The exam will be held across three sectionsVerbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA) each carrying a strict 40-minute time limit. With only a short window left for preparation, former CAT toppers and mentors have advised students to focus on strategy rather than last-minute cramming.
Candidates who have previously cleared the exam said the final 2–3 days often bring maximum stress, prompting many aspirants to take multiple mock tests or rush through untouched topics. According to them, this approach backfires. Instead, they recommend revising familiar material and avoiding new concepts at this stage to maintain confidence and reduce anxiety.
A key tip shared by mentors is the “30-second rule.” During the exam, if a candidate cannot make sense of a question within 30 seconds, they should immediately skip it and move ahead. Experts believe this prevents candidates from losing valuable time and helps them prioritise easier questions first, improving both accuracy and overall score.
With the exam approaching, experts also emphasize using the final days as a “cool-down period.” Students are encouraged to rest adequately, revisit past mistakes, and focus on mental composure. “A calm mind is a decisive advantage in CAT,” a former IIM student noted.
Candidates have also been advised to visit their exam centre a day before to assess travel time, location, and entry points. They must carry a printed admit card, a valid photo ID, and recent passport-size photographs. Only transparent water bottles are permitted, and no additional papers other than the admit card may be taken inside.
The winter session exam will run across multiple slots, with strict biometric verification and reporting protocols. Aspirants are urged to arrive early to avoid delays and ensure a smooth entry process.
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