With CAT 2025 looming on 30 Nov, IIM Kozhikode publishes key rules and guidelines for candidates

With the CAT 2025 exam date nearing, IIM Kozhikode, the organizing body, has released a crucial set of exam day guidelines for aspirants. This article breaks down the strict reporting schedule, the absolute necessity of carrying your admit card, and the vital role of your unique email and phone number throughout the entire selection process. Missing the gate closure time is non-negotiable and could cost you a year. Prepare now to ensure a smooth, stress-free entrance into India's premier management test. Stay updated with the latest instructions from IIMCAT for a successful exam day experience.

As the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025, convened by the prestigious Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode, approaches on November 30, 2025, aspirants are in the final lap of their preparation. However, success on the exam day hinges not just on subject mastery but also on flawless adherence to administrative protocols. IIM Kozhikode has issued stringent guidelines, including a fixed schedule for the three exam shifts, a strict gate closure policy, and mandatory documentation requirements. For every MBA aspirant, understanding and strictly following these rules is as critical as mastering Quantitative Ability or Verbal Comprehension. This article details the key directives from the organizing IIM, ensuring you navigate the exam day successfully and keep your IIM dream alive.

​Punctuality is Paramount: Decoding the CAT 2025 Exam Schedule

​IIM Kozhikode has categorically stressed that punctuality is non-negotiable for all candidates appearing in the three sessions of CAT 2025. The schedule is structured to ensure a secure and orderly administration of the high-stakes examination. Aspirants must treat the reported timings—both the reporting time and the gate closure time—as absolute deadlines.

• ​Strict Gate Closure Rule: The most critical directive is the necessity to arrive at least 15 minutes before the official gate closure time for your respective shift. Candidates who arrive even a minute late will be denied entry to the test centre, irrespective of the reason. There is zero tolerance for latecomers.
• ​Three Fixed Shifts: The CAT 2025 exam will be conducted in three distinct slots on November 30, 2025, each with a rigid timeline. Aspirants must carefully check their specific shift details on their admit card. 
  • ​Slot 1 (Morning): Typically from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM. Candidates must check their exact reporting and gate closure times on the official admit card.
  • ​Slot 2 (Afternoon): Typically from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM.
  • ​Slot 3 (Evening): Typically from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
• ​Pre-Exam Formalities: The reporting time allows for essential administrative procedures, including document verification, photo matching, biometric data collection, and assignment of the test system. Rushing through these security checks can cause unnecessary stress; hence, early arrival is key to a calm start.

​Mandatory Documentation: The Non-Negotiable Entry Pass

​The CAT exam is a highly secured process, and access to the test centre is conditional upon the presentation of specific, valid documents. Candidates are strongly advised to prepare a physical 'exam-day folder' well in advance to avoid last-minute panic.

• ​The Printed CAT 2025 Admit Card: This is the single most important document. Aspirants must carry a clear, printed copy of their CAT 2025 Admit Card downloaded from the official IIMCAT website, iimcat.ac.in. The admit card must have the candidate's photograph affixed, preferably the same one uploaded during the registration process, as specified in the instructions.
• ​Valid Photo Identity Proof (Original): Candidates must carry the original of one of the following Government-issued photo ID proofs. The name on the ID proof must exactly match the name on the Admit Card. 
  • ​Aadhaar Card/PAN Card/Voter ID Card
  • ​Passport/Driving License/College ID (if applicable and specified in the guidelines).
• ​Scribe/Medical Certificate: Candidates availing the services of a scribe or those with PwD status must carry all relevant medical and supporting documents as per the official IIMCAT guidelines. Failing to produce these on demand will lead to refusal of the scribe/special assistance.
• ​Prohibited Items: Mobile phones, electronic gadgets, watches, calculating devices, communication aids, and any study material are strictly prohibited inside the test centre. Security measures, including metal detectors and signal jammers, are often deployed to maintain exam integrity.

​Post-Exam Linkage: The Role of Unique Contact Information

​The requirement for a valid, unique email address and mobile phone number extends far beyond the initial registration phase. IIM Kozhikode has highlighted that these contact details are vital for the entire selection process, which follows the CAT exam.

• ​Shortlisting for Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI): After the CAT results are announced (expected in January 2026), the IIMs and other top B-schools will use the registered email ID and phone number to communicate shortlisting status for the second stage: WAT and PI. Any change in contact details after registration must be officially updated, though it is strongly discouraged.
• ​Official Communication Channel: All official correspondence—including CAT scorecards, IIM interview call letters, final admission offers, and acceptance deadlines—will be sent exclusively to the registered email ID. Missing an email could mean missing a call from a top IIM.
• ​Security and Verification: The unique contact details serve as a primary security checkpoint. Password recovery, profile modifications, and all high-security actions are routed through these registered channels, ensuring the integrity of the candidate's admission journey. Maintaining these accounts as active and secure is the candidate's sole responsibility for the next 12-18 months.

​Conclusion

​The CAT 2025 guidelines issued by IIM Kozhikode are designed to ensure a fair, secure, and streamlined examination process for all aspirants. As the exam date of November 30, 2025, draws near, candidates must pivot from intense preparation to meticulous planning. Arriving before the gate closure time is mandatory; possessing the correct, original documents is crucial; and maintaining your registered unique contact information is non-negotiable for the subsequent admission phases. Successful management aspirants demonstrate not just academic prowess, but also adherence to rules and effective time management. Treat these exam day instructions as your first lesson in management, and walk into the testing centre with confidence and a clear plan.

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