CAT 2026: Complete Q&A Guide to Dates, Eligibility, Registration, and Exam Pattern
CAT 2026 will be held on Sunday, November 29, 2026, in three sessions across approximately 170 test cities. Registration opens August 3, 2026 (10:00 AM) and closes September 15, 2026 (5:00 PM). The exam is 120 minutes long, split into three sections of exactly 40 minutes each. Results are expected in the first week of January 2027, and scores remain valid until December 31, 2027. IIM Indore is conducting CAT 2026 on behalf of all IIMs, and the only official website is iimcat.ac.in.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When will CAT 2026 be conducted?
CAT 2026 will be held on Sunday, November 29, 2026, in three sessions.
2. Which institute is conducting CAT 2026, and who is the Convener?
IIM Indore is conducting CAT 2026 on behalf of the Indian Institutes of Management. Prof. Aditya Billore of IIM Indore is the Convener for CAT 2026. Prof. Himanshu Rai, Director of IIM Indore, made the official announcement on July 26, 2026.
3. When does CAT 2026 registration open and close?
Registration opens on August 3, 2026 (Monday), at 10:00 AM and closes on September 15, 2026 (Tuesday), at 5:00 PM.
4. When can candidates download the CAT 2026 admit card?
Admit cards can be downloaded between November 4, 2026 and November 29, 2026.
5. Is there an edit window after registration closes?
Yes. After the registration window closes, a very short edit window is made available to registered applicants. Candidates can edit only the following fields: photograph, signature, and test city preferences. This option is available only to candidates who have paid the applicable registration fee and registered successfully within the specified deadline.
6. What is the minimum eligibility for CAT 2026?
A candidate must hold a Bachelor's degree with at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA (45% for SC, ST, and PwBD candidates), awarded by a university incorporated by an Act of Parliament or State legislature, or deemed to be a university under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956, or an equivalent qualification recognised by the Ministry of Education, Government of India.
7. What other qualifications make a candidate eligible for CAT 2026?
Candidates who have completed a professional degree, specifically CA, CS, ICWA (CMA), or Fellow of the Institute of Actuaries of India (FIAI), with the required percentage of marks are also eligible to apply.
8. Can final-year students apply for CAT 2026?
Yes. Candidates in the final year of their Bachelor's degree, or those who have completed degree requirements and are awaiting results, can apply. If selected, they will be allowed to join only provisionally, and must submit a certificate from the Principal or Registrar of their University or Institution (issued on or before the date stipulated by the respective IIM) confirming completion of all requirements for the degree.
9. How is CGPA converted to a percentage for eligibility?
The conversion follows the practice of the candidate's University or Institution. If the University or Institution confirms there is no scheme for converting CGPA to a percentage, the equivalence is established by dividing the candidate's CGPA by the maximum possible CGPA and multiplying the result by 100.
10. Does meeting the minimum eligibility criteria guarantee shortlisting?
No. The CAT 2026 Information Bulletin explicitly states that mere fulfilment of the minimum eligibility criteria will not ensure consideration for shortlisting by IIMs.
11. Do candidates need to maintain a specific email and phone number?
Yes. Candidates must declare and maintain a valid and unique email account and a mobile phone number throughout the entire selection process.
12. What is the CAT 2026 exam pattern and duration?
The test duration is 120 minutes, divided into three sections, with exactly 40 minutes allotted to each:
Section I: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension
Section II: Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning
Section III: Quantitative Ability
13. Can candidates switch between sections during the exam?
No. Candidates will not be allowed to switch from one section to another while answering questions in a section.
14. Will a mock test be available before CAT 2026?
Yes. A mock exam to help candidates understand the format of the test will be made available on the official CAT website.
15. What is the CAT 2026 registration fee?
₹1,350 for SC, ST, and PwBD category candidates, and ₹2,700 for all other categories. The fee is paid once, regardless of the number of institutes a candidate applies to, and is non-refundable under any circumstances.
16. How many test cities will CAT 2026 be conducted in, and how are they allotted?
CAT 2026 will be conducted across approximately 170 test cities. Candidates select five preferred cities, in order of preference, from a drop-down menu during registration. After the registration window closes, one city is allotted based on availability. If none of the five preferred cities can be allotted, a nearby city is assigned instead. Once a centre is allotted, no change is permitted. IIMs reserve the right to add, remove, change, or cancel any test centre or city, and to change the test time or date, at their discretion.
17. What is the reservation structure for CAT 2026?
15% of seats are reserved for Scheduled Caste (SC), 7.5% for Scheduled Tribe (ST), 27% for Other Backward Classes in the non-creamy layer (NC-OBC), up to 10% for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), and 5% for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD).
