The CAT Syllabus for MBA 2026 PDF is necessary to start your preparation for the CAT exam 2026. It includes the complete breakdown of the subjects and overall weightage. The CAT exam syllabus for MBA will not undergo a major change in 2026. According to the past year analysis, an IIM institute will organise the CAT exam in November 2026.

Candidates appearing in next year have 12 months to cover the crucial topics across all the 3 sections which are QA, VARC and DILR. Key topics in the Quants are Arithmetic (40%), Algebra (30%) and Geometry (15%) respectively. In the DILR section, important topics are Tables, Bar Graph, Pie Chart, Binary Logic, Routes etc. The CAT VARC Syllabus is a combination of RCs from different genres and Verbal Ability questions. Topics in the VA are Para Jumbles, Para Summary, Fill in the Blanks and Odd One Out. 

If we compare all the 3 sections, VARC has the highest weightage,i,e 36%. The CAT exam pattern 2026 will comprise of 24 questions from the Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section. The other two sections,i.e, Quants and DILR, will be 22 questions each. Your accuracy rate should be near about 85-90% to clear sectional cut-off hassle free and obtain 99.99%ile in the CAT 2026. Check out this updated syllabus from each section and prepare smartly. If you face any issues, you can also join our free student community group with 4.1 lakh+ members or register for our online CAT course for guaranteed success.

Join iQuanta’s diversified student community for free and prepare with other 4.1L+ peers. Get access to 24*7 doubt-solving, mentorship, free webinars, etc all at one single platform.

What is the CAT Exam Syllabus For MBA? 

CAT Exam Year	CAT 2026
Official Conducting Body of CAT	Indian Institute of Management
CAT Exam Sections	Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension  Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning  Quantitative Aptitude
Total Number of Questions in the CAT syllabus	Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension- 24 Questions   Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning – 22 Questions Quantitative Aptitude – 22 Questions
Total Questions	68
Total CAT exam marks	204
Section-Wise Marks Distribution	VARC- 72 marks DILR – 66 marks  QA – 66 marks
Sectional Weightage Distribution	VARC- ~ 36% DILR- ~30-32% QA- ~30-32%
Section-Wise Difficulty Level	Differs every year in every section
Mode of the CAT Exam	Online (Computer-Based Test)
Mode for CAT Exam Preparation	Online, Offline, Self-Preparation
CAT Conducting Body 2026	It will be announced soon on the official website.
Type of Questions in the Common Admission Test	MCQ and TITA
Total Exam Duration	1 hour 60 Minutes
Sectional Time-Limit	40 Minutes Each Section
Total Number of Slots	Slot 1, Slot 2 and Slot 3
CAT 2026 Difficulty Level	Moderate to High
CAT Exam Marking Scheme	+3 marks for right MCQ and TITA questions  -1 mark for wrong MCQ response 0 marks for incorrect TITA attempts and unanswered questions.

Note: The above information is taken from the CAT official sources. It’s subject to revision without any prior information.

What are the subjects in the CAT syllabus? 

MBA aspirants aiming to crack the Common Admission Test in 2026 must check the important subjects from the CAT syllabus. IIMs have set the syllabus of the CAT exam with 3 different sections. Three major subjects are VARC, DILR and QA. Every subject from the CAT syllabus for MBA has a set of high-weightage, moderate and low-weightage topics. 

The overall weightage (%) also differs for each section. Candidates appearing for the CAT exam in 2026 are advised to start their preparation now. A candidate with a strong understanding of basic fundamentals will take 6-8 months to complete the entire syllabus. If you seek improvement in significant topics from VARC, QA and DILR then you’ll require a maximum of 8-12 months to pay equal attention on every topic.

Also Read: Right Time for CAT Preparation 2026

CAT VARC Syllabus 2026 

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension
Section	Topics Covered
Verbal Ability	Para Jumbles Odd One Out Para Summary Complete the Sentences
Reading Comprehension	Reading Comprehension Passages Tone of the Author  Critical Thinking

CAT VARC Syllabus Weightage 

CAT VARC Topics	~ Approx Weightage (%)
Reading Comprehension Passages	55-60%
Critical Reasoning Questions	5-10%
Correct the Sentences	10-15%
Vocabulary	5-10%
Para Jumbles	15-20%

CAT Verbal Ability Syllabus 2026: All Important Topics 

VA Topics 2026	Short Description
Para Summary	Selection of a correct summary for the relevant paragraph.
Sentence Placement/Insertion	To determine the correct position of a sentence in the given paragraph.
Odd One Out	Choose the sentence that is not compatible with the remaining sections
Para Jumbles	Arrangement of the jumbled sentences into a logical manner.
Critical Reasoning or Grammar-Based Questions (Very Rare)	To test English grammar and logical thinking. These questions rarely appear in the VARC section.

