Updated on 24th July 2025 | 4:46 PM | #CATSyllabus2025
The CAT syllabus 2025 is divided into three main sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA).
While the IIMs do not officially release a fixed CAT exam syllabus, a generalized list of topics based on past trends and previous CAT papers can be derived. Typically, the topics covered are from Class 9 and 10, presented at a higher difficulty level. Each section of CAT 2025 Syllabus assesses specific skills, such as grammar, reading comprehension, data analysis, puzzles, arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
Understanding the latest CAT syllabus, alongside section-wise topic distribution and question patterns, is critical for developing a smart and effective preparation strategy. We have curated a list of topics that can be included in the CAT syllabus 2025 PDF to facilitate your preparation. Download the CAT Exam Syllabus PDF and kickstart your preparation without any hassle.
There is no specific syllabus released by any supreme authority for CAT 2025. However, we can say that the CAT exam syllabus for MBA includes some of the important topics based on past trends, from which questions are asked in the CAT exam. These topics cover the three main sections of CAT 2025, as follows:
Above all, this exam is all about evaluating a candidate's ability to handle the pressure under given circumstances; along with that, it also demonstrates their time management skills. Each candidate is given only 40 minutes to solve a particular section, with a timer constantly ticking above their head all the time.
The exam syllabus has observed no changes over the past few years. However, the CAT exam pattern has gone through a few changes, including changes in the number of questions and the time limit of the exam. So, before you start your CAT journey, it is ideal that you are well-versed in the latest CAT exam syllabus and pattern.
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Latest Changes in CAT Syllabus |
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|
Exam Year |
Number of Questions |
Time Allotted |
|
CAT 2024 |
68 |
2 hours |
|
CAT 2021-2023 |
66 |
2 hours |
|
CAT 2020 |
76 |
2 hours |
|
CAT 2015-2019 |
100 |
3 hours |
|
CAT 2014 |
100 |
2 hours 50 minutes |
|
CAT 2013 |
60 |
2 hours 20 minutes |
Significant changes were observed in the CAT paper pattern in the 2024 attempt, as 2 additional questions were present in the DILR section, and there were no questions on para jumbles. Below are the brief highlights of the CAT 2025 exam, describing the entire paper pattern and expected CAT syllabus, as follows:
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CAT Exam Syllabus Highlights |
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Components |
Details |
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Mode of CAT exam |
Computer-based test |
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Sections in CAT 2025 |
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Section-wise duration of CAT exam |
40 minutes per section (Total 120 minutes) |
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Total number of questions in CAT 2025 |
68 (Expected) |
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No. of Questions Section-wise |
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Medium of CAT exam |
English |
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Type of questions |
MCQs and Non-MCQ |
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Marking Scheme for CAT 2025 |
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We always try to ease the burden of our students, which is why we have curated a CAT syllabus PDF based on the past year's trends of the CAT exam that provides a detailed description of these topics, along with their subtopics.
This CAT syllabus PDF consists of the CAT quant syllabus, CAT VARC syllabus, and CAT DILR syllabus, as well as further topics covered under these sections. It can be very useful for your CAT 2025 preparation. Download the CAT syllabus PDF below for fast-paced preparation, as it is the first step toward acing any entrance exam.
For CAT 2025 aspirants, understanding the CAT exam syllabus thoroughly should be the first step towards effective CAT 2025 preparation. This approach will definitely lead to better preparation, and candidates will be more familiar with the subjects and topics essential for the exam.
Get comprehensive details on the CAT exam syllabus and CAT Exam pattern 2025. Below is a list of the topics a candidate should cover in each exam section, along with CAT paper pattern & their weightage.
|
CAT Syllabus |
CAT Exam Topics |
Weightage |
MCQs |
Non-MCQs |
Total Question |
|
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension |
RC passages, Para jumbles, Para summary, Odd sentence out, and Inferences |
36% |
20 |
4 |
24 |
|
Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation |
Blood Relations, Syllogism, Directions, Clocks and Calendars, Tables, Graphs, Charts, and other forms of visualization |
30% |
14 |
6 |
22 |
|
Quantitative Aptitude |
Geometry, Trigonometry, Averages, Percentages, Number Systems, Arithmetic, Mensuration |
34% |
15 |
7 |
22 |
|
Total |
49 |
17 |
68 |
Feeling scared after looking at this? —If you are looking forward to improving your sectional scores, get your hands on the detailed preparation strategy for each section. You can refer to: Preparation Tips for CAT QA | Preparation Tips for CAT DILR | Preparation Tips for CAT VARC
Download Latest CAT 2025 Syllabus PDF For Free
A generalised syllabus can be derived by analyzing past trends and papers, consisting of key areas such as Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning. Having a solid understanding of the CAT syllabus 2025 will allow candidates to have a competitive edge over their peers and boost their confidence and readiness to tackle CAT exam with proficiency.
