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CAT Registration Fees 2025: CAT 2025 is one of the most awaited entrance exams for MBA aspirants, and IIM Kozhikode has released the registration dates. Before you begin your application, it's important to know the registration fees clearly.
The application fee varies by category, and knowing the right amount will help you avoid last-minute confusion. Whether you belong to the General, EWS, NC-OBC, SC, ST, or PwD category make sure you are prepared to pay the correct fee when registrations open.
CAT Registration Fees 2025
The CAT Registration Fees for 2025 vary based on the applicant's category. General, EWS, and NC-OBC candidates are required to pay ₹2,600, while SC, ST, and PwD candidates need to pay ₹1,300.
The fee must be paid online through debit/credit card, net banking, or UPI, and is non-refundable under any circumstances. It's important to ensure successful payment to complete the registration process.
CAT Application Fee for General and Reserved Categories
The CAT 2025 application fee is based on the candidate's category. General, EWS, and NC-OBC candidates are required to pay ₹2,600, while candidates from SC, ST, and PwD categories enjoy a concession and need to pay ₹1,300. The fee is payable only through online modes such as credit/debit cards or net banking and is non-refundable.
CAT Application Fee for General and Reserved Categories
Category | Application Fee (INR) |
General | ₹2,600 |
EWS (Economically Weaker Section) | ₹2,600 |
NC-OBC (Non-Creamy Layer - OBC) | ₹2,600 |
SC (Scheduled Caste) | ₹1,300 |
ST (Scheduled Tribe) | ₹1,300 |
PwD (Persons with Disabilities) | ₹1,300 |
Also Read, CAT Application Form 2025, Important Dates, Form Fees, Steps
How Much Is the CAT Registration Fee?
The CAT 2025 application fee varies by candidate category and must be paid online (via credit/debit card, net banking, UPI). The fee is non-refundable under any circumstances.
CAT 2025 Application Fee: Category-Wise Breakdown
Category | Registration Fee (INR) |
General / EWS / NC-OBC | ₹2,600 |
SC / ST / PwD | ₹1,300 |
Also Read, CAT Exam Fees 2025, Check Registration And Application Fees
CAT Registration Fee Refund Policy
Once the CAT registration fee is paid, it is strictly non-refundable. This applies in all cases, of whether candidates appear for the exam or withdraw their application later. No refunds or fee transfers to subsequent years are permitted.
Furthermore, the registration fee cannot be used to reapply if applicants need to submit a fresh form due to mistakes and they must pay the full fee again.
Candidates can, however, edit certain fields such as test center, photograph, and signature during a limited correction window after submission. Key personal details like name, email address, or category are non-editable and would require a fresh application fee if changes are needed.
Also Read, CAT 2025 Registration Last Date, Check Form Filling Guidelines
CAT Exam Fee Changes
The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 has seen a revision in application fees for all categories, continuing the trend of annual fee hikes.This consistent year-on-year fee hike reflects changes in administrative and exam conduct costs.
It is important for aspirants to stay informed and plan their application well in advance, considering the updated fee structure. As per the official notification released by IIM Kozhikode on July 27, 2025, the revised fee structure is as follows:
Category | CAT 2024 Fee | CAT 2025 Fee | Increase |
General/EWS/NC-OBC | ₹2,500 | ₹2,600 | +₹100 |
SC/ST/PwD | ₹1,250 | ₹1,300 | +₹50 |
CAT 2025 Registration Process (Online Only)
Candidates need to complete the application process on the official CAT website between August 1 (10:00 AM) and September 20 (5:00 PM).
Registration Form Includes:
- Personal Details
- Academic History
- Work Experience (if applicable)
- IIM Program Preferences
- Test City Selection (up to 5 preferences)
- Online Payment
CAT Registration Fee Payment Modes & Additional Charges
Candidates must pay the CAT 2025 registration fee online only. No offline payment methods like cash, cheque, or demand draft are accepted. The available modes include credit cards, debit cards, net banking, UPI, and mobile wallets. However, transaction charges may apply based on the payment option you choose. These charges are non-refundable and are added to the base application fee.
Below is a breakdown of applicable charges:
Payment Mode | Transaction Charges |
Credit Card (MasterCard/Visa) | 1.20% of the amount (minimum ₹5) |
Credit Card (American Express) | 2.85% of the amount (minimum ₹5) |
Debit Card (MasterCard/Visa) | 0.75% for payments up to ₹2000, 0.90% for payments above ₹2000 |
Net Banking | Flat ₹20 per transaction |
UPI / Mobile Wallets | Usually no extra charge, but may vary depending on wallet provider (check individually) |
Note: Always confirm the final payable amount (including charges) before submitting the payment. Use secure internet connections and valid cards or apps to avoid transaction failure.
CAT Registration Fees 2025: Conclusion
The CAT 2025 registration fee depends on the category. General, EWS, and NC-OBC candidates need to pay ₹2,600, while SC, ST, and PwD candidates need to pay ₹1,300. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid online through credit cards, debit cards, net banking, or UPI. Make sure to check all details carefully before submitting your application. The registration period is from August 1 to September 20, 2025.
To complete your application, the registration fee must be paid online. Depending on the payment method, there may be additional charges. Credit and debit cards may have a small fee, while UPI and mobile wallets typically don’t have extra charges. Always check the total amount to be paid before confirming your payment. Remember, the fee is non-refundable, so be sure to fill out the application correctly to avoid any issues.