CAT VARC Syllabus: Types of Reading Comprehension Questions 

Important RC Topics	Brief Description
Big Picture Questions	Inform, Analyse and Persuade the passage to identify the main purpose of the author behind writing the passage.
Fact-Based RCs	In such types of questions, you will have to provide a direct answer. The passages will mainly revolve around data-oriented information.
Inference-Based RCs	Answering these passages will require logical deduction and interpreting the author’s actual viewpoint.
Application-Based Questions	The passages will be in accordance with real-world or scenario-driven circumstances. You will have to select relevant new samples that fit perfectly with the situation.
Structure-Based Questions	Proceed with logical progress and analyse how one idea results in generating new ideas. The main purpose is to ask about the existence of a paragraph, sentence or example.
Evaluative Questions	Check the additional support for the author’s stance.

CAT VARC Questions Analysis: Previous Year’s 

CAT Year	Number of RC Questions	Total Number of Verbal Ability Questions
CAT 2025	16	24
CAT 2024	16	24
CAT 2023	16	24
CAT 2022	16	24
CAT 2021	16	24
CAT 2020	18	26
CAT 2019	24	34

CAT Reading Comprehension Questions: Past Year’s 

CAT Exam	Reading Comprehension Passages
CAT 2025	4
CAT 2024	4
CAT 2023	4
CAT 2022	4
CAT 2021	4
CAT 2020	4
CAT 2019	5

Practice Para Jumbles Questions Free: CAT VARC Syllabus 

Option A	The paradox, however, lies in the fact that higher risks do not always yield proportionately higher returns.
Option B	In classical financial theory, investors are rewarded for bearing risk through the mechanism of risk premiums.
Option C	Behavioral economics complicates this assumption by demonstrating that human risk perception is inherently flawed.
Option D	This mismatch between assumed rationality and actual behavior has given rise to anomalies in market predictions.
Option E	Investors often overestimate gains in high-risk environments due to optimism bias and loss aversion.
Answer	B – A – C – E – D
Explaination	B gives the classical finance view. A presents the paradox in that assumption. C introduces behavioural economics as a counter. E gives examples of flawed perceptions. D ties it back to market anomalies.

Correct the Sentences: Free Sample Question

Question	Denouncing it as anti-democratic, the Lobbying Act was slammed by critics, imposing draconian limits on the activities of trade unions.
Option A	The Lobbying Act, which imposes draconian limits on the activities of trade unions, was slammed by critics.
Option B	Critics slammed the Lobbying Act, imposing draconian limits on the activities of trade unions
Option C	Critics slammed the Lobbying Act, which imposes draconian limits on the activities of trade unions.
Option D	No correction required
Answer	Option C
Explaination	The question is ” Choose the grammatically correct option”. The pronoun “which” after the “Lobbying Act” in option C clarifies that it is the Act that limits the activities of the trade unions. Hence, Choice C is the correct answer.

Free Verbal Ability Question: Critical Reasoning 

Question	While society is chipping away at giving girls broader access to life’s possibilities, it isn’t presenting boys with a full continuum of how they can be in the world. To carve out a masculine identity requires whittling away everything that falls outside the norms of boyhood. At the earliest ages, it’s about external signifiers like favourite colours, TV shows, and clothes. But later, the paring knife cuts away intimate friendships, emotional range, and open communication Which of the following options puts forth the main idea of this paragraph best?
Option A	Boys are put in a straitjacket to conform to the popular, narrow view of masculine identity.
Option B	It is lopsided to approach gender equality by focusing only on girls’ empowerment.
Option C	It is a societal loss that boys are not allowed free self-expression.
Option D	Boys are forced to limit their emotional range to carve out a masculine identity.
Answer	Option A
Explaination	Option A addresses that boys are “put in a straitjacket”. It accurately portrays the main idea of the paragraph.

Free Verbal Ability Questions For CAT 2026

By now, you are likely familiar with the CAT syllabus for MBA from the VARC section. In the upcoming section, we’ll explain the types of questions from each section. If you come across any issue, download the VARC Cheatsheet by iQuanta. It contains valuable information on how to approach an RC passage, option elimination techniques, figures of speech and other essential areas. For now, go through the type of questions from every VARC topic and segregate your preparation plan accordingly. Prior information about the questions and access to the cheatsheet will help you score 99+ Percentile in the VARC section of CAT 2026. 