To develop an effective and efficient strategy for acing CAT 2025, dive deep into the section-wise analysis and covered topics to increase your chances of getting admission to your dream B-school. While CAT syllabus 2025 does not have specific topics listed by any supreme authority, we have compiled a list of topics covering each section based on previous year's papers and past analysis to provide you with a brief idea of what may be asked in the exam. Here is the section-wise breakup of CAT syllabus 2025 for your reference:
The first section of the exam is the VARC section of the CAT syllabus. The time duration for the exam is 40 minutes, and it must be completed within the same timeframe. The reading comprehension part of the section dominates with approximately 67% weightage of the total score of this section, while the other 33% is reserved for verbal ability. The following topics fall under the VARC section of the CAT exam:
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CAT VARC Important Topics |
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Reading Comprehension |
Para-completion |
Para jumbles |
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Para Summary |
Odd one out |
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In recent CAT exams, Reading Comprehension (RC) passages have covered a broad spectrum of topics to assess both analytical and interpretative skills. There are mainly three types of Reading Comprehension passages in CAT exam —Analytical, Descriptive & Data Driven. Over the past years, passages have frequently drawn from the following areas:
Passages are typically sourced from articles, essays, and academic journals, ensuring a good mix of factual, analytical, and opinion-based content. This diversity helps test-takers demonstrate versatility in handling varied vocabulary, tones, and complexity levels—essential for mastering the CAT RC section.
In CAT 2024, the Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension section has remained relatively consistent in difficulty across CAT, with the nature of passages differing in each. There were no questions present on para jumbles in the CAT 2024 VARC section.
Here is a breakdown of the number of questions covered in each topic in the CAT 2024 VARC section:
|
CAT VARC Topic |
Slot 1 |
Slot 2 |
Slot 3 |
|
Reading Comprehension |
16 |
16 |
16 |
|
Para Summary |
3 |
3 |
3 |
|
Odd Sentence |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
Para Completion |
3 |
3 |
3 |
The DILR section is the second section that follows the completion of the VARC section. It is the most undefined section compared to the other sections, and candidates often struggle with it. The two subsections of the DILR section in the syllabus are:
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CAT 2025 Exam Syllabus For DILR |
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Arrangements |
Games and Tournaments |
Networks |
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Set Theory |
Logical Sequence |
Tables |
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Bar Graphs |
Line Charts & Pie Charts |
Logical Sequence |
|
Matching/ Puzzles |
Venn Diagrams |
Combination of two or more types linked to each other |
In recent years, the CAT DILR Section has undergone changes, with questions combining elements of both DI and LR rather than the previous format of distinct DI and LR questions. The DI and LR sections usually have an equal distribution of questions, with 2 sets of DI questions and 2 sets of LR questions. This setup allows students who are more proficient in solving a particular sub-section to meet the cut-off by excelling in their preferred area of expertise.
The Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning section was surprisingly easier than last year and was much more doable this time. Major changes have been observed in the CAT 2024 DILR section, with 2 additional questions. There were 5 sets instead of 4 in CAT 2024 paper.
Here is a breakdown of the number of questions covered in each topic in the CAT 2024 DILR section:
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CAT DILR Sets |
Slot 1 |
Slot 2 |
Slot 3 |
Total Questions |
|
Set 1 |
Candlestick- Shares Based |
Data Arrangement(7 Students, 3 Coaches/ Rating Based) |
Nutrients- Food Grain (Table Based) |
4 |
|
Set 2 |
Bar Graph - Blogger Based |
Roots and Network (Maxima-Minima) |
GDP (Table Based) |
4 |
|
Set 3 |
Games and Tournament |
Bar Graph - Frequency Distribution/ Average Based |
AC Temperature(Line Graph) |
5 |
|
Set 4 |
Bar Graph - Set Theory Based |
Grid Based (Row/Column- Number Arrangement) |
OTT (Bar Graph) |
4 |
|
Set 5 |
Caselet - Percentage Based |
Two Scatter Plot (x/y axis- PAT/ES) |
ATM (Network) |
5 |
The QA section of CAT 2025 syllabus carries the maximum weightage as it includes all mathematical concepts studied in school. This section is the most predictable one and requires consistent practice, as consistency and dedication in quant are the only ways to ace this section.
Given below is the table indicating chapter-wise important topics that are a part of CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus. Candidates must plan their Quantitative Aptitude preparation on the basis of the following topics.
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CAT 2025 Syllabus Topics For QA - Arithmetic |
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Averages |
Profit and Loss |
Simple & Compound Interest |
|
Mixtures & Allegations |
Percentages |
Speed, Time & Distance |
|
Pipes and Cisterns |
Ratio & Proportion |
Simplification |
|
Graphs |
Linear Equations |
Quadratic Equations |
|
Higher Order Equation |
Logarithms |
Modulus |
|
Inequalities |
Maxima and Minima |
Sequence and Series |
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CAT 2025 Syllabus Topics For QA - Number System |
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|
Base System |
Divisibility |
LCM & HCF |
|
Complex Numbers |
Factors |
Remainders |
|
Digits |
Higher Powers |
Surds and Indices |
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CAT 2025 Syllabus Topics For QA - Geometry |
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Circles |
Polygons |
Trigonometry |
|
Coordinate Geometry |
Quadrilaterals |
Angles |
|
Mensuration |
Triangles |
Parallel Lines |
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CAT 2025 Syllabus Topics For QA - Modern Maths |
||
|
Permutations & Combinations |
Geometric Arrangements |
Sequences & Series |
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Probability |
Progressions |
Roots |
|
Binomial Theorem |
Set Theory |
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CAT QA questions are generally considered to be challenging as they require calculations and the memorization of complex formulas. In a fast-paced test like CAT, which evaluates a candidate's aptitude and time management skills, being good at mental math can help in quickly solving QA questions.