18. Which Central Government list applies for reservation purposes?
The applicable Central Government list as on the last date of CAT registration is binding. No subsequent changes to this list will be effective for CAT 2026 or any subsequent selection process of the IIMs. For the updated central list of state-wise OBCs eligible for reservation, and details on the creamy layer, candidates should visit ncbc.nic.in.
19. What certificate requirements apply to NC-OBC and EWS candidates for CAT 2026?
NC-OBC certificates must be issued on or after April 1, 2026. EWS certificates must be valid for the year 2026-27 and specifically assessed for financial year 2025-26.
20. What if an NC-OBC or EWS candidate has not received their new certificate in time?
Candidates who applied for a valid NC-OBC/EWS certificate on or after April 1, 2026, but have not received it by the time of CAT 2026 registration, may still submit their application by uploading, in a single PDF: a properly filled-in "Undertaking for NC-OBC/EWS Certificate" (available on the CAT 2026 official website), the older NC-OBC/EWS certificate issued prior to April 1, 2026, and a copy of the communication, acknowledgement, or screenshot from the issuing authority confirming submission of the certificate application. Failure to upload the complete set of documents may result in disqualification from the entire admission process.
21. Can a candidate change their reserved category after registration?
No. No change in category will be entertained after CAT registration. Candidates are advised to pay attention while registering.
22. What documents must SC/ST candidates submit, and when?
SC/ST candidates need a caste or tribe certificate in the Government of India approved format, clearly stating: the name of the caste or tribe; whether the candidate belongs to Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe; the district and state or union territory of the candidate's ordinary residence; and the appropriate Government of India schedule under which the caste or tribe is approved. A copy must be uploaded at the time of registration. Failure to upload this certificate will result in rejection of the CAT registration. The certificate must also be shown, with a photocopy submitted, at the time of interviews, and again at the time of joining an IIM programme. Failure to submit at any of these stages will result in the candidate not being considered under the reserved category.
23. Are PwBD candidates required to have a UDID card?
Candidates are encouraged to apply for a UDID card (PwBD category) and upload the same with their application.
24. What categories of disability are covered under PwBD reservation?
As per The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPwD Act 2016): (a) blindness and low vision; (b) deaf and hard of hearing; (c) locomotor disability, including cerebral palsy, leprosy cured, dwarfism, and acid attack victims; (d) autism, intellectual disability, specific learning disability, and mental illness; (e) multiple disabilities from among the above categories; and (f) other specified disabilities mentioned in the Schedule of the RPwD Act 2016. "Person with Benchmark Disability" means a person certified as having not less than forty percent of a specified disability.
25. When will CAT 2026 results be declared, and how long are scores valid?
Results are tentatively expected in the first week of January 2027. Scorecards will be made accessible on the CAT website, with candidates also intimated individually by SMS. CAT 2026 scores are valid only until December 31, 2027, after which no queries related to scorecard issuance will be entertained.
26. How do IIMs use CAT scores in their selection process?
Each IIM is independent in mandating its own eligibility criteria, including academic cut-offs and relative weightages, and follows its own selection process. Performance in CAT 2026 is an important component, but IIMs may also use previous academic performance, relevant work experience, and other similar inputs at various shortlisting stages.
27. Can non-IIM institutions use CAT 2026 scores?
Yes. CAT 2026 scores may be used by listed non-IIM member institutions, whose names are available on the CAT website. IIMs have no role in the selection process of non-IIM institutions.
28. What happens if incorrect information is detected during or after the selection process?
Any incorrect information or process violation detected at any stage of the selection process will lead to immediate disqualification of the candidate from the selection process, and the candidate will not be allowed to appear for CAT in future. If such instances go undetected during the current cycle but are detected in subsequent years, disqualification will take place with retrospective effect.
29. What is the official website for CAT 2026, and how can candidates verify it?
The sole official website is https://iimcat.ac.in. No other website is affiliated with or authorised for CAT 2026, even though the CAT 2026 advertisement has been published in several newspapers in multiple languages; the information on the CAT website is considered final in case of any discrepancy. Candidates are advised to always verify the URL, exercise extreme caution with unsecured websites or suspicious links, and report any fraudulent activity to the CAT help desk at cat2026_helpdesk@iimidr.ac.in.
30. Is there a helpline number for CAT 2026 queries?
Yes. The CAT help desk number is 1800 210 0175, and the official website is https://iimcat.ac.in.
