The CAT exam (Common Admission Test) is a once‑a‑year national-level test conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). Understanding the CAT exam time, along with key dates and related processes, is crucial for MBA aspirants aiming to crack IIM admission. This detailed guide covers everything from CAT full form and exam date to registration details, eligibility, and how to apply for CAT for IIM admission.
What Is CAT Exam & CAT Full Form?
CAT stands for Common Admission Test, which serves as the qualifying exam for admissions into postgraduate management programs, notably the IIMs. The CAT exam full form reflects its pan‑India relevance and standardized structure.
CAT exam is for what purpose?
The CAT exam scores are used for shortlisting candidates for admission into IIMs as well as several other top MBA colleges in India. So essentially:
- Applicants sit for CAT to gain eligibility for IIM selection rounds.
- CAT score acts as the primary criterion for initial shortlisting.
- Post‑CAT, candidates go through PI/GD rounds during the IIM admission process.
This is how CAT becomes your entry point to Indian Institute of Management campuses.
When Is the CAT Exam Date & Time?
CAT Exam Time Schedule
- CAT exam date for 2025 is expected to be on the last Sunday of November. Based on past cycles, the exam typically falls in November, which becomes the CAT exam time slot each year.
- The test is divided into three slots across a single day:
- Slot 1: 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
- Slot 2: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
- Slot 3: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Each slot evaluates candidates through sections in Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension.
CAT Exam Registration Details & Last Dates
How to Register for CAT Exam?
- Visit the official IIM CAT website.
- Create a login using personal and contact information.
- Fill up the CAT registration form with academic, work experience, and program preferences.
- Upload scanned documents like photograph, signature, and category/PwD certificates (if applicable).
- Pay the CAT exam fees online to complete the form.
CAT Exam Last Date
- The CAT registration last date usually falls in the second week of September.
- You must complete and submit your CAT form before the deadline to secure your preferred slot.
Miss the deadline and you’d have to wait another year, as CAT is conducted only once per year.
How Many Times Can You Take CAT?
Wondering how many times is CAT conducted in a year? The answer is once. There are no re‑takes in the same year. Clear planning, preparation, and attentive adherence to deadlines is key—especially around CAT exam date and form last date.
Some aspirants prepare concurrently for other exams, but CAT remains a single annual opportunity.
What Happens After the CAT Exam?
Once you’ve given your exam at your designated CAT exam time slot, here’s what follows:
- CAT Result 2025 is expected around the first week of January.
- Shortlisted candidates are invited to PI/GD rounds as part of the IIM eligibility criteria.
- The final selection is based on CAT score, profile, academics, work experience, and performance in interviews and group discussions.
- If selected, you join one of the IIMs through their formal admission process.
How to Apply for CAT for IIM Admission?
Step-by-Step Guide
- Check IIM eligibility: Most IIMs require graduation with at least 50% (45% for reserved).
- Register for CAT online.
- Fill the CAT exam form, choose exam city, and upload documents.
- Pay the CAT application fee.
- Select IIMs/programs during form filling.
- Choose your exam slot once the admit card is issued.
- Prepare thoroughly for the CAT exam and give your best on exam day.
Once the CAT result is declared, follow the IIM admission process for interview notifications, final selection, and offer letters.
How to Get Into IIM for MBA?
To get admission in IIM for MBA, you need:
- A valid CAT score (usually above 95 percentile).
- Strong academic profile and consistent performance.
- Work experience helps but is not mandatory.
- Good performance in GD/PI rounds conducted by each IIM.
- Finally, clear their internal IIM eligibility criteria which include CAT score, profile, essays, and diversity factors.
How to Join IIM & IIM Admission Process
Timeline Overview
- CAT application begins in August.
- Exam slots are assigned in November.
- Results are out in early January.
- GD/PI & offers extend through February to March.
If you meet all eligibility norms—academics, CAT percentile, selection rounds—you can take admission and join IIM from July of the upcoming academic year.
FAQs on CAT Exam Time & Registration
Q: Is it possible to change your CAT exam slot after registration?
A: No. Slots are assigned based on availability and cannot be changed.
Q: How many times can I attempt CAT?
A: CAT is held once a year—only one attempt per cycle is allowed.
Q: Can final‑year students apply for CAT?
A: Yes, provided they submit proof of graduation later.
Q: What is the last date to register for CAT 2025?
A: Expected around mid-September 2025.
Q: What is meant by CAT full form and what is CAT exam used for?
A: CAT full form is Common Admission Test, used as a gateway to admission in IIMs and other B-schools.
Final Thoughts: CAT Exam Time & Admission Strategy
The CAT exam time, its schedule, registration process, and IIM admission procedures are all interlinked. Missing a key date—like CAT last date or form submission deadline—can cost you an entire year. Therefore:
- Plan your calendar based on tentative deadlines.
- Complete your CAT exam registration well in time.
- Be clear about what CAT exam is used for—getting into an IIM.
- Prepare thoroughly to meet IIM eligibility criteria.
With proper planning and disciplined execution, you can give your best on exam day and increase your chances of securing a seat in one of the top management colleges in India.
