What's New in CAT 2025 Exam Pattern?

What's New in CAT 2025 Exam Pattern? As of now, there has been no official notification regarding any changes in the CAT 2025 exam pattern , but based on speculations, exam experts' predictions and past years' trends, we have highlighted what new changes you can expect in the CAT 2025 exam. The exam will still be computer-based and held at designated exam centres, just like before. You will have 120 minutes to complete it, with the total number of questions likely staying at 68, similar to CAT 2024. Registration is expected to open in the first week of August 2025 , with the official announcement coming in July 2025 . This guide breaks down all the possible and expected changes in the CAT 2025 exam pattern so you can plan your preparation smartly and stay ahead. By understanding what's new in CAT 2025 exam pattern, you will be better equipped to tackle the exam confidently and maximise your chances of success.

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What is CAT 2025 Exam Pattern?

The CAT 2025 exam will have a total of 204 marks. To help you get ready, here are some important details about the expected CAT 2025 exam pattern and marking scheme:

Recent Changes in CAT Exam Pattern

If you are preparing for the CAT 2025 exam, it is important to be aware of some recent updates in the question paper pattern from the last session (CAT 2024):

• The number of questions in the DILR (Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning) section went up from 20 to 22.
• Because of this, the total marks for the DILR section increased from 60 to 66.
• Overall, the total marks for the entire CAT exam rose from 198 to 204.

Also Read: Will There Be Any Changes in CAT Syllabus 2025?

Important Key Features of CAT 2025 Exam Pattern

You must know some of the most important aspects of the exam pattern so that you can deal with time and strategy more effectively. Here's a straightforward discussion of what you need to expect in the CAT 2025 exam pattern:

• Sectional Time Limits: You will receive 40 minutes per section. When the 40 minutes are finished, the test will go to the next one on its own. You must, therefore, manage your time and ensure you do as much as possible during that time.

• Fixed Section Order: You will not get to decide from which section you want to begin. The test is in a sequence: VARC first, followed by DILR, and then QA. You must adhere to this sequence without switching between sections.

• No Section Switching: Since the order is set, you cannot move back and forth between sections. You must complete one section before proceeding to the next, so concentrate on each section as it arises.

• On-Screen Calculator: You will be provided with an on-screen calculator for approximations. This can save you time and minimise errors when working through the Quantitative Aptitude section.

• Review Option Within Sections: If you are unsure about a question, you can mark it for review within the same section. But remember, you must review and finalise your answers before the 40-minute limit ends for that section. If you do not, your answer will not be recorded.

What CollegeDekho Experts Have to Say:

" Even though there are no new updates right now regarding changes in the CAT 2025 exam pattern , you can learn a lot by checking out what past candidates have shared about the exam format on different online platforms and our CAT paper analysis exam page. Joining these conversations can give you helpful tips and strategies to prepare better. Just remember to double-check this information with the official sources to make sure it still applies to the current exam cycle".

Will There Be a New CAT 2025 Exam Pattern?

Since the CAT 2025 Notification has not been released yet, as of now, there is no word on any major changes in the CAT exam pattern 2025. The exam is likely to have the same three sections—VARC, DILR, and Quantitative Aptitude—totalling 2 hours and 40 minutes, with 40 minutes per section.

The question count will probably be in the range of 66 to 68, as in previous years, with a combination of multiple-choice and Type In The Answer (TITA) questions that have been rising incrementally. This suggests that you should master the existing trend and plan accordingly, and not anticipate anything that drastically deviates from this trend.

Also Read: CAT Predicted Question Paper 2025

Section-Wise Preparation Insights Based on CAT 2025 Exam Pattern

Your CAT 2025 preparation should focus on its three key sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Based on expected changes in CAT 2025 exam pattern and past years' trends, here are the section-wise preparation insights which will help you to crack the CAT 2025 exam in first attempt :

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

• Focus on Reading Comprehension, Para Summary, Odd Sentence Out, and Sentence Completion.
• Reading Comprehension makes up about 70% of this section.
• Boost your reading speed and understanding by regularly reading editorials, business articles, and literary essays.
• Expect 2 to 3 TITA (Type In The Answer) questions here.

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Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

• Concentrate on Data Tables, Bar Graphs, Logical Puzzles, and Venn Diagrams.
• You will likely face 2 sets of DILR questions, each with 4 to 6 problems.
• Practice puzzles that combine data interpretation and logic, as these often appear together.
• Around 8 to 10 questions might be TITA type.

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Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

• Key areas include Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number Systems, and Modern Math.
• Arithmetic alone makes up 40 to 45% of this section.

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To perform well in CAT 2025, you must learn about the CAT 2025 exam pattern inside out. Invest some time in learning the changes made this year so you are not surprised. By concentrating your study on the revised syllabus, you will be paving the path to success. As you approach the exam date, ensure that you practice and attempt CAT previous years' question papers and CAT sample papers . Getting accustomed to the question paper layout and question types will make you confident and prepared to face the exam in full gear.

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