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Updated By Aarushi Jain on 27 Jul, 2025 14:33
The CAT 2025 syllabus consists of three important sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Developed by IIM Kozhikode, the CAT 2025 question paper will contain questions on all syllabus subjects. Reputed for its toughness, CAT tests the aspirants with complex questions, so a good grasp of concepts is the key to passing it successfully.
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Predict My CollegeThe CAT syllabus 2025 includes Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). The VARC section covers English Grammar, Verbal Reasoning, and Critical Reading topics, while the QA segment has basic Mathematical concepts like Arithmetic, Geometry, Algebra, and Mensuration. The DILR syllabus for the CAT 2025 exam includes topics such as Pie Charts, Puzzles, Tables, and Bar Graphs that necessitate quantitative analysis of the data.
The CAT syllabus is designed to assess your aptitude and preparedness for pursuing management education. It encompasses various topics and concepts that are relevant to business and management studies. The IIMs do not have a fixed syllabus; thus, there is no official syllabus released during the CAT 2025 Notification. The questions are mostly based on basic English and Maths topics. The CAT 2025 syllabus can be considered similar to that of last year since no major changes have been announced. If you are appearing for the exam, find below the detailed CAT exam syllabus PDF and weightage of the topics from each section.
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Attempt nowYou must have all the necessary and correct information when preparing for the exam. The CAT 2025 syllabus is expansive and any mistake in the preparation can lead to disastrous results in their CAT score and overall performance. You must conduct thorough research and cross-reference the information to ensure the accuracy of the syllabus topics you are studying. Here's the direct link to download the CAT 2025 syllabus PDF prepared by MBA experts at CollegeDekho.
CAT 2025 Syllabus PDF Download (To be Activated) |
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Check out the major highlights of the syllabus for the CAT exam 2025 provided below.
Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
No. of Sections | Three;
|
No. of Questions |
|
QA Important Topics | Arithmetic, Algebra, Modern Maths, Number System, Geometry & Mensuration, etc. |
DILR Important Topics | Seating Arrangement, Blood Relation, Syllogism, Tables, Graphs, Data Caselets, etc. |
VARC Important Topics | Reading Comprehension, Para Jumbles, Para Summary, Odd One Out, Para Completion, etc. |
Time Allotted for Each Section | 40 Minutes (53 Minutes & 20 Seconds for PwD Candidates) |
Total Marks | 198 |
Ques: Can the CAT syllabus be completed in 30 days?
Ans: Completing the CAT syllabus in 30 days can be challenging, depending on your level of preparation and familiarity with the topics. If you are taking the test for the second or third time and are well-versed in the concepts, you can cover it in 30 days. But being a beginner, dedicating only 30 days to CAT preparation is a bad idea.
Ques: What should be the ideal pace of covering the CAT syllabus?
Ans: There is no defined ideal pace for covering the CAT syllabus; it depends from person to person. If you have a good understanding of the syllabus and clarity in the basics, studying for 4-5 hours daily for 3 months and 7-8 hours in the last month is ideal. However, if you are just beginning your preparation, you should at least spend 3 hours daily in the first 6 months, 5 hours daily in the next 3 months, and 10 hours daily in the last month.
Ques: Does the CAT syllabus change every year?
Ans: Since the CAT syllabus is not fixed, it can be said that it changes every year. The sections in the CAT exam are fixed and if any changes are made, IIMs notify the candidates beforehand. Students can prepare for the topics covered in each section
The CAT VARC section tests your command of the English language and reading skills. The detailed topics in the CAT VARC syllabus 2025 can be checked below.
