{"id":40361,"date":"2026-01-23T17:31:02","date_gmt":"2026-01-23T12:01:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/?p=40361"},"modified":"2026-01-23T17:31:11","modified_gmt":"2026-01-23T12:01:11","slug":"latest-cat-exam-pattern","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/","title":{"rendered":"CAT Exam Pattern 2026, What are the different Sections in CAT Exam?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Common Admission Test is the main exam which is widely accepted by top MBA colleges in India. CAT preparation is the complete journey where multiple stages involved which is taking from understanding the eligibility criteria for CAT exam, detailed syllabus across VARC, DILR, QA and most importantly <strong>CAT exam pattern<\/strong>. This gives the detailed overview about the types of questions being asked in exam duration, timings, total number of questions across section, medium of question paper as well as CAT marking scheme. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The detailed overview about the exam pattern of CAT exam help candidates in preparation and will be confident in the later stages. This blog is a comprehensive guide about official CAT exam pattern. Let&#8217;s discuss the complete details about it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em><mark>Join iQuanta\u2019s 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&nbsp;platform<\/mark><\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/li.iquanta.in\/3FagB\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"476\" src=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-11-11-at-10.50.50_60474af4-1024x476.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-63888\" style=\"width:553px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-11-11-at-10.50.50_60474af4-1024x476.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-11-11-at-10.50.50_60474af4-300x140.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-11-11-at-10.50.50_60474af4-768x357.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-11-11-at-10.50.50_60474af4-903x420.jpg 903w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-11-11-at-10.50.50_60474af4-150x70.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-11-11-at-10.50.50_60474af4-696x324.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-11-11-at-10.50.50_60474af4-1068x497.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-11-11-at-10.50.50_60474af4.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_77 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#What_is_the_official_CAT_Exam_Pattern\" >What is the official CAT Exam Pattern?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Highlights_of_CAT_Exam_Pattern\" >Highlights of CAT Exam Pattern<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Is_CAT_Exam_Pattern_Same_Every_Year\" >Is CAT Exam Pattern Same Every Year?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Major_Components_in_CAT_Exam_Pattern\" >Major Components in CAT Exam Pattern<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Common_Admission_Test_2026\" >Common Admission Test 2026<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#What_Will_Be_the_CAT_Exam_Pattern_in_2026\" >What Will Be the CAT Exam Pattern in 2026?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#CAT_Exam_Pattern_and_Syllabus\" >CAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#CAT_Exam_Pattern_2026_%E2%80%93_Subject-Wise_Weightage\" >CAT Exam Pattern 2026 &#8211; Subject-Wise Weightage<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#CAT_Exam_Pattern_%E2%80%93_Time_Duration_Over_the_Years\" >CAT Exam Pattern &#8211; Time Duration Over the Years<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Features_of_the_CAT_Exam_Pattern\" >Features of the CAT Exam Pattern<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Section-Wise_Breakdown_of_CAT_Exam_Pattern_2026\" >Section-Wise Breakdown of CAT Exam Pattern 2026<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#1_CAT_Exam_Pattern_for_VARC\" >1. CAT Exam Pattern for VARC<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Types_of_Questions_in_CAT_VARC_Section\" >Types of Questions in CAT VARC Section<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Key_Skills_Tested_in_CAT_VARC_Section\" >Key Skills Tested in CAT VARC Section<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#2_CAT_Exam_Pattern_2026_%E2%80%93_DILR_Section\" >2. CAT Exam Pattern 2026 &#8211; DILR Section<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Types_of_Questions_in_CAT_LRDI_Section\" >Types of Questions in CAT LRDI Section:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Key_Skills_Tested_for_LRDI_Section_in_CAT\" >Key Skills Tested for LRDI Section in CAT:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#3_CAT_Exam_Pattern_for_QA_Section\" >3. CAT Exam Pattern for QA Section<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Types_of_Questions\" >Types of Questions:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Key_Skills_Tested_in_QA_Section_of_CAT\" >Key Skills Tested in QA Section of CAT:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#CAT_Exam_Pattern_Marking_Scheme_2026_Expected\" >CAT Exam Pattern &amp; Marking Scheme 2026 (Expected)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Recent_Trends_in_CAT_Exam_Pattern_2026\" >Recent Trends in CAT Exam Pattern 2026<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Detailed_CAT_Exam_Pattern_Past_Year_Section-Wise\" >Detailed CAT Exam Pattern (Past Year &amp; Section-Wise)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#CAT_Exam_Pattern_2026_Expected\" >CAT Exam Pattern 2026 (Expected)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#CAT_Exam_Pattern_2025\" >CAT Exam Pattern 2025<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#CAT_Exam_Pattern_2024\" >CAT Exam Pattern 2024<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#CAT_Exam_Pattern_2023\" >CAT Exam Pattern 2023<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Changes_in_CAT_Exam_Pattern_Over_the_Years\" >Changes in CAT Exam Pattern Over the Years<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Evolution_of_CAT_exam_pattern_Over_the_Years\" >Evolution of CAT exam pattern Over the Years<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#Conclusion_CAT_Exam_Pattern_2026\" >Conclusion: CAT Exam Pattern 2026<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/#FAQs_CAT_Exam_Pattern\" >FAQs: CAT Exam Pattern<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-the-official-cat-exam-pattern\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_official_CAT_Exam_Pattern\"><\/span><strong>What is the official CAT Exam Pattern?