The CAT Exam is set for 30th November 2025, and the cat exam registration is approaching soon. Going by the last year trends it is expected that IIM Kozhikode will release the CAT notification, registration portal (CAT 2025 official website), and the CAT application form on or after 25th July and first week of August 2025 respectively. To appear for the CAT 2025 exam, it is important that the candidates register for the exam before the deadline - expected in the end of September 2025.
CAT Registration is the first and the most important step in appearing for the CAT exam, and therefore, the candidates must clearly understand the documents that are required to apply for CAT 2025. Any mistake in any of the document can lead to disqualification from the CAT exam and can also hinder your admission process at a later stage. This article provides the candidates with a detailed list of documents that the candidates must carry.
Also read→ Can I select my preferred IIM during CAT registration
The article → Documents required for CAT exam also gives the instructions and specifications that must be kept in mind while uploading the documents. It is advised that if any of your documents including photograph and signature are incorrect, they must be rectified as per the specifications below on immediate basis. For more information on these documents, read further.
Can you guess the number of applicants that will register for CAT this year? Check the answer here and find out if you were correct
CAT 2025 Registration Documents → List of documents required
The list of all the documents required at the time of CAT registration has been tabulated below with specifications like size and dimensions along with certain instructions. Applicants are advised to carefully go through this table and rectify any wrong documents immediately.
Document Name | Format | Specifications (Size & Dimensions) | Description | Caution |
Passport-size Photograph | JPG/JPEG |
| Clear, recent color photo with white/light background | Do not upload scanned copy from certificates or old IDs |
Signature | JPG/JPEG |
| Signature in black ink on white paper | Do not use capital letters |
NC-OBC/SC/ST Certificate | PDF |
| Format prescribed by CAT authorities | Should be issued by competent authority & valid as per current financial year |
EWS Certificate | PDF |
| Required for EWS quota applicants | Should be current and issued as per Govt. rules |
PwD/DA Certificate | PDF |
| For candidates with benchmark disabilities | Type & % of disability must be clearly mentioned |
Academic Certificates | PDF (keep ready) |
| Scanned copies of Class 10, 12, and Graduation certificates/marksheets | Should be clear, legible, and scanned from original documents |
Work Experience Certificate | PDF (optional during form) |
| Proof of full-time employment (internships not included) | Mention only confirmed, paid, full-time experience |
Photo ID (for exam day) | Physical copy (Original + Photocopy) |
| Not uploaded during application but mandatory on CAT exam day | Must match your name entered in the application form |
I want to apply for the upcoming CAT exam. When should I start preparing my documents?
Once the CAT registration portal goes online and the CAT application form releases, all the aspirants will start filling out the form which may lead to a slower website. To avoid any kind of issues like document uploading late, or incorrect document uploaded errors, it is advised that the applicant must keep the CAT application form documents ready at least 2 weeks before the application form releases. This will help you in filling the form faster, avoid any delays and any “incorrect document uploaded” errors.
Applicants must keep their scanned documents ready in their PCs or laptops, preferably on the desktop folder to be able to easily upload the documents without any errors and delays.
Make the best use of your time and start preparing for CAT exam now!
CAT Registration Important Document Details
Given below is a brief yet important explanation for all the documents that are required at the time filling out the CAT 2025 application form.
- Passport-size Photograph: Your recent, clear passport-size color photograph must show your full face, with no headgear (unless worn for religious reasons) and a plain background. The image should not be older than six months.
- Signature: Sign with a black ink pen on white paper and scan it to upload. Do not use capital letters.
- Category Certificates (NC-OBC, SC/ST, EWS): Candidates applying under reserved categories must upload valid and current certificates in the format prescribed on the CAT website.
- PwD Certificate: Candidates with benchmark disabilities must upload valid medical proof indicating the type and extent of the disability.
- Academic Certificates: These are not mandatory at the time of application but will be required during the admission and interview process. Prepare clean, high-resolution scans of your Class 10, 12, and graduation documents in A4 format.
- Work Experience Certificate: Not required during form submission, but accurate details must be entered. Valid certificates may be asked at the time of admission or interview by IIMs.
- Photo ID: A government-issued ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID, etc.) is required on exam day. It must match the name used in your CAT application form.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Uploading CAT Documents
While uploading the CAT documents, the most common mistakes listed below must be avoided. It is advised that the candidates fill the application form only on a desktop computer or laptop and must fill it carefully.
- Uploading blurry or poorly cropped photographs or signatures
- Using scanned photos from old ID cards or certificates
- Incorrect file size or format
- Missing or expired category certificates
- Filling incorrect work experience duration
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Final Checklist Before Submission
Before submitting the CAT documents, candidates must carefully review every information and document. Check the final CAT document checklist before submission, below.
- All documents should be in the correct format and size
- Name and date of birth should match official documents
- No spelling errors in personal or academic fields should be there
- Preview your uploaded files before final submission to avoid rejection
