CAT Exam Application Fees Rise 31% Since 2021: Asaduddin Owaisi Highlights Issue in Parliament

The application fees for the Common Admission Test (CAT) have increased by 31% since 2021, prompting concerns among aspirants and policymakers. On the first day of the Winter Session of Parliament, Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi questioned the Ministry of Education about the steep fee hike imposed by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs)—the conducting body of the CAT exam.

Owaisi sought clarity on the justification for the rising fees and its impact on lakhs of MBA aspirants from economically weaker backgrounds. The CAT exam, a national-level entrance test for admission to premier MBA and management programmes, has seen consistent fee increments over recent years, leading to widespread debate.

Meanwhile, candidates preparing for the upcoming exam are closely tracking updates, including CAT 2025 Exam Paper Analysis, expected trends, difficulty levels, and expected cut-offs.