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The CAT paper pattern involves three main sections, those are the Verbal Ability &amp; Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning and Quantitative Ability. According to the past year analysis, there were total 68 questions in the CAT exam that candidates need to attempt with 24 questions in VARC, 22 questions in DILR and 22 questions in QA. The detailed overview about the same is specified below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-very-light-gray-to-cyan-bluish-gray-gradient-background has-background\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Sections in the CAT Exam<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Expected Number of Questions in CAT 2026<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Verbal Ability &amp; Reading Comprehension<\/strong><\/td><td>24<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning <\/strong><\/td><td>22<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Quantitative Ability<\/strong><\/td><td>22<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Highlights_of_CAT_Exam_Pattern\"><\/span><strong>Highlights of CAT Exam Pattern<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding the CAT exam pattern 2026 can simplify your exam preparation. It can help you determine the exact test requirements and align your strategy accordingly. Check the complete highlights about the CAT paper pattern which is mentioned in the table below covering CAT exam duration, CAT slot timings, total questions, total marks, types of questions and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-very-light-gray-to-cyan-bluish-gray-gradient-background has-background has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td>Mode of CAT 2026 Exam<\/td><td>Computer Based Test<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2026 Exam Duration<\/td><td>120 minutes<br>40 minutes per section<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2026 Slot Timings<\/td><td>Morning: 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM<br>Afternoon: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM<br>Evening: 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Total Questions in CAT 2026 (expected)<\/td><td>68<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Total marks in CAT 2026<\/td><td>204<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Language of CAT question paper 2026<\/td><td>English<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Number of Options in CAT 2026<\/td><td>4<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Type of Question in CAT 2026<\/td><td>MCQ and non-MCQ<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-is-cat-exam-pattern-same-every-year\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_CAT_Exam_Pattern_Same_Every_Year\"><\/span><strong>Is CAT Exam Pattern Same Every Year?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The CAT paper pattern might change or there might be slight changes in the exam compared to the previous year. Analysing the last 5-10 years the exam pattern has completely evolved. From 2011 to 2013 the total questions in CAT was 60 and duration was 2.20 hours. From 2014 to 2019 CAT exam pattern had 100 questions. In 2026 it is expected that there will be a total of 68 questions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-major-components-in-cat-exam-pattern\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Major_Components_in_CAT_Exam_Pattern\"><\/span><strong>Major Components in CAT Exam Pattern<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are some components involved in the Common Admission Test paper patterns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Types of questions distinguishes in the CAT exam i.e, MCQs and TITA<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Total time duration and also specific time across VARC, DILR &amp; QA.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What is the CAT marking scheme involved while attempting questions?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-common-admission-test-2026\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Admission_Test_2026\"><\/span><strong>Common Admission Test 2026<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>CAT is a computer-based test that takes place every year in the month of November. CAT 2026 exam is expected to be scheduled for November 29, 2026, in three sessions. It evaluates candidates in three core areas: Verbal and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Quantitative Aptitude (QA) and Logical Reasoning &amp; Data Interpretation (LRDI). It is very important to understand that while the syllabus may remain more or less similar every year, the CAT exam pattern has undergone certain changes over the years. This brings out the need for candidates to stay updated on the latest changes and fully aware of the latest pattern. As of now, the CAT exam pattern 2026 has not been officially announced. However, we can fairly analyze what is the pattern likely based on previous year\u2019s data and trends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-will-be-the-cat-exam-pattern-in-2026\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Will_Be_the_CAT_Exam_Pattern_in_2026\"><\/span><strong>What Will Be the CAT Exam Pattern in 2026? <\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The CAT exam pattern provides insights into a variety of details like exam mode, question type, weightage, maximum marks, number of questions and overall marking scheme. We have shared below the expected CAT question paper pattern 2026 based on the previous year&#8217;s data for candidates&#8217; reference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\">\n<li><strong>Mode of Examination:<\/strong> It is a computer-based test which needs to be attempted from a centre specified by the CAT authorities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Total Duration:<\/strong> As of last few years, the duration has been 2 hours (120 minutes).