CAT 2025 Slot 1, 2 & 3 Question Paper Insights and Analysis

The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 was conducted by IIM Kozhikode in three slots on November 30, 2025. While the official question paper PDF is not released by IIMs, candidates can access response sheets and memory-based questions shared by coaching institutes. The exam comprised 68 questions across Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA) sections. Experts and students have provided initial insights on difficulty levels, question types, and expected good attempts, helping aspirants understand trends and strategize for future attempts.

CAT 2025 Question Paper Pattern and Slot Timings

Candidates appearing for CAT 2025 had the exam conducted in computer-based mode across three slots:

• Morning: 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM
• Afternoon: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM
• Evening: 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM

The overall marking scheme included +3 marks for correct MCQs, -1 for incorrect MCQs, while TITA (Type in The Answer) and unanswered questions carried no negative marking. The total duration of the exam was 120 minutes, equally divided across the three sections. The sectional composition is summarized below:

The medium of the exam was English, with MCQs and TITA questions.

Slot-wise Difficulty and Section Analysis

VARC: Moderate Challenge

Candidates reported that VARC was moderately challenging, with a mix of reading comprehension, para-jumbles, and logical reasoning questions. Some passages included dual-tone and micro-comprehension questions, requiring careful analysis.

DILR: Toughest Section

DILR remained the most challenging, particularly complex puzzles, double-layer Venn diagrams, and seating arrangements. Experts highlighted that time management and logical strategy were crucial to attempt these questions efficiently.

QA: Calculative and Time-consuming

The QA section focused on Arithmetic, Algebra, and Coordinate Geometry, demanding quick calculations and conceptual clarity. Students noted that mixed-topic questions tested problem-solving speed.

Accessing Question Paper and Response Sheets

While official CAT question papers are unavailable, candidates can:

1. Visit the CAT 2025 website (iimcat.ac.in).
2. Log in using registration number and password.
3. Access response sheets and answer keys.
4. Use these resources to calculate raw scores and evaluate performance.

Several coaching institutes also share memory-based CAT questions and expert analysis to help students gauge sectional difficulty and expected percentile.

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