CAT Exam Eligibility 2025: Age Limit, Education Qualification & Reservation Policy

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!

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• Common Admission Test (CAT is an online MBA entrance exam conducted by one of the IIMs (Indian Institute of Management) and other top business schools in the country. 
• In 2024, around 3.24 lakh candidates registered for the CAT exam. Thus, it is important to meet the CAT exam eligibility for IIM. 
• Before registering for the CAT exam, aspirants must refer to the official notification to verify the CAT eligibility criteria 2025.

Scroll down to know the complete details about CAT qualification and the eligibility for CAT exam 2025!

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CAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria: Major Highlights 

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

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CAT Exam Eligibility 2025: Education Qualification 

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% SC, ST, PwD candidates: 45%
(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%

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Category Wise CAT Exam Eligibility Percentage 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

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CAT Exam Age Limit 2025

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.

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CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria 2025: Reservation Policy 

As per the legal requirements, the CAT exam eligibility criteria 2025 for different categories have the following seats reserved respectively for all the categories:

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CAT 2025 Eligibility: Work Experience

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:

• Work experience certificate provided by the company
• Your Joining letter/Certificate
• Last three months’ salary slips 

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CAT Exam Eligibility 2025: Persons with Benchmark Disabilities

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.

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Can Students in the Last Year of their Bachelor's Degree Apply? 

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.

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CAT Exam Eligibility 2025: Understanding Percentage Calculation Criteria

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."

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Who is Not Eligible for CAT Exam 2025?

• A candidate who failed to have a bachelor’s degree in any stream.
• A candidate who has scored less than 50% in their graduation (GEN/NC-OBC/PwD) and less than 45% (SC/ST/EWS).
• A candidate has a graduation certificate, which is not authorised by the UGC/AICTE/MHRD and fails to meet the CAT exam criteria.
• Lastly, if a candidate is pursuing a dual degree and has yet to complete either, they are also not eligible for the CAT exam 2025.

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CAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria for Final Year Students

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.

• Conditions for final-year candidates
• Requirement of certificate from institution
• Proof of graduation at the time of admission
• Risks and precautions to consider

What are the Conditions for final-year candidates in CAT 2025?

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:

• The certificate must be issued on or before the date specified by the admitting IIM.
•  It should clearly mention that the candidate has appeared for all the necessary examinations and is awaiting the final results. 
• Failure to produce this certificate by the deadline will result in the cancellation of the provisional admission.
• Proof of graduation at the time of admission: At the time of final admission to an IIM, the candidate must provide the original mark sheets and degree certificate as proof of having successfully completed their graduation with the required percentage of marks.

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Risks and precautions to consider

Here are the precautions that the applicant should consider:

• Final-year students appearing for CAT should be mindful of the academic pressure of their final year alongside the rigorous preparation required for the entrance exam. 
• It is crucial to manage time effectively and maintain a balance between academic commitments and CAT preparation. 
• Additionally, they should ensure that they will meet the graduation eligibility criteria within the stipulated timeframe to avoid any last-minute disappointments during the admission process. 
• Careful planning and diligent effort are key to successfully navigating this dual challenge.

CAT Exam Eligibility 2025 for Candidates with Backlogs

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.

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Understanding CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria Case scenarios and how to handle them

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.

Impact of Backlogs on CAT 2025 Selection Process

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.

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CAT 2025 Eligibility for Foreign Students / NRI / International Students

NRI students, Foreign students,/ International students can also apply for the CAT exam. 

CAT Exam Eligibility for NRIs and foreign candidates:

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.

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GMAT vs. CAT 2025: Which exam to take?

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.

English proficiency requirements

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.

Documentation and visa guidelines:

International candidates will need to submit specific documents during the application process, which may include:

• Scanned copies of their passport.
• Bachelor's degree certificate and mark sheets.
• GMAT/GRE score report.
• Possibly other academic transcripts and certificates.

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.

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Common Myths Around CAT Exam Eligibility 2025

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.

Eligibility for CAT 2025 vs IIMs (Comparison) 

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.

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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.

Conclusion

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.

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