CAT 2025 Dress Code: What to Wear and What to Avoid on Exam Day?

Candidates appearing for CAT 2025 must follow a strict dress and item code at the exam centre. The authorities have prohibited thick‑soled shoes, heavy jewellery, clothes with many pockets or large buttons, and mehendi or heavy make‑up. Violating guidelines may lead to entry denial or disqualification. All aspirants are advised to dress simply and carry only mandatory documents for smooth entry and minimal security hassles.

What Clothing and Accessories Are Allowed for CAT 2025?

The exam day dress code requires simplicity and comfort. Footwear and apparel must be chosen to comply with security norms and facilitate easy frisking.

• Plain half‑sleeve shirts or T‑shirts, simple trousers or jeans (jeans without many pockets preferred) are acceptable.
• For female candidates: plain tops, kurtas, salwar‑kameez, or simple trousers/leggings — avoid layered or flashy outfits.
• Open sandals or slippers with thin soles are advised; thick‑soled shoes or sports shoes are not permitted.

What Is Strictly Prohibited: Footwear, Jewellery, Mehendi, Gadgets

Security and integrity concerns mean a number of items and attire elements are completely banned inside the CAT Test Hall.

• No metal jewellery or accessories — earrings, nose‑rings, chains, rings, bangles, bracelets, or anything containing metal is disallowed.
• Mehendi (henna) or body marks on hands — especially on palms where biometric verification is done — must be avoided.
• Footwear with thick soles, closed shoes, boots or sandals with heavy structure are prohibited inside the exam hall.
• Clothes with large buttons, many pockets, hoodies, or layered heavy outfits are discouraged or banned for smooth frisking and verification
• Electronic or digital devices — mobile phones, smartwatches, fitness bands, calculators, or other gadgets — are strictly banned.

Must‑Carry Documents and Items for CAT 2025 Day

While attire and accessories are restricted, candidates must carry certain mandatory documents for verification and entry.

• Printed copy of the CAT 2025 admit card on A4‑size paper, with photograph as per registration.
• Valid government‑issued photo identity proof (Aadhaar card, PAN, passport, driving license, voter ID, etc.) matching exam application details.

No personal belongings such as bags, wallets, pens, personal stationery or gadgets are allowed inside. Candidates will be provided rough sheets and pen/pencil for work inside the exam hall.

Why Following Dress Code Matters for CAT 2025 Candidates?

The dress code and item restrictions are enforced to maintain fairness, security and scheduling efficiency at all CAT examination centres. Simple and compliant attire helps in quick frisking and reduces chances of last‑minute rejection. Non‑compliance — due to jewellery, thick‑soled footwear, or prohibited items — may lead to denial of entry or cancellation of candidature even if registration and admit card are valid. Candidates are therefore advised to follow the prescribed guidelines meticulously to avoid any avoidable complications on exam day.

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