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Number of Sections:<\/strong> 3 key sections: VARC, QA and LRDI<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sectional Time Limit:<\/strong> 40 minutes per section<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Total Number of Questions:<\/strong> 68 questions overall (24 in VARC, 22 in LRDI and 22 in QA).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Question Types:<\/strong> There will be a mix of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Type In The Answer (TITA) questions. However, majorly dominated by MCQs.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cat-exam-pattern-and-syllabus\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Pattern_and_Syllabus\"><\/span><strong>CAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The expected CAT exam pattern 2026 comprises 24 questions across VARC (Verbal Ability &amp; Reading Comprehension), 22 questions in DILR (Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning) section and 22 question in QA (Quantitative Ability) section. It is quite important for candidates to understand CAT exam pattern and syllabus both. So, Let&#8217;s have a look on detailed syllabus across sections which is mentioned in the table below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-very-light-gray-to-cyan-bluish-gray-gradient-background has-background\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>CAT Sections<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>CAT Exam Syllabus<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>CAT Quantitative Ability (QA)<\/strong><\/td><td>Average, Ratio, Mixture &amp; Alligation<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Profit &amp; Loss, SI, CI, Percentages<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>TSD &amp; Time and Work<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Geometry<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Quadratic, Polynomials &amp; Simple Eq<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Progression and Series<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Inequalities, Modulus &amp; Functions<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Logarithm, Surds &amp; Indices<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Probability and P&amp;C<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Number System<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Venn Diagrams<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>CAT Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)<\/strong><\/td><td>Reading Comprehension<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>VA-Para jumbles<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>VA-Odd Sentence<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>VA-Summary<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>CAT Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)<\/strong><\/td><td>Line &amp; Bar Graphs<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Tables<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Pie Charts<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Quant Based DI<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Linear Arrangements<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Circular Arrangements<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Venn Diagrams<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Distribution<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Selection<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Binary Logics<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Games &amp; Tournaments<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Network Flow Diagrams<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Pattern_2026_%E2%80%93_Subject-Wise_Weightage\"><\/span><strong>CAT Exam Pattern 2026 &#8211; Subject-Wise Weightage<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When preparing for the CAT exam pattern then CAT aspirants must understand the subject wise pattern and weightage across all the sections. The CAT exam expected to cover 68 questions in total where the sections are commonly divided into three major areas and those are DILR (Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning), VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension) as well as QA (Quantitative Ability). Each section has its own importance for aspirants and there are 40 minutes per section which is making the time management an important skill for students.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The CAT exam pattern 2026, covers the balanced preparation across each CAT exam section to evaluate candidate\u2019s verbal as well as analytical skills. Here is a table mentioned below that covers the  expected CAT exam pattern 2026:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-very-light-gray-to-cyan-bluish-gray-gradient-background has-background has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Sections in CAT 2026<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Total Number of Questions (expected)<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Sectional Time Limit<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Section I &#8211; VARC<\/strong><\/td><td>24<\/td><td>40 Minutes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Section II &#8211; DILR<\/strong><\/td><td>22<\/td><td>40 Minutes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Section III &#8211; QA<\/strong><\/td><td>22<\/td><td>40 Minutes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Total Questions<\/strong><\/td><td>68 (24+22+22)<\/td><td><strong>120 minutes<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cat-exam-pattern-time-duration-over-the-years\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Pattern_%E2%80%93_Time_Duration_Over_the_Years\"><\/span><strong>CAT Exam Pattern &#8211; Time