CAT VARC Topics | ||
|---|---|---|
Fact Inference Judgement | Grammar | Types of Clauses |
Fill in the blanks | Para Completion and Inference | Foreign Language Words Used in English |
Para Jumble | Sentence Completion | One-word Substitution |
Verbal Reasoning | Word Usage (Vocabulary) | Antonyms |
Idioms | Analogies | Different Usage of the Same Word |
Syllogisms | Reading Comprehension | Verbal Logic |
Sentence Correction | Contextual Usage | - |
| CAT VARC Topic-Wise Weightage | ||
|---|---|---|
| VARC Topics | No. of Questions | Weightage |
| Reading Comprehension | 16 (4 sets) | 66.6% |
| Parajumbles | 3 | 12.5% |
| Odd Sentence | 2 | 8.33% |
| Summary | 3 | 12.5% |
| Total | 24 | 100% |
Reading Comprehension:
| Passage Type | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Descriptive Passages | Less |
| Narrative Passages | Less |
| Argumentative Passages | Most |
| Analytical Passages | Most |
| Abstract Passages | Less |
Types of RC Questions:
| Main Idea |
|---|
| Inference-based |
| Specific Details Questions |
| Tone, Style, and Source |
| Application Questions |
| Logical Structure |
Topics for CAT RC passages are drawn from many different sources including:
Verbal Ability
| Verbal Ability Question Types |
|---|
| Para-jumbles |
| Para-summary |
| Odd-one-out |
| Para-completion |
You must practice Reading Comprehension passages from the previous year's exams, even though these passages are generally not repeated. The following are the topics of the RC passages from the past few years of the CAT exam:
CAT Exam Slot | CAT 2022 | CAT 2021 | CAT 2020 | CAT 2019 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
CAT Slot 1 |
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CAT Slot 2 |
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CAT Slot 3 |
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| - |
Related Questions
Ques: What is the syllabus for CAT VARC 2025?
Ans: The CAT VARC syllabus 2025 includes Reading Comprehension passages of 450 to 600 words each comprising 16-18 questions and 6 to 8 questions from Verbal Ability (VA). 4 RC passages will be given that will be based on the main idea, inference, facts, tone, and assumption. VA topics include Fill in the Blanks, Subject-Verb Agreement, Verbal Reasoning, Sentence Completion, Para Completion and Inference, Parajumbles, Different Usages of the Same Word, Idioms, Analogies, Antonyms, Syllogisms, One Word Substitution, Prepositions, Types of Clauses, Parts of Speech, Errors in Tenses, Article Usage, etc.
Ques: Are there any changes in the CAT 2025 VARC syllabus?
Ans: No official changes have been observed in the CAT 2025 VARC syllabus. The key topics from VARC remain Sentence Order, Passage-based Questions, Paragraph Meaning, Para Jumbles, Para Summary, Inferences, and Sentence Completion. RC covers 24% and VA covers 10% of the CAT 2025 syllabus.
Ques: What are the Grammar and Vocabulary topics tested in the CAT VARC section?
Ans: The Grammar and Vocabulary topics tested in the CAT VARC section include Fill in the Blanks, Subject-Verb Agreement, Different Usages of the Same Word, Idioms, Analogies, Jumbled Paragraphs, Antonyms & Synonyms, Foreign Language Words Used in English, Syllogisms, Sentence Correction, One Word Substitution, Prepositions, Types of Clauses, Parts of Speech, Phrase Modifiers, Errors in Tenses, and Article Usage.
The CAT QA section tests your ability to comprehend numerical problems and solve them accurately. Take a look at some of the important topics in the CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus 2025.
Find the important sub-topics for each QA topic in the table below.
Topics | Sub Topics |
|---|---|
| Number System |
|
Arithmetic |
|
Algebra |
|
Geometry |
|
| Modern Mathematics |
|
Mensuration | Areas and Volumes – Rectangles, Squares, Triangles, Circles, Cubes, Cones, Spheres, Pipes and Cistern |
Calculus |
|
Trigonometry |
|
Find the number of questions asked from each QA topic below.
| Topic | 2022 (No. of Ques Asked) | 2023 (No. of Ques Asked) | 2024 (No. of Ques Asked) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average, Ratio, Mixture & Alligation | 3-5 | 4-6 | 3-5 |
| Profit & Loss, SI, CI, Percentages | 1-3 | 2-3 | 2-3 |
| TSD & Time and Work | 3-5 | 2-3 | 2-3 |
| Geometry | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Quadratic, Polynomials & Simple Eq | 1-3 | 3-4 | 1-2 |
| Progression and Series | 1-3 | 2 | 1 |
| Inequalities, Modulus & Functions | 3-4 | 1-2 | 1-2 |
| Logarithm, Surds & Indices | 0-1 | 1-3 | 2 |
| Probability and P&C | 1 | 1 | 0-1 |
| Number System | 1 | 1 | 2-3 |
| Venn Diagrams | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Related Questions
Ques: What are the Arithmetic topics under the CAT 2025 QA section?
