CAT 2025 Exam Hall Experience: Key Instructions for Exam Day

CAT 2025 Exam Hall Experience outlines the essential instructions candidates must follow on the test day. The Indian Institutes of Management will conduct the CAT 2025 examination on 30 November 2025 in a computer-based format across India. This guide highlights the key procedures, security rules and exam-hall experience for all three slots.

CAT 2025 Exam Hall Experience and Slot Timings

CAT 2025 is a National-level exam conducted by IIM Kozhikode for admission to MBA and PGDM programmes offered by IIMs and other management institutes. The test is a 120-minute computer-based examination with 68 questionsdivided across three sections: VARC, DILR and QA.

The CAT 2025 examination will be held in 3 slots — 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM, and 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Candidates must reach the exam centre at least 1 hour before the start time of their slot. Early reporting helps avoid delays caused by traffic, verification queues or unexpected issues at the centre.

CAT 2025 Exam Hall Entry Process and Verification Steps

Candidates must carry a printed CAT Admit Card 2025 along with a valid photo ID. Initial verification is conducted at the exam-centre gate where the invigilators confirm personal details printed on the admit card.

Security checks are strict at the CAT 2025 exam centre. Bags and personal belongings are scanned thoroughly, and any prohibited item will be withheld during the entire duration of the test. Only essential items permitted by the exam authority are allowed inside the examination lab.

After clearing the security stage, candidates undergo biometric verification, including fingerprint scanning, to establish identity and generate the seating assignment. Each candidate is then guided to a specific computer system allotted for the test. No movement to a different system is permitted once allotted.

Inside the CAT 2025 Exam Lab: What Candidates Should Expect

Once seated, candidates will receive a small writing pad and pen to perform rough calculations. These materials must be returned before leaving the exam lab. No external stationery or electronic device is allowed under any condition.

Shortly before the exam begins, the invigilator will provide login details for the assigned system. On-screen instructions appear first, and candidates must read them carefully. The test timer activates as soon as the candidate clicks “OK”, which marks the official start of the examination.

The lab environment remains closely monitored through invigilators and CCTV surveillance. Any attempt to communicate, access restricted items or switch systems will lead to immediate disqualification.

CAT 2025 Exam Day Instructions

Candidates are advised to follow all instructions calmly and maintain focus throughout the structured exam-hall process. Reaching the centre early, carrying essential documents and understanding the flow of verification will help ensure a smooth exam day.

FollowKollegeApply for the latest updates on College Admissions, Courses, Exam Dates, Results, Scholarships, Career Guidance, Education News, and Policy Changes — everything needed to stay ahead in the education journey.