Duration Over the Years<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This section covers the CAT conducting year with respect to the total time duration of the exam over the years. Complete information about the same is mentioned in the table below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-very-light-gray-to-cyan-bluish-gray-gradient-background has-background\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>CAT Conducting Year<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>CAT exam time duration<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2025<\/td><td>2 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2024<\/td><td>2 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2023<\/td><td>2 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2022<\/td><td>2 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2021<\/td><td>2 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2020<\/td><td>2 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2019<\/td><td>3 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2018<\/td><td>3 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2017<\/td><td>3 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2016<\/td><td>3 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2015<\/td><td>3 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2014<\/td><td>2.50 hours<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-features-of-the-cat-exam-pattern\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Features_of_the_CAT_Exam_Pattern\"><\/span><strong>Features of the CAT Exam Pattern<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Difficulty level of questions across VARC, DILR &amp; QA.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Evolution of exam pattern over the years.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Non-MCQ TITA Questions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The sectional time limit.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-section-wise-breakdown-of-cat-exam-pattern-2026\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Section-Wise_Breakdown_of_CAT_Exam_Pattern_2026\"><\/span><strong>Section-Wise Breakdown of CAT Exam Pattern 2026<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The CAT exam is divided into three main sections, each designed to assess specific skill sets. Let\u2019s take a closer look at each section.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-cat-exam-pattern-for-varc\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_CAT_Exam_Pattern_for_VARC\"><\/span><strong>1. CAT Exam Pattern for VARC<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This section in general is primarily focused on testing your command over the English language and your ability to comprehend and interpret written passages. It also subtly tests your grammatical skills and ability to find errors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Expected Number of Questions in VARC Section of CAT:<\/strong> 24 (has been the same for last 3 years)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-types-of-questions-in-cat-varc-section\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Types_of_Questions_in_CAT_VARC_Section\"><\/span><strong>Types of Questions in CAT VARC Section<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Reading comprehension<\/strong>: There are 4 passages which are given to you. Each passage will have 4 questions each, making it a total of 16 questions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Para jumbles (mostly non-MCQs)<\/strong>: There are likely to be 2 \u2013 3 questions on this topic. You need to rearrange 4 sentences to make a coherent passage. Aspirants must note that last year there was not questions from this topic.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Para summaries:<\/strong> You will be presented with a short paragraph and have to pick the most appropriate option which catches the essence best.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Odd sentence out<\/strong>: You will have 5 sentences, out of which, you can use 4 sentences to make a coherent paragraph. You need to pick the 5th sentence which does not fit anywhere.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em><mark>Join this free whatsApp group to get the latest information about CAT exam along with the strategies by CAT experts<\/mark><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chat.whatsapp.com\/JFZdunguheH9y6sn6Uwh0q?mode=ems_copy_t\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"475\" src=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-05-08-at-2.51.45-PM-1024x475.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-48546\" style=\"width:593px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-05-08-at-2.51.45-PM-1024x475.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-05-08-at-2.51.45-PM-300x139.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-05-08-at-2.51.45-PM-768x356.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-05-08-at-2.51.45-PM-905x420.jpeg 905w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-05-08-at-2.51.45-PM-150x70.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-05-08-at-2.51.45-PM-696x323.jpeg 696w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-05-08-at-2.51.45-PM-1068x496.jpeg 1068w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2025-05-08-at-2.51.45-PM.jpeg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-key-skills-tested-in-cat-varc-section\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Skills_Tested_in_CAT_VARC_Section\"><\/span><strong>Key Skills Tested in CAT VARC Section<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Reading speed and the power comprehension as the genre varies a lot across these passages.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grammar and vocabulary is not directly tested but without a good understanding of it, you cannot do well in VARC.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Logical arrangement of sentences and other grammatical rules, especially in the verbal ability part of the section.