IIM Kozhikode has released the final answer key for the Common Admission Test (CAT 2025). Out of 187 objections raised by candidates, one objection was accepted . Results for approximately 2.58 lakh candidates are tentatively scheduled for the first week of January 2026 .
A high percentile in CAT 2025 is crucial for gaining admission to postgraduate management programs at the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top business schools. Candidates require a strong percentile to be shortlisted for the subsequent rounds of the selection process, which include Written Ability Tests (WAT) and Personal Interviews (PI).
CAT 2025 Exam Details
The CAT 2025 examination was administered with a total score of 204 marks . The paper consisted of 68 multiple-choice questions , each carrying three marks. The marking scheme stipulated a deduction of one mark for every incorrect answer, emphasizing accuracy alongside speed.
The 68 questions were structured across three distinct sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Each section tests different analytical and linguistic skills vital for management education.
Understanding CAT Score and Percentile
A candidate’s raw score, derived from correct and incorrect answers, directly influences their percentile. The percentile indicates the percentage of candidates who scored less than or equal to that particular candidate. Therefore, a higher raw score translates into a higher percentile, placing the candidate in a more competitive position.
Analysis suggests that candidates achieving an overall CAT score between 132 and 153 marks are likely to fall within the 99 percentile range . Scores above 153 marks significantly enhance a candidate’s probability of securing the highest percentiles, positioning them strongly for top IIM calls.
For instance, a score exceeding 110 marks is anticipated to correspond with a 99.95 percentile . These benchmarks provide candidates with a clear indication of performance required for elite institutions.
Final Answer Key and Objections Review
IIM Kozhikode managed a candidate objection window for the provisional answer key from December 8 to 10 . During this period, candidates submitted their concerns regarding specific questions or answers. Post-submission, sectional review experts meticulously evaluated all 187 objections received.
Following this comprehensive review, IIM Kozhikode prepared and released the final answer key. The acceptance of only one objection underscores the rigorous evaluation process undertaken by the experts to ensure fairness and accuracy in the final results.
Exam Analysis: Toughest Section Identified
According to the CAT 2025 paper analysis, the Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section was generally perceived as the most challenging among the three sections. This difficulty level was reflected in the high volume of objections. A total of 113 objections were specifically raised against the QA section, with a significant number pertaining to questions in Slot 1 of the examination.
CAT 2025 Expected Score vs. Percentile Breakdown
The table below provides a detailed breakdown of expected CAT 2025 raw scores correlated with corresponding percentiles. It also includes previous year’s cut-off scores for comparative analysis, offering candidates insights into the competitive landscape for IIM admissions.
| CAT Percentile | CAT 2025 Expected Cut-off Score | Previous Year CAT Cut-off Score |
|---|---|---|
| 99.95 | 110 | 130+ |
| 99.9 | 100-104 | 120+ |
| 99.5 | 90-92 | 104 |
| 99 | 78-82 | 95 |
| 97 | 66-68 | 65-67 |
| 95 | 56-58 | 70 |
| 90 | 45-48 | 57 |
| 85 | 40-42 | – |
| 80 | 35-36 | 43 |
| 75 | 32-33 | – |
| 70 | 30-31 | 34 |
| 60 | 25-26 | 27 |
Post-Result Selection Rounds
Candidates who meet the specified CAT cut-off scores for their desired IIMs will qualify for the subsequent stages of the admission process. These stages typically involve a Written Ability Test (WAT) and a Personal Interview (PI). Performance in these rounds is critical for final selection into the postgraduate management programs.