CAT 2025 – Counselling, Cutoff, Result, Scorecard,Trend & Top colleges

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a National-level entrance exam conducted by one of the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) on a rotational basis for admission into Post Graduate Management Programs across various IIMs and numerous other top-tier business schools in India. Held annually, typically in November, the exam rigorously tests candidates in areas such as Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability. This examination serves as a gateway to top-ranked colleges in India, including the prestigious IIMs. Appearing for the CAT is often the first major step for students aspiring to pursue MBA and PGDM programs at India’s most reputed management institutions. With a single exam score, aspirants can apply to multiple colleges across the country — making it a centralised, merit-based selection tool. The examination is conducted online as a Computer Based Test (CBT) and spans a duration of two hours, divided into three distinct sections, each with a mandatory time limit of 40 minutes. The question paper comprises a total of 66 questions, including Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Type-In-The-Answer (TITA) questions, carrying a total of 198 marks. The questions are designed to assess a candidate's aptitude at a graduation level, making the syllabus coverage broad, encompassing comprehensive reading, logical deduction, and fundamental mathematical concepts. Over the years, CAT has maintained its stature as one of the most competitive entrance examinations in India. Annually, around 2.5 to 3 lakh candidates register for the exam, with approximately 2 to 2.25 lakh actually appearing. The number of candidates who successfully clear the exam, typically defined by those achieving high percentiles required for top B-schools, varies each year, but only a fraction secure admission to the premier institutes. Cutoffs for top IIMs often range from the 98th to 100th percentile for general category candidates, while reserved categories typically have slightly lower cutoffs. This trend underscores the high level of competition and the rigorous selection process. The CAT exam's significance lies in its role as a standardized evaluation tool that enables institutes to identify candidates with strong analytical, verbal, and logical reasoning skills crucial for management studies. Its consistent format and high standard ensure a fair and robust assessment for aspiring business leaders across the nation.

Mandatory exam for IIM admissions, score accepted by over 1200 B-schools across India, highly competitive with specific sectional time limits.

Based on CAT scores, individual institutes conduct Written Ability Test (WAT)/Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds for final selection.

Qualifying CAT Common Admission Test opens up admission opportunities at India’s most prestigious institutions — known for their academic excellence, robust industry connections, and stellar placement records. A high CAT score is the primary gateway to securing a seat in these elite business schools, which collectively offer unparalleled quality of education, exceptional faculty, and strong placement support. Admissions are highly competitive, driven by demanding cutoff percentiles. Among the premier institutions, the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) consistently lead the pack. IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, and IIM Calcutta are consistently ranked among the top, often requiring CAT scores in the 99+ percentile for general category candidates. Graduates from these institutions command average CTCs ranging from ₹32-37 LPA, attracting offers from leading global firms. IIM Lucknow also stands as a top-tier choice, with typical cutoffs around the 97-98+ percentile and average placements ranging from ₹30-32 LPA, reflecting its strong academic and placement records. Beyond the IIMs, Faculty of Management Studies (FMS) Delhi is another highly sought-after institution. FMS Delhi boasts an excellent return on investment, with average CTCs often competitive with the top IIMs, typically in the range of ₹32-35 LPA, while requiring a 98-99+ percentile in CAT. Other highly reputed institutions like SPJIMR Mumbai and MDI Gurgaon also accept CAT scores, offering strong programs with competitive placements, typically ranging from ₹25-34 LPA and cutoffs from 95-97+ percentile. Graduates from these colleges often land roles in leading firms like McKinsey, Boston Consulting Group, Bain & Company, Amazon, Microsoft, Hindustan Unilever, Procter & Gamble, Citibank, and Goldman Sachs, showcasing the powerful ROI of qualifying CAT.

