CAT 2025 Exam Today: Shifts, Documents, Exam Pattern

The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 is being conducted today, November 30 . This entrance examination for Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs is administered across test centers nationwide. The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode organizes the CAT 2025. It serves as the primary gateway for admissions into all IIMs and numerous other leading management institutions across India.

Exam Schedule and Timings

The CAT 2025 examination is structured into three distinct shifts throughout the day. Each shift is two hours long. Candidates must adhere strictly to their allotted time slot.

Shift Time
Shift 1 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Shift 2 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Shift 3 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM

Candidates must reach their assigned exam centers well before their reporting time. This allows for completion of all mandatory entry procedures. These procedures include identity verification and security checks. All exam day instructions issued by IIM Kozhikode must be followed precisely.

Admit Card and Entry

Candidates taking the MBA entrance exam downloaded their CAT 2025 admit cards from the official website, iimcat.ac.in . The admit card is a mandatory document for entry into the examination hall. Without a valid admit card, entry will be denied.

Mandatory Items for Candidates

All candidates must carry specific documents and items to the exam center. These are essential for the verification process and for gaining entry. Failure to present these items may result in denied entry.

  • A printed copy of the CAT 2025 admit card . This document confirms registration and test details.
  • A valid government-issued photo identification (ID) proof . Acceptable ID proofs include Aadhaar card, PAN card, or passport. This is required for identity verification.
  • For Persons with Disabilities (PwD) candidates: A PwD certificate is mandatory. This must be accompanied by a medical certificate confirming the disability. If using a scribe, a scribe affidavit is also required.
  • Legal documents and a government-stamped proof of name change. This applies if a candidate’s name has changed due to marriage or other reasons. These documents ensure accurate identity matching.

Prohibited Items

Candidates are strictly forbidden from bringing certain items into the exam hall. Security personnel will conduct thorough checks. Any candidate found with prohibited items may face disqualification.

  • Electronic gadgets are not allowed. This includes mobile phones, smartwatches, and other communication devices.
  • Calculators are prohibited.
  • Written notes or any unauthorized study materials are strictly forbidden.
  • Any other item deemed prohibited by the exam authorities.

Exam Structure and Marking Scheme

The CAT 2025 exam consists of three distinct sections. These sections assess different aptitude areas essential for management studies. The exam includes a total of 68 questions.

  • Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
  • Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
  • Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

The marking scheme for CAT 2025 awards 3 marks for each correct answer. For every incorrect response in sections where negative marking applies, 1 mark will be deducted. Candidates should attempt questions carefully to avoid negative scoring.