Ans: The Arithmetic topics under the CAT 2025 QA section include Number System, HCF & LCM, Simplification, Age Calculation, Time & Work, Pipes and Cisterns, Percentages, Averages, Profit and Loss, Mixtures and Alligation, TSD, Ratios, Proportions and Variations, Simple Interest, and Compound Interest.
Ques: What are the weightage of different topics under CAT QA?
Ans: Under CAT QA, 8-10 questions will be asked from Arithmetic; 5-7 questions from Algebra; 1-3 questions from Geometry; and 2-4 questions from Modern Maths. Out of a total of 22 questions, Arithmetic has 36.3% weightage; Algebra has 31.8% weightage; Geometry has 12.6% weightage; and Modern Maths has 18.1% weightage.
Ques: I am from a non-Mathematics background. How should I prepare for CAT QA?
Ans: If you are from a non-Mathematics background, you must first clear the basic concepts in Arithmetic by going through NCERT of Class 8–10. You should gain expertise in Arithmetic first and then move on to Algebra, Geometry, Numbers, and Modern Math. Aim to increase your speed and accuracy by solving 4-5 topics daily. After topic-wise practice, you must shift to sectional mocks weekly. Finally, revise important formulas and short tricks regularly to be able to solve maximum number of questions within a sectional time limit of 40 minutes.
Also Read:
CAT DILR syllabus tests your ability to analyze and interpret data, as well as your logical reasoning skills. Find the important topics in the CAT DILR syllabus 2025 below:
Section | Important Topics |
|---|---|
Data Interpretation |
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Logical Reasoning |
|
Related Questions
Ques: What are the most difficult and easiest topics in CAT DILR?
Ans: Puzzle-based LR, Games & Tournaments, and Venn Diagram sets are the most difficult sections and Seating Arrangements, DI Tables & Graphs, and Binary Logic are the topics that are comparatively easier in CAT DILR.
CAT syllabus comprises three major sections, namely Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension. The number of questions asked from each section and sub-section is different every year. However, as per the previous year trends, the weightage of each topic in the CAT 2025 syllabus can be estimated. Check the table below for the CAT weightage chart 2025.
In the QA section, there are a few topics like Arithmetic and Algebra which are extremely important and asked every year. A total of 22 questions are asked out of which 7 are non-MCQs. Take a look at the most important topics in the CAT syllabus for Quantitative Aptitude along with their weightage and difficulty level.
Topics of CAT Syllabus | No. of Questions | Weightage | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|
Number System | 2 | 9% | Moderate |
Algebra | 6 | 28% | Moderate to Difficult |
Arithmetic | 8 | 36% | Easy to Moderate |
Modern Mathematics | 2 | 9% | Moderate |
Geometry & Mensuration | 4 | 18% | Moderate to Difficult |
The CAT Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation is about Graphs, Tables, Charts, and Series, which require good calculation skills. The section comprises 20 questions out of which 6 are TITA-based questions. Check the topic-wise distribution of the DILR section based on data from the past few years:
Topics of CAT Syllabus | No. of Questions | Weightage | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|
Bar Graphs | 4 | 20% | Moderate |
Pie Charts | 2 | 10% | Moderate |
Table Based | 10 | 50% | Easy to Moderate |
Combination of Graphs | 4 | 20% | Easy to Moderate |
Data Arrangement | 6 | 30% | Moderate to Difficult |
Games and Tournaments | 4 | 20% | Easy to Moderate |
Logic-Based | 6 | 30% | Easy to Moderate |
The CAT VARC section assesses your English Grammar skills. A total of 24 questions are asked out of which 5 are non-MCQs. 66% of the total questions are from the Reading Comprehension part. Some of the important topics for the VARC section along with their weightage and difficulty level are given below:
Topics of CAT Syllabus | No. of Questions | Weightage | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|
Reading Comprehension | 16 | 68% | Moderate to Difficult |
Odd Sentences | 1 | 4% | Easy to Moderate |
Para Jumbles | 3 | 12% | Moderate |
Para Completion/Para Summary | 3 | 12% | Moderate |
Others: Sentence Correction, Word Usage, Fill in the Blanks, etc.) | 1 | 4% | Moderate |
Note: The number of questions mentioned against each topic is tentative.