Practice Odd One Out Questions for CAT 2026 

Question	A. Kafka’s works often depict protagonists trapped in absurd bureaucratic systems.
	B. Orwell’s novels expose the perils of authoritarian surveillance states.
	C. Gabriel García Márquez’s magical realism blends fantastical elements with everyday reality.
	D. Huxley’s dystopian vision critiques consumerism and technological control.
Answer	C. (A, B, D are dystopian/critical social fiction; C is magical realism — completely different style.)

Para Summary Questions For CAT 2026 

Totalitarianism is not always operated by diktat. It can be insinuated by suggestion and replication. Dissent does not have to be banned if it is countered by orchestrated mass promo rallies and hypnotizing oratory. Despotic establishments do not need to turn Hitlerian; all they need to do is to let the Reich’s chemistry work. Self-regulation and self-censorship will click in. Then any dissident who wants to retain his intellectual liberty will find himself thwarted by the general drift of society rather than by active persecution.

Options	List of Options
Option A	Totalitarianism is generally operated by undermining freedom of expression through active persecution and censorship.
Option B	Hypnotising oratory and promo rallies can effectively counter dissent and lead to the persecution of the masses
Option C	Self-regulation and self-censorship in societies stifle freedom of expression.
Option D	Intellectual liberty does not have to be repressed by authority if there are self-appointed vigilantes to bully it into silence.
Answer	Option D

CAT Reading Comprehension Genres

Type of RC Genres	Genre Type
RC Genre 1	Science and Technology
RC Genre 2	Economy and Business
RC Genre 3	Philosophy
RC Genre 4	Culture and  Politics
RC Genre 5	History, Arts and Literature
RC Genre 6	Abstract Topics

RC Passages Reading Sources 

RC Genres from the CAT Syllabus For MBA	Reading Sources for RC Passages
Science and Technology	WIRED  Psyche Big Think  Nautilus Mag
Economy and Business	IMF Blogs Econofact  VoxEU Fast Company  Engage EPW  The Economic Journal
Philosophy	Metapsychology Online Review  Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy Argumenta
Culture and  Politics	Discourse Mag  The Guardian  Reuters First Things Quillette  The Washington Post Social Europe
History, Arts and Literature	Public Books  History Today  Art Forum History is Now Mag The Marginalian  All Thats Interesting
Additional Sources	Aeon  The Hedgehog Review The Public Domain Review Inquiries General The Conversation  JSTOR Daily   Noema Mag

Samples Topics For RC Passages 

List of RC Passages	Sample Topics
Science and Technology	New developments in artificial intelligence and its ramifications on societies
History, Arts and Literature	The symbolism of naked Greek statues and their connection with the ongoing societal dynamics Economic and political development of countries and influence of it on world development
Economy and Business	Strategies available for the sustainable growth of business in emerging markets.
Philosophy	Justice in modern society.
Culture and  Politics	Consciousness and freedom.
Abstract Topics	Inquiry in relation to the artificial intelligence.

CAT DILR Syllabus 2026

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning
Section	Important Topics
DI	Venn Diagrams Different Tables with Missing Data  Seating Arrangements Puzzles Quant-Based Logical Reasoning  Binary Logic Games & Tournaments
LR	Data Sufficiency  Bar Graphs Line Graph  Pie Graph  Tables  Charts

CAT QA Syllabus 2026: Topic-Wise Distribution

CAT Quant Syllabus	Major Topics
Arithmetic	Percentages Profit and Loss Simple Interest and Compound Interest Ratio and Proportion Averages Mixture and Allegation Time and Work Pipes and Cisterns  Time, Speed and Distance Races Trains and Boats
Algebra	Linear Equation  Quadratic Equation Polynomials Indices & Surds Logarithms Inequalities Sequence & Series Functions Graphs  Modulus
Number System	Properties of Integers Divisibility Remainder Theorem Factors LCM & HCF Factorial Trailing Zeroes  Last Digits
Modern Maths	Set Theory Probability Permutation & Combination
Geometry	Triangles Quadrilaterals Polygons Circles Mensuration-3D Coordinate Geometry.

CAT Syllabus For MBA: Quantitative Aptitude

If you compare the CAT PYQs, the Quants section will consist of the most difficult questions. Every year, there will be 7-8 questions from the Arithmetic chapter. The total number of Algebra questions varies from 5-7 in the Common Admission Test. Only 2-3 questions will appear from the Geometry. There will be only 1-2 questions from the Number System and Modern Maths. Prioritizing the high-weightage topics will help you yield a high score. A complete breakdown of the high-yielding topics from each Quants chapter is mentioned below. Go through the table below to comprehend which type of questions will appear in the CAT 2026 exam. 

