Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why Understand CAT Exam Fees?
- CAT Exam Fees 2025: Category-Wise Structure
- Historical Fee Trends (2020–2025)
- Payment Methods & Step-by-Step Process
- Important CAT 2025 Dates
- Form Correction & Refund Policies
- Cost-Saving Tips & Financial Aid
- Comparison with Other MBA Exams
- Internal Tools to Boost Your Prep
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
cat exam fees is one of the first queries for every MBA aspirant planning to sit for CAT 2025. Knowing exactly how much you’ll pay—and when—helps you budget effectively, avoid last-minute hassles, and focus on acing the exam. This guide walks you through the latest fee structure, payment process, key dates, and smart tips to save money.
Why Understand CAT Exam Fees?
- Budget Planning: Fees are non-refundable and vary by category.
- Avoid Surprises: Late payments or incorrect details can cost you extra time and stress.
- Access Waivers: Reserved categories get discounted rates—know your entitlement.
Pro Tip: Always check the official CAT website before payment.
CAT Exam Fees 2025: Category-Wise Structure
| Category | Application Fee (INR) |
|---|---|
| General / EWS / NC-OBC | ₹2,500 |
| SC / ST / PwD | ₹1,250 |
- General/EWS/NC-OBC: ₹2,500
- SC/ST/PwD: ₹1,250
These rates reflect a modest 4% hike from 2024’s ₹2,400/₹1,200.
Historical Fee Trends (2020–2025)
| Year | General/EWS/NC-OBC | SC/ST/PwD |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | ₹2,000 | ₹1,000 |
| 2021 | ₹2,200 | ₹1,100 |
| 2022 | ₹2,300 | ₹1,150 |
| 2023 | ₹2,400 | ₹1,200 |
| 2024 | ₹2,500 | ₹1,250 |
| 2025 | ₹2,500* | ₹1,250* |
*Expected; official notification in July 2025.
Payment Methods & Step-by-Step Process
Available Online Methods:
- Credit Card
- Debit Card
- Net Banking
- UPI
- Wallets
No offline modes or extra transaction charges.
How to Pay:
- Visit iimcat.ac.in and register.
- Fill in personal & academic details.
- Preview form & confirm.
- Choose payment option & complete transaction.
- Download confirmation PDF & email receipt.
Save transaction IDs & screenshots until your MBA seat is finalized.
Important CAT 2025 Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | July 27, 2025 |
| Registration Opens | August 1, 2025 |
| Registration Closes | September 20, 2025 |
| Correction Window | Late September 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | November 6, 2025 |
| CAT 2025 Exam | November 30, 2025 |
| Answer Key Release | December 3, 2025 |
| Result Declaration | December 20, 2025 |
Form Correction & Refund Policies
- Correction Window: Late September—edit photo, signature & test-city choices free of cost.
- Non-Refundable Fees: Once paid, fees cannot be refunded, transferred, or carried forward.
Double-check all details before payment to avoid re-application.
Cost-Saving Tips & Financial Aid
- Early Registration: Avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Scholarships: Some IIM alumni associations offer application-fee waivers—research local chapters.
- Edu Loans: Partner banks like SBI PhD Student Loan offer low rates and moratoriums.
- Self-Study Resources: Leverage free mocks on the official CAT portal.
Comparison with Other MBA Exams
| Exam | Gen Fee | Reserved Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| CAT | ₹2,500 | ₹1,250 | Online only, no extra charges |
| XAT | ₹2,200 +200* | ₹2,200 +200* | +₹200 per XLRI programme applied |
| IIFT | ₹3,000 | ₹1,500 | Foreign/NRI: US$ 200 (~₹15,000) |
| SNAP | ₹2,250/test | ₹2,250/test | +₹1,000 per institute fee |
| NMAT | US$ 65 | US$ 65 | +taxes; same for all candidates |
*General + per programme fee
Internal Tools to Boost Your Prep
While budgeting for cat exam fees, use our free tools to sharpen your performance:
- Rank Predictor – Estimate your likely CAT percentile.
- Generate Test – Create custom mock tests in seconds, tailored to your weakest areas.
FAQs
Q1: Can I apply offline for CAT?
No. All CAT registrations and fee payments are strictly online.
Q2: Is there a late-fee window?
CAT authorities rarely extend deadlines; register early to avoid missing out.
Q3: Can I correct name or DOB mistakes?
No. Only photo, signature & city preferences are editable after submission.
Conclusion
Understanding cat exam fees is the first step toward a stress-free CAT 2025 application. With category-wise rates of ₹2,500 and ₹1,250, transparent online payment methods, and a clear timeline of key dates, you can plan effectively. Don’t forget to leverage our internal tools—Rank Predictor and Generate Test—to maximize your preparation while you manage your budget smartly. Good luck on your MBA journey!