CAT Exam Duration 2025, Total Time, Number of Questions

The CAT 2025 exam lasts for 120 minutes or 2 hours. This time is divided equally among three sections, each having a 40-minute limit. Candidates must complete each section within the given time, as they cannot move back once the time expires. This setup tests speed and accuracy while managing time well to answer all questions effectively.

The total 120 minutes are split into three equal parts of 40 minutes each for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Candidates must finish all questions in each section within 40 minutes. The test moves automatically to the next section when time is up, so managing time in every section is critical for success.

No, candidates cannot switch between sections while taking the CAT 2025 exam. After completing the section's 40-minute time slot, the exam system automatically proceeds to the next section. This means candidates should focus on managing their time well in each section because once the allotted time ends, they cannot return to previous sections to review or answer questions.

The CAT exam has around 68 questions divided among three sections. VARC has 24 questions, DILR contains 22 questions, and QA has 22 questions. These questions include both multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and non-MCQ (Type In The Answer) types. Candidates must answer these questions within the respective 40-minute time limits for good performance.

Yes, for multiple-choice questions (MCQs), one mark is deducted for each wrong answer. However, there is no negative marking for non-MCQ or Type In The Answer questions. Candidates should be careful with guesses and focus on accuracy, especially in MCQs, to avoid losing marks while attempting as many questions as possible.

Candidates should practice with timed mock tests to get used to the 40-minute limit per section. They should quickly attempt easier questions first to secure marks and avoid spending too much time on difficult ones. It is important to flag tougher questions and attempt them later if time permits, ensuring no question is left unanswered at the end.

No, the CAT exam duration of 120 minutes does not include breaks between sections. The 2-hour period is continuous, divided strictly into three 40-minute sections. Candidates need to be mentally prepared to switch focus between sections quickly without breaks during the exam, making time management and stamina important during preparation.

Yes, differently-abled candidates are given additional time as per rules. For CAT 2025, they usually get 53 minutes 20 seconds (1.33 times) for each section instead of 40 minutes. This extra time helps ensure fairness and accommodates candidates who need more time to complete their answers under the same exam conditions.

Yes, the CAT 2025 exam is computer-based. Candidates answer questions on a computer within the fixed time limit. The system automatically moves to the next section after 40 minutes for each part. Candidates must be comfortable working on a computer and managing their exam time without the possibility of going back to earlier sections.

Candidates cannot pause the exam, but they can mark questions for review within each section before submitting. Once the 40-minute time for a section ends, the system locks that section, and candidates move to the next one. Effective time use within each section is important to maximise attempts and accuracy.

Time management is crucial in CAT 2025 because each section has a strict 40-minute limit, and candidates cannot switch back. Proper time allocation helps attempt more questions and reduce errors. Practising mock tests with timing helps candidates develop speed and accuracy, essential factors for scoring well and finishing the exam within the allotted time.

The CAT 2025 exam time duration is expected to remain the same as in previous years, totalling 120 minutes with three sections of 40 minutes each. This standard format helps candidates prepare effectively over time. Any changes are usually announced by IIMs well before the exam date, giving candidates ample time to adjust their preparation plans.

The fixed time of 40 minutes per section adds time pressure, making the exam challenging. Candidates need strong problem-solving and quick decision-making skills. Time pressure encourages practising accuracy and speed together. Developing these skills can help candidates confidently manage the exam stress and complete all questions before time runs out.

Candidates can improve speed by regular practice of sectional mock tests within 40 minutes. Time-bound practice helps in understanding which questions to attempt first and which to skip. Learning shortcuts for calculations and improving reading speed for VARC is also useful. Reviewing mistakes in practice tests helps adjust pacing and build confidence to complete the exam on time.

If a candidate does not complete all questions within 40 minutes per section, the system automatically moves to the next section, locking unanswered questions. Unanswered questions receive zero marks without penalty. Hence, candidates should focus on answering as many as possible within the time instead of spending too much time on difficult questions to maximise their score.