The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of India’s most prestigious entrance exams for admission into top MBA institutes like the IIMs and over 1,200 B-schools. If you’re an MBA aspirant aiming for a top percentile, understanding the CAT exam structure, eligibility, and preparation strategy is essential. Here’s your complete guide to the CAT Entrance Exam including updated syllabus, fees, pattern, eligibility, and preparation tips.
CAT Exam Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Exam Name | Common Admission Test (CAT) |
| Conducting Body | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) |
| Mode of Examination | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Frequency | Once a Year |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes |
| Tentative Exam Date | Last Sunday of November (every year) |
CAT Exam Syllabus
The CAT exam evaluates candidates on three major sections. While IIMs do not release an official syllabus, questions typically fall under the following topics:
1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Reading Comprehension Passages
- Para Jumbles
- Para Summary
- Sentence Correction
- Odd Sentence Out
2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Bar Graphs, Line Charts, Pie Charts
- Caselets and Tables
- Logical Puzzles
- Seating Arrangement
- Blood Relations, Directions
3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
- Arithmetic (TSD, Percentages, Ratios)
- Algebra (Equations, Functions, Inequalities)
- Number System
- Geometry & Mensuration
- Modern Maths (Probability, P&C, Set Theory)
Preparation Tip: Develop reading habits, strengthen basic arithmetic, and practice reasoning with time limits.
CAT Exam Fees
| Category | Application Fee |
| General / NC-OBC | ₹2,400 |
| SC/ST/PwD | ₹1,200 |
CAT Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the CAT entrance exam, candidates must meet the following eligibility conditions:
- A Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD)
- Final-year undergraduate students can also apply
- No age limit for appearing
- Unlimited attempts allowed
CAT Exam Pattern
| Section | No. of Questions | Time Allotted |
| VARC | 24 | 40 minutes |
| DILR | 20 | 40 minutes |
| QA | 22 | 40 minutes |
| Total | 66 Questions | 120 minutes |
Marking Scheme:
- +3 for every correct answer
- -1 for wrong answers (MCQs only)
- No negative marking for TITA (Type In The Answer) questions
Best Books for CAT Preparation
| Section | Recommended Books |
| VARC | Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis |
| How to Prepare for VARC for CAT by Arun Sharma | |
| DILR | Logical Reasoning and DI for CAT by Nishit K. Sinha |
| QA | Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Arun Sharma |
Final Thoughts
CAT is not just a test of knowledge but of speed, accuracy, and strategy. Start early, take regular mock tests, and focus on time management. Scoring well in CAT opens the door to top MBA colleges in India, including IIMs, FMS Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, and others.
For more details on CAT percentile vs MBA college, CAT cutoff for IIMs, and CAT accepting colleges 2025, regularly visit the official CAT portal or trusted sources like Career Mantra.
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