CAT Syllabus 2025 (Latest)- PDF and Important Topics for all 3 Sections

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CAT Syllabus 2025
CAT Syllabus 2025

CAT Syllabus 2025 Latest: Knowing the detailed CAT syllabus 2025 is extremely important for the aspirants. The Common Admission Test syllabus for MBA has a total of 3 sections – Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension & Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning. 22 questions for the LRDI section and QA section and 24 questions from the VARC section is expected in CAT exam 2025. Each topic from the CAT syllabus 2025 should be given importance and preparation strategy should be followed for each of these sections. Candidates must also know the latest pattern of the exam and accordingly make their study plan using the CAT syllabus.

For example although Venn Diagrams is a part of the CAT exam syllabus but in the last 3 years no question has been asked from this topic. Important topics from CAT syllabus 2025 includes Average, Ratio, Mixture & Alligation, Profit & Loss, SI CI, Percentages, Quant Based DI, Para Summary, Para Jumbles and many more. Arithmetic is considered as a really high weightage topic in the CAT syllabus 2025.

So the CAT syllabus needs to be covered strategically focusing on high weightage topics. Last year instead of 66 questions there were a total of 68 questions, and the total marks was 204. The same pattern can be expected in CAT exam 2025. Check out the detailed CAT syllabus 2025 for all three sections in the exam. Read on to learn about the subject-wise CAT Entrance Exam Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2025 on this page and commence your preparation now.

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CAT Syllabus 2025: What to Expect

Here is what changes you can expect in the CAT Syllabus 2025:

  • VARC section of CAT comprises questions from RC passages, fill in the blanks, synonyms and antonyms, etc No specific modification or revision in the CAT exam syllabus for VARC is expected this year as well.
  • DILR section of CAT will typically contain questions from both DI and LR.
  • Quantitative Aptitude section of CAT comprises most of the questions from Arithmetic and Algebra.

CAT Exam Highlights

Aspirants should check the CAT syllabus before commencing their exam preparation. The CAT exam syllabus will help them determine topics relevant to the exam and enable them to formulate an exam strategy accordingly. Questions in CAT are typically asked from sections, i.e. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Here are the key highlights of the Common Admission Test syllabus shared below for reference purposes:

CAT 2025 Highlights

Mode of CAT ExamComputer-based
Medium of CAT ExamEnglish
Total Slots in CAT 20253
Total Questions in CAT68
Questions in Each Section for CATVARC: 24
DILR: 22
QA: 22
CAT Exam Timing120 minutes (40 minutes per section)
Type of Questions in CATMCQs and TITA (Type In The Answer)
Marks Awarded for Correct Answer in CAT Exam+3 for every right answer
Negative Marking in CAT Exam-1 for every wrong answer. No negative marking for TITA

Weightage of CAT Syllabus 2025-Exam Pattern (Expected)

Aspirants must stay updated with the weightage of the CAT syllabus trends to focus more on chapters/topics/sub-topics that can be asked in the entrance test. There is no official update on the weightage of the CAT entrance exam syllabus till now. However, it is expected that the Common Aptitude Test syllabus and pattern will remain the same as in the previous year. In CAT 2024, 68 questions were asked in the question paper. The VARC section featured 24 questions, while DILR & QA consisted of 22 questions each. The test duration was 120 minutes. Check the weightage of the CAT Test syllabus tabulated below for reference purposes.

CAT Syllabus 2025 – Exam Pattern (Expected)

The CAT Syllabus 2025 is expected to follow a similar pattern that was covered in the previous years, and having main three sections which include VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension), LRDI (Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation) as well as QA (Quantitative Aptitude). As per expected CAT exam syllabus, aspirants will have to attempt a total of 68 questions from a CAT complete syllabus within 120 minutes and each section allotted with 40 minutes.

For CAT aspirants, the CAT exam syllabus for MBA is a roadmap to their strategic CAT preparation as well as success which is directly reflecting the skills that are required to excel in the business management programs. A clear understanding to aspirants about CAT syllabus 2025 not only helps candidates to prepare well for the exam but apart from that it allows them to practice for the mock tests based on the actual CAT exam pattern. By focusing on the exam sectional preparation approaches in line with the CAT exam syllabus, candidates can maximize their exam scores and improve the chances to sit for the admission of top IIMs or B-Schools across the country.