Qualifying the Common Admission Test (CAT) opens doors to some of the most prestigious institutions in India and unlocks access to high-growth career opportunities across sectors. The CAT score is the gateway to admissions at the 21 Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and over a thousand other esteemed business schools nationwide. Studying at these premier institutions offers unparalleled academic rigor, world-class faculty, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and a robust alumni network, significantly enhancing an aspirant's professional credibility and knowledge base. A strong performance in CAT translates into a high return on investment. Graduates from top management programs leveraging CAT scores secure impressive career outcomes. Average placement packages at the leading institutes typically range from ₹25-37 LPA, depending on the institution and specialisation. These graduates are recruited by top global and Indian firms, including consulting giants like McKinsey, Boston Consulting Group, and Bain & Company, financial leaders such as Goldman Sachs and Citibank, and technology and FMCG majors like Amazon, Microsoft, Hindustan Unilever, and Procter & Gamble. The programs align with in-demand career domains such as consulting, finance, marketing, technology, and general management, preparing students for leadership roles in emerging sectors. Beyond domestic recognition, the education from these institutions often holds global recognition, improving chances for international programs, scholarships, or future higher studies. The CAT is more than just an entrance exam; it is a strategic first step and a powerful launchpad for aspirants aiming for accelerated career growth and lifelong professional success. It equips candidates with analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and leadership qualities essential for navigating the complex global business landscape.

The Common Admission Test (CAT) continually evolves each year to stay aligned with modern academic frameworks and career readiness expectations, ensuring its relevance to industry needs and student preparation. The CAT 2024 edition of the exam, conducted in late 2024 for admissions in the academic year 2025-26, retains several key changes introduced in the previous cycle that candidates should be aware of. A significant update that was implemented and maintained for CAT 2024 is the revised exam pattern. The total duration of the test was condensed from 180 minutes to 120 minutes, or two hours. Concurrently, the total number of questions was adjusted from 76 to 66. This structure includes 24 questions in Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, 20 questions in Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and 22 questions in Quantitative Ability, with each section allotted 40 minutes. This modification aims to enhance the efficiency of the test and evaluate candidates more effectively under time constraints. While core eligibility criteria for CAT 2024 remain consistent with previous years—requiring a Bachelor's degree with specific minimum marks—the application process and exam schedule are updated annually, necessitating candidates to check the official notifications. The exam continues to focus on analytical, logical, and verbal reasoning skills, reflecting the competencies required for modern management roles. These updates collectively underscore the exam's commitment to fairness and comprehensive assessment, benefitting aspirants by providing a streamlined yet rigorous evaluation process, preparing them for the dynamic challenges of the management world.

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is the premier national-level entrance examination for admission to postgraduate management programs, including MBA and PGDM, across India. It is conducted annually by one of the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) on a rotational basis, with CAT 2024 being convened by IIM Calcutta. The application process for the upcoming CAT typically commences in August and concludes by September, with the examination usually held on the last Sunday of November. Results are generally declared in December or January. Candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria, which primarily requires a bachelor's degree with at least 50 percent marks (45 percent for SC/ST/PwD categories) or an equivalent qualification. The application process involves online registration on the official IIM CAT website, filling out the detailed application form, uploading required documents such as photographs and signatures, and paying the application fee. For general category candidates, the fee is INR 2500, while for SC/ST/PwD categories, it is INR 1250, payable online through various methods. Important instructions include ensuring accurate personal and academic details, and carefully selecting preferred test cities. Common mistakes to avoid include last-minute application submission, incorrect category selection, and incomplete documentation. CAT features a computer-based test with 66 questions spread across three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (24 questions), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (20 questions), and Quantitative Ability (22 questions). Each section has a time limit of 40 minutes. The score obtained in the CAT exam is valid for one academic year, specifically for admissions in the academic year immediately following the exam. The admission process for IIMs and other leading B-schools involves shortlisting candidates based on CAT scores, followed by Written Ability Test (WAT)/Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds, culminating in the final selection based on a composite score. Timely submission of applications and thorough preparation are crucial for success in this highly competitive examination.