CAT Arithmetic Syllabus 2026

QA Topic	Type of Questions
Percentages	Calculations involving percentage increase or decrease.
Simple and Compound Interest	Calculations of interest over time.
Ratio and Proportion	Solving problems based on ratios and proportions.
Averages	Calculating averages of numbers.
Time, Speed, and Distance	Questions involving the relationship between time, speed, and distance.
Mixtures and Allegations	Problems involving mixing of different entities.
Profit and Loss	Problems on profit, loss, discount, and markup.
Time and Work	Problems on work done, efficiency, and time taken.

CAT Algebra Syllabus 2026

QA Topic	Type of Questions
Polynomials	Remainder Theorem, Factor Theorem
Inequalities	Linear and Quadratic Inequalities, Modulus Inequalities
Linear Equations	Single and Multi-variable equations
Logs, Surds and Indices	Logarithm identities, exponents
Quadratic Equations	Roots, Nature of Roots, Formation of Equation
Functions	Domain, Range, Graphs, Composition, Inverse

CAT Geometry Syllabus 2026

QA Topic	Type of Questions
Coordinate Geometry	Distance Formula, Section Formula, Area, Locus
Triangles	Types, Congruence, Similarity, Pythagoras, Inequality
Circles	Tangents, Chords, Arcs, Angles in Circle
Lines and Angles	Parallel Lines, Angles
Mensuration	Areas and Volumes of several 2D and 3D figures, such as triangles, rectangles, polygons, circles, and cones.
Quadrilaterals	Parallelogram, Rectangle, Rhombus, Trapezium
Polygons	Interior & Exterior Angles

CAT Number System Syllabus 2026

QA Topic	Type of Question
Divisibility Rules	Rules and tests for the divisibility of numbers.
LCM and HCF	Calculate the least common multiple and highest common factor.
Properties of Numbers	Even, odd, prime numbers, and additional properties.
Factors and Multiples	Finding factors and multiples of the numbers.

CAT Modern Maths Syllabus 2026

QA Topic	Type of Question
Permutation and Combination	Counting principles and arrangements.
Set Theory	Concepts of sets, Venn diagrams, and sets operation
Binomial Theorem	Expansion and properties.
Probability	Basic probability and its applications.

What will be the weightage of the CAT Exam Syllabus 2026?

Section from the CAT Exam	Name of the topic	Total Questions (Approx)	Approximate Weightage (%)
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension	Reading Comprehension	16 Question – 4 RCs: Each RC will have 4 different questions	26%
	Para Jumbles, Complete the Sentences, Odd One Out, Para Summary	8 Questions	10%
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning	DI (Charts, Caselets, Charts, Tables)	11 Questions	16%
	LR Puzzles (Arrangements, Syllogism, and more)	11 Questions	16%
Quantitative Aptitude	Arithmetic & Algebra	14 Questions	32%
	Geometry & Mensuration	3 Questions
	Number Systems & Modern Math	3 Questions

58 Weeks Study Plan To Cover CAT Syllabus: Download PDF

The CAT exam 2026 will tentatively take place in November 2026. If you start your preparation today, you can complete the CAT exam syllabus for MBA on time. As a result, you can utilise the last 3 months for continuous revision, mock attempts and practice. To help you with a structured preparation, we’re sharing a complete 58-week roadmap for CAT 2026. We guarantee that adhering to this timetable will definitely lead to 99.99%ile. For each day, we have created a detailed study routine for the appearing candidates. Upon getting access to this valuable resource, you will not have to juggle to build a suitable timetable for the CAT exam preparation 2026. 

CAT Syllabus For MBA: Latest VARC Syllabus

In the online CAT exam, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension is the first section. Candidates appearing in the CAT exam get a sectional time limit of 40 minutes to attempt the VARC questions. It holds nearly 34-36% weightage and is the most scoring section in the Common Admission Test. Constant reading from top English resources like The Hindu, The Economist, Aeon, The New York Times, The Guardian, etc, will benefit you in solving RC questions.

iQuanta offers exclusive modules like VARC Essentials Modules (500-word repository) and Engineer’s VARC Module, which has 60+ comprehensive videos with 30 hours of VARC content for extensive preparation. Your entire CAT syllabus for MBA from the VARC section will be covered through these resources. To know more about the main VARC topics, kindly check out the tabular content below. 

