CAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria Explained: Are You Ready to Apply?
If you’re aiming to pursue an MBA from prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) or other top B-schools in India, the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 is your gateway. But before diving into CAT 2025 preparation, it’s crucial to understand whether you’re eligible to apply. In this post, we’ll break down the latest CAT 2025 eligibility criteria in simple terms so you can plan your application and prep strategy accordingly.
Who Conducts CAT?
The CAT exam is conducted annually by one of the IIMs on a rotational basis. For CAT 2025, the conducting IIM is yet to be officially announced. However, the eligibility criteria for CAT remain consistent every year, as per IIM guidelines.
Basic Eligibility Criteria for CAT 2025
1. Educational Qualification
- You must hold a Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA.
- For SC/ST/PwD candidates, the minimum required score is 45%.
- The degree must be from a recognized university or educational institution under UGC standards.
2. Final Year Students
- Final-year undergraduate students are eligible to apply.
- A certificate from your college/institute confirming your final-year status and expected graduation is required.
3. Professional Degrees
- Candidates who have completed CA/CS/ICWA are also eligible for CAT 2025.
- Minimum score requirements (50%/45% based on category) still apply.
Key Highlights Every CAT Aspirant Should Know
- No Age Limit: There’s no upper or lower age cap for taking CAT.
- Unlimited Attempts: You can appear for CAT as many times as you wish, as long as you meet eligibility each year.
- Eligibility ≠ Admission: Meeting eligibility allows you to take the exam. But admission depends on IIM-specific criteria like:
- Academic profile
- Work experience
- Written Ability Test (WAT)
- Group Discussions (GD)
- Personal Interviews (PI)
Who Should Apply for CAT 2025?
CAT is not just for engineering grads! Here’s who typically applies:
- Fresh Graduates looking to enter top B-schools immediately after college.
- Working Professionals seeking a management role or career growth.
- Candidates from diverse academic backgrounds — including commerce, humanities, and science.
Documents Required for CAT 2025 Application
Before applying, ensure you have the following:
- Scanned passport-size photo and signature
- Marksheets of Class 10, 12, and graduation
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- PwD certificate (if applicable)
- Final year certificate (if in the last year of college)
Summary: Are You Eligible for CAT 2025?
The CAT 2025 exam opens doors to India’s top B-schools — but it all starts with confirming your eligibility. If you’re a graduate (or in your final year) and meet the required percentage, you’re good to go.
- No age barrier
- Final-year students welcome
- Professionals with CA/CS/ICWA also eligible
Start your preparation early, gather your documents, and stay updated with official announcements from The Top Percentile.
FAQs on CAT 2025 Eligibility
Q1. What is the minimum qualification required for CAT 2025?
A Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD).
Q2. Can final-year students apply?
Yes, final-year students can apply with a provisional certificate.
Q3. Is there an age limit for CAT 2025?
No, CAT has no age restrictions.
Q4. Can candidates with backlogs apply?
Yes, but you must complete your degree requirements as per IIM timelines.
Q5. Is work experience mandatory for CAT?
Not at all. Both freshers and working professionals can apply. However, work experience may impact your final admission score at some institutes.