Common Admission Test (CAT) is the gateway to India’s most prestigious business schools, including the IIMs and other top MBA colleges. With CAT 2025 scheduled for November 30, 2025, aspirants have just the right amount of time to create a structured and effective study plan.
This blog provides a complete CAT 2025 preparation strategy with section-wise study plans, a detailed preparation timeline, recommended resources, and mock test guidance. Whether you are a beginner starting your journey or a re-taker looking to improve your score, this guide will help you prepare strategically and boost your chances of success.
Table of Contents
CAT 2025 Exam Overview
Before starting preparation, it is important to understand the CAT exam pattern and structure. CAT 2025 will be a computer-based test conducted by IIM Kozhikode. The exam will consist of three sections, each with a fixed time limit.
CAT 2025 Key Highlights
- Exam Date: November 30, 2025
- Conducting Body: IIM Kozhikode
- Sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
- Exam Duration: 120 minutes (40 minutes per section)
- Total Questions (expected): 66–68
- Marking Scheme: +3 for every correct answer, -1 for every incorrect MCQ, no negative marking for non-MCQs (TITA)
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD)
This structure highlights the importance of time-bound preparation and balanced focus across all three sections.
How to Prepare for CAT 2025: Timeline and Study Plan
Preparation for CAT 2025 should ideally start 8–10 months before the exam. A phase-wise timeline ensures that aspirants cover the syllabus, strengthen weak areas, and have enough time for revision and mock test practice.
CAT 2025 Preparation Timeline
Aspirants should aim to attempt their first mock test by August 2025. From September onwards, the frequency of mocks should increase to at least two to three per week, followed by detailed analysis.
Section-Wise CAT 2025 Preparation Strategy
Each CAT section requires a slightly different approach. Below is the section-wise CAT study plan that balances daily tasks, focus areas, and strategies.
Section-Wise Study Plan for CAT 2025
Sectional Weightage and Key Topics in CAT 2025
This weightage shows that reading comprehension in VARC and arithmetic in QA hold more importance and should be given priority.
CAT 2025 Mock Test Strategy
Mock tests play a decisive role in determining final performance. Attempting sufficient mocks helps in building exam temperament, speed, and accuracy.
- Start with one mock per week from August 2025.
- Increase to alternate-day mocks during September and October.
- Attempt at least 25–30 full-length mock tests before the exam.
- Include sectional mocks to get used to the 40-minute sectional time cap.
- Attempt the official IIMCAT mock test, released in November 2025, to get familiar with the actual test interface.
Equally important is mock test analysis. Review mistakes, identify recurring problem areas, and adjust your study schedule accordingly. This ensures consistent improvement in scores.
Best Books and Resources for CAT 2025
Choosing the right study material is critical for success in CAT. A combination of standard books and online resources works best.
Recommended Books for CAT 2025:
- VARC: How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT by Arun Sharma
- DILR: Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT by Nishit Sinha
- QA: Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Arun Sharma
Online Resources:
- Official syllabus, notifications, and mock test available oniimcat.ac.in
- Sectional and full-length mocks by reputed coaching institutes (IMS, TIME, Career Launcher, Cracku)
- Free topic-wise practice sets available on trusted preparation platforms
Aspirants should use books for concept clarity and online mocks for real-time practice.
Final Thoughts
CAT 2025 preparation requires a mix of smart planning, consistent practice, and focused revision. Following a phase-wise study plan, building strong fundamentals, practicing regularly with mock tests, and using the right resources can make a significant difference in performance.
Aspirants who stay disciplined, analyze their progress regularly, and fine-tune their strategies based on mock performance stand a strong chance of achieving their target percentile and securing admission to the IIMs and other leading B-schools.
Frequently Asked Questions on CAT 2025 Preparation
When should I start preparing for CAT 2025?
A nine-month preparation window, starting by March 2025, is ideal. However, even a five to six-month focused plan can yield good results with discipline.
How many mock tests are required for CAT?
A minimum of 25 to 30 full-length mock tests should be attempted, along with the official CAT mock.
Is coaching mandatory for CAT 2025?
Coaching is not mandatory. Many aspirants clear CAT with self-study, provided they use the right study materials and follow a disciplined plan.
Does IIM release an official CAT mock test?
Yes, IIM releases an official CAT mock in November on iimcat.ac.in. It is strongly recommended for all aspirants.
