June 20, 2025
Overview: The CAT exam eligibility 2025 requires a graduation degree in any stream from a recognised university. Some factors like age limit, education qualification and reservation are also part of CAT eligibility criteria 2025. Read on to know more!
Scroll down to know the complete details about CAT qualification and the eligibility for CAT exam 2025!
Read More | Minimum Marks to Qualify CAT Exam 2025
What is the eligibility for CAT exam? Here are the key factors that determine eligibility for the CAT exam 2025:
CAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria | Requirement |
CAT Age limit | There is no upperCAT exam age limit |
CAT Exam Qualification | Bachelor’s degree in any stream |
CAT Exam Eligibility Marks in Graduation | 50% (General/ NC-OBC/ PwD) and 45 % (SC/ST/EWS) |
Work Experience | Not Compulsory |
CAT Eligibility Reservation Criteria | As per category |
Read More: SuperGrads CAT Toppers Interview
What is the eligibility for the CAT exam in India? Candidates applying for CAT exam should know all about the CAT exam 2025 eligibility, education qualification:
Educational Qualification for CAT Exam 2025 | Affiliation Required | Pass Percentage Required |
Bachelor’s Degree in any stream from any University | Recognised by UGC | General/EWS/NC-OBC: 50% SC, ST, PwD candidates: 45% |
Engineering Degree – BTech/ BE | Recognised by MHRD/AICTE * | General/EWS/NC-OBC: 50% SC, ST, PwD candidates: 45% |
Students in their final year of a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) are also eligible to take the CAT exam. | Continuing graduation from a University recognized by MHRD/AICTE or UGC |
General/EWS/NC-OBC: 50% |
(CA/CS/ICWA/Fellow of the Institute of Actuaries of India (FIAI) | Certification-granting organisation | General/EWS/NC-OBC: 50% SC, ST, PwD candidates: 45% |
Refer | CAT Exam Quantitative Aptitude Questions with Solution
Also Check | CAT Exam Preparation 2025
There are also eligibility criteria for CAT exam for different categories. Here is the table showing the same:
Category | Eligibility Criteria for CAT Exam 2025 |
CAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria for General | minimum of 50% in a bachelor's degree |
CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria for EWS | minimum of 50% in a bachelor's degree |
CAT Eligibility Criteria for OBC | minimum of 50% in a bachelor's degree |
CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria for SC | minimum of 45% in a bachelor's degree |
CAT Eligibility Criteria for ST | minimum of 45% in a bachelor's degree |
CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria for PwD | minimum of 45% in a bachelor's degree |
Check | List of CAT Exam Centres
Check | Is Class XII Marks Important for CAT Exam
What is the CAT age limit? Most MBA entrance exams have a CAT age limit, but the CAT exam does not have such a criterion. As per the CAT exam 2025 eligibility age, there is no age limit yet.
CAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria | Details |
CAT minimum age limit | There is no minimum age limit. Must have completed graduation with the required percentage. |
CAT maximum age eligibility | There is no maximum age limit. With a bachelor's degree and a minimum percentage, you can apply at any career stage. |
Also Read | CAT Exam Registration 2025 [Official]
As per the legal requirements, the CAT exam eligibility criteria 2025 for different categories have the following seats reserved respectively for all the categories:
Also Read | CAT Books: List of 11 Best Books for CAT 2025 Preparation
Candidates are not required to have prior work experience during the CAT registration process. However, IIMs may consider work experience in the later stages of their admission process.
If you have some prior work experience, then here is the list of documents you need to submit during the admission process at IIMs:
Also Check | List of CAT Preparation Books in 2025
Also Read | How To Get into IIM Without CAT: Process and Admission
Under The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, 5% of seats are reserved for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwD), defined as individuals with at least 40% of a specified disability, as certified by an authority.
The Act lists specific disabilities, including blindness, deafness, locomotor disabilities, autism, intellectual disabilities, and more, ensuring inclusive education opportunities.
Note: Candidates from reserved categories (SC/ST/NC-OBC/EWS/PwD) should review eligibility for CAT exam carefully before applying. Although IIMs aim to adhere to legal reservation proportions, these candidates must meet minimum eligibility and performance standards for admission consideration.
Check | List of Top MBA Colleges Accepting CAT 2025 Scores
Yes! Candidates appearing for the final year of the Bachelor’s degree/equivalent qualification examination and those who have completed degree requirements and are awaiting results can also apply.
However, it may be noted that if selected, you will be allowed to join the program provisionally and only if you submit a certificate from the Registrar of your University (issued on or before the date as stipulated by the respective IIM) stating that you have completed all the requirements for obtaining the Bachelor’s degree on the date of issue of the certificate.
Check | Download CAT Admit Card
The CAT exam 2025 eligibility percentage of marks obtained by the candidate would be calculated based on the practice followed by the respective University or institution.
Regarding grades/ CGPA, the conversion to percentage of marks would be based on the procedure certified by the respective University or institution.
If any University confirms that there is no scheme for converting CGPA into equivalent marks, the equivalence would be established by "dividing the candidate’s CGPA by the maximum possible CGPA and multiplying the result by 100."