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>CAT VARC Preparation Tip:<\/strong> Practice reading editorials, news articles and essays daily. Also try to develop a habit of identifying the main idea and tone of whatever piece you are reading.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-cat-exam-pattern-2026-dilr-section\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_CAT_Exam_Pattern_2026_%E2%80%93_DILR_Section\"><\/span><strong>2. CAT Exam Pattern 2026 &#8211; DILR Section<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This section is there to measure your logical reasoning skills as to how quickly and accurately you can solve certain sets. Additionally, there are also sets on data interpretation where you need to understand various visuals and make the meaning out of the data presented to you. This section has 4 sets typically every year. Each set comes with 5 questions related to it. Those 5 questions can be a mix of both MCQs and TITA. Make sure to pick the right set here as that makes a lot of difference in your overall performance in the section.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Expected Number of Questions in CAT 2026 DILR Section :<\/strong> 22<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-types-of-questions-in-cat-lrdi-section\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Types_of_Questions_in_CAT_LRDI_Section\"><\/span><strong>Types of Questions in CAT LRDI Section:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Logical puzzles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seating arrangements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Graphs, charts and tables<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Caselets and Venn diagrams<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-key-skills-tested-for-lrdi-section-in-cat\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Skills_Tested_for_LRDI_Section_in_CAT\"><\/span><strong>Key Skills Tested for LRDI Section in CAT:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Analytical thinking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Quick pattern recognition<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ability to work under time pressure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Preparation Tips for CAT LRDI Section &#8211;<\/strong> As there are no such syllabus defined for this section, make practising a variety of set as your habit. Try to look for patterns in certain cases and develop faster calculations for DI sets. These things should contribute to your overall performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-cat-exam-pattern-for-qa-section\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_CAT_Exam_Pattern_for_QA_Section\"><\/span><strong>3. CAT Exam Pattern for QA Section<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The QA section of CAT is there to test your mathematical ability. Though the concepts date back to the school days, time management is what makes the section more challenging. There are always sitter questions which are very easy to solve but also there will be a mix of complex problems. Look out for the questions you were familiar with and try to attempt the sections smartly instead of sticking to one question.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Expected Number of Questions in CAT 2026 Quants Section:<\/strong> 22<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-types-of-questions\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Types_of_Questions\"><\/span><strong>Types of Questions:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Arithmetic (percentages, profit and loss, ratios, time and work, etc.): This essentially forms the base of the QA section. The weightage of these topics is around 40% to 50%.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Algebra (equations, inequalities, functions): This is the second-most common topic when it comes to CAT QA. Having a weightage of around 25%, these topics become non-negotiable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Geometry and mensuration: You can expect at least 2 \u2013 3 questions from this topic. It includes basic volume, coordinate geometry related questions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Number systems: Questions like remainder theorem, divisibility are often seen in CAT.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Modern math (permutations and combinations, probability, etc.): It is considered as one of the most trickiest sub-topics of all. However, the weightage for this is low and you can focus on these topics at a later stage of your preparation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-key-skills-tested-in-qa-section-of-cat\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Skills_Tested_in_QA_Section_of_CAT\"><\/span><strong>Key Skills Tested in QA Section of CAT:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Numerical problem-solving<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conceptual clarity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Speed and accuracy<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Preparation Tip:<\/strong> First try to build a solid foundation in all of the topics mentioned above. Once that is done, focus on solving higher-level problems and finally attempt mock tests to understand what is actually asked in CAT. Build on speed gradually without compromising on the accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cat-exam-pattern-amp-marking-scheme-2026-expected\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Pattern_Marking_Scheme_2026_Expected\"><\/span><strong>CAT Exam Pattern &amp; Marking Scheme 2026 (Expected)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The CAT marking scheme has remained fairly consistent over the past few years. Typically, every correct answer earns 3 marks and a negative marking of 1 mark is applicable for every wrong response. Check the expected marking scheme for CAT 2026 shared below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>CAT QA section: <\/strong>40 minutes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>CAT DILR section:<\/strong> 40 minutes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>CAT VARC section:<\/strong> 40 