Common Admission Test 2025 To Be Released November 5 — Here’s What Candidates Need To Know

Common Admission Test 2025 Admit Cards To Be Released On November 5

The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) are set to release the Common Admission Test 2025 admit cards on November 5, marking a crucial milestone for thousands of MBA aspirants across the country. The CAT exam, one of India’s most competitive and prestigious management entrance tests, serves as the gateway to admission in the IIMs and several other top B-schools. With the release date just around the corner, candidates are advised to stay alert, download their admit cards promptly, and verify all details carefully.

CAT 2025: A Key Gateway to India’s Top Management Institutes

Every year, the CAT exam attracts over two lakh applicants competing for a limited number of seats across 21 IIMs and other premier institutions. The test assesses a candidate’s aptitude in areas such as quantitative ability, verbal ability, reading comprehension, data interpretation, and logical reasoning.

The CAT is more than just an exam—it is a benchmark that measures analytical thinking, time management, and problem-solving skills, qualities essential for success in management education and beyond. With IIMs constantly refining the exam structure to maintain high standards, CAT continues to be a true test of endurance and intellect.

Admit Cards To Be Released on November 5

The CAT 2025 admit cards will be available for download from November 5 through the official CAT website. Candidates will need to log in using their registered credentials—CAT ID and password—to access the document. It is advisable to download and print the admit card immediately to avoid last-minute technical glitches.

The admit card will contain essential information including the candidate’s name, registration number, photograph, exam date and slot, reporting time, exam centre address, and important instructions. Candidates must ensure that all details are correct. In case of discrepancies, immediate rectification requests should be raised with the exam authorities.

Exam Date, Pattern, and Duration

The CAT 2025 examination is expected to be conducted in late November across hundreds of test centres in India. The exam will follow the established pattern of three sections—

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
Quantitative Ability (QA)

Each section will have a fixed time limit of 40 minutes, making the total duration of the exam two hours. Candidates must manage their time efficiently, as switching between sections during the test is not permitted.

The question paper typically comprises a mix of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and non-MCQs that require candidates to type in their responses. The marking scheme awards three marks for every correct answer and deducts one mark for each incorrect response in the MCQ category.

Important Guidelines for Candidates

Candidates appearing for CAT 2025 should follow key guidelines to ensure a smooth examination experience:

Print Multiple Copies of the Admit Card: Keep at least two copies ready, and ensure the printed version includes a clear photograph and legible details.
Carry a Valid ID Proof: Along with the admit card, a government-issued photo ID such as an Aadhaar card, PAN card, voter ID, or passport must be presented for verification.
Arrive Early: Candidates are advised to reach the test centre well before the reporting time to complete security checks without stress.
Avoid Prohibited Items: Electronic devices, calculators, notes, and stationery (except pen) are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall.
Follow Dress Code and Instructions: Simple attire without metallic accessories is recommended to avoid security delays.

What Lies Ahead After CAT

Once the CAT 2025 results are declared, candidates who meet the required percentile cut-offs will move on to the shortlisting phase, which includes Written Ability Tests (WAT), Group Discussions (GD), and Personal Interviews (PI). Each IIM and participating institute follows its own selection criteria, with varying weightages assigned to academic records, work experience, and performance in subsequent rounds.

Apart from the IIMs, several top B-schools such as FMS Delhi, SPJIMR Mumbai, MDI Gurgaon, and IMT Ghaziabad also accept CAT scores, making it one of the most widely recognized MBA entrance exams in India.

Preparing for the Final Stretch

With only weeks remaining before the exam, this is the time for candidates to refine their strategies rather than start anew. Experts suggest focusing on:

Mock Tests: Simulate real exam conditions to improve time management.
Sectional Practice: Strengthen weaker areas while maintaining balance across all sections.
Revision of Key Concepts: Revisit formulas, grammar rules, and data interpretation shortcuts.
Stress Management: Adequate rest and mindfulness can enhance focus during the actual exam.

Final Word

As the release of the CAT 2025 admit card nears, excitement and anxiety are running high among aspirants. This moment marks the beginning of the final phase of preparation for one of India’s most defining academic challenges.

The coming weeks will test not only knowledge but also perseverance and composure. With careful planning, disciplined study, and confidence, candidates can maximize their performance and take a decisive step toward a promising management career.