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CAT is the toughest MBA Entrance Exam for admission in top IIMs and more than 1,000 B-Schools. Every year, the CAT Exam is conducted by different IIMs according to the rotational policy.
In 2025, IIM Kozhikode will officially announce to conduct of the CAT 2025 Exam, after IIM Lucknow conducted the exam in 2024.
- By knowing about the IIM Conducting body, candidates can know about the style and the approach of the exam.
- The IIM Kozhikode conducted the CAT Exam in 2019, which was of a moderate difficulty level, with a balanced structure of the exam and time-consuming sections.
The CAT 2025 Exam is expected to be conducted on 30th November 2025. The official notification is expected to be released in the last week of July, with registration starting from the first week of August.
From IIM Kozhikode, Prof. Ram Kumar P N has been named as the CAT 2025 Convenor. The Registration, admit card, mock tests and results will be announced on the official website iimcat.ac.in.
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In this Article, we have discussed about the conducting body of CAT 2025, which will release all the important details related to CAT 2025.
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CAT Conducting Body from Previous Years
The CAT Exam is conducted every year by one of 21 IIMs on a rotational basis. The Conducting body of IIM will decide the exam pattern, coordinating with the technical partners and ensuring the smooth and secure conduct of the exam.
Each IIM will conduct the exam differently, with different difficulty levels, sectional weightage and question types.
CAT has been conducting IIMs for the last 6 years
- A Rotational Cycle is followed by IIM, in which top IIMs, like IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, IIM Lucknow, IIM Kozhikode and IIM Indore conduct more frequently because of the infrastructure.
- There is an increase in the candidates registered from 2.4 lakhs in 2019 to 3.3 lakhs in 2024, which is a 37% growth in the total registrations.
- In 2020, the structure of the exam was reduced from 3 hours to 2 hours, with questions ranging between 66-68.
| Year | Conducting IIM | CAT Convenor | Key Highlights | Exam Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | IIM Kozhikode | Prof. Ram Kumar P. N | Expected 3.5 lakh candidates, and Kozhikode was last conducted in 2019 | To be Announced |
| 2024 | IIM Calcutta | Prof. Sanjay Singh | Record 3.3 lakh registrations and smooth CBT across 400+ centres | Moderate |
| 2023 | IIM Lucknow | Prof. Ashis Mishra | Changes in VARC section timing and structure | Moderate-Difficult |
| 2022 | IIM Bangalore | Prof. Ashis Mishra | Similar pattern to 2021 with a 2-hour exam and 66 Questions | Moderate |
| 2021 | IIM Ahmedabad | Prof. M P Ram Mohan | High QA difficulty and drop in cutoff | Difficult |
| 2020 | IIM Indore | Prof. Harshal Lowalekar | COVID Year and exam duration reduced to 2 hours | Moderate |
| 2019 | IIM Kozhikode | Prof. Shubhasis Dey | High DILR difficulty and good overall balance of questions | Moderate-Difficult |
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CAT 2025 Participating CollegesIIM Kozhikode: CAT Difficulty Level Analysis
The IIM Kozhikode is the conducting body of CAT 2025. Lastly, the IIM Kozhikode conducted the exam in 2019, which was a conceptually balanced but time-based exam.
As per previous analysis, IIM Kozhikode’s CAT Exam is generally moderate to difficult, with sections like DILR and VARC being tricky because of the length and complexity of the exam.
Overall CAT Difficulty Analysis by IIM Kozhikode
- The CAT Exam has changed from 100 questions in 2019 by IIM Kozhikode, with 66-68 questions in 2025. The exam is time-consuming, as it will be for 2 hours.
- In 2019, the DILR Section was tough, and it is expected to be the same in 2025. The RCs were conceptual, and in the QA section, more focus was on Arithmetic.
