The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025, organized by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode, is one of the most prestigious management entrance exams in India. With over 2.95 lakh candidates expected to participate, the upcoming weeks are crucial — especially with the IIM CAT admit card release and the final preparation phase.
This comprehensive guide covers all key details including important dates, exam structure, admit card download process, mock test information, and IIM admission criteria for CAT 2025.
CAT 2025 Important Dates: Admit Card and Exam Schedule
The CAT 2025 exam will be held on November 30, 2025, in three sessions across approximately 170 to 179 test cities nationwide. The specific exam session will be clearly mentioned on your admit card.
IIM CAT Admit Card Release Date
Initially scheduled for November 5, the IIM CAT admit card will now be officially released on November 12, 2025, as confirmed by IIM Kozhikode.
How to Download the Admit Card
- Visit the official website — iimcat.ac.in.
- Log in using your User ID and Password/Date of Birth.
- Click on “Download Admit Card” under the candidate dashboard.
- Verify your details such as name, photograph, exam centre, and shift timing.
- Download and print at least two copies for exam day.
Candidates must bring a printed copy of the admit card and a valid photo ID proof to the exam centre. The IIM CAT admit card will include the candidate’s name, roll number, reporting time, exam shift, and the address of the test centre.
CAT 2025 Exam Pattern and Structure
The CAT 2025 exam follows a computer-based format (CBT) with a total duration of 120 minutes. It is divided into three mandatory sections:
| Section | Number of Questions |
|---|---|
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 24 |
| Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 22 |
| Quantitative Aptitude (QA) | 22 |
| Total | 68 |
Marking Scheme
- +1 mark for every correct answer
- -1 mark for every incorrect MCQ
- No negative marking for non-MCQ questions
CAT 2025 Syllabus Overview
VARC: Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Para Jumbles, Inference, Sentence Completion
DILR: Data Arrangement, Syllogism, Venn Diagrams, Family Tree, Puzzles, Graphs
QA: Algebra, Geometry, Number System, Probability, Profit & Loss, Time-Speed-Distance
Final Preparation Tips and Mock Test Details
With only weeks left, candidates should focus on section-wise mock tests, concept revision, and full-length timed practice.
IIM Kozhikode will activate the official CAT 2025 mock test link on November 12, the same day as the admit card release. This allows aspirants to experience the real exam interface and time constraints.
Preparation Strategy:
- Take full-length mocks and analyze weak areas.
- Focus on high-weightage topics from each section.
- Maintain consistent accuracy and time management across all sections.
Exam Day Guidelines and Security Protocols
To ensure exam integrity, IIM Kozhikode has introduced strict measures such as:
- Mobile jammers to block unauthorized communication.
- Multiple frisking and ID checks before entry.
- Ban on electronic gadgets, calculators, or stationery items (except permitted ones).
Candidates are advised to report early and follow all instructions mentioned in the admit card carefully.
CAT 2025 Results and IIM Admission Process
CAT scores are the gateway to MBA and PGP programs at India’s leading IIMs and other top business schools.
Expected CAT 2025 Cut-offs
- IIM Ahmedabad: 99+ percentile
- IIM Bangalore & Kozhikode: 97–99 percentile
- IIM Lucknow: Around 90 percentile
- New IIMs: From 92 percentile onwards
IIM Admission Weightage (Indicative):
- IIM Kozhikode: 35% CAT score, 35% Personal Interview, 20% WAT, 10% Resume/Academics
- IIM Lucknow: 30% CAT score with additional weightage for academics and work experience
According to NIRF 2025 rankings, IIM Ahmedabad leads among management institutes, followed by IIM Bangalore, IIM Kozhikode, and IIM Lucknow.
Conclusion
The CAT 2025 examination is a decisive step for every MBA aspirant. The IIM CAT admit card release on November 12 marks the beginning of the final phase — where strategy, practice, and precision make all the difference.
The admit card is your key to the exam hall, your preparation is your guide, and your percentile is the path to India’s most prestigious IIMs.
