CAT Reservation Criteria 2025: The Common Admission Test (CAT) adheres to the reservation guidelines issued by the Government of India for admission to the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other Business Schools that accept CAT scores. These policies ensure fair representation for candidates from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backwards Classes – Non-Creamy Layer (OBC-NCL), Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), and Persons with Disabilities (PwD). Check CAT Notification 2025
CAT 2025 Reservation Policy Overview
The reservation criteria for CAT 2025 are based on the guidelines of the Government of India (GoI). All centrally funded institutions, including the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), are required to implement these rules strictly. Candidates from reserved categories must meet the eligibility conditions and produce valid certificates in the specified format and with the required validity.
Also Read, CAT Application Process 2025
CAT Registration Category-Wise Data
According to the official CAT 2024 media release by IIM Calcutta, a total of 3.29 lakh candidates registered for the exam. The majority of the applicants belonged to the General category, while significant participation was also seen from reserved categories such as OBC-NCL, SC, and EWS.
The General category accounted for more than two-thirds of the total applicants. OBC-NCL candidates formed the second-largest group, comprising nearly 17% of registrations. Together, SC, ST, and EWS made up about 15.5% of total registrations. PwD candidates represent a small segment but are eligible for horizontal reservation across all categories.
CAT Registration Eligibility Guidelines and Required Documents
Candidates applying under reserved categories must submit valid certificates during CAT registration. Each category has specific document formats, validity periods, and issuing authorities. Incomplete or outdated certificates may lead to rejection during the application or admission process.Make sure all documents follow official CAT 2024 notification and IIM guidelines to avoid disqualification.
SC/ST Category Certificate
Candidates from the Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) categories must submit a valid caste or tribe certificate in the Government of India format. The certificate should mention caste name, district/state, and be issued by a recognised officer.
OBC–NCL (Non-Creamy Layer) Certificate
OBC candidates must fall under the non-creamy layer and submit a valid certificate. The validity depends on the issuing authority 1 year if issued by the Central Government, or up to 3 years from State authorities.
EWS (Economically Weaker Section) Certificate
Candidates claiming EWS reservation must upload an income and asset certificate valid for FY 2024–25. It should be issued on or after April 1, 2024, and must follow the Government format.
PwD (Persons with Disability) Certificate
PwD candidates must upload a disability certificate as per RPwD Act, 2016. The disability must be ≥ 40%, and the document must be in prescribed formats (Form I–IV).
Check CAT Eligibility Criteria 2025
Conclusion
CAT Reservation Criteria 2025 ensures equitable opportunities for candidates from various socio-economic backgrounds. It follows government-mandated quotas for SC, ST, OBC-NCL, EWS, and PwD categories. This system promotes diversity and inclusion in premier management institutes, aiming to create a balanced academic environment reflective of India's demographic representation.
