The CAT exam is one of the most important steps for aspirants who wish to enter top management institutes in India. Since CAT Exam 2025 is going to be conducted tomorrow, one of the most crucial aspects of the test day is understanding the CAT exam timings. Knowing the exact schedule helps students plan their travel, manage their energy, and stay calm on the day of the exam. To make this easier, here is a simple, clear, and humanised explanation of CAT exam timings and how candidates can navigate the entire day smoothly.
CAT Exam Slots 2025
The CAT exam is conducted in three slots on the same day. Each slot runs for 2 hours, and the CAT 2025 Exam Pattern remains the same across all slots. These three slots help distribute the large number of aspirants appearing for the exam. Here is the usual slot structure:
Slot 1 – Morning Session
- Reporting Time: Around 7:00 AM – 7:30 AM
- Gate Closing Time: Around 8:15 AM
- Exam Time: 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
This slot is preferred by many students who like to finish their exam early in the day. The morning air, the calmer environment, and lesser travel traffic in many cities can make it a peaceful start for candidates.
Slot 2 – Afternoon Session
- Reporting Time: Around 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM
- Gate Closing Time: Around 12:15 PM
- Exam Time: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
This slot suits aspirants who do not prefer early mornings. It gives enough time to wake up, eat properly, and travel without rushing. However, afternoon heat or traffic can sometimes be a concern, depending on the city.
Slot 3 – Evening Session
- Reporting Time: Around 3:00 PM – 3:30 PM
- Gate Closing Time: Around 4:15 PM
- Exam Time: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
The evening slot is ideal for candidates who take time to settle mentally or prefer a relaxed start to the day. However, waiting the whole day for the exam to start can make some aspirants feel slightly anxious. Traffic during evening hours may also require careful travel planning.
Why Should Students Understand Timings?
Knowing the CAT exam timings is not just about punctuality; it is about reducing stress. Aspirants who are aware of the schedule in advance can confidently plan their morning routine, meals, and travel arrangements. When students know what to expect, they feel more stable and relaxed before entering the exam centre. Reaching the CAT 2025 Exam Centre on time also ensures that candidates do not miss:
- Document verification
- Biometric check
- Seating arrangement
- Pre-exam instructions
Even a small delay can lead to denial of entry, which is why being familiar with the timings is extremely important.
Managing Time Before the Exam
The hours leading up to the exam can set the tone for the entire day. Here are some simple and student-friendly suggestions for managing time before entering the exam hall:
Arrive Early: Aspirants are advised to reach the exam centre well before the reporting time. Being early allows students to go through security checks without panic. It also helps in settling their mind before stepping into the exam hall.
Plan Travel Smartly: Candidates should check the exam centre location a day before the exam. This avoids confusion on exam day and gives the aspirant full clarity on the travel route. Leaving home early also protects students from unexpected issues like traffic jams or sudden roadblocks.
Eat Wisely: The timing of meals should match the exam slot. Morning slot candidates may choose a light breakfast, whereas those appearing in the afternoon or evening slots might prefer a balanced meal a few hours before exam time. Eating too late or too heavily can make aspirants feel sleepy or uncomfortable during the test.
Check: CAT Preparation Tips 2025
Inside the Exam Hall
Once the aspirants enter the exam hall, the timing rules become very strict. Each section: VARC, DILR, and Quant, has a fixed sectional time limit, and students cannot switch between sections.
Time inside the exam hall goes very quickly, and the on-screen timer becomes the biggest guide for candidates. Aspirants generally find that the more they stay calm, the better they are able to manage the limited two-hour duration.
After the Exam
After the completion of the exam:
- Candidates must leave the exam hall only when instructed.
- Rough sheets must be left behind on the desk.
- Students are usually guided out slot-wise to avoid overcrowding.
Aspirants appearing in the next slot may enter the waiting area only after the previous slot candidates exit. This careful scheduling ensures smooth movement throughout the day.
To Conclude
CAT exam timings may seem like a small detail, but they play a huge role in shaping the entire exam-day experience. When aspirants know when to report, when the exam starts, and how the day is structured, they feel more organised and confident. Whether a student is appearing in the morning, afternoon, or evening slot, what truly matters is staying calm, following instructions, and managing time wisely. With the right mindset and proper planning, every aspirant can walk into the exam hall feeling prepared and positive about the journey ahead.
