CAT 2025 Exam This Week: Last-Day Strategy, Must-Do Revision & Exam-Hall Checklist for Candidates

The‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025, which is the primary source for admission to MBA at IIMs as well as other top management institutes, will be held this week, November 30, 2025. The test will be carried out in computer-based mode and will be spread over 170 exam cities. Students waiting for the examination should completely change their strategy and concentrate on refining their performance in the ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌test.

CAT 2025: What to Focus on in the Final 72 Hours

The final day before CAT is not meant for new learning. The goal is to maintain clarity, confidence, and calmness. Experts suggest the following last-day actions:

• Revise only previously-studied concepts; do not start new chapters or attempt unknown patterns.
• Review personal shortcuts, quant formulas, and frequently tested DILR sets.
• Go through 1–2 Reading Comprehension passages for flow 
• Allocate mental timing: 40 minutes per section, strictly no switching during the test.
• Visualise your individual attempt order and threshold for leaving difficult questions.
• Practice 20–30 minutes of mental maths (percentages, ratios, approximation, unit digits) to stay sharp.
• Light mock revision is fine, avoid full mock tests a day before the exam, as fatigue may impact performance.

CAT 2025 Section-wise Pointers for Maximum Output

• VARC RC accuracy over speed; avoid overthinking grammar; prioritise doable passages
• DILR Start with structured sets (arrangements, graphs, tournaments, matrix puzzles)
• QA Revise arithmetic-algebra-geometry basics; skip lengthy non-productive problems a day before exam

Aspirants must remember that strategy and accuracy matter more than attempting maximum questions, due to sectional time limits and negative marking in CAT 2025.

CAT 2025 Exam-Day Checklist (Strictly Follow)

Candidates should ensure the following items are prepared tonight to avoid morning rush:

Requirement Details

• CAT Admit Card Print 2 copies, paste a recent passport-size photo
• Valid Photo ID Aadhaar / PAN / Voter ID / Driving Licence / Passport
• Reporting Time Reach exactly as mentioned on the admit card — late entry will not be allowed
• Dress Code Avoid metallic items, smart watches, jewellery, thick-soled shoes, heavy layers

What NOT to Carry to the CAT 2025 Test Centre

• Phones / calculators / smart watches / stationery
• Bags / purses / notes / books
• Food items (unless medically prescribed)

A writing pad and pen will be provided inside the exam lab for rough work. Candidates must enter their name and CAT application number on the sheet and hand it back before leaving.

Expert Recommendations for CAT 2025

Before‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ your test, make sure to have at least 7 hours of sleep.

Don't talk with other students about possible questions of the test right before the exam.

During your test, eat small portions and drink a lot of water.

Click here to know Last Minute Preparation Tips & Tricks for CAT Exam 2025