CAT 2025: Exam Day Preparation Guide- What to Do, Carry and Expect 

2 minute read

Update on 14 Nov, 2025, 03:37 AM IST

The CAT Exam 2025 is almost here! With the exam taking place on 30 November 2025 and the CAT 2025 admit card already released on 12 November 2025, students are in their final stages of preparation. But in addition to revision and mock tests, what also matters is being ready for the exam day itself.

 

This guide article will help you “keep your cool” and be prepared with everything to carry to the centre and advice on one’s travel plans, dress code, and how to deal with pre-exam nervousness. Consider this a personalised CAT Exam 2025 checklist so that when you enter the centre, you are confident and focused!.

 

Table of Contents
  1. CAT Exam 2025 - Key Details
  2. CAT Exam 2025 Important Documents to Carry
  3. Dress Code: What to Wear and What to Avoid
  4. What to Do Before Entering the Centre
  5. Do’s and Don’ts for CAT 2025
  6. Last-Minute CAT 2025 Preparation Tips
  7. Travel and Centre Planning
  8. Managing Stress and FOMO
  9. Final Checklist Before You Leave Home
  10. Conclusion

 

CAT Exam 2025 - Key Details

Particulars

Details

Exam Date

November 30, 2025 (Sunday)

Admit Card Release Date

November 12, 2025

Conducting Body

Indian Institute of Management (IIM Kozhikode)

Exam Mode

Computer-Based Test (CBT)

Exam Sessions

Morning, Afternoon, and Evening (1 slot per candidate)

Official Website

https://iimcat.ac.in

 

CAT Exam 2025 Important Documents to Carry

On the day of the CAT Exam 2025, you will not be permitted inside the exam hall without showing the required documents. You must prepare the necessary documents before the exam. Double-check these before you leave:

  1. Your CAT 2025 admit card- Printed on A4-size paper with a clearly visible photo and signature.
  2. A valid ID proof- You will be allowed to bring one of the following ID proofs:
  • Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Passport
  • Voter ID
  • Driving Licence
  1. Name consistency- The name in the ID must match the name on the CAT 2025 admit card exactly. If it does not match, you must have supporting documents (for example, an affidavit, a marriage certificate) to provide as proof of your name change.

Tip: Take two copies of your Admit Card as a backup to avoid complications during the entrance.

 

Dress Code: What to Wear and What to Avoid

Selecting an appropriate outfit can save time during security checks and avoid unnecessary stress.

 

Recommended:

  • Simple, comfortable clothing (t-shirt/shirt and trousers).
  • Very low-heeled, open footwear (sandals or slippers).
  • Minimal accessories, jewellery or metal items.

Avoid:

  • Smart watches, metallic/digital jewellery.
  • Hoodies, jackets with pockets, or full-sleeved, buttoned shirts.
  • Footwear with thick soles/heels (they may be required to be removed).

Overall, the goal is to be comfortable and keep things simple, having nothing that will potentially be distracting or delay entry into the exam centre.

 

What to Do Before Entering the Centre

  • Make sure to arrive at the venue at least one hour before your reporting time to prevent last-minute anxiety.
  • Bring a clear water bottle.
  • Do not bring your stationery, calculator, or paper. Any rough work will be provided.
  • Make sure to read the directions for your CAT exam day printed on your admit card in detail.

 

Do’s and Don’ts for CAT 2025

Do’s

Don’ts

  • Carry your admit card and ID proof
  • Don’t carry mobile phones, watches, or wallets
  • Reach early to locate your exam room
  • Don’t try to enter after gate closure
  • Listen carefully to the invigilator's instructions
  • Don’t argue with the centre staff
  • Stay calm, focused, and follow the rules
  • Don’t panic if one section feels tough
  • Check your system before the test starts
  • Don’t click “Submit” before reviewing all answers

 

Last-Minute CAT 2025 Preparation Tips

You have put in the hard work for the past months; it's all about confidence and being calm.

  1. Avoid new topics: Focus mainly on reviewing topics you already have a comfort level with.
  2. Review important formulas: Especially for Quantitative Aptitude, the basics of arithmetic, geometry, and algebra.
  3. Review sectional strategies: Time yourself in each of the three sections: VARC, DILR, and QA. You can also check out the VARC, DILR & QA Study Plan, and Common Mistakes to Avoid.
  4. Take short mocks or sectionals: These are light revision, not heavy testing.
  5. Sleep excellently the evening before your exam: Your mind is far more effective when fresh, compared to tired.

Pro Tip: If you have time, briefly revisit the analysis of your last mock. It serves as a reminder of your strengths and helps you start with confidence.

 

Travel and Centre Planning

  • Make sure to verify your CAT 2025 exam centre address printed on your admit card. Do a site visit the day before the exam.
  • Try not to depend on public transport on exam day. Plan for potential delays due to traffic.
  • Finally, take a small transparent pouch with your ID, admit card, and water bottle.

 

Managing Stress and FOMO

Feeling anxious in the final week is common. Here’s how to keep calm:

  • Resist the urge to share mock exam scores or last-minute notes with friends.
  • Do not compare your preparation with others, but just focus on your own plan.
  • Eat small meals on the test day and stay hydrated.
  • Remind yourself: you only need one good day to be successful.

Above all, while the CAT Exam 2025 separates those with presence of mind from those with panic, the CAT exam will not reward panic.

 

Final Checklist Before You Leave Home

  • CAT 2025 admit card (two copies)
  • Valid photo ID proof
  • Transparent water bottle
  • Reached the centre at least an hour early
  • Calm mindset and confidence

 

Conclusion

As you have days remaining until the CAT Exam 2025, it's time to have faith in your preparation. Confirm your relevant documents, develop the proper organisation, and show up with a good mind.

 

Your focus, time management and calmness will be your best friends on November 30, 2025. Just breathe, believe, and do your best work. Success will follow. All the Best!

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