The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025, conducted by IIM Kozhikode, is scheduled for Sunday, November 30, 2025, and will be held across India in three sessions. Thousands of candidates will appear for this highly competitive entrance exam to secure admission to prestigious IIMs and other top B-schools. While preparation is important, what you do on exam day matters equally. Even a small mistake, like forgetting an ID or carrying a restricted item, can lead to disqualification.
To help you stay calm and fully prepared, here are the detailed CAT 2025 exam day instructions, do’s and don’ts, dress code guidelines, allowed and banned items, and important tips to follow before entering the exam centre.
CAT 2025 Exam Timings & Sessions
The CAT 2025 exam will be held in three sessions:
| Session | Timing |
|---|---|
| Morning (Session 1) | 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM |
| Afternoon (Session 2) | 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM |
| Evening (Session 3) | 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM |
Reporting Time: Mentioned on the admit card (usually 90 minutes before exam)
Gate Closing: Strictly follows admit card timing. Late entry is not allowed.
CAT 2025 Admit Card Details
Candidates must download the admit card from iimcat.ac.in and print it ONLY on A4-size paper. The admit card includes:
- Candidate’s Name & Photograph
- Application/Registration Number
- Exam Date & Session
- Reporting and Gate Closing Time
- Exam Centre Address
- Important Exam Day Instructions
📌 Make sure your photograph on the admit card matches the one uploaded during registration.
CAT 2025: Things You MUST Carry
You MUST carry the following items to the exam centre:
Mandatory Documents
- CAT 2025 Admit Card (A4-size printout)
- Original Photo ID Proof (any one):
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Indian Passport
- Voter ID
- Driving License
- Scribe Affidavit (if applicable)
📸 Paste a recent passport-size photograph on the admit card (same as the one used in the application form).
CAT 2025: Barred Items (Strictly NOT Allowed)
Candidates must not carry any of the following items:
🚫 Mobile phones, calculators, digital watches
🚫 Bluetooth devices, electronic gadgets
🚫 Wallets, purses, goggles, keys
🚫 Shoes with thick soles
🚫 Metal jewelry, rings, bracelets
🚫 Jackets with large buttons or hooded clothing
🚫 Stationery items (Your pen & scribble pad will be provided at center)
🔒 Any violation may lead to disqualification and action by authorities.
CAT 2025 Dress Code Guidelines
Following the correct dress code is important to avoid unnecessary frisking or delayed entry.
Allowed Clothing
- Light clothes without pockets or heavy designs
- Slippers or sandals (without thick soles)
- Simple T-shirts and trousers
Not Allowed
- Shoes or thick sole footwear
- Jackets, hoodies, or coats
- Jewellery, metal accessories
- Clothes with large buttons or zippers
👤 Try to wear simple, comfortable, and hassle-free clothing to ensure smooth entry.
CAT 2025 Exam Day Instructions (Do’s and Don’ts)
✔ DO’s
✔ Reach the exam centre at least 90 minutes before reporting time
✔ Carry two printed copies of admit card (just in case)
✔ Bring original photo ID
✔ Attach recent passport-size photo on admit card
✔ Follow the non-disclosure agreement during the exam
✔ Use ONLY the mouse, not the keyboard
✔ Deposit your pen, scribble pad, and admit card in the drop box after the exam
❌ DON’Ts
✘ Do not carry personal stationery (pen provided at center)
✘ Do not use the keyboard during the test (will lock computer)
✘ Do not attempt to talk or discuss with other candidates
✘ Do not leave your seat without permission
✘ Do not carry prohibited items or accessories
✘ Do not violate non-disclosure agreement (NDA)
🚨 Using the keyboard even accidentally will lock your exam system. Use the mouse only.
CAT 2025 Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA)
Before the exam begins, candidates will need to agree to electronic NDA, which states:
- You cannot share, reproduce, transmit, or store any exam-related information
- This includes question formats, passages, questions, or exam content
- Sharing via social media, messaging, writing, or verbally is strictly prohibited
🔴 Violation of NDA leads to cancellation of candidature and possible legal action.
Exam-Day Format and System Usage Rules
- You will be given one scribble pad and a pen at the exam centre.
- You can use it for rough work but must return it after the exam.
- Only mouse is allowed to navigate questions.
- Using the keyboard will lock your system permanently.
Final Tips to Ace Your CAT 2025 Exam
✨ Relax and sleep well before the exam day
🍽️ Eat a light but healthy breakfast on exam morning
🧘 Stay stress-free and avoid last-minute cramming
⏳ Manage time carefully during each section
🔐 Follow all CAT exam rules to avoid last-minute issues
What After CAT 2025?
After the exam, candidates with valid CAT 2025 scores will be eligible to apply for PG programmes at IIMs, including:
- MBA/PGDM
- Executive MBA
- FPM/Doctoral Programs
- Business Analytics Programmes
Scores will also be accepted by other top participating B-schools in India.
Final Checklist Before You Leave for CAT Exam
| Item | Status |
|---|---|
| Admit card (A4, color preferred) | ✔ |
| ID proof original | ✔ |
| Passport-size photo on admit card | ✔ |
| No banned items | ✔ |
| Reached early? | ✔ |
Final Thoughts
Appearing for CAT 2025 exam is a significant milestone in your academic journey. Make sure you enter the exam centre confidently, well-prepared, and fully aware of all exam day guidelines. A calm mind, proper planning, and following the instructions carefully can help you avoid unwanted stress and perform at your best.
Best of luck for CAT 2025!