Get a gist of the division of CAT QA syllabus along with its difficulty level and the number of questions asked for your reference, and make your preparation strategy accordingly.
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CAT QA Syllabus 2025 |
No. of Questions |
Level of Difficulty |
|
Arithmetic |
8-10 |
Moderate to High |
|
Algebra |
5-7 |
Moderate to High |
|
Geometry |
1-3 |
Moderate to High |
|
Modern Maths |
2-4 |
Moderate to High |
|
Overall |
22 |
Moderate to High |
There are plenty of study materials available online for your CAT preparation, but the main question is which one to pick. What may seem like the best book for one person may not be the same for another, therefore making it very difficult to choose the best from the lot. The best or ideal preparation material for CAT should be one covering all the important topics of CAT 2025 syllabus from each section, providing more than one solution to each question for better understanding and should contain a good amount of practice questions.
So, here are the best books for CAT that you can refer to to begin your CAT 2025 preparation and brush up on your basics, as follows:
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Best Books for Overall CAT Preparation |
|
|
CAT Sections |
Best Books for CAT Preparation |
|
VARC |
Past Years' CAT Questions (G.K. Publications), Word Power Made Easy (Norman Lewis), Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (Gautam Puri) |
|
DILR |
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (Gautam Puri), How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT (Arun Sharma), A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning (R.S. Aggarwal) |
|
QA |
NCERT Mathematics Books (Class 6-10), CAT Quantitative Aptitude (Gautam Puri), Quantitative Aptitude For Competitive Examinations (RS Aggarwal) |
Feel like it’s too much on your plate? —Look no further! Get CL's CAT study material, which is updated every year based on the changes in the actual examination and covers all the relevant questions. It also offers solution videos as part of the premium package to help analyze weaker areas and develop an efficient exam strategy.
Learning should be divided into phases, starting with essential knowledge and moving on to advanced tricks. It's essential to adopt distinct approaches for each section for CAT exam preparation, considering their respective weightage. Below mentioned are some of the section-specific CAT preparation strategies for your reference:
Aspirants may study the syllabus for CAT 2025 as much as they want, but if they do not understand what goes in the actual examination, all their efforts will be futile. Thus, it is imperative that students check out the CAT Previous Year Question Papers to map the important subjects and check what kind of questions come from those important topics.
Attempt CAT Previous Year Papers
Prepare smarter for the CAT exam with our CAT 2025 syllabus-aligned free mock test series. Each mock test is expertly designed to cover the complete CAT syllabus, including section-wise practice for VARC, DILR, and QA—mirroring the actual CAT 2025 syllabus pattern and question style. Boost your performance and confidence with real exam simulation, detailed analysis, and insights that ensure your preparation is perfectly mapped to the latest CAT 2025 syllabus and exam trends.
The CAT 2025 syllabus is divided into three main sections:
Each section is designed to test specific competencies required for MBA admissions, with the exam pattern remaining aligned with recent years.
No, there is no fixed or official notification released for the CAT syllabus every year. However, one can gain a deep understanding of the important topics covered in the CAT exam syllabus by examining the previous year's CAT question papers.
Overall, CAT has a moderate level of difficulty, but it can feel more manageable for those who start their preparation early and consistently practice all three sections. With a good plan in place, you can definitely crack CAT. The questions asked are mainly from the 10th and 12th-level mathematics and are analytically based.
No subject is difficult to learn once you dedicate your time, and have the right course material and guidance. Based on previous years' CAT exams, the difficulty level of the DILR section is rated moderate to difficult, so you might need to focus on the DILR syllabus more.
There is no fixed syllabus for CAT 2025; however, there is a generalized syllabus that is followed across India by CAT aspirants, which remains the same throughout.
The CAT conducting authorities don't release a fixed CAT syllabus; however, we always try to ease the burden on our students. This is why we have curated a CAT syllabus PDF based on the past year's trends of the CAT exam, which provides a detailed description of these topics along with their sub-topics.
The CAT exam syllabus can be easily covered in a span of 150-200 days. However, merely covering the CAT exam syllabus isn't enough; it should be equally balanced with mock tests, sectional tests, and revision in order to ace CAT 2025.
The CAT 2025 syllabus covers Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude. Each section has key topics, with updated weightages and expected question splits as above.
No official changes, but the number and mix of questions (MCQ/non-MCQ) and topic emphasis can vary annually.
Download the latest, section-wise, updated CAT 2025 syllabus from Career Launcher's resource section.
CAT 2025 has 68 questions: 24 in VARC, 22 in DILR, and 22 in QA. Each section is timed for 40 minutes with a mix of MCQ and non-MCQ questions, following a fixed order.
520 99%ilers in CAT'24 took CL test series.
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