CAT Negative Marking 2025: Marking System and Calculation

Overview: The CAT exam 2025 is scheduled for 30 November 2025. The format is expected to remain the same as last year, and the CAT negative marking in the exam will also stay the same. Read on to know more!

Important Events of CAT 2025 Exam!

• The CAT 2025 exam will be conducted on 30th November by IIM Kozhikode. The online CAT registration will begin on 01st Aug 2025.
• The CAT 2025 admit card will be available for download from November 12, 2025, to November 30, 2025.

Download FREE Study Material for CAT 2026 by Supergrads

•  This digital format, consisting of both MCQ-type questions and TITA questions in all three sections: QA, DILR, and VARC, will be the same as last year.
• The total number of questions will be 66, each carrying +3 marks for a correct answer and -1 mark for an incorrect answer.

What is Negative Marking in CAT? Let's proceed further in this blog to gain a detailed understanding of the CAT negative marking by learning the total number of questions in each section and the duration.

What is CAT Negative Marking 2025?

Understanding the concept of CAT negative marking in CAT exam is crucial. It's essentially a deduction in marks for every incorrect answer, which can significantly impact your overall score.

The CAT exam consists of two types of questions: multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and Type-in-the-Answer (TITA) questions.

There will be a deduction for every incorrect answer in the MCQs. For TITA questions, there is no negative marking.

Does CAT Have Negative Marking?

Yes. There is a negative marking in the CAT exam.

• The CAT exam consists of 68 questions and 204 marks.
• For each correct answer, +3 marks will be awarded, while -1 mark will be deducted for each wrong answer. (CAT negative marking applicable)
• There will be no negative marks in CAT exam for unanswered questions.
• The Quantitative Ability (QA) section will include non-MCQ questions.
• Non-MCQ questions will not incur negative marking.

Before taking the test, it's critical to understand the CAT marking scheme to decide which questions to answer and which to skip.

In the CAT paper pattern, the marking scheme applies negative marking only to multiple-choice questions (MCQs), not to TITA questions. 

The Concept of Negative Marking in CAT 2025

The CAT exam follows a marking scheme in which you earn positive marks for every correct answer and lose marks for every incorrect answer.

This is called negative marking. Negative marking is used to discourage guesswork and ensure that candidates answer questions with confidence and accuracy.

The Marking Scheme

• Correct Answer: +3 marks
• Incorrect Answer: -1 mark
• Unanswered Question: 0 marks

This means that for every incorrect answer you give, you will lose one mark from your total score. However, if you don’t attempt a question, there is no penalty, and you get zero marks for that question.

How Does CAT Negative Marking Impact Your Score?

CAT negative marking can significantly lower your raw score, even if you have answered many questions correctly.

For instance, answering 15 questions correctly but guessing 5 incorrectly will reduce your net score from 45 to 40.

In a highly competitive environment like CAT, even a few negative marks can affect your percentile and your chances of securing a seat at a top IIM.

Checkout | How Many Times CAT Exam is Conducted in a Year

CAT Exam Pattern 2025

The CAT exam pattern is meticulously designed to evaluate candidates, assessing their aptitude from all angles comprehensively.

• The CAT paper pattern is a two-hour session that includes a mix of multiple-choice and non-multiple-choice questions, totalling 68, mirroring the structure of the CAT entrance exam 2025.
• Despite the CAT's historical tendency to change, it is expected to maintain the same format this year.

Also Read: CAT Total Marks Distribution

The CAT paper pattern is divided into three main sections:

• Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
• Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
• Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

Check Here | Direct Link to Download CAT 2025 Admit Card

Tips to Reduce the Negative Marking in CAT Exam 2025

Here are the important tips to follow to reduce the CAT Negative Marking in CAT exam 2025:

TIP 1: Master the Art of Reading Questions Correctly

One of the most crucial test-taking skills is avoiding the common pitfall of not reading the questions carefully. By mastering this, you can control your test and enhance your understanding of the questions.

TIP 2: Avoid Making Mistakes

If you can eliminate one or two options in a type of question, the chances of guessing the correct answer increase. However, if you're unsure, it's always better to skip the question.

Check: SuperGrads CAT Toppers List

Download DILR Sample Questions for CAT Exam

TIP 3: Identify Your Strengths and Weaknesses

Knowing your weaknesses beforehand is always good so that when you see the type of question from the topic you are weak at, you know whether to risk attempting it or skipping it.

TIP 4: Handle Your Rough Sheets Properly

When you are given the CAT rough sheets to do your calculations and rough work, handle them carefully and write down anything in them. This will save you time by helping you find the right answer and avoid choosing the wrong option.

TIP 5: Always Attempt Easy Questions First

It's always wise to start with the easy questions first, then allocate time to the challenging ones that may take longer to solve.

TIP 6: Steer Clear of Last-Minute Hassle

Resist the urge to rush through the questions in the final minutes. This can lead to increased negative marking and unnecessary stress. By avoiding this, you maintain a calm and controlled approach to your test, enhancing your overall performance.

Learn More | What are the Benefits of CAT Exam for MBA

Use SuperGrads Free Resources 2025 Strategically

CAT VARC Mock Test 2025	Attempt a Free Mock test
CAT DILR Mock test 2025	Attempt a Free Mock test
CAT QA Mock Test 2025	Attempt a Free Mock test
CAT VARC Prep Videos 2025	Watch Now
CAT DILR Prep Videos 2025	Watch Now
CAT QA Prep Videos 2025	Watch Now
CAT Syllabus 2025	Download Now
CAT PYQs	Download Now
CAT VARC Questions	Download Now

Conclusion

Now that you have learnt about CAT Negative Marking and strategies to minimise it, you must focus on identifying your strengths and weaknesses to enhance both accuracy and speed. Remember, every mark counts, and a well-planned approach can significantly impact your overall score.

Check| CAT Exam Previous Year Papers