Ques: How do I divide the CAT syllabus so that I can complete it in 3 months?
Ans: To divide the CAT syllabus into a 3-month study plan, start by allocating time for each section based on your strengths and weaknesses. Dedicate more time to challenging areas while revising easier topics regularly. Take regular mock tests to gauge your progress.
Ques: How many revisions of the CAT syllabus would get me the 99+ percentile?
Ans: If you have a strong command of the basics, then 1-2 revisions of the CAT syllabus would be enough to get the 99+ percentile. It is recommended to take as many mock tests as possible as it is the best way to revise what you have studied so far
If you adhere to the strategies provided below, you may be able to cover the most important segments of the CAT syllabus 2025 for MBA:
Also Read:
CAT is an exam that is taken by over 2.5 lakh candidates every year. You must ensure to know how to prepare for the CAT exam effectively if you wish to achieve a high score. The CAT 2025 syllabus is divided into three broad categories, each requiring different approaches during exam preparation. Check out the CAT 2025 preparation tips for all three sections of the CAT syllabus below.
The VARC section can be an easy and high-scoring section of the exam if you prepare for it well. However, many aspirants often neglect this section and consider it easier than it is, leading to a lack of performance. That being said, here's how to prepare for the CAT VARC section:
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning is the toughest CAT section for the last two years. Since there is no defined syllabus for CAT DILR, it is challenging to prepare for this portion of the exam. Nevertheless, take a look at the pointers below to understand how to prepare for CAT DILR section:
Quantitative Aptitude can be a scoring component of the CAT exam if you are well-versed in the topics and concepts included in this section. Since QA mostly focuses on mathematical concepts taught at the school level, you should not find it difficult to prepare for this section. Check out below how to prepare for the CAT QA section:
Ques: Is the CAT syllabus similar to MAH MBA CET?
Ans: The sections covered in CAT syllabus and MAH MBA CET syllabus are somewhat similar; however, the questions asked in them are quite different. MAH MBA CET covers Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, and Logical & Abstract Reasoning. CAT syllabus includes Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning.
Ques: I am done with the CAT syllabus. How do I revise it?
Ans: If you are done with the CAT syllabus, start solving as many mock tests and previous years’ question papers as possible. This way you will be able to revise all the concepts. Moreover, you will be able to identify your strong and weak areas and work accordingly.
A crucial component of your CAT preparation is reading the top books. All of the chapters and topics necessary for thorough preparation are included in CAT 2025 best books. Additionally, the CAT books consist of important shortcut tricks and formulas to score well on the exam. You should always study from the most recent book editions for the most up-to-date CAT study material. That being said, we have mentioned some of the best CAT books available for preparation below:
Section | Name of the Book |
|---|---|
Quantitative Aptitude |
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Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension |
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Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning |
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Ques: How much time is required to go through the entire CAT syllabus?
Ans: Ideally, 4-6 months is required to go through the entire CAT syllabus. However, it depends on how familiar you are with the CAT syllabus. If you have already appeared for the exam, you may need less time. But if you are new to it, you may require more than 6 months to go through the CAT syllabus.
Ques: Is the CAT syllabus difficult to cover for medical students?