CAT Syllabus 2025 SectionQuestionsTime
Quantitative Ability2240
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension2440
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation2240
Total68120

ALSO READ- CAT EXAM PATTERN

Quant Syllabus for CAT 2025

The quantitative aptitude for cat has a total of 22 questions. Quadratic, Polynomials & Simple Equation, Logarithms, Surds & Indices, TSD & Time and Work are some of the important topics from the QA syllabus for CAT 2025

The CAT syllabus 2025 for the QA section covers the problem solving skills that are well used to evaluate the aspirant’s aptitude and a logical aptitude of mathematics. With a total of 22 questions, the CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus covers the mix of geometry, number system, arithmetic, algebra as well as modern mathematics. Students says that Quant is one of the most challenging parts of the CAT exam for them . Understanding the detailed CAT exam syllabus helps candidates plan a structured exam preparation strategy. . Check out the important CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus.

Important QA Topics for CAT 2025

The CAT Maths Syllabus (CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus) covers various topics such as Arithmetic (Ratio, Percentages, Average, Profit & Loss), Algebra (Quadratic Equations, Progression as well as Polynomials), Geometry and Higher Mathematics (Probability, Logarithms, PnC). These wide range of topics are forming the backbone of the CAT exam Maths syllabus, which is very important for the CAT aspirants to build strong as well as application based questions. A focused approach to the CAT Quantitative Aptitude syllabus not only helps you to improve accuracy but also increase the time management which is very important for scoring well in the Quant section.

  • Average, Ratio, Mixture & Alligation
  • Profit & Loss, SI CI, Percentages
  • TSD & Time and Work
  • Geometry
  • Quadratic, Polynomials & Simple Equation
  • Progression and Series
  • Inequalities, Modulus & Functions
  • Logarithm, Surds & Indices
  • Probability and P&C
  • Number System
  • Venn Diagrams

ALSO READ – CAT 2025 quantitative aptitude for cat

CAT Quants Syllabus 2025 and Weightage

Have a look at the CAT Maths Syllabus in terms of important topics along with the weightage asked previously in the exam. The CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus comprises the following topics and the table mentioned below that covers the weightage according to the previous year trends.

Topic2022 (No. of Ques Asked)2023 (No. of Ques Asked)2024 (No. of Ques Asked)
Average, Ratio, Mixture & Alligation3-54-63-5
Profit & Loss, SI, CI, Percentages1-32-32-3
TSD & Time and Work3-52-32-3
Geometry333
Quadratic, Polynomials & Simple Eq1-33-41-2
Progression and Series1-321
Inequalities, Modulus & Functions3-41-21-2
Logarithm, Surds & Indices0-11-32
Probability and P&C110-1
Number System112-3
Venn Diagrams000

CAT Syllabus 2025 – LRDI 

CAT syllabus 2025 for LRDI has topics such as Circular Arrangements, Cubes, Games & Tournaments, Network Flow Diagrams, Pie Charts, Line & Bar Graphs etc. The DILR section in CAT has a total of 22 questions.

The CAT syllabus 2025 for LRDI section tests a candidate’s logical as well as analytical skills through both the Data Interpretation as well as reasoning sets. With 22 questions, the LRDI section covers one of the most important parts of the exam. A strong cover over the CAT reasoning syllabus helps aspirants handle arrangements, puzzles as well as graph based problems.

Mastering each topics of the CAT syllabus can maximize your chances of performing well in the exam. Check out the LRDI topics in 2025 CAT syllabus.

CAT Syllabus 2025 – DI Topics

In the CAT syllabus, the Data Interpretation section completely focuses on numerical as well as the graphical data such as pie charts, bar graphs, Caselets etc. These topics assess how well aspirants can analyze and interpret the quantitative data under the equal time pressure. Preparing in-depth for all these areas in the CAT exam syllabus can help boat your confidence and accuracy in the DI sets.

Have a look at the important DI topics covered in the CAT Syllabus shared below:

  • Tables
  • Line & Bar Graphs
  • Pie Charts
  • Quant Based DI

CAT Syllabus For MBA 2025 – LR Topics

The CAT logical reasoning syllabus includes topics such as linear and circular arrangements, distribution, cubes, games and tournaments. These topics are designed to test an aspirant’s critical thinking as well as the problem solving skills. Mastering these topics in the CAT reasoning syllabus for LR covers good efficiency in tackling the complex logical sets during the CAT exam.

