Is CAT Exam Tough? Difficulty Level, Exam Structure, Marks Distribution

Yes,the Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of India's most prominent and demanding entrance tests for top-tier business schools, including the Indian Institute of Management (IIMs) and other top management universities. Thus, the difficulty level of this exam is higher in comparison to other MBA entrance exams.

The CAT exam, which is administered annually, is a standard for assessing your aptitude in quantitative ability (QA), data interpretation and logical reasoning (DILR), and verbal ability and reading comprehension (VARC) to give MBA admission in top B-schools and IIMS in India.

Is the CAT Exam Tough?

To answer this question, you need to understand the entire structure of the exam. Nevertheless, CAT is among the toughest exams, and the competitive level is generally high. The exam areas include the question pattern, eligibility criteria, and the syllabus.

However, you can crack it with proper preparation and applied knowledge. So if you are wondering, "is CAT exam tough?" let us first understand the structure, marks distribution, and eligibility criteria of the CAT exam to get an answer.

Also Read:

• How to Prepare for CAT without Coaching?
• How to Crack CAT Exam?

CAT 2025 Exam Structure

CAT exam is held annually in an online mode. As per the CAT 2025 exam pattern, the questions are in the form of MCQs and non-objective types. Moreover, there is negative marking for wrong answers. The questions are covered from namely three areas:

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

The total time allotted for answering the questions is 120 minutes. Thus, 40 minutes can be devoted to each section of questions.

Chcek This: CAT 2025 Formula Sheet

CAT Exam Preparation Tip 2025

Well, the CAT exam preparation can be strenuous. To reduce the pressure and to help you achieve desired results, here are some of the tips to prepare for the CAT exam:

• Start the preparation by analyzing the syllabus critically and apprehending smart techniques. 
• Next, create a solid timetable that will focus on the weak areas and have ample time to go through the already known sections.
• Afterwards, select the best books in the market, and the topper suggested ones.
• Furthermore, observe the evolution of questions from the ten years' question banks.
• Additionally, keep some time for revision and appear for mock tests. If possible, get admitted to a good CAT coaching centre in the locality.

Also Read: Minimum Marks Required in CAT for Government Colleges