Ans: The CAT syllabus can be challenging for medical students due to its focus on quantitative aptitude, data interpretation, and logical reasoning. However, with proper time management and consistent preparation, medical students can effectively cover the syllabus and perform well in the exam
The CAT syllabus has witnessed modifications over time. However, the CAT 2024 syllabus remains unaltered, offering consistency and familiarity to aspirants. This unchanging syllabus assures candidates that their preparation efforts align seamlessly with the anticipated paper pattern. Check the table below to learn about changes in the CAT exam syllabus and exam pattern:
Particulars | Changes in 2014 - 2019 | Changes in 2020 | Changes in 2021 - Present |
|---|---|---|---|
Total Number of Questions | Increased to 100 from 60 | Reduced to 76 from 100 | Reduced to 66 from 76 |
Raw Score | Increased to 300 from 180 | Reduced to 228 from 300 | Reduced to 198 from 228 |
Exam Structure | DI merged with LR instead of QA | No Major Change | No Major Change |
Total Number of VARC Questions | Increased to 34 | Reduced to 26 from 34 | Reduced to 24 from 26 |
Total Number of DILR Questions | Increased to 32 | Reduced to 24 from 32 | Reduced to 20 from 24 |
Total Number of QA Questions | Increased to 34 | Reduced to 26 from 34 | Reduced to 22 from 26 |
Exam Duration |
| Reduced to 120 Minutes from 180 Minutes | No Major Change |
Want to know more about CAT
The CAT 2025 VARC section focuses on topics of English such as grammar, reading comprehension, inferences, and verbal reasoning. The CAT VARC syllabus includes topics like Reading Comprehension (Economics, Philosophy, History, Sociology, Politics, Literature, Science, Arts, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Biographies, Psychology, or other fields), Para Jumbles, Para Summary, Odd One Out, Para Completion, Fill in the Blanks, Verbal Logic. The questions based on Reading Comprehension are generally fact-based and inferential.
The following is the CAT DILR syllabus for 2025:
The CAT Quant syllabus 2025 covers all about mathematics that one learns in school. The following are some of the important subjects covered in the CAT syllabus for Quantitative Aptitude:
It is crucial to create a well-structured study plan that allocates time to each section. Candidates must also focus on building a strong foundation in basic concepts, especially in the quantitative and logical reasoning sections. To improve speed and accuracy, practising time-bound mock tests is essential. Here are some other tips to help CAT candidates prepare for the CAT syllabus 2025:
Overall, the CAT exam has a moderate difficulty level. The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section is expected to be moderate to difficult, the Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation (LRDI) section will be difficult, and the Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section will be easy to moderate. However, covering the CAT 2025 syllabus can become easy for those who begin their study early and practice all three sections. You can easily pass the CAT 2025 if you plan ahead of time.
Quantitative Aptitude, abbreviated as QA, has the highest weightage in the CAT exam. The section has a 34% weightage and is frequently time-consuming. The QA section has TITA (Type in the Answer) type questions, which can cause additional difficulties for CAT candidates.
Yes, one can complete the CAT syllabus in 6 months without coaching. It is possible to prepare for and complete the official CAT syllabus without any form of tutoring. If you study diligently, you will easily complete the CAT syllabus on time. Strengthen the foundational concepts, appear for more and more mock tests, analyze your performance, and try to improve your areas of weakness.
Yes, even though it appears to be a difficult task, it is possible to cover the CAT syllabus in 90 days. Whether or not you pass the CAT is determined not by the amount of time you have available, but by how effectively and strategically you use that time. Start with a mock test to evaluate where you stand in terms of preparation. Take a target of 2 weeks and cover all the basics of Quantitative Aptitude.
There is no specified time limit for completing the CAT syllabus 2025. Each applicant has a different threshold and can complete the syllabus at their own pace. However, if you work hard and study regularly for the CAT exam in 2025, one year is sufficient time.
Since CAT 2025 will be held on November 30, 2025, the recommended time to begin CAT preparation is from February or March onwards. The CAT exam 2025 is the doorway to India's top B-Schools, the IIMs, and over 1000 other MBA colleges.
CAT syllabus has almost been the same for almost 10 years. The only change in the CAT exam syllabus for IIM is the decrease in the number of questions, which has decreased from 100 to 66 in the last 2 years.
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