Let’s discuss below the CAT syllabus of LR for the reference of the candidates:

  • Circular Arrangements
  • Linear Arrangements
  • Cubes
  • Venn Diagrams
  • Selection
  • Distribution
  • Games & Tournaments
  • Network Flow Diagrams
  • Binary Logics

CAT Syllabus 2025 for DILR

The CAT syllabus for DILR covers both the data interpretation as well as logical reasoning to create challenging DILR sets. Topics include network flow diagrams, binary logic, as well as Venn diagrams are the backbone of the LRDI section. A balanced preparation of the CAT logical reasoning syllabus is the way to maximize your score in the CAT exam. Some of the important topics covered in the CAT reasoning syllabus are shared below:

DILR
TablesCubes
Line & Bar GraphsLinear Arrangements
Pie ChartsCircular Arrangements
Quant Based DIVenn Diagrams
Distribution
Selection
Binary Logics
Games & Tournaments
Network Flow Diagrams

Previous Year CAT LRDI Bifurcation

Looking at the past pattern or trends in the CAT syllabus helps candidates understand the distribution of DI as well as LR sets. The CAT logical reasoning syllabus has covered various topics such as logical puzzles, arrangements, games & tournaments. Analysing the proper CAT previous year trends covers the entire theme of the CAT logical reasoning syllabus.

Here is the list of LRDI topics asked in the previous year CAT exam shared below for reference purposes:

Set NumberSLOT 1: Set – Topic/AreaSLOT 2: Set – Topic/AreaSLOT 3: Set – Topic/AreaTotal Questions
1 Candlestick chart based on stock price – DIRating Distribution – DICountries GDP – DI4
2People visiting different countries bar graph + venn diagram – DI2 Graph Based DI – DIOTT Subs, Bar Graph – DI4
3Web Surfers assign 30 stars – Distribution – LRDiagram Based Calculation – LRContent in Food Grains – LR4
4Games and Tournaments – Teams splitting in 2 groups – LRNumber Based Arrangement – LRAC Temp, Line Graph – DI5
5Two candidates contesting election – DI8 Gymnasts and their Coaches – LRATM Network – LR5

Previous Year CAT VARC Bifurcation

Analyzing the VARC CAT syllabus from the previous year CAT exam papers helps you to get insights into the type of passages and verbal ability problems asked in the CAT exam. Reviewing the previous year RC questions and important topics to help candidates align the proper preparation strategies that covers the actual VARC CAT syllabus

Have a look at the important CAT VARC topics asked previously in the exam. It helps you understand important topics and adjust your exam strategy accordingly.

TOPICSLOT 1: GenreSLOT 2: GenreSLOT 3: Genre
Rc – 1Idea of CraftmanshipSpices TradeChinese Liquor – Moutai
Rc – 2Economics and their interestsPeer ReviewSpace Contamination
Rc – 3Digital rights of contentUnintended Consequences of TechnologyNeed to regulate AI
Rc – 4Bandicoots in AustraliaCarnivore – Human ConflictLanguages becoming endangered
Para summary – 1Animals and IntelligenceHow states use the DIME modeLyric Poetry
Para summary – 2Cartographers and mapsConcern about the limitations on comedic freedomLiving things and regularization
Para summary – 3Language and CodesInterdisciplinary collaboration between physicists and scientistsTradwife and vintage dress
Fill in the blank – 1History – Italian MadrigalsScience Research – Staying Up lateInflation and Work
Fill in the blank – 2Silk Roads & Developing CountriesFirst Phase of GlobalizationSomalia drought crisis
Fill in the blank – 3Brain and EvolutionStrange Fact about HensVietnam War
Odd one out 1Animal RightsBiological Basis for GenderForecasting and opinions
Odd one out 2Urbanites and TransportCultivated MeatNeuron and Synapses

CAT Syllabus 2025 for VARC

The CAT Verbal Ability Syllabus 2025 covers comprehension based learning along with the critical reasoning. This section has a total of 24 questions. By covering VARC topics such as odd one out, summaries and para jumbles, the CAT BARC syllabus tests both the accuracy as well as speed of a CAT aspirant. The CAT syllabus is very important for maximising the overall CAT percentile..

ALSO READ- CAT VARC STRATEGY

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VARC Syllabus for CAT 2025

The VARC syllabus for CAT includes the mix of verbal ability questions as well as the reading comprehension genres that evaluate students’ language proficiency. The CAT VARC syllabus not only helps in measuring grammar and vocabulary but also the logical interpretation of CAT RC passages and ideas. Building the familiarity with the CAT Verbal Ability syllabus helps aspirants tackle the various questions with proper confidence.

