CAT Exam Pattern

CAT is conducted in computer-based mode and consists of three separately timed sections.

CAT Exam Pattern

CAT has historically used a combination of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Type in the Answer (TITA) questions.

Sectional Timing

Each section is allotted 40 minutes.

Once the 40-minute duration of a section is completed, the candidate automatically moves to the next section. Candidates cannot return to a previously completed section.

This makes time management particularly important because candidates cannot freely redistribute time among VARC, DILR and QA.

Marking Scheme

The CAT marking structure generally follows:

• Correct MCQ: +3 marks
• Incorrect MCQ: −1 mark
• TITA correct: +3 marks
• TITA incorrect: No negative marking

The exact question count and marking scheme for CAT 2026 should be checked against the final official notification.