The wait for over two lakh candidates is nearly over. The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode, the conducting body for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025, is expected to announce the final results this week. Candidates who appeared for the high-stakes MBA entrance exam on November 30 will soon be able to check and download their official scorecards from the official CAT website, iimcat.ac.in.
Final Answer Key Released, Results Imminent
The announcement of the results follows the release of the final answer key on December 17, 2025. This crucial step came after a transparent review process where candidates were given a chance to raise objections. Earlier, IIM Kozhikode had made the provisional answer keys and individual response sheets available on December 4.
An online objection window was subsequently opened from December 8 to December 10. During this period, test-takers from all three exam slots could challenge specific questions by submitting formal objections supported by explanations and relevant documents. The release of the final key, incorporating any valid changes, paves the way for the result declaration.
What Happens After the CAT Results Are Out?
The publication of CAT scores marks the beginning of the rigorous selection process for admission to the prestigious Indian Institutes of Management and other participating B-schools. It is important for candidates to understand that the CAT percentile is just the first hurdle.
Each IIM independently sets its own cut-off scores, weightages, and shortlisting criteria. These criteria are multifaceted and often include:
- CAT percentile score
- Academic background and past performance (Class 10, 12, and graduation)
- Work experience (if applicable)
- Factors promoting diversity, such as gender or academic discipline
Candidates who meet the specific shortlisting criteria of an institute will be invited to participate in the subsequent stages of selection.
The Next Rounds: WAT, GD, and Personal Interviews
The journey to an IIM seat involves more than just a top CAT score. Shortlisted candidates must prepare for the next rounds, which typically consist of a combination of the following:
- Written Ability Test (WAT)
- Group Discussion (GD)
- Personal Interview (PI)
In recent admission cycles, a notable trend has been observed where several IIMs have replaced the Group Discussion round with a Written Ability Test and Personal Interview. However, the exact composition and format of these assessment rounds vary from one IIM to another. Aspirants are advised to closely monitor the official admission policies of their target institutes once the results are declared.
With the results imminent, candidates should keep their login credentials ready and regularly check the official CAT portal, iimcat.ac.in, for the latest updates and direct links to access their scorecards.
