CAT 2025 exam is set for 30 November across three slots

The Common Admission Test (CAT 2025) is set for Sunday, November 30, 2025, conducted in three critical slots: 8:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 4:30 PM. This national-level exam is the gateway to the prestigious IIMs and over 1,000 top B-schools. Candidates must immediately download their admit cards to confirm their specific slot and reporting time. With only days remaining, this article outlines the essential exam day instructions and a proven last-week preparation strategy to maximize your score and maintain peak performance.

The final date has arrived on the calendar: Sunday, November 30, 2025. This is the day when the careers of thousands of MBA aspirants will hinge on their performance in the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025. The IIMs have confirmed the exam will be conducted in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode across various centers nationwide. To manage the vast number of candidates, the examination is meticulously divided into three distinct two-hour slots.

​The confirmed schedule is: 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. This news, dated November 22, 2025, stresses the immediate necessity for every candidate to download their CAT 2025 Admit Card from the official IIM CAT website. The admit card is the sole document confirming the specific slot, test center, and crucial reporting time for each aspirant. Successfully navigating the exam day is as important as the preparation itself.

​Sectional Timing and Exam Structure: Know Your 120 Minutes

​Understanding the precise structure of the CAT exam is foundational to a successful test-taking strategy. The CAT 2025 maintains the rigorous 2-hour format, which is strictly divided into three sections with no inter-sectional movement allowed.

• ​Three Sections, 40 Minutes Each: The total exam duration is 120 minutes (2 hours). Each of the three sections has a fixed duration of 40 minutes, and the timer for the next section begins automatically once the previous section's time is over. 
  • ​Section I: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC): Approximately 24 questions.
  • ​Section II: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR): Approximately 22 questions.
  • ​Section III: Quantitative Aptitude (QA): Approximately 22 questions.
• ​Marking Scheme: The scoring pattern remains \mathbf{+3} marks for every correct answer and \mathbf{-1} mark for every incorrect Multiple-Choice Question (MCQ).
• ​Type-In-The-Answer (TITA) Questions: A few questions in each section are of the TITA format (Non-MCQ). There is no negative marking for incorrect answers in TITA questions, making strategic attempts highly beneficial here.
• ​On-Screen Calculator: A basic on-screen calculator is provided and must be used for all computational needs. Personal calculators are strictly prohibited.

​Last Week Strategy: Peaking for CAT 2025

​With only days remaining until the exam, aspirants must shift focus from learning new concepts to refining strategy, boosting accuracy, and aligning their body clock. This is the phase for consolidation, not expansion.

• ​Align Mock Timing with Your Slot: The most critical preparation step now is to take at least 3-4 full-length mock tests (one every alternate day) at the exact time of your assigned CAT slot (8:30 AM, 12:30 PM, or 4:30 PM). This trains your biological clock and mind to be at peak focus during the actual exam window.
• ​Intensive Mock Analysis: Focus on analyzing your last mock tests. Identify the specific question types (e.g., Para-Jumbles, Arithmetic word problems, Venn diagrams) where you lost marks due to silly errors, or spent too much time. Refine your attempt strategy—which questions to skip and which to prioritize.
• ​Conceptual Revision Only: Avoid starting any new, complex topics (like advanced Geometry or P&C). Use flashcards and concise notes to rapidly revise all key formulas (Arithmetic, Algebra, Modern Math) and verbal grammar rules. Solidify the concepts you already know.
• ​Prioritize Accuracy over Attempts: Given the negative marking, the final strategy should be centered on high accuracy. Practice selective question attempts. If you are unsure of an MCQ, it is often better to skip and maintain your positive score.
• ​Mental and Physical Health: Ensure you get 7-8 hours of quality sleep every night. Stay hydrated and eat light, healthy meals. Avoid late-night studying, especially in the 48 hours preceding the exam.

​ Exam Day Instructions: Essential Dos and Don'ts

​Strict adherence to the IIM's guidelines is non-negotiable for a smooth exam experience. Any lapse in compliance, particularly concerning documentation or timing, can lead to exclusion from the test center.

• ​Mandatory Documents: 
  • ​CAT 2025 Admit Card: A clear, printed hard copy (preferably color print) with your photograph (same as registration photo) affixed in the designated space.
  • ​Valid Photo ID: Original and valid government-issued photo identification (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License). The name on the ID must match the name on the admit card.
  • ​Extra Photograph: Carry one extra passport-size photograph (the same as uploaded) for the attendance sheet.
• ​Reporting Time: The official reporting time is typically 90 minutes before the start of the exam (e.g., 7:00 AM for Slot 1). Gates will close 15 minutes before the exam starts, and latecomers will be denied entry. Visit the center a day before.
• ​Prohibited Items & Dress Code:
  • ​Do NOT carry: Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, jewelry, metallic items, bags, wallets, or any stationery (pen/scribble pad will be provided).
  • ​Dress Code: Wear simple, comfortable, loose clothing. Avoid thick-soled shoes, full-sleeve shirts (or be ready for extra frisking), and any clothing with large metallic buttons.
• ​Inside the Hall: You must do all rough work only on the provided scribble pad. This pad, along with the pen, must be returned to the invigilator before you exit the center.

​Conclusion

​The CAT 2025 exam on November 30, 2025, is the final hurdle to your IIM dream. By downloading your admit card immediately, confirming your slot, and meticulously following the last-week preparation strategy focused on mock alignment and revision, you can ensure peak performance. Maintain your composure, trust your preparation, and arrive at the center on time with all mandatory documents.

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