Preparing for the CAT 2025 exam can feel overwhelming at first, especially when you’re not sure where to start. But don’t worry — this guide gives you a complete breakdown of the CAT 2025 syllabus, exam pattern, important topics, preparation strategies, and more. Whether you’re just starting or in the middle of your prep journey, this article will help you get ahead.
CAT 2025 Information
The CAT 2025 exam is expected to be held in the last week of November 2025, with the official notification likely released around July or August. The Common Admission Test (CAT) is the premier entrance examination for admission into prestigious IIMs and other top business schools across India. It is conducted annually by one of the IIMs on a rotational basis.
- Mode of Exam: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Total Duration: 120 minutes
- Sections: 3
- Time per Section: 40 minutes (fixed)
- Negative Marking: Yes (-1 for wrong MCQs)
CAT 2025 Exam Pattern
| Section | Expected Questions | Time Limit | Type of Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| VARC | 24 | 40 minutes | MCQs & TITA |
| DILR | 20 | 40 minutes | MCQs & TITA |
| QA | 22 | 40 minutes | MCQs & TITA |
TITA (Type In The Answer) questions are non-MCQ type with no options. There’s no negative marking for TITA questions, making them risk-free attempts.
Check out – Top MBA Colleges Accepting CAT in India
Detailed CAT 2025 Syllabus Breakdown
While IIMs don’t release the official CAT syllabus, it remains consistent over the years based on past papers.
1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Reading Comprehension (RC):
- Passages from philosophy, history, science, literature, and current affairs.
- 4-5 passages, each followed by questions testing understanding, inference, tone, and vocabulary.
Verbal Ability (VA):
- Para Summary: Identify the most suitable summary for a given paragraph.
- Para Jumbles: Arrange jumbled sentences to form a coherent paragraph.
- Odd One Out: Find the sentence that doesn’t belong.
2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
Data Interpretation:
- Tables, Line Graphs, Pie Charts, Bar Graphs
- Caselets with Numerical Data
- Interpretation and analysis skills are tested.
Logical Reasoning:
- Games and Tournaments
- Seating Arrangement
- Blood Relations
- Puzzles
- Syllogisms and Venn Diagrams
Quantitative Ability (QA)
- Arithmetic: Percentages, Profit & Loss, Time-Speed-Distance, Time & Work, Ratios, Mixtures
- Algebra: Linear & Quadratic Equations, Inequalities, Functions
- Geometry & Mensuration: Triangles, Circles, Polygons, Coordinate Geometry
- Number System: Divisibility, Remainders, Base System, HCF & LCM
- Modern Math: Permutation & Combination, Probability, Set Theory
Also Read – Why is Conceptual Clarity Important for CAT 2025? | Top MBA Colleges in Jaipur Accepting CAT Score
Weightage of Topics in CAT 2025 Exam Syllabus
| Topic | Estimated Question Count |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | 16-18 |
| Verbal Ability | 6-8 |
| Data Interpretation | 10 |
| Logical Reasoning | 10 |
| Arithmetic | 8-10 |
| Algebra | 5-6 |
| Geometry & Numbers | 4-6 |
Changes in CAT Syllabus Over the Years
While the core areas remain the same, there have been shifts in:
- The difficulty level of DILR
- A higher focus on RC-based questions
- Introduction of more TITA questions
In 2025, expect CAT to emphasize logic and reasoning over rote learning.
Section-wise Preparation Strategy
Tips for VARC
- Read editorials and opinion pieces from The Hindu, Aeon, and New Yorker
- Practice at least 2 RC passages daily
- Build vocabulary using Word Power Made Easy
Tips for DILR
- Solve diverse puzzle sets
- Practice mock DILR sets with timer
- Focus on accuracy before speed
Tips for QA
- Learn conceptually, then solve problems
- Revise formulas daily
- Use CAT preparation apps and mock platforms
Recommended Books and Resources
| Section | Books/Resources |
|---|---|
| VARC | How to Prepare for VARC for CAT by Arun Sharma |
| DILR | Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT by Nishit Sinha |
| QA | Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Arun Sharma |
| All Sections | TIME, IMS, Career Launcher test series & study material |
Practice and Mock Tests
Mock tests simulate the real exam environment. Begin with 1 mock every two weeks, then increase to 1 mock per week, and finally 2-3 per week in the final month.
- Use analysis tools to check accuracy and attempt time.
- Track your improvement regularly.
CAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria
- Bachelor’s Degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD)
- Final year students can also apply
- No age limit
Registration and Application Process
- Visit the official CAT website: https://iimcat.ac.in
- Fill in personal and academic details
- Upload required documents
- Pay registration fee (~₹2300 for General; ₹1150 for SC/ST)
CAT vs Other MBA Entrance Exams
| Exam | Conducted By | Difficulty Level | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| CAT | IIMs | High | Adaptive and logic-focused |
| XAT | XLRI | Very High | Essay & Decision Making |
| NMAT | GMAC | Moderate | No negative marking |
| SNAP | SIU | Easy to Moderate | Speed-based questions |
Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing for CAT
- Starting late with mocks
- Ignoring weak areas
- Lack of revision
- Not timing your practice sessions
- Over-relying on one resource
FAQs About CAT 2025 Syllabus
Q1. Is the CAT 2025 syllabus officially released?
No, the syllabus is not officially published by IIMs. It’s based on previous years’ papers.
Q2. Has the syllabus changed for CAT 2025?
No major changes are expected, but the paper pattern may slightly vary.
Q3. How many questions are expected in CAT 2025?
Around 66 questions across three sections.
Q4. Are NCERT books useful for CAT prep?
Yes, especially for Quant fundamentals.
Q5. Which section is the toughest in CAT?
It varies. Many find DILR to be the trickiest due to unpredictable sets.
Q6. Can I prepare for CAT without coaching?
Absolutely, with the right strategy, resources, and discipline.
