The Common Admission Test (CAT 2025) is scheduled for tomorrow, November 30 . The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode, as the conducting body, has issued mandatory guidelines regarding candidate dress code and prohibited items. Strict adherence to these rules is crucial for all candidates to ensure entry and participation in the exam. Approximately 2.95 lakh candidates will appear for CAT 2025 across 170 cities nationwide.
CAT 2025 Exam Day Logistics
The CAT 2025 examination will proceed on November 30 . The test is divided into three distinct slots to accommodate all registered participants. These slots are: Slot 1 from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM , Slot 2 from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM , and Slot 3 from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM . Candidates must arrive at their designated centres well in advance of their respective slot timings.
All candidates must bring their official CAT 2025 admit card. A valid government-approved photo identification document is also compulsory. This could include an Aadhar card, passport, driver’s license, or voter ID. Candidates without both the admit card and a valid photo ID will not be permitted to enter the examination hall.
Mandatory Dress Code Guidelines
A specific dress code is enforced to maintain the integrity and security of the examination process. All candidates are strictly prohibited from having mehndi, tattoos, or any other unnatural markings on their body. Any candidate found with such markings may face immediate disqualification or be barred from taking the exam.
Dress Code for Male Candidates
Male candidates must avoid specific footwear and apparel. Shoes with thick soles are not allowed, as they could potentially conceal prohibited items. Similarly, clothing items featuring large buttons are prohibited for security reasons. Candidates should also ensure their attire, including shirts, T-shirts, and pants, does not include any pockets. Pockets can be used to hide unauthorized materials. Comfortable clothing without pockets and with thin-soled footwear is recommended.
Dress Code for Female Candidates
Female candidates are advised to remove all jewellery and metal ornaments before arriving at the exam centre. This includes earrings, nose pins, necklaces, anklets, bracelets, and any other metal accessories. These items can trigger metal detectors and delay entry. Candidates should also avoid excessive makeup and opt for a simple hairstyle, free from any embellishments or hair accessories that could raise security concerns.
Prohibited Items at the Exam Centre
IIM Kozhikode has issued a comprehensive list of items that candidates are absolutely forbidden from bringing into the examination centre. Possession of any of these items will result in immediate expulsion from the venue. Security checks will be stringent to prevent unfair means.
- Bags and Purses: Not allowed due to potential for carrying unauthorized materials.
- Pencil Boxes: All necessary stationery will be provided by the exam centre.
- Beepers and Wristwatches: These can be used for unauthorized communication or time-keeping.
- Calculators: Electronic calculators are strictly prohibited; an on-screen calculator will be available for use.
- Mobile Phones and Electronic Devices: Any form of mobile phone, tablet, or other electronic gadget is banned to prevent communication and information access.
- Scanners and Cameras: These devices are forbidden to prevent any form of cheating or recording exam content.
- Bluetooth Devices: Wireless communication devices are strictly prohibited to maintain exam sanctity and prevent external aid.
Candidates are advised to leave all non-permitted items at home or make arrangements for their safekeeping outside the exam premises. Exam centres will not provide locker facilities for personal belongings, and no responsibility will be taken for lost items.