- Candidates can get 99 percentile in 2025, by scoring 95 to 100 marks, which is more than in 2019 because of fewer questions
| Year | Total Questions | Exam Duration | Conducting IIM | Overall Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 100 | 180 minutes | IIM Kozhikode | Moderate to hard |
| 2025 | 66–68 (expected) | 120 minutes | IIM Kozhikode | Moderate to Difficult* |
IIM Kozhikode CAT Paper Difficulty: Section-Wise Overview (Based on 2019)
- The IIM Kozhikode generally includes a lengthy and layered set of problems, which tests accuracy along with speed.
- The Section of DILR was the toughest in the 2019 exam, which affects the overall percentile.
- The IIM Kozhikode avoids the advanced maths questions but includes application-based arithmetic and logic-based RC questions.
- As the difficulty level is high, scoring more than 99 percentile can be achieved with low scores as compared to previous years.
| Section | No. of Questions (CAT 2019) | Level of Difficulty | Challenges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verbal Ability & RC | 34 | Moderate-Difficult | Difficult RC passages with conceptual themes |
| Data Interpretation | 32 | Difficult | Time-consuming sets and tricky logical puzzles |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 34 | Moderate | Arithmetic-based and a few modern algebra questions |
| Overall Difficulty | 100 (3-hour exam) | Moderate–Difficult | Balanced paper, but challenging time management |
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CAT 2025 Expected Difficulty Level Analysis
The CAT 202,5 to be conducted by IIM Kozhikode is expected to be of Moderate to Difficult level, which will be based on concepts and time-based questions in DILR and VARC; it is expected to be the same as previous years.
There will not be any major change in the exam format; the difficulty level will vary according to the sections, which will impact the cutoff and percentile.
CAT 2025 Expected Section-Wise Difficulty Level
- As per the 2019 Exam, the DILR section is expected to have complex puzzle-based questions and data sets, with students attempting 2 full sets.
- The RCs can have opinion-based topics, which will make it time-consuming and inference-based.
- The Quant section is expected to be arithmetic-based with fewer algebra or geometry-based questions.
| Section | No. of Questions (Expected) | Expected Difficulty | Key Characteristics & Insights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verbal Ability & RC | 24 | Moderate–Difficult | Abstract RCs, logic-based VA and large passages |
| Data Interpretation | 20 | Difficult | Multi-layered puzzle questions, high time-per-question ratio |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 22 | Moderate | Arithmetic-based, less focus on geometry/algebra and calculation-based questions. |
| Overall | 66–68 | Moderate–Difficult | Tough DILR, abstract RCs, time pressure to impact overall scores |
CAT 2019 vs CAT 2025 by IIM Kozhikode: Changes & Comparison
The IIM Kozhikode conducted the CAT Exam in 2019, the last time and now it will conduct it again in 2025.
The Structure and pattern of the exam have changed; the number of questions and exam duration have changed, with more logic and time-based questions expected to be there, especially in the DILR Section.
Comparison Between CAT 2019 to CAT 2025
- The Exam is expected to be a bit challenging with the restricted time limit of 2 hours.
- The DILR is expected to be the most difficult section with calculation-based questions.
- The cutoff for 99 percentile is expected to drop because of a reduced total score.
| Feature | CAT 2019 (IIM K) | CAT 2025 (IIM K – Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 180 mins | 120 mins |
| Total Questions | 100 | 66–68 |
| Sectional Timing | 60 mins | 40 mins |
| VARC Questions | 34 | 24 |
| DILR Questions | 32 | 20 |
| QA Questions | 34 | 22 |
| Toughest Section | DILR | Likely DILR |
| 99 percentile Score | 160–165 | 95–98 |
| Exam Slots | 1 | 3 |
| Mode | CBT | CBT |
CAT Exam Question Trends & Analysis
Since the last five years, the CAT Exam has seen various changes, from the exam duration changing from 3 hrs to 2 hrs, to a repeated count of questions and a section-based balance of questions.
