculation shortcuts for percentages, ratios, and averages to save precious time.
CAT Exam Difficulty: Section-Wise Analysis
The difficulty of the CAT exam can be understood better when we look at each section. In Quantitative Aptitude, the concepts are mostly school-level, especially arithmetic, so they look simple at first. Know about the CAT 2025 exam difficulty level.
Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
The concepts in Quantitative Aptitude mostly come from school-level maths, especially the arithmetic of Classes 8–10. On the surface, the concepts are not very tough, but the way questions are framed makes them tricky. Many are data-heavy or have hidden traps, so applying the basics under time pressure becomes difficult.
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
DILR is often the toughest section in the CAT 2025 exam. The puzzle-based sets are not like regular textbook problems, so students find them unfamiliar. Some years it feels manageable, but in others, it gets unusually tough, which adds uncertainty. The unpredictability is what makes this Logical Reasoning feared.
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
This section does not test high-level grammar or vocabulary. Instead, it focuses on logic, comprehension, and reasoning. Most of the marks come from Reading Comprehension. The passages can be dense, tricky, or confusing, which makes them time-consuming even if the questions look simple.
Is CAT Getting Tougher or Easier Over Time?
The debate around the CAT exam difficulty level grows every year. Many aspirants feel the test is tougher now, while others argue it is simply different. One must look at how CAT has changed over the years, especially in structure and section-wise unpredictability.
Shift from 3 Hours to 2 Hours Post-COVID → Time Pressure Increased
Earlier, candidates had three hours to complete the paper. After the change, the test duration dropped to two hours while sectional limits stayed. This meant aspirants had to solve questions faster, increasing stress. The CAT exam pattern still checks conceptual clarity, but reduced time makes pacing and question selection far more critical.
Question Count Dropped but Difficulty per Question Rose
The total number of questions was reduced, but that did not mean the paper became easier. In fact, the CAT Quant section and Verbal Ability maintained moderate to high difficulty. Many aspirants found that each question now carries more weight, so accuracy matters much more than before. Solving smartly has become as important as knowing concepts.
More Unpredictability in DILR Compared to Earlier Years
One of the biggest changes has been in the CAT DILR difficulty. Earlier, students could expect familiar sets or patterns. Today, the section is unpredictable, with logic puzzles and data sets that test reasoning under pressure. This shift makes practice across diverse problem types essential. Since CAT DILR questions cannot be mastered by memorising methods alone.
How to Handle CAT’s Growing Difficulty Level
CAT feels tougher every year, but the secret is not more knowledge, it’s a smarter strategy. You must focus on high-frequency topics, practise under timed conditions, learn when to skip, and manage stress calmly. With the right balance of practice and mindset, the difficulty turns manageable and even works to your advantage
CAT Topic Prioritisation
Not all topics in CAT carry equal weight. Arithmetic, algebra, and logical puzzles show up regularly, while rare topics appear once in a while. You should first master high-frequency topics because they offer maximum returns. Once you gain confidence in these, move to less frequent topics. This approach ensures steady accuracy, builds momentum, and saves time during the actual test.
CAT Mock Test Analysis
Giving CAT 2025 mock test is not enough, you must take them under real CAT timing. Sit in a quiet space, set the timer, and practise full-length mocks. After each test, analyse mistakes and note which topics took longer than expected. This analysis sharpens accuracy, improves speed, and prepares you mentally for actual exam pressure, so you don’t get caught off guard.
Attempt Now - CAT 2025 free mock test
Developing an Adaptive Test-Taking Strategy
In CAT, skipping is a skill. Many aspirants waste time forcing tough questions. Instead, you should attempt questions that look clear and approachable. If a question feels too long, mark it for review and move ahead. This adaptive approach helps maximise attempts, reduce silly errors, and boost percentile. Remember, CAT rewards smart selection, not attempting everything.
Stress Management
The CAT exam feels hard because stress makes questions seem more complex than they are. Practise breathing exercises before mocks, and train yourself to stay relaxed under time pressure. Enter the exam with the mindset that you don’t need to attempt all questions; accuracy matters more than quantity. With the right frame of mind, toughness turns into an opportunity to outperform others.
Who Finds CAT More Challenging?
The CAT exam is generally considered to be of moderate to high difficulty. However, some candidates tend to underperform compared to others. Analysis of previous years’ results shows several key reasons for this.
1. Weak basics in Math or English
Many candidates struggle with the VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension) and Quantitative Aptitude sections. The VARC section carries the highest weightage with 24 questions, and poor performance here can significantly affect overall scores. Similarly, the Quantitative section is often seen as the toughest part of the exam. Strong performance in this section can give candidates a competitive edge, while weaknesses can make the exam feel even harder.
2. Time management and stress issues
Effective time management is crucial in CAT. Candidates who cannot choose the right sets or manage their time may feel stressed and anxious, which can lead to mistakes or incomplete attempts. Staying calm and focused throughout the exam is essential to avoid panic.
3. Limited preparation time for working professionals
Many CAT aspirants balance preparation with work. While it is possible to succeed in such situations, factors like procrastination, job commitments, and personal responsibilities can limit study time. As a result, working professionals may struggle to match their expectations and find the CAT exam more challenging.