minutes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Correct Answer (MCQ or TITA):<\/strong> +3 marks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Incorrect Answer (MCQ):<\/strong> -1 mark<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Incorrect Answer (TITA):<\/strong> No negative marking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Unattempted Questions:<\/strong> No penalty<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you look carefully, this marking scheme highlights the importance of accuracy, especially in the MCQ type of questions where incorrect answers can result in a deduction. Do not over attempt or guess unless you are very sure of the answer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-recent-trends-in-cat-exam-pattern-2026\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recent_Trends_in_CAT_Exam_Pattern_2026\"><\/span><strong>Recent Trends in CAT Exam Pattern 2026<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The CAT exam pattern has witnessed a few of the notable changes over the past decade. Let us try to understand what these changes were which eventually will help us in anticipating the CAT exam pattern 2026:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\">\n<li><strong>Fluctuation in Question Count:<\/strong> The number of questions in CAT has changed significantly. For instance, before the Covid-19 Pandemic, CAT used to have 100 questions which in 2020, got reduced to just 76 questions. The following, the number of questions was further reduced to 66 in 2021 and has remained the same since.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Emphasis on TITA Questions:<\/strong> In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of TITA (Type In The Answer) questions, which require candidates to type their answers manually. Students have mixed opinion on this as it makes the question further difficult without the options but also eliminates the risk of negatives.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Time Reduction:<\/strong> Until 2019, the CAT exam was a 3-hour test with 1 hour for every section. However, since 2020, the duration has been reduced to 2 hours and 40 minutes is allotted per section.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dynamic Difficulty Levels:<\/strong> The difficulty level more or less remains the same. The only fluctuation which is seen in the CAT exam over the years is that one of the sections become relatively tougher and similarly, one of the remaining sections feels easier. However, the overall difficulty remains quite consistent.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-detailed-cat-exam-pattern-past-year-amp-section-wise\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Detailed_CAT_Exam_Pattern_Past_Year_Section-Wise\"><\/span><strong>Detailed CAT Exam Pattern (Past Year &amp; Section-Wise)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The CAT exam pattern combines three major sections &#8211; Verbal Ability &amp; Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning (DILR) and Quantitative Ability (QA) where expected number of questions coming in CAT 2026 are 24 in VARC, 22 in DILR and 22 in QA. The complete information about the CAT paper pattern is specified in the table below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cat-exam-pattern-2026-expected\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Pattern_2026_Expected\"><\/span><strong>CAT Exam Pattern 2026 (Expected)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td>Sections in CAT Exam<\/td><td>Expected Number of Questions <\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Verbal Ability &amp; Reading Comprehension<\/td><td>24<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning <\/td><td>22<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Quantitative Ability<\/td><td>22<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Talking about the CAT 2025 exam pattern, total questions were 68 where 24 questions shared by VARC, 22 questions are well shared by the Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning and 22 questions from Quantitative Ability. Candidates can check the CAT paper pattern 2025 shared in the table mentioned below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cat-exam-pattern-2025\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Pattern_2025\"><\/span><strong>CAT Exam Pattern 2025<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td>Sections in CAT Exam<\/td><td>Number of Questions <\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Verbal Ability &amp; Reading Comprehension<\/td><td>24<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning <\/td><td>22<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Quantitative Ability<\/td><td>22<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The CAT 2024 exam pattern exactly replicates the CAT 2025 exam patterns where the number of questions are similar across sections in the CAT exam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cat-exam-pattern-2024\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Pattern_2024\"><\/span><strong>CAT Exam Pattern 2024<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td>Sections in CAT Exam<\/td><td>Number of Questions <\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Verbal Ability &amp; Reading Comprehension<\/td><td>24<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning <\/td><td>22<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Quantitative Ability<\/td><td>22<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>There was a slight changes in the CAT exam pattern 2023 where number of questions across sections in CAT exam is mentioned in such a manner where Verbal Ability &amp; Reading Comprehension covers 24 questions , 20 questions in Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning and 22 questions in the Quantitative Ability. Rest to check the proper data section-wise, candidates can easily refer to table which is mentioned below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cat-exam-pattern-2023\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Pattern_2023\"><\/span><strong>CAT Exam Pattern 