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The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 is a highly competitive MBA entrance exam for admission to the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and over 1,300 top business schools across India. To perform well, understanding the CAT 2025 exam pattern, including the marking scheme, section-wise weightage, and time distribution, is essential for strategic preparation.
In this guide, we break down the updated CAT paper pattern, provide section-wise analysis, and explain how you can optimize your preparation—especially with expert support from leading coaching institutes like GICE Academy.
CAT 2025 Exam Pattern: Overview
CAT is a computer-based test (CBT) comprising three major sections:
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Ability (QA)
Each section is allotted 40 minutes, making the total exam duration 120 minutes (2 hours). Candidates must complete each section within the allotted time, as section switching is not allowed.
Section-Wise CAT 2025 Exam Structure
| Section | No. of Questions | Total Marks | Time Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 24 | 72 | 40 minutes |
| Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 20 | 60 | 40 minutes |
| Quantitative Ability (QA) | 22 | 66 | 40 minutes |
| Total | 66 | 198 | 120 minutes |
Note: The number of questions may vary slightly, as CAT does not have a fixed pattern each year.
CAT 2025 Marking Scheme
| Question Type | Correct Answer | Wrong Answer | Unattempted |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) | +3 marks | -1 mark | 0 marks |
| Non-MCQs (TITA Questions) | +3 marks | 0 marks | 0 marks |
- MCQs: Have four options, one correct. Negative marking applies.
- TITA (Type in the Answer): No negative marking; candidates enter the answer manually.
Key Features of CAT 2025 Paper Pattern
- Total Duration: 120 minutes, with 40 minutes per section.
- Question Types: Mix of MCQs and TITA questions.
- Adaptive Difficulty: The level of difficulty may vary by slot and section.
- Sectional Time Limit: No switching between sections is allowed.
Preparation Strategy for CAT 2025 Exam Pattern
To effectively tackle the CAT 2025 exam structure, follow these tips:
- Understand the Syllabus and Weightage: Focus on high-weightage topics in VARC, DILR, and QA.
- Sectional Practice: Allocate study time equally across all sections to meet the sectional cut-offs.
- Mock Tests & Analysis: Take full-length and sectional mocks to simulate the actual exam environment.
- Time Management: Practice solving each section within 40 minutes for accuracy and efficiency.
- Focus on Accuracy: Due to negative marking in MCQs, it is crucial to minimize guesswork.
Top Coaching Support: GICE Academy CAT Classes
If you’re aiming for a top percentile in CAT 2025, enrolling in a professional CAT coaching institute can give you the edge you need. GICE Academy, with branches in Nerul, Dombivli, and Thane, offers one of the most result-driven CAT preparation programs in Mumbai.
GICE Academy provides:
- Expert Faculty: Experienced mentors with deep knowledge of CAT patterns and question trends.
- Comprehensive Study Materials: Updated as per CAT 2025 standards, including DILR sets, Quant formulas, and VARC practice.
- Regular Mock Tests: Designed to reflect actual CAT difficulty levels.
- Performance Tracking: Personalized feedback and progress reports to fine-tune your preparation.
- Doubt Solving & Mentorship: One-on-one sessions to clarify concepts and improve accuracy.
Conclusion
Understanding the CAT 2025 exam pattern, marking scheme, and section-wise weightage is crucial for creating a focused and effective preparation strategy. With the right approach, consistent mock practice, and expert guidance, you can significantly improve your chances of securing a high percentile.
For aspirants looking for structured learning, GICE Academy’s CAT coaching classes in Nerul, Dombivli, and Thane offer the perfect blend of academic excellence, test strategy, and personalized mentorship to help you crack the CAT with confidence.
Keywords: CAT 2025 exam pattern, CAT paper structure, CAT marking scheme, CAT section-wise weightage, CAT preparation tips, CAT coaching classes in Mumbai, GICE Academy CAT coaching, MBA entrance exam pattern.