CAT VARC Syllabus For MBA: Complete Breakdown

Antonyms	Articles usage
Fill in the blanks	Idioms
Complete the sentences	Para jumbles
Errors in tenses	Verbal logic
One word substitution	Jumbled paragraphs
Verbal reasoning	Analogies
Types of clauses	Different usage of one word
Foreign language words used in English	Sentence correction
Subject-verb agreement	Para completion and inference
Syllogisms	Phrases modifiers
Parts of speech	Preposition

CAT Syllabus VARC: Previous Year Topic-Wise Question Distribution

CAT VARC Topics	No. of Questions
Reading Comprehension	16
Para Summary	1-3
Odd One Out	1-3
Para Jumble	1-3* (This topic didn’t appear in the CAT 2024 exam)
Para Completion	1-3
Total Question	24

CAT Exam Syllabus for MBA: Previous Year RC Passages

CAT Exam Year	Exam Slot 1	Exam Slot 2	Exam Slot 3
CAT 2024	Utility & Human Economics Entertainment/ Netflix Australian Species Craftsmanship	Spice Trade Unintended Consequences of Technology Peer Review of Research Carnivore-Human Conflict	Impact of AI Languages Chinese Moutai Saving outer space and other planets
CAT 2023	Wolf → Environmentalists vs Farmer  Philosophy → Change in Work Culture  Indian Ocean-based Geographical Literature Human Behavior	Garments, Fashion Industry & Pollution Netflix Dubbing of titles for Europe→Good or Bad for Europe? Liberalism is Dying Facts & Interpretation in History	Romantic Aesthetics/ Philosophy Cultural Property Law → Exploration of Sites  Nutmeg Curse→ Environment Degradation Rational Thinking
CAT 2022	Ghosts & their mysteries how we can’t find their history Chinese Copy of articles  Two levels of emotional thinking STOICS	Music Engineering technology Octopus Philosophy	Social reorganisation increasing crime rate Software if more easy humans are not capable to get solutions) Indian history American migration / urbanization increasing
CAT 2021	Mayan Civilization Utopia and Dystopia Marshmallow Experiment Evolution of Tea as a Drink	Language/ Indigenous People Why Fiction Trumps Truth Colonialism/Nationalism Knowledge and Problems of Knowledge is a Scandal to Philosophy	Nanotechnology Language Instinct Time Accuracy Entropy Unconscious and Psychoanalysis
CAT 2020	Anarchism Migration of Northern Seals Currency of the Tang Dynasty Grammar/Vocabulary	Investing in Renewable Energy Technologies Piracy in International Trade  Freudian Models of Aggression A Study of Visualisation	Travel Writing and Feminism During Colonial Times The Need for Economic Literacy in the General Population Screen Time and Undercurrents of Social Class An Analysis of Human Nature

DILR CAT Exam Syllabus For MBA: Most Important Topics 

It’s very important to demonstrate logical reasoning, problem-solving, decision-making and critical thinking skills to qualify for the LRDI section. Basically, it’s the combination of charts, tables and puzzles which require an active presence of mind to solve them. Mainly, the DILR section has 4 different sets with 5 questions each. However, the pattern for the DILR section was different in the CAT 2024. The first 3 sets had 4 questions each. There were 5 questions each in the remaining 2 sets.

Also Read: All About CAT Exam 2026

CAT Exam Syllabus LRDI: Past 3 Year Analysis 

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning
CAT Exam Year	CAT 2022	CAT 2023	CAT 2024
Total Number of Questions	20 (4 sets of 5 questions each)	20 (4 sets of 5 questions each)	22 (3 sets of 4 questions each, 2 sets of 5 questions each)
Paper Difficulty Level	Intermediate	Intermediate to Complex	Medium
Changes in the DILR Section	No Changes	There were 0 changes in the DILR section format	There was an increase in the total number of questions. Also, one more set was added in this section.

Join iQuanta’s diversified student community for free and prepare with other 4.1L+ peers. Get access to 24*7 doubt-solving, mentorship, free webinars, etc all at one single platform.

CAT Exam Syllabus For MBA: Key Topics Quantitative Aptitude

Quants is the toughest section in the CAT exam only if you have not covered the 80% high-weightage topics from the CAT Syllabus for MBA. Maximum questions in the QA section will appear from Arithmetic, Algebra and Geometry. Pay attention to shortcuts and formulas essential to solve every QA question. Ensure that you indulge often in mental calculations to efficiently utilise the 40 minutes of sectional time limit. List of the fundamental topics from the QA section is below.

CAT Quantitative Aptitude Topic-Wise Weightage

Topic	CAT 2022 (Approx Questions)	CAT 2023 (Approx Questions)	CAT 2024 (Approx Questions)
Average, Ratio, Mixture & Alligation	3-5	4-6	3-5
Profit & Loss, SI, CI, Percentages	1-3	2-3	2-3
TSD & Time and Work	3-5	2-3	2-3
Geometry	3	3	2-3
Quadratic, Polynomials & Simple Equations	1-3	3-4	1-2
Progression and Series	1-3	2	1-2
Inequalities, Modulus & Functions	3-4	1-2	1-2
Logarithm, Surds & Indices	0-1	1-3	2
Probability and P&C	1	1	0-1
Number System	1	1-2	2-3
Venn Diagrams	0	0	0

Join iQuanta’s diversified student community for free and prepare with other 4.1L+ peers. Get access to 24*7 doubt-solving, mentorship, free webinars, etc all at one single platform.

