CAT 2025: Exam Day Dos and Donts Revealed for Top Scorers
The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) have published the formal CAT 2025 Exam Day Instructions for the Common Admission Test planned for November 30, 2025. IIM Kozhikode, the exam convenor this year, has emphasised the necessary Dos and Don'ts, reporting instructions, allowed items, banned objects, biometric protocols and slot-wise timings to facilitate the smooth conduct of the exam day at all centres.
No doubt, CAT is the toughest management entrance test in India, still more than 3 lakh candidates attempt it every year. Due to increased security measures, candidates must adhere to the guidelines strictly so as not to be inconvenienced or disqualified.
Mandatory Items to Carry on the CAT Exam Day
Candidates appearing for CAT 2025 Exam must bring the following items:
- Printed CAT 2025 Admit Card in A4 size (preferably laser printed)
- One recent passport-size photograph pasted on the admit card
- Valid Government-issued Photo ID Proof:
- Aadhaar or E-Aadhaar
- PAN Card
- Passport
- Voter ID
- Driving License
- Ration Card or Identity Affidavit (only if applicable)
- PwD candidates must bring their Medical/Scribe Certificate
CAT Exam 2025: Items Not Allowed Inside the Test Centre
The following objects are strictly prohibited:
- Mobile phones, calculators, electronic gadgets, digital or smart watches
- Stationery items (pens, papers, pencil boxes)
- Wallets, handbags, purses, and personal belongings
- Jackets, shawls, or caps with large pockets or metallic elements
- Jewellery or metallic accessories
- Footwear with thick soles
- Mehndi/Henna on palms, as it interferes with biometric scanning
CAT 2025 Slot-wise Timings and Reporting Schedule
Candidates should reach their designated test centres at least 90 minutes before the exam to complete frisking, document verification, and biometrics.
Note: Gate closing time is strictly enforced for all three slots.
Important Dos for CAT 2025 Candidates
- Carefully check all details printed on the admit card
- Visit the exam centre one day before the test for route clarity
- Wear simple and comfortable clothes following the dress code
- Cooperate during biometric verification and frisking
- Use the provided A5-size scribble pad for all rough work
- Read all on-screen instructions before beginning the test
- Arrive early to avoid last-minute stress
Important Don’ts for CAT 2025
- Do not arrive late; late entry is not permitted under any circumstances
- Do not request breaks during the exam unless for medical reasons
- Do not communicate with other candidates inside the test lab
- Do not carry any prohibited items or personal belongings
- Do not wear henna/mehndi on your palms on exam day
- Do not attempt multiple logins or violate exam rules
Additional Advisory on Scribble Pad Usage
IIM Kozhikode has clarified that the scribble pad provided during the exam will be A5-sized, smaller than regular practice sheets. Candidates are advised to practice QA and DILR questions using A5 paper beforehand to improve space management.
Final Exam Day Checklist
- Printed admit card with photograph
- Valid photo ID proof
- Comfortable, rule-compliant clothing
- Early arrival at the centre
- Awareness of slot timing and gate closure
- No prohibited items
