The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 admit cards will be released on November 12, 2024 . IIM Kozhikode, the convening institute for CAT 2025, confirmed this date. Candidates preparing for the national-level MBA entrance examination can access their admit cards on the official website, iimcat.ac.in. Access requires a registered CAT application login ID and password. The online admit card download window will close on November 30, 2024 .
The CAT 2025 examination is scheduled for November 30, 2024 . The test will be conducted across various centers in three distinct shifts throughout the day. Strict entry protocols will be enforced. Candidates must present both their downloaded CAT admit card and a valid government-issued photo identification proof to gain entry into the examination hall. Entry without these documents will be denied.
Exam Format and Structure
CAT 2025 operates as a computer-based test (CBT). The examination is divided into three mandatory sections. These sections are Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Each section evaluates different analytical and problem-solving skills vital for management studies.
Candidates are allotted a total of 120 minutes to complete the entire entrance examination. Each section has a specific time limit. The question paper is projected to contain either 66 or 68 questions. This count aligns with the patterns observed in the previous year’s CAT examinations.
Sectional Breakdown and Content
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC): This section assesses a candidate’s proficiency in English language, including reading comprehension, verbal reasoning, and grammar skills.
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR): DILR evaluates a candidate’s ability to analyze given data sets, interpret charts and graphs, and solve logical puzzles and reasoning-based problems.
- Quantitative Aptitude (QA): The QA section tests mathematical skills. It covers topics such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and modern math, focusing on problem-solving accuracy and speed.
Marking Scheme Details
The CAT 2025 examination adheres to a precise marking scheme. For multiple-choice questions (MCQs), one mark is awarded for each correct answer. One mark will be deducted for every incorrect MCQ response. Non-MCQ type questions, also known as TITA (Type In The Answer) questions, follow a different rule. While a correct non-MCQ answer still yields one mark, there is no negative marking for incorrect responses in this category.
| Question Type | Correct Answer | Incorrect Answer |
|---|---|---|
| Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) | +1 Mark | -1 Mark |
| Non-Multiple Choice Questions (Non-MCQs) | +1 Mark | No Negative Mark |
Security Measures and Preparation Resources
IIMs have implemented advanced security protocols for the CAT 2025 examination. These measures ensure exam integrity. Mobile jammers will be deployed in selected examination centers. This deployment aims to prevent any use of unauthorized electronic devices during the test.
To aid candidate preparation, a CAT 2025 mock test will be made available. This mock test will be accessible on the official website from November 12, 2024 . It includes sample questions. The mock test familiarizes candidates with the computer-based exam format, interface, and navigation. Utilizing this resource can help candidates manage their time effectively on exam day.
Purpose of the CAT Examination
The Common Admission Test (CAT) serves as a critical entrance examination. It facilitates admissions into various prestigious management programs across India. These programs include the Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM). India’s leading business schools, prominently the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), use CAT scores as a primary criterion for their highly competitive admission processes. Other top management institutes also accept CAT scores for their graduate programs.