CAT Preparation Resources by Careers360
Careers360 presents a wide range of ebooks designed specifically for CAT 2025 aspirants. These ebooks cover crucial sections such as Quantitative Ability, Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation, and Verbal Ability with detailed concepts and practice exercises. They include previous years’ questions and model tests to help candidates build strong fundamentals and improve accuracy.
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 | |
| CAT 2025 Mock Test Series -20 Sets, Questions with Solutions by Experts | Download Now |
Mastering DILR Questions with Expert Solutions | |
CAT 2025 Exam's High Scoring Chapters and Topics | |
Mastering CAT Exam: VARC, DILR, and Quant MCQs & Weightages | |
CAT 2025 Mastery: Chapter-wise MCQs for Success for VARC, DILR, Quant | |
CAT 2025 Quantitative Aptitude Questions with Answers | |
CAT DILR Questions with Solution, Download LRDI Questions for CAT | |
CAT 2025 Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) Study Material |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How can aspirants manage the tough sections of CAT effectively?
A:
Focus on regular mock tests, solving previous years’ papers, and sectional strategies. Prioritising questions you can solve quickly and improving speed with accuracy.
Q: Is the difficulty level of CAT the same every year?
A:
No, the difficulty varies slightly each year, especially in LRDI and QA sections. Some years may have more challenging logical reasoning sets or tricky reading comprehension passages, but overall, the exam remains competitive.
Q: What makes the CAT exam difficult for most aspirants?
A:
The exam challenges candidates with time pressure, tricky question sets, and a variety of question types. Questions test not just knowledge, but analytical thinking, problem-solving speed, and decision-making under stress.
Q: What makes the CAT exam especially difficult compared to other tests?
A:
Apart from the high number of applicants, the CAT exam is tough due to its strict time limits, unpredictable question patterns, and the lack of a fixed syllabus. These factors demand not just knowledge but also adaptability and time management skills.
Q: Is the CAT exam really that tough for everyone?
A:
The difficulty of the CAT exam largely depends on how well a candidate prepares, but with an acceptance rate of just 2.7% for IIMs, the competition is undeniably intense. Strong basics in Math and English are crucial, and those lacking in either often find the test more challenging.
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Hey! With a NEET score of 344 in the ST category, it is highly unlikely to get admission in any government BDS college in Delhi through the All India Quota. The cutoff for government BDS seats in Delhi usually falls around 400–450 for ST category, so your score is below that range.
You can consider private dental colleges, state quota seats in other states, or reattempt NEET next year to improve your chances.
Hello dear candidate,
YES, with NEET score 344in the ST category you have high chances of getting admission in a BDS College in J&K through JKBOPEE counselling.
check the seat availability and next participate in JKBOPEE Counselling with all the necessary documents.
Thank you.
Hey! With an All India Rank (AIR) of 302,821 in NEET and belonging to the BCE category, it is highly unlikely to get a BDS seat in Telangana under the state quota, as the closing ranks for BCE are usually below 50,000. You may consider applying to private colleges under management quota or explore BDS seats in other states, but the chances remain very limited with this rank.
At KIMS Amalapuram, the internship stipend for MBBS students is generally reported to be around 20,000 per month, though some students have mentioned that in certain years no stipend was provided at all, which means it can vary depending on the policies in place at the time of your internship. To get the most accurate and updated information, it is always best to confirm directly with the college administration or recent interns, but on average, you can expect a stipend in the range of 18,000-20,000 per month during the compulsory rotating internship.
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Popular CAT Questions
Directions for question :
M/s Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, one of the top four audit and accounting firms in the world with headquarters at London, UK, and with an operational presence in 153 countries, hires Management Trainees (MT) from all the premier management institutes of India thrice every year, in the months of January, May and September.
Each new group of Management Trainees (MT) have to go through a four month rigorous training schedule, after which they have to pass through a test consisting of a written assessment and a case-analysis. The top hundred ranked Management Trainees (MT) based on the performance in the test are confirmed as Management Executives (ME). The rest are given the opportunity of undergoing the training for four months one more time along with the next batch of Management Trainees (MT) and then passing through the subsequent test consisting of the written assessment and case-analysis. The Management Trainee (MT) who fails to get confirmed as a Management Executive (ME) the second time is fired.
The scatter-graph below depicts the number of Management Trainees (MT) at Deloitte taking the tests from January 2020 till May 2022, and the vis-à-vis hired Management Trainees (MT) at Deloitte who were fired :
It is also known that for the month of September 2019 at Deloitte, 96 hired Management Trainees (MT) failed to be confirmed as a Management Executive (ME) the first time, and that 36 hired Management Trainees (MT) were fired.
Question :
In which test did the minimum number of Management Trainees (MT) get confirmed as a Management Executive (ME) in the second attempt ?
Option: 1
September 2020
Option: 2
May 2021
Option: 3
January 2021
Option: 4
January 2022
Directions for question:
The bar-graph given below shows the foreign exchange reserves of Nepal (in million Rupees) from 2014 to 2021. Answer the following questions based on the graph :
Question:
What was the percentage increase (rounded to the nearest integer, if deemed necessary) in the foreign exchange reserves in 2020 over 2016 ?
Option: 1 None
Option: 2 None
Option: 3 None
Option: 4 None
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