CAT 2025 Exam Day Guide Released with Complete Details on Slots, Sections, Marking System and Mandatory Documents

The Indian Institute of Management IIM Kozhikode has officially released the CAT 2025 Exam Day Guide for candidates appearing in this year’s Common Admission Test. Scheduled on 30 November 2025, the exam will be conducted across 170 cities in India, making it one of the largest national level management entrance tests. The guide provides complete clarity on exam slots, reporting time, section wise structure, marking scheme, permitted items and documents required at the test centre. Since CAT is a highly competitive exam with strict regulations and time bound sections, understanding these guidelines is essential for avoiding last minute issues. The updated instructions aim to help every candidate enter the exam hall confidently and perform efficiently on the test day.

CAT 2025 Exam Day Guide Released

The Common Admission Test CAT 2025 is one of the most important national level entrance examinations for students aspiring to join top management institutes in India. Conducted by the Indian Institute of Management IIM Kozhikode, the exam is scheduled for 30 November 2025. With thousands of candidates expected to appear across 170 cities, the exam day guidelines become essential for smooth participation.

CAT 2025 is entirely computer based and evaluates candidates across three major sections. Since the exam is highly competitive, candidates must pay close attention to slot timings, entry instructions, and all required documents. The exam authorities have officially released a structured exam day guide to help candidates avoid unnecessary confusion on the test day.

This article provides a detailed breakdown of the exam pattern, marking rules, timings, permitted items, and important tips to ensure candidates walk into the examination hall fully prepared.

Short Summary Table

Exam Date and Slot Timings

CAT 2025 will be held on a single day but in three separate shifts. The three slots help manage the large number of registered candidates. Each slot is two hours long and consists of sectional time limits.

Slot Timings

1. Slot One: 08:30 AM to 10:30 AM
2. Slot Two: 12:30 PM to 02:30 PM
3. Slot Three: 04:30 PM to 06:30 PM

Candidates must report at the exam centre at least 45 minutes before their scheduled slot. Early arrival ensures that biometric verification and security checks can be completed without rushing.

CAT 2025 Exam Pattern

The CAT examination follows a computer based format with a total duration of 120 minutes. It consists of three sections and each section is allotted a fixed time of 40 minutes. Switching between sections is not allowed.

Section Wise Breakdown

1. VARC Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension
2. DILR Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning
3. QA Quantitative Ability

The paper usually contains around 66 to 68 questions with a total score of approximately 204 marks. There are two question formats:

• MCQs where candidates select the correct option
• TITA Type In The Answer where candidates must type the numerical or descriptive response

The TITA questions do not usually carry a negative marking penalty which makes them a safer scoring opportunity.

Marking Scheme

Understanding the marking pattern is essential for scoring well in the CAT exam. The scoring system for CAT 2025 is as follows:

• Each correct answer awards plus 3 marks
• Each incorrect MCQ deducts minus 1 mark
• No negative marking for TITA questions
• Unattempted questions do not attract any penalty

Candidates should avoid unnecessary guessing. It is advisable to attempt MCQs only when they are reasonably confident in their responses.

Important Documents and Items to Carry

The exam authorities have clearly specified the items candidates must bring and those that are strictly prohibited.

Mandatory Documents

• Printed copy of the official CAT 2025 admit card
• One valid original photo identification proof such as Aadhaar card, Voter ID, Passport or Driving License
• Medical documents if the candidate requires medication during the exam

Candidates must ensure that the photograph and signature on the admit card are clear. The admit card must also contain proper test centre details.

Prohibited Items

• Mobile phones
• Smartwatches
• Cameras
• Calculators
• Pen drives, memory cards or any digital storage
• Bags or metallic items

Only basic stationery items permitted by the exam authorities should be carried.

Exam Day Instructions and Tips

CAT is known for its strict time management and high competition level. Following these guidelines will help candidates avoid unnecessary stress on exam day.

Key Tips

• Keep two printed copies of the admit card and identification proof
• Visit the centre location in advance to avoid last minute confusion
• Sleep early on the night before the exam
• Eat a light meal before leaving for the test centre
• Manage time smartly during the exam and do not get stuck on difficult questions
• Move on quickly when a question consumes too much time
• Stay calm and maintain focus throughout the test

Following these simple preparation and exam day habits can help improve one’s accuracy and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the exam date for CAT 2025

The exam will be held on 30 November 2025 across 170 cities in India.

2. How many sections are included in the CAT 2025 exam

The exam contains three sections which are VARC, DILR and QA.

3. Is there negative marking in CAT 2025

Yes. Incorrect MCQ responses carry a penalty of one mark. TITA questions generally do not have negative marking.

4. What documents must I carry to the exam centre

Carry a printed copy of your admit card and original photo ID proof. Without these documents, entry will not be allowed.

5. Can I switch between sections during the exam

No. Each section is restricted to a time limit of 40 minutes and switching sections is not permitted.

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