Also Check | CAT Exam Analysis Section Wise
Final-year students pursuing a bachelor's degree are eligible to appear for the Common Admission Test (CAT), provided they fulfil certain conditions. They must have secured at least 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC, ST, and Pwd categories) in their undergraduate studies up to the point of application.
Well, such candidates can apply for CAT and subsequently for admission to IIMs. However, their admission will be provisional, contingent upon submitting a certificate from their institution's Principal/Registrar/Head of the Department.
This certificate must state that the candidate has completed all the bachelor's degree requirements by the date stipulated by the respective IIM.
Here are the requirements of a certificate from institution:
Check now: How to Crack CAT exam in 2025?
Here are the precautions that the applicant should consider:
Here's a breakdown of pointers regarding CAT exam eligibility for candidates with backlogs:
Can students with arrears/backlogs apply?
Yes, candidates with backlogs in their bachelor's degrees are generally eligible to apply for the CAT exam.
IIM admission policies also generally do not explicitly restrict candidates with backlogs from applying for CAT.
Conditions and clarification by IIMs:
While you can appear for CAT with backlogs, you will likely need to clear all backlogs before the admission process of the respective IIM begins.
IIMs require candidates to have a bachelor's degree with the minimum required percentage of marks (50% for the general category, 45% for reserved categories) at the time of admission.
You might need to provide a certificate from your institution stating that you have appeared for supplementary exams for the backlogs and are awaiting results.
Ultimately, admission to IIMs is provisional until you submit proof of completing your graduation with the required marks and having cleared all backlogs.
Read More: List of best books for CAT Preparation 2025
Case 1: Applying while having active backlogs
You can apply for CAT. Focus on clearing the backlogs before the IIM admission deadlines.
Case 2: Having cleared backlogs but results awaited
You are eligible to apply as a final-year student. You will need to submit the final degree certificate and mark sheets as proof of clearing backlogs and meeting the percentage criteria at the time of IIM admission.
Case 3: Facing supplementary exams after CAT
Inform the IIMs about your situation during the Personal Interview (PI) round and provide the necessary documentation as soon as the results are declared, ensuring it's before their admission deadline.
Having backlogs might be a point of discussion during the Personal Interview (PI) round. Be prepared to explain the reasons for the backlogs and highlight your academic improvements or other strengths.
While CAT score is a primary factor, IIMs also consider your academic background. Clearing backlogs demonstrates responsibility and commitment, which can positively influence the selection process.
Failure to clear backlogs and provide the final degree certificate by the IIM's deadline will lead to cancellation of provisional admission, even if you have a good CAT score and performed well in other selection rounds.
Read More: CAT Preparation for Beginners 2025, Tips & Strategies
NRI students, Foreign students,/ International students can also apply for the CAT exam.
Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/Pwd categories, if applicable as per their status). The degree must be from a recognised university.
Some IIMs might consider CAT scores for international students, but GMAT is more widely accepted.
Check Now: How to prepare for CAT in 10 Months - Expert Tips
GMAT is generally the preferred and often mandatory exam for foreign students and NRIS applying to IIMs. It is a globally recognised test designed for graduate management program admission.
CAT is primarily a national-level entrance exam for Indian residents seeking admission to MBA programs in India. While some international MBA colleges might accept CAT scores, it has limited global recognition compared to GMAT.
Focusing on the GMAT is advisable if you are an NRI or foreign national aiming for IIMs. Check the specific admission policies of the IIMs you are interested in to confirm their preferred entrance exam for international applicants.
The medium of instruction at IIMs is English. While a separate English proficiency test like TOEFL or IELTS is not explicitly mentioned as a mandatory requirement for CAT or GMAT in the context of IIM admissions for international students, strong English language skills are crucial.
The CAT exam itself is conducted entirely in English and assesses verbal ability. Similarly, GMAT has a significant section on verbal reasoning.
Candidates should be proficient in English to understand the exam content, participate in classroom discussions, and complete assignments effectively. IIMs may assess English proficiency during the Personal Interview (PI) round.
International candidates will need to submit specific documents during the application process, which may include:
Upon receiving an admission offer, foreign national students will need to apply for a Student Visa from the Indian embassy/consulate in their country.
IIMs usually provide an admission offer letter and a recommendation letter for visa purposes.
After arriving in India, students will likely need to register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in the city where their IIM is located within a stipulated timeframe.
Specific documentation requirements and visa procedures can vary between IIMs and are subject to the regulations of the Government of India. It is essential to refer to the specific IIM's admission guidelines for international students for detailed information.
Check Now: CAT exam is for what purpose? Get Details Here!
Here are some common misconceptions about who can take the CAT exam, explained simply:
Myth 1: Only Engineering graduates are eligible.
Truth: This is not true at all! CAT is open to graduates from any stream - whether you have a degree in Arts, Science, Commerce, Engineering, Medicine, or anything else. As long as you have a bachelor's degree with the required minimum marks, you can apply.
Myth 2: You need a very high percentage in graduation to be eligible.
