CAT Exam Pattern 2025: New Format & Key Details
The IIMs have established the CAT exam pattern for 2025. The official pattern for the CAT 2025 exam states that there will be sixty-six objective-type questions (MCQ and TITA) that must be answered in one hour. The exam’s three sections will each take up 40 minutes of the 120 minutes. The CAT exam used to last 180 minutes, but as of 2020, it only lasts 120 minutes. See everything about the CAT exam pattern 2025 below.
Table of Contents
What is the CAT Exam Pattern 2025?
The objective of the CAT test program is to assess the candidate’s speed and accuracy in solving mathematical reasoning problems. The primary focus of the exam is on the use of logical reasoning and mathematical skills. Applicants should be familiar with the latest CAT exam pattern if they want to appear in 2025. They will benefit from a better understanding of the CAT question paper structure and marking system.
There are a total of 3 sections in the CAT question paper 2025:
- THE CAT VARC section consists of a total of 24 questions and a weightage of total of 72 marks
- THE CAT DILR section consists of a total of 20 questions and a weightage of a total of 60 marks.
- The CAT Quantitative Aptitude section consists of a total of 22 questions and a total weightage of a total 66 marks
CAT Pattern 2025
CAT tutorials will be available for candidates one week before the exam to help familiarize them with the exam procedures and procedures. The most recent examination procedures and policies will be explained in the CAT syllabus. Listed below are some important details regarding the CAT paper format and expected scoring system.
| CAT Paper Pattern 2025 | |
| Mode of the CAT exam | Computer-Based Test |
| Duration of exam | 120 minutes, 40 minutes per section |
| CAT exam slots | Morning: 8:30 AM to 10:30 AMAfternoon: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PMEvening: 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM |
| Number of questions | 66 |
| CAT total marks | 198 |
| Language of the question paper | English |
| Number of answer choices | 4 |
| Question Type | MCQ and non-MCQ |
What is the CAT Marking Scheme?
In the CAT marking system, all MCQ sections have negative marks. Check out the highlights below:
- CAT 2025 total score will be 198.
- Each question will carry three marks.
- A negative sign of -1 will be applied for any incorrect answer.
- No question needs to be answered.
- No marks will be deducted for skipped questions.
- The QA section will have non-MCQ questions.
- Non-MCQ questions will not result in a failing grade.
The CAT marking scheme is summarized in the table below. The candidates need to consider the marking pattern of question choices while planning the CAT 2025 exam pattern. Getting higher grades will help them maximize their output.
| CAT Sections | Number of Questions | Marks Per Question | CAT Negative Marking (Only MCQ) |
| VARC | 24 | 3 | -1 |
| DILR | 20 | 3 | -1 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 22 | 3 | -1 |
| CAT Exam Total Marks | 66 | 198 | – |
FAQ- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the structure of the CAT 2024 exam?
The CAT 2024 exam consists of 66 objective-type questions, divided into three sections, with each section having 40 minutes.
How long is the CAT 2024 exam?
The CAT 2024 exam lasts 120 minutes, with 40 minutes allocated for each of the three sections.
Are there different types of questions in CAT 2024?
Yes, CAT 2024 includes both Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Type In The Answer (TITA) questions.
What are the changes in the CAT exam duration?
Since 2020, the CAT exam duration has been reduced from 180 minutes to 120 minutes.
How is the CAT exam divided into sections?
The CAT 2024 exam is divided into three sections, each allotted 40 minutes, for a total of 120 minutes.