2023<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td>Sections in CAT Exam<\/td><td>Number of Questions <\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Verbal Ability &amp; Reading Comprehension<\/td><td>24<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning <\/td><td>20<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Quantitative Ability<\/td><td>22<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-changes-in-cat-exam-pattern-over-the-years\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Changes_in_CAT_Exam_Pattern_Over_the_Years\"><\/span><strong>Changes in CAT Exam Pattern Over the Years<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Over the years, the CAT exam paper pattern has had several changes that are going with the management entrance testing. From 100 questions spread over 3 hours to having a more clear 68 questions with a 2 hour duration, the CAT exam paper pattern reflects the shift during the testing phase, time management as well as the thinking ability rather than just a strength. Candidates who are preparing for the CAT exam must understand these CAT exam paper pattern change that include the CAT exam syllabus as well as effective exam preparation plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The CAT exam pattern change sometimes has a direct impact on the students attempting the paper as they have to manage the sectional time limits and prioritize their accuracy level during the CAT exam. For the CAT aspirants, who are targeting the top IIM institutes and other B-schools have to analyze the past CAT exam pattern for the MBA program admissions. It is important for aspirants to stay updated with the modifications happening in the CAT exam paper to help students in their preparation strategy or plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-evolution-of-cat-exam-pattern-over-the-years\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Evolution_of_CAT_exam_pattern_Over_the_Years\"><\/span><strong>Evolution of CAT exam pattern Over the Years<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding the CAT exam pattern should be the priority for candidates to understand so that they will plan their attempts. In this section, we will be covering the CAT exam paper pattern where we see in the table mentioned below that CAT 2025 (previous year CAT paper) has overall covered 68 questions where duration of exam remains 2 hours and the same pattern of timing followed for CAT 2024, CAT 2022, CAT 2021, CAT 2020 with a minor changes in the number of questions. To completely understand the evolution of CAT exam pattern over the year, check the detailed table mentioned below which covers the year of the CAT exam, number of questions as well as CAT exam time duration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-background\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Year<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Number of Question<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>CAT exam time duration<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2025<\/td><td>68<\/td><td>2 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2024<\/td><td>68<\/td><td>2 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2022<\/td><td>66<\/td><td>2 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2021<\/td><td>66<\/td><td>2 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2020<\/td><td>76<\/td><td>2 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2019<\/td><td>100<\/td><td>3 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2018<\/td><td>100<\/td><td>3 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2017<\/td><td>100<\/td><td>3 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2016<\/td><td>100<\/td><td>3 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2015<\/td><td>100<\/td><td>3 hours<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2014<\/td><td>100<\/td><td>2.50 hours<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em><strong>If you are targeting a 99+%ile in CAT 2025, iQuanta has got you covered. Get highly relevant content along and prepare right from the very basics with iQuanta\u2019s CAT Course. iQuanta has made a record with 600+ 99 percentilers in CAT 2025.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-conclusion-cat-exam-pattern-2026\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion_CAT_Exam_Pattern_2026\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion: CAT Exam Pattern 2026<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The CAT exam pattern 2025 continues to follow a proper structured approach combining three sections that are QA, VARC and DILR. With expected total 68 questions in CAT exam pattern 2026 covers the strict sectional time limit for CAT aspirants and this exam not only evaluates the knowledge of aspirants but also the accuracy and the time management under the CAT exam pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For the CAT aspirants, understanding the CAT exam pattern 2026 in detail is the first step towards building a smart preparation strategy for the CAT exam. So with the alignment of sectional weightage as well as time constraints candidates can maximize their scores in the CAT exam and will step one stage forwards towards cracking the CAT exam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-layout-1 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-shadow\" style=\"margin-bottom:30px\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-luminous-vivid-orange-to-vivid-red-gradient-background has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/\" style=\"border-radius:35px\">CAT 2026 Course<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-74-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-68519\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-74-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-74-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-74-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-74-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-74-1536x1536.