The detailed CAT syllabus for VARC section is tabulated below:

Reading Comprehension GenreVerbal Ability
Science & TechnologyPara Summary
Business & EconomicsPara Completion
Arts, Society & CultureOdd One Out
History & PoliticsPara Jumbles
Philosophy & Psychology
Mixed

CAT Syllabus (VARC) – Topic Wise Weightage

Knowing the topic wise distribution of CAT syllabus helps candidates to prioritize their sessions effectively. RCs form the largest part of the entire VARC CAT syllabus. Mastering the VARC syllabus for CAT covers topics such as para summary and odd one out helps securing the important marks in the CAT exam section.

Here is the topic-wise weightage for VARC CAT syllabus shared below for reference purposes:

TopicsWeightage
RCs16 Questions (4 sets)
Odd One Out2 Questions
Para Summary3 Questions
Para Jumbles3 Questions

CAT Syllabus 2025- CAT RC Topics Trends 2020 – 2024

An analysis of CAT RC topics from 2020 to 2024 provides a consistent preference for diverse themes. The CAT RC passages cover areas such as sociology, history, economics, technology, philosophy, environmental issues etc. The variety reflects CAT’s focus on assessing comprehension and interpretation skills. For CAT syllabus 2025, aspirants should expect similar topics that test not just reading ability but also critical thinking and contextual understanding. Regular practice with past year RCs help you cover a wide variety of content and makes your preparation feasible.

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

CAT Syllabus 2025: Combined Weightage

Here is the combined weightage for all the sections of CAT Syllabus 2025. Here is a table mentioned below that covers the complete information.

SectionTopicNo. of Questions (Approx.)Weightage (%)
VARCReading Comprehension (RC)1624%
Verbal Ability (Para Jumbles, Para Summary, Odd Sentence Out)810%
DILRData Interpretation (Graphs, Tables, Charts, Caselets)1116%
Logical Reasoning (Arrangements, Puzzles, Syllogism, etc.)1116%
QAArithmetic & Algebra (Averages, Percentages, Linear Equations)1434%
Geometry & Mensuration36%
Number Systems & Modern Math36%

High-Weightage Topics to Prioritize: CAT Syllabus 2025

In this section we will be covering the high-weightage topics to prioritize while preparing for CAT syllabus 2025 and getter better percentile in all three sections in CAT exam 2025.

SectionsHigh-Weightage Topics
Quantitative Aptitude (QA)Arithmetic (Averages, Percentages, Ratio, TSD, Time & Work)
Algebra (Equations, Inequalities)
Geometry & Mensuration
Data Interpretation (DI)Tables
Line Graphs
Bar Graphs
Caselets
Quant-based DI
Logical Reasoning (LR)Games & Tournaments
Arrangements (Linear/Circular)
Distribution
Puzzles
Venn Diagrams
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)Reading Comprehension (Science, Philosophy, Economics, Culture)
Para Jumbles
Para Summary
Odd One Out

How to Cover the CAT Syllabus 2025?

The CAT 2025 Exam is one of the highly competitive entrance tests in the syllabus. Having a smart strategy coupled with expert guidance and high-quality resources can help you perform well. Some of the tips and tricks to excel in this test are as follows:

  • Review the CAT Test Syllabus carefully to focus only on important/relevant chapters.
  • Create an effective timetable to cover the CAT syllabus on time with regular practice and revision.
  • Join the best CAT online coaching like iQuanta for personalised guidance, live conceptual classes, doubt-solving support, CAT-level books & mocks, and various other features.
  • Practice CAT level mocks to get an idea of the actual test standards and environment.
  • Revising all the topics regularly is crucial to retain them for longer period.

CAT Syllabus 2025 Difficulty Level (Section-wise)

The CAT syllabus 2025 remains unchanged but the difficulty level of each section varies every year, it depends on the slot and the exam conducting body (IIM). Based on the past three years’ trend, the QA section is generally tricky and having moderate to difficult level, LRDI section is the unpredictable one because of its challenging caselets whereas VARC tends to be moderate but lengthy due to Reading Comprehension passages. But with a balanced preparation strategy of CAT syllabus 2025 is important to handle all the three sections in CAT exam.