CAT Question Paper Trends (2024–2019)
- The Duration of the CAT Exam has been reduced from 180 minutes with 100 questions in 2020 to 120 minutes with 66 questions in 2025, increasing the time pressure.
- The exam pattern has remained the same from 2024 to 2021, with 66 questions, divided as VARC-24, DILR-20 and QA-22.
- The Section of QA was toughest in 2021; the DILR difficulty level was highest in 2023, with more than 3 large sets.
- In the last 4 years, the pattern of VARC has remained the same, with 4 RCs(16 Questions)+ 8 VA Questions.
| Year | Conducting IIM | Exam Duration | Total Questions | VARC Qs | DILR Qs | QA Qs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | IIM Calcutta | 120 mins | 66 | 24 | 20 | 22 |
| 2023 | IIM Lucknow | 120 mins | 66 | 24 | 20 | 22 |
| 2022 | IIM Bangalore | 120 mins | 66 | 24 | 20 | 22 |
| 2021 | IIM Ahmedabad | 120 mins | 66 | 24 | 20 | 22 |
| 2020 | IIM Indore | 120 mins | 76 | 26 | 24 | 26 |
| 2019 | IIM Kozhikode | 180 mins | 100 | 34 | 32 | 34 |
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CAT Previous Year Question PaperCAT Preparation based on IIM Kozhikode
The IIM Kozhikode has conducted CAT in 2019, and now is conducting it in 2025; it will give more emphasis on the logic, reasoning and comparison-based questions.
The IIM Kozhikode CAT Exam is majorly Concept and time-based, majorly in DILR and VARC. To succeed in CAT 2025, candidates should align their preparation with more logical questions.
Section-Wise CAT 2025 Preparation Strategy as per IIM Kozhikode
- In 2019, 80% of the DILR sets were solved by less than 10% of the candidates; it is expected to be the same in 2025.
- In 2019, the RCs had 500-600 words per passage as per the abstract themes.
- The section of arithmetic has contributed 45% of QA marks in 2019, which is expected to be the same in 2025.
VARC Preparation Strategy for IIM Kozhikode
| Component | Expected Weightage (2025) | Difficulty Level | Prepeare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension (4 RCs) | 16 Qs | Moderate–Difficult | Practice abstract, philosophical, and opinion-based Reading comprehension |
| Verbal Ability (Para-summary, OOO, Jumbles) | 8 Qs | Moderate | Focus on logic-driven VA, especially TITA questions |
| Question Format | MCQs + TITA | Balanced mix | Improve inference & elimination strategy |
| Ideal Accuracy | 80%+ in RC, 75% in VA | High benchmark | Practice with sectional mocks under 40 mins |
DILR Preparation Strategy for IIM Kozhikode
| Component | Expected Sets/Qs (2025) | Difficulty Level | Prepare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puzzle-Based LR | 2 sets / 10 Qs | Difficult | Solve Venn diagrams, selection/distribution logic sets |
| Data Interpretation | 2 sets / 10 Qs | Moderate–Difficult | Practice tables, graphs, combo DI-LR sets |
| Question Format | Set-based (4–6 Qs/set) | Logic-intensive | Practice full sets daily; identify doable sets fast |
| Ideal Accuracy | 60–70% (target 2.5 sets) | Realistic benchmark | Focus on accuracy + selective attempts under 40 mins |
QA Preparation Strategy for IIM Kozhikode
| Component | Expected Weightage (2025) | Difficulty Level | Strategy Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arithmetic | 10–12 Qs | Moderate | Time-Speed, Work, Percentages, Ratio-Proportion |
| Algebra | 4–5 Qs | Moderate | Quadratics, inequalities, and simple equations |
| Number System | 3–4 Qs | Moderate | Divisibility, remainders, and base system |
| Geometry & Mensuration | 2–3 Qs | Low–Moderate | Basics only – triangles, circles, surface area |
| Ideal Accuracy | 80%+ (attempt 16–18 Qs) | Critical for scoring | Speed + accuracy is key in a tightly timed QA section |
Section-Wise Preparation for CAT:
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CAT Preparation for working professionalsCAT 2025 Convenor: Leading the Exam at IIM Kozhikode
The IIM Kozhikode has appointed Prof. Ram Kumar P N as a senior faculty in Quantitative methods and operations, as the Convenor of CAT 2025.
