The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most competitive MBA entrance exams in India, conducted annually by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). If you are preparing for CAT 2025, understanding the CAT paper timing and its slot-wise structure is crucial. This blog will guide you through the CAT exam slots, CAT exam time slots, and everything related to the CAT paper timing for efficient preparation and planning.
What Is CAT and Why Timing Matters?
CAT is an online computer-based test that evaluates candidates on Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning. With over 2 lakh+ aspirants competing each year for admission into top B-schools, understanding the CAT exam time slots gives you a strategic edge in managing your time, performance, and mental preparation.
CAT Paper Timing Overview
The CAT exam 2025 will be held in three slots on a single day, tentatively in the last week of November 2025. These slots are spread out throughout the day to accommodate all registered candidates.
Here’s a breakdown of the expected CAT slot timings:
| Slot | Expected Timing | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Slot 1 | 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM | 2 Hours |
| Slot 2 | 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM | 2 Hours |
| Slot 3 | 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM | 2 Hours |
Each slot follows a strict reporting and verification schedule, so knowing your CAT paper timing in advance is essential for reaching the exam center on time.
CAT Slot 1 Timing
- Reporting Time: Around 7:00 AM – 7:30 AM
- Exam Time: 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
- Candidates need to reach early to complete biometric verification and security checks.
- Considered the freshest slot in terms of energy levels for most aspirants.
CAT Slot 2 Timing
- Reporting Time: Around 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM
- Exam Time: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
- Best suited for those who prefer a mid-day test and want to avoid early morning rush.
CAT Slot 3 Timing
- Reporting Time: Around 3:00 PM – 3:30 PM
- Exam Time: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
- Often considered the most challenging due to fatigue and anticipation throughout the day.
- Still, many top scorers come from this slot due to well-rested brains and practice.
CAT Exam Time Slots: What They Mean
The CAT exam time slots help IIMs and other participating institutes manage the large number of candidates appearing for the test. These time slots are equally important because:
- The difficulty level is normalized across slots to ensure fairness.
- Candidates can prepare better when they know their exact exam timing in advance.
- Proper planning helps reduce exam-day anxiety and logistical hassles.
When Will CAT Exam 2025 Be Conducted?
Although the official notification is yet to be released, the CAT exam date 2025 is expected to fall on the last Sunday of November, which is a traditional timeline.
- Tentative CAT 2025 Exam Date: November 30, 2025
- Final dates for registration and admit card: Expected around August-October 2025
You should regularly check the IIM CAT official website or trusted exam portals for updated information on the CAT exam 2025 exam date.
Important Details to Remember for CAT Slot Timings
- Admit Card will mention the assigned slot.
- Slot changes are not permitted once allotted.
- You must report at least 90 minutes before your scheduled slot.
- Carry a valid photo ID, admit card, and follow all COVID-19 or updated safety protocols.
Strategy Based on Your CAT Slot
1. For Morning Slot (Slot 1):
- Have a light breakfast by 6:30 AM
- Wake up early and revise formulas and vocabulary
- Avoid rushing and keep buffer time for travel
2. For Afternoon Slot (Slot 2):
- Avoid heavy meals before the exam
- Do mental warm-up exercises to stay alert
- Rest well the night before to avoid fatigue
3. For Evening Slot (Slot 3):
- Be cautious of tiredness
- Stay hydrated and calm
- Don’t over-practice during the day, conserve energy
CAT Exam Slots: Common Questions Answered
Q1: Will I get to choose my CAT slot?
No. The slot is assigned randomly once you complete your application and is mentioned in your admit card.
Q2: Is any slot easier or harder than the others?
All slots have comparable difficulty levels, and the scores are normalized. There is no inherent advantage to any slot.
Q3: What should I do if my CAT slot timing clashes with a travel or personal event?
You must plan ahead. Since CAT slot timings are not changeable, ensure your schedule is free on exam day.
CAT Exam Pattern Overview
Each section is timed and you cannot switch between sections during the test. The paper pattern is the same for all CAT exam slots.
| Section | Time Allotted | No. of Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 40 minutes | ~24 |
| Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 40 minutes | ~20 |
| Quantitative Aptitude (QA) | 40 minutes | ~22 |
| Total | 120 minutes | 66 questions |
CAT Exam 2025: How to Prepare Based on Slot
- Know your body clock: Practice mocks during your assigned slot.
- Take timed mocks exactly in your slot hours to simulate real exam day conditions.
- Monitor performance changes based on time of day to adjust strategy.
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Conclusion
Whether you’re a first-time test-taker or a repeater, knowing the CAT paper timing and preparing for your specific slot can make a significant difference. With the CAT exam 2025 approaching, align your routine and mock exams to match your slot. Remember: performance comes not just from preparation, but also from planning and time management.
Stay ahead, stay focused — and crack CAT 2025 with confidence! If you’re looking for more preparation tips, strategy breakdowns, and real-time updates, keep checking top CAT prep platforms and stay tuned for official announcements.
Let time work for you — not against you.