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-74-420x420.png 420w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-74-696x696.png 696w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-74-1068x1068.png 1068w, https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-74.png 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-faqs-cat-exam-pattern\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs_CAT_Exam_Pattern\"><\/span><strong>FAQs: CAT Exam Pattern<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1756535378647\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What is the latest CAT exam paper pattern?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The current CAT exam pattern covers total 68 questions with a duration of 2 hours and the sections is divided into 3 phase and those are DILR (Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning), VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension) as well as QA that is Quantitative Aptitude with each section have some sectional time limit.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1756535380118\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>How is the CAT exam paper pattern structured?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The CAT exam pattern is designed to test an aspirant&#8217;s logical reasoning, verbal ability as well as quantitative aptitude skills in the CAT exam and it is a mix of MCQs and non MCQs across all the three sections of the CAT exam paper pattern.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1756535381294\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the basic difference between CAT exam pattern and syllabus?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The CAT exam pattern and syllabus are mostly related to each other. The pattern basically defines the CAT exam paper pattern or structure whereas the CAT exam syllabus covers the topics that candidates need to study under all the 3 sections of the exam.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1756535382678\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Has there been any CAT exam pattern change in recent years?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes there has been some changes in the CAT exam paper pattern in the recent years that aspirants need to know about and really helpful in the CAT exam preparation journey.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1756535384304\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>\u00a0Why is understanding the CAT exam pattern for MBA important?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">It is important for the CAT aspirants to know CAT exam pattern for MBA so that they can plan their preparation and covered all the important topics under each section to get succeed.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758866104616\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the CAT exam pattern in 2019?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The exam pattern of CAT 2019 covers total of 100 questions and exam duration of 3 hours.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758866204797\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How CAT exam pattern of 2024 is different from CAT exam paper pattern 2022?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">There is a minor difference in the CAT overall questions in CAT exam pattern of 2024 from 2024 where CAT 2024 paper pattern covers 68 questions whereas CAT 22 covers 66 questions and overall duration remains 2 hours in both the exams.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758866985745\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the CAT exam pattern for CAT 2020?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The exam pattern for CAT 2020 covers total 76 questions where the time duration remained 2 hours that is 120 minutes.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1760516482474\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are the factors responsible for knowing the CAT exam pattern?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Understanding the CAT exam pattern is important for candidates because it helps in creating a strategic preparation plan, optimize test taking strategy, manage anxiety and build overall confidence, staying updated with the potential changes related to the CAT exam pattern.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1760516631497\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the section time limit of all sections in the CAT exam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The CAT exam comprises VARC (Verbal Ability &amp; Reading Comprehension), DILR (Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning) and QA (Quantitative Ability) and each section is of 40 minutes and the total duration of the exam is 120 minutes.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1762405328890\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Do understanding the actual CAT paper pattern help me in CAT exam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes understanding the actual CAT exam pattern will be very helpful for the candidates who are willing to appear for the CAT exam.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Common Admission Test is the main exam which is widely accepted by top MBA colleges in India. CAT preparation is the complete journey where multiple stages involved which is taking from understanding the eligibility criteria for CAT exam, detailed syllabus across VARC, DILR, QA and most importantly CAT exam pattern. This gives the detailed overview [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":533,"featured_media":70769,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[443,331],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v21.4 (Yoast SEO v21.9.1) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>CAT Exam Pattern 2026, What are the different Sections in CAT Exam? - iQuanta<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"As per the latest CAT exam pattern there are total 68 questions in the exam and the total marks for the exam is 204.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iquanta.in\/blog\/latest-cat-exam-pattern\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta 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