Truth: While a good academic record is helpful, the basic CAT exam eligibility is usually 50% aggregate marks in your bachelor's degree (or equivalent). This is relaxed to 45% for candidates belonging to SC, ST, and PwD categories. So, you don't need to be a topper in your graduation to be eligible for CAT.
Myth 3: Candidates with backlogs cannot apply.
Truth: You can apply for CAT even if you have backlogs. However, IIMs usually require you to clear all your backlogs and have your final degree certificate with the minimum required percentage before the admission process concludes. Your admission will be provisional initially.
Myth 4: Final-year students are not eligible.
Truth: Actually, final-year students who are yet to receive their degree are also eligible to apply for CAT. However, if they get selected, they will need to provide proof of completing their graduation with the required marks within a timeframe specified by the IIM.
Myth 5: There's an CAT exam age limit to appear for CAT 2025
Truth: There is no upper or lower CAT exam age limit to appear for the CAT exam. Anyone who meets the educational qualification criteria can take the test.
Myth 6: Only people with work experience can get into IIMs through CAT.
Truth: While work experience can be beneficial during the selection process, it is not mandatory to appear for CAT or get into IIMs. Fresh graduates are also eligible and get admission based on their CAT score, academic record, and performance in other selection rounds.
Feature |
CAT Exam Eligibility |
IIM Admission Eligibility |
Purpose |
To determine who can take the CAT exam. |
To determine who gets admitted to individual IIM programs. |
Basic Requirement |
Bachelor's degree with a minimum 50% marks (45% for reserved categories). Final-year students are also eligible. |
Meeting the individual IIM's specific shortlisting criteria. |
Exam Score Relevance |
Determines if you are eligible to appear for CAT. |
One of the key factors for shortlisting and final selection. |
Uniformity Across IIMs |
Largely uniform criteria set by IIM Lucknow (conducting IIM). |
Varies significantly across different IIMs and their programs. |
Sectional Cut-offs |
Not applicable for CAT eligibility. |
Often, individual IIMs set their sectional percentile cut-offs. |
Past Academics |
The minimum percentage for a bachelor's degree is the main criterion. |
Significant weightage is often given to 10th, 12th, and graduation marks. |
Work Experience |
Not a requirement for taking the CAT. |
It can be a factor in the final selection process for some IIMs. |
Academic Diversity |
Not a criterion for CAT eligibility. |
Some IIMs give weightage to non-engineering backgrounds. |
Final-Year Students |
Eligible to apply, subject to degree completion within a specified timeframe. |
Provisional admission is subject to the timely submission of a degree certificate. |
Backlogs |
You can apply, but you must clear it before the IIM admission deadlines. |
Must clear all backlogs and meet degree requirements for final admission. |
Age Limit |
No upper or lower age limit. |
Generally, no age limit, but the program's focus might implicitly favour specific profiles. |
International Students/NRIs |
Eligible to take CAT, but GMAT/GRE are often preferred/required by IIMs. |
Must meet IIM-specific criteria, often based on GMAT/GRE scores and academic background. |
Read more: How to prepare for CAT exam at Home in 2025?
Consequences
Providing false information or making incorrect claims regarding CAT exam eligibility can lead to severe consequences at various stages of the admission process.
Rejection during verification
If discrepancies are found during the document verification process conducted by the IIMs after the CAT results, your candidature will be immediately rejected. This means you will not be considered for further selection rounds, even with a high CAT score.
Cancellation of candidature
Even if you manage to get provisionally admitted to an IIM based on false claims, your candidature can be cancelled at any point if the misrepresentation is discovered later. This could happen during subsequent verification stages or even after you have commenced the program.
Ban from future exams
Making false claims is a serious offence and can result in you being debarred from appearing for the CAT exam in the future. The duration of the ban can vary depending on the severity of the misrepresentation, potentially impacting your future MBA aspirations through this national-level entrance test.
Legal implications
In certain cases, providing false information in official documents can also have legal ramifications. While less common, IIMs reserve the right to take legal action against candidates who intentionally provide fraudulent information to gain an unfair advantage in the admission process. It is crucial to ensure all information provided during the CAT application and subsequent admission stages is accurate and verifiable.
CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria for IIMs 2025 are designed to ensure that the test candidates possess the skills and aptitude necessary to succeed in a competitive business environment, with no specific CAT exam age limit for the CAT exam 2025
Besides IIMs, thousands of other B-schools offer MBAs based on CAT scores. Therefore, it is important to note that the CAT Eligibility Criteria 2025 may vary for other management colleges, so it is important to check with the institute before applying for the CAT.
Check | CAT Exam Previous Papers
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the eligibility requirements for taking the CAT?
Is there an age limit for appearing for the CAT?
What is the minimum educational qualification required to appear for the CAT exam?
Is there any work experience requirement to appear for the CAT exam?
What is CAT eligibility criteria 12th marks ?
Who is eligible for CAT exam?
Is CA eligible for CAT exam?
Is open degree eligible for CAT?
Are civil engineers eligible for appearing CAT?
What is the eligibility criteria for CAT exam?