Sections in CAT Difficulty Trend (2022–2024)Expected Level in CAT 2025
Quantitative Aptitude (QA)Moderate to DifficultModerate-High
Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation (LRDI)Difficult & UnpredictableHigh
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)ModerateModerate

CAT 2025 Preparation Tips

Understanding the CAT syllabus 2025 in detail is the first and most important step towards CAT preparation. While the CAT exam syllabus has been consistent over the years, staying updated with the latest exam pattern and topic-wise weightage can give you an edge. With the three key sections of the CAT exam which includes Quantitative Aptitude, VARC and LRDI it is easy to evaluate both analytical and verbal skills. A structured approach, regular practice for the exam along with smart time management increase your chances of scoring well in the exam. Keep referring to the valuable resources and stay consistent towards your preparation journey to crack CAT 2025 with confidence.

CAT Preparation Tips for VARC

  • Analyse the CAT VARC syllabus carefully and jot down all the important topics.
  • Create a study plan that covers advanced and basic topics of the VARC syllabus for CAT.
  • Select the most recommended books to master all the topics.
  • Choose the most reliable mocks for effective practice.
  • Solve the CAT previous year question papers to get an idea of the exam-level questions.
  • Make a revision plan that covers the review of the entire CAT exam syllabus for VARC.

CAT Preparation Tips for DILR

  • DILR is a crucial section of the CAT exam 2025. Jot down all the important topics and allocate equal study hours to each of them.
  • Use the expert-recommended books to clear the basics and then apply them to practice advanced topics.
  • Solve mocks and past papers to improve your ability to identify patterns behind the questions. This can help you quickly recognise whether the question is time-consuming and difficult.
  • Practice unlimited questions of DILR for CAT to improve speed, accuracy, and confidence.

CAT Preparation Tips for Quantitative Aptitude

  • Quant for CAT mainly assesses candidates’ numerical ability and calculation skills. Cover the basics and memorise important formulas to solve more questions with accuracy in less time.
  • Analyse the CAT exam syllabus for Quantitative Aptitude to recognise important chapters.
  • Master basics and advanced topics with the best books and study materials.
  • Practice Quant topics regularly to boost solving speed, calculation ability, and accuracy.

Download CAT Syllabus 2025 PDF Here

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CAT Syllabus 2025 – FAQs

Does IIM release CAT syllabus?

No, IIMs does not release any official CAT syllabus 2025. The important topics and syllabus for CAT exam is determined by the previous year’s exam pattern and question papers.

What is the quantitative aptitude syllabus for CAT 2025?

The QA syllabus of CAT 2025 has topics such as Average, Ratio, Mixture & Alligation, Quadratic, Polynomials & Simple Equations, Logarithm, Surds & Indices, Profit & Loss, SI CI, Percentages, Inequalities, Modulus & Functions, TSD & Time and Work, Progression and Series, Probability and P&C, Venn Diagrams, Number System and Geometry.

Is the CAT syllabus PDF 2025 out?

Although there is no official CAT syllabus pdf 2025 being released by the authorities, the syllabus pdf is prepared based on the previous year question paper.

What is the CAT syllabus and pattern?

CAT 2025 syllabus has 3 sections – Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension and Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning. The VARC section has 24 questions whereas the LRDI and QA section has 22 questions each. Each section in CAT 2025 has a sectional time limit of 40 mins and the total exam duration is 120.

In how many days are enough to cover CAT exam syllabus for MBA?

CAT Exam syllabus for MBA admission can be easily covered in 150 days. Platform like iQuanta covers your entire syllabus in just 100 days and then further levels up your preparation through mock tests, etc.

Is the CAT syllabus for MBA different for IIM?

No, the syllabus of CAT 2025 is not different for IIM. The syllabus is same for all the colleges offering admission through CAT.

Is the CAT syllabus same every year?

Yes, the CAT syllabus mostly remains the same every year and the difficulty level of the exam depends on the IIM who is conducting the exam.

Where can I download the CAT syllabus 2025 PDF?

You can download the CAT syllabus 2025 PDF from the trusted MBA platforms like iQuanta which includes detailed syllabus and topic-wise breakdown also.

How do I start preparing for CAT syllabus 2025 from scratch?

To start with the CAT syllabus 2025 preparation, start first by understanding the exam pattern, prioritize high-weightage topics along with a structure plan and regular mock tests and revision.

What is the expected difficult section in CAT syllabus 2025?

LRDI section is little comprises of moderate to difficult level expected in CAT exam 2025.

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