Understanding the CAT 2025 Exam Pattern: What's New This Year?

Introduction

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a pivotal exam for aspirants seeking admission to prestigious business schools in India. Held by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIM) annually, the CAT serves as a gateway to various esteemed institutions. Candidates planning to pursue a Master of Business Administration in 2026 can appear for the CAT 2025 exam. The scores are accepted by 21 IIMs and over 1,400 MBA colleges across India.

The registration process for the CAT exam will begin in the first week of August 2025, with the official announcement expected by July 30, 2025. With the exam taking place on 30 November, it's necessary to grasp the CAT 2025 exam pattern, the changes introduced this year, and the overall syllabus to strategise candidates’ preparation effectively.

Understanding the CAT 2025 Exam Pattern

The CAT 2025 exam pattern is structured to assess candidates across three core sections.

Below are some additional key points of the expected CAT 2025:

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CAT 2025 Changes and CAT Exam Updates

It is important to rely on official sources for the most accurate and current information. As of now, there has been no official notification regarding any changes in the pattern of the CAT exam for 2025. Also, no new updates have been released regarding the exam that could influence candidates’ preparation strategies. 

However, to help stay informed, here are some tips:

1. Official Notifications

Regularly checking the official CAT website for the latest updates regarding registration, exam dates, and announcements is essential. The IIMs typically release comprehensive guidelines and FAQs to assist candidates in their preparation. Relying on these official sources ensures that candidates have the most accurate and up-to-date information.

2. Mock Tests and Practice Papers

While there may not be new updates at the moment, utilising the available online resources and mock tests is important. These tools can help candidates familiarise themselves with the existing exam format and question types. Regularly taking mock tests is vital for gauging preparation levels and adjusting study plans accordingly to maximise readiness for the exam.

3. Feedback and Adaptation

Although no new updates are currently available, previous candidates often share their experiences and insights about the exam format on various online platforms. Engaging in these discussions can provide the new candidates with valuable tips and strategies. However, it is important to cross-reference this information with official sources to ensure its relevance to the current exam cycle.

Also Read:- How to Crack CAT 2025 on the First Attempt?

CAT 2025 Syllabus

Understanding the CAT 2025 syllabus is essential for effective exam preparation. While the syllabus has remained mostly consistent over the previous years, candidates should be prepared for more detailed questions.

Below are some tips on how to prepare for each section of the syllabus:

1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

Some topics in the VARC section include:

• Reading Comprehension: Practice with various passages, including literature, business articles, and essays.
• Verbal Reasoning: Focus on grammar, vocabulary, and sentence correction exercises.
• Critical Reasoning: Develop skills in evaluating arguments and understanding assumptions.

2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

The main topics in the DILR section are:

• Data Interpretation: Work with tables, graphs, and charts to decipher complex data sets.
• Logical Reasoning: Engage in puzzles, seating arrangements, and blood relations to sharpen logical thinking.
  
   

3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

Some important topics in the QA section are:

• Number Systems: Cover classification, surds, and indices.
• Algebra: Focus on polynomials, equations, and inequalities.
• Geometry & Mensuration: Understand the properties of mathematical shapes and their calculations.

Candidates should integrate the new question types and formats into their preparation to be well-equipped for the CAT 2025.

Will there be a New CAT Exam Format?

As of now, the new CAT exam format has not been officially announced. It may stay the same as of 2024 or be revised if the IIM committee feels it is necessary. However, here are some pointers candidates should keep in mind:

1. Time Management

The total duration of the exam is likely to remain at 120 minutes, but if there are changes, the committee could impose stricter sectional time limits. If this occurs, candidates will need to develop efficient time management strategies for each section.

2. Increased Complexity

While the specifics of the new format are still pending, there is a possibility that candidates might encounter more complex questions that require multiple steps to solve, particularly in the QA and DILR sections. This potential change would necessitate a stronger focus on candidates’ foundational concepts and problem-solving skills.

3. Preparation Resources

Regardless of the changes to the exam format, utilising updated preparation resources will be crucial. Amity University’s courses include expert-led sessions, practice tests, and personalised feedback, ensuring candidates are well-prepared for the exam. Engaging with these resources, online classes, workshops, and study groups can improve candidates’ experience and provide different perspectives on challenging topics.

Conclusion

By understanding the CAT 2025 exam pattern, adapting to the CAT 2025 changes, and preparing with the CAT 2025 syllabus, candidates can position themselves for success. As candidates gear up for the exam, they must stay informed about CAT exam updates and familiarise themselves with the new CAT exam format. Amity University offers both online and offline CAT courses curated with updated exam guidelines.

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