 CAT Syllabus Preparation Strategy: 100% Valuable Tips & Tricks 

There are 2.95 lakh successful registrations for the CAT exam 2025. This number signifies that competition is going to be extremely tough this year. It also states that the number might increase in 2026, and so will the level of competition. Henceforth, your main target should be to cover the overall CAT syllabus for MBA from all aspects. 

Consider following these 10 useful tips, which will help you to cover the 100% CAT exam syllabus for MBA 3-4 months before the actual exam. Next, you can utilise the remaining period for revising the syllabus, appearing for sectionals and full-length mocks. Allocate a proper time for mock analysis to review and improve the weak concepts.

• Check high-scoring topics from QA, DILR and VARC.
• Prioritize to cover the high-weightage topics.
• Spend more time on the weak topics from every section.
• Read for 1-2 hours daily to strengthen your RC skills.
• Write important QA formulas in a notebook.
• Refer to Barron’s List and Norman Lewis-Word Power Made Easy for VARC. 
• Aim to develop speed and command an 85-90% accuracy rate.
• Practice sets from different levels. 
• Learn to scan a set in the first 30 seconds only. 
• Solve the CAT PYQs from the past 5 years, sectionals and full-length mocks. 

How Can I Complete the CAT Exam Syllabus for MBA in 12 Months? 

365 days is a huge time to complete the CAT syllabus for MBA. Initially, go through the syllabus of the CAT exam. In the next stage, distribute your preparation into 4 different phases. Each phase will have a dedicated vision and goal. Here’s a precise breakdown of each phase of the CAT exam preparation for your reference.

• Phase 1: A quick overview of the CAT syllabus. Create a balanced timetable which will help you cover the basics from every section for the CAT 2026, specifically the high-weightage topics. 
• Phase 2: The second phase will mainly revolve around solidifying the basics from the CAT exam syllabus for MBA. Start taking sectionals and mocks with proper time management. 
• Phase 3: Shift your entire focus to practice mocks and analyse them properly. Revamp your strategy after a detailed analysis for better improvement. 
• Phase 4: Your last phase will be all about summarising the CAT exam syllabus for MBA. Regular revision, mock attempt and analysis should be a part of your daily routine. 

Why Should I Choose Online Coaching To Complete the CAT Syllabus For MBA? 

Every competitive exam has two types of candidates. Some candidates opt for an online CAT coaching from ruptured institutes like iQuanta. Meanwhile, there are candidates who indulge in self-preparation to finish the CAT exam syllabus for MBA. The moment you enrol in an online coaching platform for CAT preparation, you’ll develop a structured approach. Your basics will be clear in every section of the CAT 2026. You also won’t lose track of the revision, practice, mocks and regular improvements. If you’re looking forward to appearing for the CAT exam in the future, then preparing with the help of an online CAT preparation platform under the guidance of top experts will certainly be the best decision for a bright career. Check out the prominent benefits of preparing for the Common Admission Test under the guidance of a top coaching institute. 

• Timely Completion of Syllabus: The CAT exam syllabus for the MBA is vast and tricky. It means you will have to prepare with a structured roadmap. Online CAT coaching institutes have a well-planned timetable prepared in advance for the enrolled students. Each day will be valuable, and you’ll learn some important concepts from every section.
• Useful Techniques From Best Experts: Skilled academic professionals who demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the CAT exam syllabus teach the enrolled students. These individuals are experts and have been a CAT topper in the past. While teaching the students, they share valuable strategies, preparation tips and techniques to crack the CAT exam. 
• Customised Study Modules: CAT allows candidates from diverse backgrounds to participate. As the CAT syllabus for MBA consists of mathematical questions, non-engineering candidates would find it difficult. Hereby, iQuanta – India’s No.1 online CAT coaching institute, offers a special module which completes the entire CAT QA syllabus from scratch. 
• Non-Stop Doubt Solving: Taking an online coaching for the CAT exam from iQuanta has several advantages. If you come across any doubts while completing the CAT exam syllabus for MBA, you can address your doubts in the student community group. Top experts with an excellent teaching record will provide an instant solution to your queries. 
• CAT Level Mocks and Questions: iQuanta also offers an exclusive bunch of questions after analysing the CAT PYQs. For every section, they have a certain number of questions that will help you prepare in accordance with the actual level of the exam. Further, every sectional test and full-length mock will also match the CAT exam level.