Under his leadership, the exam pattern, structure, fairness and execution are expected to change.
CAT 2025 Exam Convenor
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Convenor Name | Prof. Ram Kumar P N |
| Institute | IIM Kozhikode |
| Academic Background |
|
| Department | Quantitative Methods & Operations Management |
| CAT 2025 Exam Date | November 30, 2025 (Expected) |
| Role in CAT 2025 | Overall in charge: exam design, security, coordination, and result release |
| Known Expertise | Logical Reasoning, Optimisation, Operations Research |
| Expected Influence | Tougher DILR sets, structured RCs, and arithmetic-focused QA |
How does IIM Kozhikode’s CAT Exam differ from other IIMs?
Each IIM has a different philosophy for conducting the CAT Exam. The IIM Kozhikode, which is conducting CAT 2025, is expected to have more logic-based questions, with complex DILR Sets and abstract RCs.
IIM Kozhikode vs Other IIMs: Difficulty Level
| Feature | IIM Kozhikode(CAT 2019, 2025) | IIM Ahmedabad(CAT 2021) | IIM Bangalore(CAT 2022) | IIM Lucknow(CAT 2023) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Difficulty | Moderate–Difficult | Difficult | Moderate–Difficult | Moderate |
| DILR Section | Very Tough, Logical | Moderate | Very Tough (2023) | Balanced |
| VARC Style | Abstract RCs, Logic-based VA | Literary RCs | Dense RCs, tricky VA | Balanced RC + VA |
| QA Focus | Arithmetic-heavy | Algebra-heavy | Mixed Arithmetic + Algebra | Balanced |
| Score for 99 percentile | 95–98 (expected) | 98–100 | 96–99 | 98–100 |
| Design Signature | Logical reasoning-led | Conceptual Quant | Sectional surprise | Balanced & safe |
CAT Cutoff for IIM Kozhikode
The IIM Kozhikode is among the top 5 IIMs and attracts a large number of high-scoring candidates. The IIM Kozhikode follows a 2-step selection process based on CAT Sectional and overall percentiles, along with the WAT-PI as well.
The Cut-off for IIM Kozhikode is expected to be between 85-95 percentiles, in which the general category will require more than 97 percentile.
IIM Kozhikode Section-Wise Cutoff Percentile(Expected)
- High-percentile will be required for the general category, minimum cutoff will be 85 and shortlisting percentile will be 97+ for GEMs.
- The Marks of Class 10th and Class 12th hold important weightage on the composite score.
- In total, 2-3 years of work experience is required, 10% of weightage on the selection criteria.
| Category | VARC (Percentile) | DILR (Percentile) | QA (Percentile) | Overall Percentile (Minimum) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General | 75 | 75 | 75 | 85 (Eligibility) 97–98 (Actual Call) |
| NC-OBC | 65 | 65 | 65 | 75 |
| EWS | 65 | 65 | 65 | 75 |
| SC | 55 | 55 | 55 | 65 |
| ST | 45 | 45 | 45 | 55 |
| PwD | 45 | 45 | 45 | 55 |
CAT Conducting Body & Their Roles
Different IIMs have different ways of conducting the exam, along with their dates and notifications. The conducting IIMs will also release any updates and coordination regarding the exam.
The CAT Conducting Body will also appoint a convenor, who is the senior faculty member, to lead operations and ensure transparency.
