If you are planning to give the CAT Exam 2025, there is some important update. The exam fees have been increased a little this year. Since CAT is one of the most popular exams for MBA admission in India, you should know the new cat exam fees 2025, how to pay, and also how much MBA at IIMs will cost.
Why Did CAT Fees Increase in 2025?
Every year, IIMs change the exam fees a little. This is because of higher exam cost, computer systems, and staff charges. In 2025, fees are increased only by a small amount, but it is still important to know before applying.
CAT 2025 Exam Fees
Here is the new fee structure for this year:
| Category | CAT Exam Fee 2024 | CAT Exam Fee 2025 | Increase |
| General / OBC-NCL | ₹2,400 | ₹2,500 | +₹100 |
| SC / ST / PwD | ₹1,200 | ₹1,250 | +₹50 |
The increase is very small, but you should keep it in mind while registering.
How to Pay CAT Exam Fees?
Follow these easy steps:
Step 1 – Registration
- Visit the official CAT website.
- Create login with your email and mobile number.
Step 2 – Fill Form
- Enter your personal and education details.
- Choose your test cities.
Step 3 – Upload Documents
- If required, upload your caste certificate, photo, and signature.
Step 4 – Make Payment
- Select payment method.
- Pay online.
Done – You will get a confirmation email/SMS.
Payment Options
You can pay CAT 2025 fees through:
- Credit Card
- Debit Card
- Net Banking
- UPI (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, etc.)
Tip: Try not to wait for the last day, because the website gets very busy.
If Payment Fails
Sometimes money is cut but form not updated. Don’t worry:
- Wait 1–2 days, it may update automatically.
- If not updated, contact CAT helpdesk with transaction ID.
- IIM will provide a refund if additional funds are taken out.
Refund Rules
CAT exam fee is not refundable. Once you pay, you cannot cancel. Only if double payment happens by mistake, refund will be given.
IIM MBA Course Fees
After clearing CAT, you must also know the cost of MBA at IIMs. Here are the approx fees:
| IIM | MBA Course Fees (2 years) |
| IIM Ahmedabad | ₹24 – 25 lakh |
| IIM Bangalore | ₹23 – 24 lakh |
| IIM Calcutta | ₹23 – 25 lakh |
| IIM Lucknow | ₹20 – 22 lakh |
| New IIMs (Udaipur, Trichy, etc.) | ₹16 – 18 lakh |
These fees may change every year. Many IIMs also give scholarships to students who need financial support.
Why Apply Early?
- Easy Payment: No last-minute website crash.
- Better Planning: You can manage money and time.
- Scholarship Chance: Apply early for financial help.
FAQs
Q1: Has CAT fee increased for all students?
Yes. ₹100 more for General/OBC, ₹50 more for SC/ST/PwD.
Q2: Can I pay offline in bank?
No, only online payment allowed.
Q3: If I miss the last date, can I apply later?
No, once the portal closes you cannot apply.
Q4: Is there a special discount for girls?
No, only SC/ST/PwD candidates get lower fee.
Q5: How much is IIM MBA fee?
Around ₹16–25 lakh for 2 years, depending on the IIM.
Final Words
The CAT Exam 2025 fees are a little higher than last year, but the increase is very small. Remember, exam fee is only the start of your MBA journey. MBA at IIMs costs much more, so start planning from today.
If you prepare well and get into a top IIM, the return on investment is very high because of excellent placements. So, treat this fee as your first step towards a bright future.