CAT Exam Syllabus for MBA: 30 Day Revision Plan

The CAT exam 2026 will probably happen in November 2026. If you’re aiming to appear for the CAT in 2026, your aim should be to complete the syllabus by July. Post this month, you must start to revise the overall syllabus and practice regularly. For every month, you must have a structured study plan. Amongst all, the November month will be extremely crucial for the 2026 aspirants. Thus, we’re sharing a detailed revision plan for you, which will help you to cover each and every topic in 30 days.

You can also make changes to this CAT study time-table depending on your assessment of the strong and weak topics. Each week, you will cover significant modules from every section and will not miss out on anything at all. Here’s the complete breakdown of the 30-day planner, which you can follow to finish the CAT exam syllabus for MBA in a strategic format. 

Week 1: Vigorous Revision of High-Weightage Topics 

Quantitative Aptitude	Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension	Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning	Mocks Practice
Quick revision of the fundamental QA formulas.  Note down crucial formulas from Arithmetic, Algebra and Geometry in a single notebook for regular revision sessions.	Practice 1 RC every day from a different genre.  Solve 3 Verbal Ability sets from Odd One Out, Para Jumbles and Para Summary.	Enhance your familiarity with the most common and repetitive DI/LR patterns.  Determine the weak and strong concepts closely for regular improvement.	Attempt at least 2 full-length mocks in Week 1. Spend 2+ hours on mock analysis. Pay deep attention to analyse your frequent mistakes.

Week 2:  Time to Boost Your Speed and Accuracy 

Quantitative Aptitude	Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension	Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning	Mocks and Additional Tips To Remember
Pick 30-40 different questions from the Arithmetic and Algebra section.	Choose 2 diverse topics every day from the RC. Allocate a specific time to read and solve 2 RCs each day.	Categorise DILR sets into three different sections. Solve one basic set, one moderate set and one advanced set each day from the DILR section	Your mock attempt should increase to 3-4 mocks.  Aim to maximise your accuracy in those topics where you demonstrate strong conceptual understanding.  Don’t touch any new topic as it might lead to additional stress and tension.

Week 3: Start Working On Moderate Topics 

Quantitative Aptitude	Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension	Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning	Sectional and Mocks Practice
Set a dedicated timer to revise those topics from the CAT exam syllabus for MBA, where you exhibit mediocre knowledge.	Increase your consistency and accuracy to solve RC questions. Avoid random guessing to solve RC questions.	Incorporate CAT PYQs from the DILR section.	Carefully review the repetitive mistakes from all the full-length mocks you have appeared in the past.  Attempt 2 advanced-level mocks with full dedication. Solve at least one sectional test from the VARC, DILR and QA sections

Week 4: Final Revision Touch to the CAT Syllabus 2026 

Quantitative Aptitude	Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension	Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning	Total Number of Mocks
Arithmetic, Algebra, and Geometry should be your major focus areas.  Use the Formula PDF to revisit the formulas that are essential to solve every question.	Dedicate your maximum time to understanding the skimming and skipping techniques.	Set a 40-minute timer to solve the DILR sets efficiently.	Attempting 3 mocks is necessary in the last phase of CAT exam revision.  Take a quick look at the important shortcuts, techniques and formulas from every section.  Prioritize rest in the last 3-4 days of the CAT exam

CAT Exam Syllabus For MBA vs XAT Syllabus 

Due to the availability of so many management exams, candidates have multiple options to establish a fruitful career. However, appearing for the various exams means that you need to complete the syllabus for each one of them. Apart from the CAT exam, candidates also appear for other top management exams like XAT, NMAT, SNAP, etc. After the Common Admission Test, the XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test) exam is also another popular MBA entrance exam amongst MBA aspirants. The XAT syllabus differs slightly from the CAT Syllabus for MBA. GK is the additional section in the XAT Syllabus. There is no negative marking for the incorrect GK responses. If you’re appearing for the XAT exam in the future along with the CAT, then here’s the list of key differences between the CAT syllabus and XAT syllabus, which will help you align your preparation accordingly. 