CAT Conducting Body: Roles & Responsibilities
| Responsibility Area | Key Role Performed by Conducting IIM |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | Release the CAT dates, eligibility, registration, process and syllabus |
| Registration Process | Will release the registration form, registration fee and corrections for registration. |
| Exam Pattern Design | Will decide the section-wise weightage & marking scheme |
| Test Centre Setup | Allocates exam cities & centres |
| Exam Security & Conduct | Ensures question secrecy, partners with TCS iON |
| Mock Tests & Helpdesk | Releases sample tests, manages student queries |
| Result & Scorecard | Publish percentile scores, normalisation |
| Score Sharing | Distributes scores to IIMs and 1000+ B-schools |
FAQs for CAT 2025 Conducting Body
Ques. Which IIM sets the toughest CAT paper?
Ans. Every IIM will follow a different rotational policy while conducting the CAT Exam; the difficulty level will differ according to the way an institute conducts the IIM Exam. In a few years, IIM Ahmedabad and IIM Kozhikode are expected to have tough CAT Exams.
Ques. CAT Paper Difficulty by IIM (Past 5 Years)
Ans.
| Year | Conducting IIM | Overall Difficulty | Toughest Section | Key Challenge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | IIM Kozhikode | Moderate–Difficult | DILR | Logic-heavy, time-consuming puzzle sets |
| 2020 | IIM Indore | Moderate | VARC | RCs were dense; a shorter exam format was introduced |
| 2021 | IIM Ahmedabad | Difficult | QA | Algebra-heavy, concept-intensive questions |
| 2022 | IIM Bangalore | Moderate–Difficult | DILR | Unpredictable and tricky LR sets |
| 2023 | IIM Lucknow | Moderate–Difficult | VARC | High inference-based RCs, tricky options |
| 2024 | IIM Calcutta | Moderate | Balanced | Well-distributed across sections |
Ques. How to get into IIM 2025?
Ans. The Admission into IIMs is majorly based on the CAT Exam, along with the Written Ability Test and personal Interview. With more than 3.0 lakh candidates expected to appear in the CAT with limited IIM Seats of 5,500 flagship seats of PGP Programs, candidates should excel in academics, aptitude and personal interview to secure admission.
- Register for the CAT 2025 Exam to be conducted from August 2025 to September 2025.
- Should target more than the 95th-99th percentile as per the candidate's category and type of IIM.
- Clear all the sectional cutoffs that are mandatory.
- Work experience of 2-3 years is crucial, giving 5-10% weightage in some IIMs.
Ques. Which are baby IIMs?
Ans. The Baby IIMs refer to the New IIMs, which were established after 2015 as a part of the government's expansion plan to increase the quality of education. Currently, the IIMs are operated by the mentorship of older IIMs and offer postgraduate programs.
Ques. List of Baby IIMs (with Year of Establishment & Location)
Ans.
| IIM Name | Year Established | Location | Mentoring IIM |
|---|---|---|---|
| IIM Jammu | 2016 | Jammu (J&K) | IIM Lucknow |
| IIM Sirmaur | 2015 | Himachal Pradesh | IIM Lucknow |
| IIM Bodh Gaya | 2015 | Bihar | IIM Calcutta |
| IIM Nagpur | 2015 | Maharashtra | IIM Ahmedabad |
| IIM Sambalpur | 2015 | Odisha | IIM Indore |
| IIM Amritsar | 2015 | Punjab | IIM Kozhikode |
| IIM Visakhapatnam | 2015 | Andhra Pradesh | IIM Bangalore |
Ques. When should I start preparing for CAT 2025?
Ans. The CAT 2025 Exam will be conducted on 30th November, with 4 months still left. It is enough to crack the CAT Exam if you follow a focused approach in a section-wise way with discipline and practising mock tests.
- 120 days is sufficient to work on the concepts, mocks and revision with 3-4 hours every day.
- In July-August, candidates should focus on building the concepts in QA, with daily practising and basic DILR Sets.
- Begin with full-length lock tests of 2-3 every week and analyse your performance.
- Revise important topics, solve previous year CAT Questions and strategy.
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