Logo Icon

CAT Exam Dress Code 2025: Mandatory Guidelines for Male and Female Test Takers

Author : Lalita Vishwakarma

May 16, 2025

SHARE

Overview: The CAT 2025 exam is scheduled to be conducted on 30th November 2025. Continue reading to know what the CAT exam dress code is and what guidelines you need to follow on the D-Day! 

  • The Common Admission Test is one of the prestigious MBA entrance exams conducted once a year across India.
  • The aspirants taking the CAT exam should be well prepared regarding the CAT exam dress code and important guidelines before reaching the exam centre. 

Continue reading to know what is recommended dress code for CAT exam and must to follow CAT exam instructions by the candidates here!


Learn More | How to Prepare for CAT Exam in One Year?

What is the CAT Exam Dress Code 2025?

The CAT exam is one of the leading MBA entrance exams, taken by more than 3.29 lakh candidates across India. 

It is important for candidates to be aware of the CAT 2025 exam dress code for males and females to get everything right.

Here are the key pointers of the CAT exam day dress code for 2025:

1. Try Not to wear thick-soled footwear to the Exam Hall

The first point to remember regarding the CAT exam dress code is to avoid wearing shoes/footwear with thick soles. Also, according to the CAT dress code, garments with large buttons is not allowed inside the CAT exam hall.

2. Avoid Wearing Clothes with Heavy Pockets

The CAT 2025 dress code permits candidates to wear any comfortable clothing, such as shirts, t-shirts, and trousers, as long as they do not have pockets. Candidates wearing clothing with pockets will not be allowed into the CAT 2025 exam hall.

3. Do not Wear Jewellery or Any type of Ornament to the Exam Hall

Candidates taking the CAT exam are prohibited from wearing any jewelry or carrying any metal, including earrings, nose pins, necklaces, anklets, bangles, and other metallic ornaments.

Read More | CAT Admission Process 2025 

 CAT Online Coaching

 CAT Online Coaching

4. Unnatural marks and heavy makeup looks are prohibited.

The CAT exam dress code for female MBA students prohibits any unnatural marks, mehendi, or tattoos, which would lead to disqualification. 

Students must maintain a natural appearance; heavy makeup is not allowed. Hairstyles should be kept simple; a ponytail or braid is recommended. Male students who uploaded a photo without a beard must appear for the exam clean-shaven.

5. Mobile Phones and Bags are not allowed

Candidates taking the CAT exam are prohibited from bringing mobile phones, smart watches, calculators, or any other electronic devices into the exam hall. Bags are also not allowed. Prohibited items must be deposited with the CAT test centre staff before entering the exam hall.

Also Read | CAT exam eligibility criteria

What Things to Carry on CAT 2025 Exam Day?

Apart from the CAT exam dress code that students must follow, there are several other important items you must carry on the CAT 2025 exam day

1. CAT 2025 Admit Card

The CAT 2025 admit card is an essential document that must be brought to the exam center. Entry will be denied without it.

Before November 24th, each candidate has to download their admit card from the official website and attach a passport-sized photo that matches the one on their CAT 2024 application form. 

It is also advised to print two copies of the admit card and bring both to the exam hall.

Important Note: The CAT admit card must not be signed beforehand. It has to be signed at the exam center in the presence of the invigilator.

Read More: CAT Exam Photo Size Specification

2. Photo Identity Proof

To prevent fraud, you must present a government-issued photo ID along with your CAT 2024 admit card at the exam center.

Acceptable forms of photo ID include your passport, PAN card, voter ID, Aadhaar card, driver's license, employer ID, or college ID (if accompanied by a valid debit or credit card).

3. Name Change Document 

If a candidate's name has been changed due to marriage, legal name change, divorce or any other reason, they must provide a supporting name change document, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree, along with a notarized photocopy.

4. Medical Certificate and Scribe Affidavit

Candidates with disabilities must bring a medical certificate and a scribe affidavit (prescribed by IIMCAT) to the CAT exam center. Officials will verify these documents after frisking. Candidates cannot proceed to their computer system without document verification.

Check | CAT Score vs Percentile 2025

 CAT Online Coaching

 CAT Online Coaching

What Things Are Banned from the CAT 2025 Exam Centre?

There are some things that are completely banned from the CAT 2025 exam centre; these include:

  • Bags/purses/pencil boxes
  • Beepers
  • Wristwatches
  • Calculators
  • Mobile phones
  • Electronic devices
  • Scanners
  • Cameras and wireless/Bluetooth devices. 

Candidates found with these items will be disqualified. Notepads and written material are also prohibited.

In addition to following the CAT exam dress code, Candidates will be provided with a pen and scribble pad for rough work. Before exiting, they must return the pen, scribble pad (with all pages intact), and one copy of their admit card.

Know More | How Many Times CAT Exam is Conducted in a Year?

 CAT Online Coaching

 CAT Online Coaching

Conclusion

Being prepared for the CAT exam goes beyond just studying; adhering to the CAT exam dress code and related guidelines is equally crucial for ensuring a smooth and hassle-free exam day experience.

Remember to choose comfortable clothing, avoid heavy accessories, and leave prohibited items at home. Make sure you have all the necessary documents, like your admit card and photo ID, ready to present at the exam center. 

By following these instructions, you can focus your energy on doing your best. Good luck with your preparation, and we wish you great success on exam day!

Learn More | How Many Students Appear for CAT Exam Every Year

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear on the CAT exam day?

Expand Faq Icon

Can I wear jewelry to the exam?

Expand Faq Icon

What identification do I need to bring?

Expand Faq Icon

Are there any items I cannot take into the exam hall?

Expand Faq Icon

What happens if I forget to bring my admit card?

Expand Faq Icon