CAT) 2025 is one of the most competitive entrance exams for MBA aspirants aiming for the prestigious IIMs and top B-schools in India. With thousands of candidates appearing every year, being fully prepared on exam day is essential—not just academically but also in terms of what you carry to the test centre. Even a small mistake, such as forgetting an important document, can lead to disqualification. To help you avoid last-minute confusion, here’s a complete checklist of important things to carry to the CAT 2025 exam centre.
Table of Contents
1. CAT 2025 Admit Card (Mandatory)
Your admit card is the most important item, without which you will not be allowed to enter the examination hall. Make sure:
It is printed clearly on A4-sized paper
Your photo and signature are visible
You check the date, shift, reporting time, and exam centre address
Download and print multiple copies to stay safe in case one gets misplaced.
2. Valid Photo ID Proof
Along with your admit card, you must carry a government-approved photo ID. Accepted ID proofs generally include:
Aadhaar Card
PAN Card
Voter ID
Passport
Driver’s License
Ensure the name on the ID matches the name on your CAT application and admit card.
3. Two Passport-Sized Photographs
Carry at least two recent passport-sized color photos (same as the one uploaded in the application). These may be required during verification or form filling at the centre.
4. Mask and Personal Sanitizer (If Applicable)
Depending on public health guidelines at the time of the exam, the use of masks may still be required. Even if not mandatory, carrying:
A face mask
A small bottle of hand sanitizer (50 ml)
is recommended for hygiene and personal safety.
5. Transparent Water Bottle
Candidates are often allowed to carry a transparent water bottle. Staying hydrated during the exam is important, especially for long travel distances or unexpected delays. Confirm the latest guidelines on the official CAT website before the exam.
6. Medical Certificates (Only If Applicable)
If you have applied under the PwD category or require scribe assistance, carry all relevant medical documents and approval letters issued by the authorities. These documents must be original and valid.
7. Self-Declaration Form (If Required)
In some exam cycles, candidates must bring a self-declaration regarding health conditions or travel history. If CAT 2025 mandates this, ensure the form is filled and signed before arriving at the centre.
Items NOT Allowed Inside the CAT 2025 Exam Hall
To avoid trouble during frisking or entry, DO NOT carry:
Electronic devices (mobile phones, earphones, smartwatches, calculators)
Bags, wallets, books, notebooks, or sheets
Metallic items or jewelry
Stationery (pens, pencils, or paper are provided at the centre)
Breaking these rules can result in debarment.
Final Tips for CAT 2025 Examinees
Reach the exam centre at least 60–90 minutes early
Visit the centre location a day before, if possible
Double-check your documents the previous night
Follow the instructions printed on the admit card carefully
