The CAT 2025 Slot 1 examination concluded at 10:30 AM on 30 November 2025 across multiple centers nationwide. The Common Admission Test this year is being conducted in 3 slots by IIM Kozhikode. As per early feedback from candidates, Slot 1 maintained a moderate to difficult overall difficulty level, with variations across sections. Experts observed that while VARC followed a familiar structure, DILR emerged as the most time-consuming section, and QA was comparatively scoring for well-prepared candidates.
CAT 2025 Slot 1 Difficulty Level and Section-Wise Overview
The overall difficulty of CAT 2025 Slot 1 was placed between moderate and difficult. Candidates reported that the paper demanded strong time management and conceptual clarity rather than formula-based attempts. The VARC section remained balanced, testing comprehension accuracy and verbal logic. However, the DILR section proved to be the deciding factor, with complex set selection increasing pressure. The Quantitative Ability section leaned heavily toward Arithmetic and Algebra, offering some relief to students strong in fundamentals.
CAT 2025 Slot 1 Exam Timings and Structure
Before reviewing the detailed exam pattern, candidates must understand the standardized structure that applied uniformly across all centers. The Slot 1 exam followed strict biometric verification, document checks, and timed entry protocols. Question distribution and time limits were aligned with the official framework released earlier in 2025. Below is the official CAT 2025 exam pattern applicable to Slot 1 candidates for reference:
CAT 2025 Slot 1 Good Attempts and Expected Cut-Off Trend
Based on expert interaction and student reactions, good attempts for CAT 2025 Slot 1 are expected to remain moderate. Strong performers who managed DILR selection wisely are likely to secure high percentiles. Since DILR recorded the highest difficulty, it may play a crucial role in final normalization and cut-off calculations. Institutes are expected to consider section-wise balance while preparing shortlists. With nearly 3 lakh candidates appearing nationwide, percentile prediction will also depend on Slot 2 and Slot 3 performance comparison.
Key Observations from CAT 2025 Slot 1 Exam
- DILR was the toughest section in Slot 1
- QA focused mainly on Arithmetic and Algebra
- VARC remained moderate and comprehension-heavy
- Overall paper tested adaptability over speed
- Balanced performance expected to yield higher percentiles
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