CAT 2025 Registration – Application Process, Fees & Documents

The registration for CAT Common Admission Test 2025 is conducted online through the official website of the Indian Institutes of Management IIMs. Aspiring candidates for management programs across India's premier B-schools must complete this crucial step to appear for the highly competitive examination. The online application portal is expected to open in the first week of August 2025, providing ample time for candidates to complete the process. Eligible candidates must meticulously complete the online application form, upload all required documents in the specified formats, and pay the application fee within the stipulated window. This structured process ensures all necessary information is captured accurately. The registration window is anticipated to close by the last week of September 2025. This timeline is crucial, and candidates are strongly advised to adhere to it without fail. Late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances, emphasizing the importance of timely action. The examination authorities maintain strict deadlines to ensure a smooth and organized conduct of the test. Applying early helps candidates avoid last-minute technical glitches, payment gateway issues, or internet connectivity problems that often arise due to high traffic on the last few days. It also provides peace of mind, allowing aspirants to focus solely on their preparation for the examination. Candidates should carefully review all entered details before the final submission to prevent errors that might lead to application rejection or complications later. Information regarding the application correction window, usually available in late September to early October 2025, allows for minor rectifications, but initial accuracy is always best. By completing registration early, candidates ensure a hassle-free application process and secure their seat for CAT Common Admission Test 2025, taking the first definitive step towards their management career aspirations.

To register for CAT Common Admission Test 2025, begin by visiting the official portal: iimcat.ac.in. This central online platform facilitates the entire application procedure, making it accessible for candidates nationwide. Once on the homepage, locate and click on the 'New Registration' link, which prompts the creation of an account. This typically involves providing a valid email address and mobile number, which will be verified to generate login credentials. Upon successful account creation, log in using the newly generated User ID and Password. The next step involves meticulously filling out the application form with personal, academic, and contact details. Candidates must provide accurate information regarding their educational qualifications, work experience (if any), and category details. Following this, scanned images of the passport-size photograph and signature, along with other mandatory documents, must be uploaded according to the specified format and size guidelines. After ensuring all details are correctly entered and documents uploaded, proceed to the payment section. The application fee can be paid using various online modes, ensuring convenience for applicants. Once the payment is successful, a confirmation page will be displayed. It is imperative to download and print this confirmation page, as it serves as proof of successful registration and may be required for future reference. Always double-check your details and uploaded files to avoid errors that could affect your application.

The application fee for CAT Common Admission Test 2025 varies by category, ensuring fairness in the registration process while aligning with the examination's broad accessibility. For candidates belonging to the General, Economically Weaker Section EWS, and Other Backward Classes Non-Creamy Layer OBC-NCL categories, the application fee is 2500 INR. Candidates from the Scheduled Caste SC, Scheduled Tribe ST, and Persons with Disability PwD categories benefit from a reduced fee of 1250 INR, reflecting an inclusive approach to higher education. Payment for the CAT 2025 application can be conveniently made through a variety of online modes. Accepted payment methods include Net Banking, which allows direct transfers from your bank account, and Debit Card and Credit Card transactions, offering flexibility and immediate processing. Additionally, payment through Unified Payments Interface UPI is also available, providing a quick and secure mobile-based option for completing the transaction. It is important for all applicants to note the strict refund policy. Once the application fee has been successfully paid, no refund is available under any circumstances. This policy underscores the importance of confirming eligibility and all application details before proceeding with payment. Ensure payment is completed within the deadline to avoid application rejection.

Even a small error in your CAT Common Admission Test 2025 application can lead to rejection or delays, so it’s crucial to avoid these common mistakes. One frequent oversight is uploading blurred or outdated photographs. The photograph must be recent, clear, and adhere to specified background and size requirements to ensure proper identification. Another critical mistake is entering mismatched names across different documents, such as your application form, photo ID, and academic certificates. All personal details, especially names, should be consistent to prevent verification issues. Submitting incomplete academic details is another common pitfall. Candidates often forget to fill in all required marks, percentages, or degree details, which are vital for eligibility assessment. Incorrect category selection can also lead to significant problems, potentially resulting in application rejection if not rectified during the correction window. Furthermore, candidates sometimes experience missing fee confirmation due to payment gateway timeouts or incomplete transactions. Always verify that the payment is successful and download the confirmation page. Failing to adhere to document format and size specifications is a pervasive error, leading to upload failures or application processing delays. It is essential to double-check file types, dimensions, and sizes for photographs, signatures, and certificates. Lastly, waiting until the very last day to register is a high-risk mistake, as technical issues or high website traffic can prevent timely submission. By reviewing your application thoroughly before submission, you can ensure a smooth and error-free process.