Key Differences: CAT Syllabus and XAT Syllabus 

Entrance Exam	CAT	XAT
Full Form	Common Admission Test	Xavier Aptitude Test
Official Conducting Body	IIMs ( On Rotational Basis)	XLRI Jamshedpur
Core Syllabus	CAT Syllabus: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude	XAT Syllabus: Decision Making, Verbal and Logical Ability, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, General Awareness
Total Duration of the Exam	120 Minutes	3 Hours 30 Minutes
Sectional Time Limit	40 Minutes (Every Section)	Part 1: 170 Minutes Part 2: 10 Minutes
Total Number of Sections	3	4
Type of Questions	Multiple Choice Questions Type in the Answer	Multiple Choice Questions Essay
Number of Options in an MCQ Question	4	5
Online Registration Fee	Rs 2600 – General, EWS, OBC Rs 1300 – SC, ST and PwD	Common Registration Fee – Rs 2200 Additional Fee for Indian Candidates  (XLRI Programmes) – Rs 200 per XLRI program XAT Exam Fee (Indian Candidates Applying Through GMAT/GRE) – Rs 2500 NRI and Foreign Candidates Applying Via GMAT/GRE for more than one programme: Rs 5000
Number of Questions	Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension  – 24 Questions  Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning – 22 Questions Quantitative Aptitude – 22 Questions	Part 1  Decision Making: 21 Questions Verbal & Logical Ability: 26 Questions Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation: 28 Questions Part 2 General Knowledge: 20 Minutes
Section-Wise Marks Distribution	Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension  – 72  Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning – 66 Quantitative Aptitude – 66	Part 1  Decision Making: 21 marks  Verbal & Logical Ability: 26 marks Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation: 28 marks  Part 2 General Knowledge: 20 marks
Total Number of Questions	68	95
Total Marks	204	95
Positive Marking Scheme	+3 marks for every correct response	+1 mark for every right attempt
Negative Marking Scheme	-1 mark for every wrong attempt	-0.25 marks for every incorrect response. There will be no negative marking in the GK section of the XAT exam.
Negative Marking Scheme for Unanswered Questions	0 marks	-0.10 marks for 8+ consecutively attempted questions
Most Difficult Section	The difficulty level varies for every section, every slot and every year.	It varies from year to year, but Decision Making is the toughest section.
B-Schools	IIMs and Other top B-schools	XLRI Jamshedpur and 250+ B-schools

iQuanta CAT Course 2026

Final Words 

Obtaining accurate information about the CAT syllabus for MBA should be your first step for structured CAT preparation. Once you have a detailed understanding of the syllabus of the CAT exam, your preparation will be on the right track. If you seek in-depth guidance in completing the entire CAT exam syllabus for MBA, then iQuanta is the most suitable online learning platform for you. Since its establishment, our experts have helped 1200+ students to score 99%ile in the CAT exam. 

So far, we have built a team of 50+ teaching professionals, 4.1 lakh+ student community on Facebook, 24+M online students and much more. We strive to help every student achieve a good CAT score,i.e., 151+, which results in a high CAT percentile. There are 500+ online courses on our platform to prepare for different management courses. Connect now with our experts via a 1:1 free counselling session and enrol for an online CAT course that fits your CAT preparation plan. 

Also Read: CAT vs Other MBA Exams

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip important topics from the CAT syllabus for MBA?

We will not recommend to any CAT aspirant that one should avoid high-weightage topics from VARC, QA and DILR. All types of high-scoring topics from each section constitute the maximum section, and skipping them will lead to lower scores in the CAT exam. 

Will the CAT exam syllabus for MBA change in 2026?

Until today, there’s no confirmation about the change in the syllabus of the CAT exam for 2026. Reports suggest that the CAT exam syllabus will be the same for every section. You can join our free student community where our experts and mentors regularly share fresh updates about the CAT syllabus. 

Is 6 months enough to complete the CAT syllabus for MBA? 

If you’re a beginner, 6 months won’t be enough to finish the entire syllabus of the CAT exam. Freshers should at least dedicate 9-12 months to cover each topic from the CAT syllabus 2026. However, 6 months are enough for CAT preparation if you exhibit strong fundamentals in QA, VARC and DILR.

What is the syllabus of the CAT exam?

The CAT exam syllabus for MBA includes the top 3 sections, which are Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension. 

How much time does it take to complete the CAT syllabus for MBA?

It depends on the calibre of an individual candidate. Most students prefer dedicating at least 8-12 months to CAT preparation. You can also align your preparation as per your dream B-school.

How should I complete the CAT exam syllabus for MBA?

Note down all the significant topics from the VARC, DILR and QA. Cover the foundational topics from the crucial topics, and then complete the remaining syllabus. 

Which is the best institute for online CAT preparation?

With a proven record of helping 500+ students in CAT 2024, iQuanta has set another example for providing the best resources and guidance to achieve 99.99%ile in the CAT exam.

Does the CAT exam syllabus for MBA change every year?

IIMs – the official conducting body of the CAT entrance exam, has not made any changes to the CAT syllabus of the CAT exam. However, slight changes took place in the total number of questions in the CAT 2024 question paper.