CAT: syllabus, exam pattern & eligibility

Common Admission Test. MBA/PGDM admission at IIMs and 1000+ B-schools

Category
Management
Conducted by
IIMs (rotating; CAT 2025 by IIM Kozhikode)
Level
PG entrance (management)
Frequency
Once a year (Nov)
Mode
CBT
Languages
English

Eligibility

Exam pattern

CAT

120 min · 68 questions · 204 marks

Syllabus

VARC

Reading comprehension, Para jumbles, para summary, odd sentence out

DILR

Data interpretation sets, Logical reasoning sets (arrangements, games, puzzles)

QA

Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry & mensuration, Number system, Modern maths (P&C, probability)

Important dates (CAT 2026 notified; CAT 2025 done)

Selection process

Percentile -> IIM WAT/PI or GDPI

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Frequently asked questions

What is CAT?

CAT stands for Common Admission Test. MBA/PGDM admission at IIMs and 1000+ B-schools. It is conducted by IIMs (rotating; CAT 2025 by IIM Kozhikode). Level: PG entrance (management).

Who is eligible for CAT?

Education: Bachelor's degree with 50% (45% SC/ST/PwD) or final-year. Age limit: No limit. Attempts: Unlimited.

What is the exam pattern of CAT?

CAT: 120 minutes, 68 questions, 204 marks. Mode: CBT.

How often is CAT held?

Once a year (Nov).

When is CAT held?

CAT 2026 notified; CAT 2025 done cycle: CAT 2025 result 2025-12-24; CAT 2026 exam 2026-11-29.

How are candidates selected through CAT?

Percentile -> IIM WAT/PI or GDPI.

Compiled from public sources, last checked 2026-09-25. Dates, fees and rules change, so confirm with the official website before you apply.