31. What is the jurisdiction for disputes concerning CAT 2026?
Any dispute concerning CAT 2026 is subject to the jurisdiction of the competent courts within the territorial jurisdiction of the city of Indore only.
32. Should candidates retain the CAT 2026 Information Bulletin?
Yes. Candidates are advised to retain the Information Bulletin for future reference.
33. What categories can a candidate apply under for CAT 2026?
Candidates can apply under General, Economically Weaker Section (EWS), Scheduled Caste (SC), Non-creamy Other Backward Class (NC-OBC), and Scheduled Tribe (ST).
34. What happens if a candidate applies under the NC-OBC category?
Until further communication, all candidates applying under the NC-OBC category will be considered under the NC-OBC category, provided they meet the NC-OBC eligibility criteria.
35. Can a candidate change their category after submitting the CAT 2026 application form?
No. The category cannot be changed once the CAT 2026 application form is submitted.
36. What should the SC/ST caste certificate specifically state?
The certificate must be in the Government approved format (available on the CAT website under the Certificates section) and must clearly state: whether the candidate belongs to Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe; the district and state or union territory of the candidate's ordinary residence; the appropriate Government of India schedule under which the caste/tribe is approved; and signatures of the required authorities.
37. Where can a candidate check if they qualify under the NC-OBC category?
Candidates can refer to ncbc.nic.in for the updated list of state-wise OBCs eligible for reservation and information on the creamy layer. Central government norms govern the validity of the NC-OBC certificate.
38. Where can a candidate check if they qualify under the EWS category?
Candidates can refer to the EWS format available at dopt.gov.in. Central government norms govern the validity of the EWS certificate.
39. Is CAT 2026 an online examination?
No. CAT is not an online (Internet-Based) examination. It is a Computer Based Test (CBT), meaning candidates read questions on a computer terminal at a designated test centre and select answers by clicking, rather than taking the exam over the internet.
40. How is the computer-based format different from a paper-based format?
In the computer-based format, candidates read questions on a computer terminal and click the correct answer, or type the answer for non-MCQ questions. A timer on screen shows the remaining time for the current section. In a paper-based format, candidates would read from a paper booklet and mark answers with a pencil.
41. Can a candidate take the exam from any computer of their choice?
No. Candidates must take the exam on a workstation assigned at the test centre based on the test cities selected during registration. Test centre details are printed on the admit card.
42. When will the CAT 2026 mock test be available?
The CAT 2026 Mock Test link will be available from November 12, 2026, on the official CAT website.
43. Can candidates carry their own rough paper, scribbling pad, pen, or pencil to the exam?
No. Candidates are provided only one scribble pad and pen at the test centre for rough work. All rough work must be done on this pad only; no extra scribble pad is provided. Writing anywhere else, including on the admit card, is treated as use of unfair means. PwBD candidates with blindness or low vision are provided an additional scribble pad of standard size upon request.
44. Can candidates take the scribble pad home after the exam?
No. Invigilators collect the scribble pad from candidates once the exam is over.
45. Can candidates choose their exam shift or test date?
No. The examination shift (forenoon, afternoon, or evening) is allocated based on the city preference made at the time of application. Candidates cannot select their shift.
46. Can candidates bring a calculator to the test centre?
No. Calculators are prohibited. An onscreen calculator is available throughout the exam.
47. Is there negative marking for non-MCQ type questions?
No. There are no negative marks for non-MCQ type questions.
48. Do non-MCQ questions carry the same marks as MCQs?
Yes. All questions carry equal marks. However, for non-MCQ type questions, candidates must type the answer rather than select an option.
49. Is there a fixed order for attempting the three CAT 2026 sections?
Yes. Candidates must answer the sections in a specific order, and this order remains the same for all candidates.
50. Does CAT 2026 have a defined syllabus?
No. CAT does not have a defined syllabus for preparation. Candidates are advised to attempt the mock test to understand the exam pattern and question types.
51. What is the CAT 2026 marking scheme?
For MCQ-type questions: each correct answer is awarded 3 marks, an incorrect answer results in a deduction of 1 mark, and no marks are given or deducted for unattempted questions. For non-MCQ type questions: 3 marks are assigned for a correct answer, and no marks are given for an incorrect answer or no attempt.
52. Can candidates carry medicines or restricted items into the exam hall?
As an exception, candidates may be permitted to carry medicines or other restricted items essential for medical or strictly unavoidable reasons, on production of a permission letter from the exam conducting authority. To obtain this, candidates must submit a special request using the Authorization Form (available on the CAT website), along with supporting documents and the admit card, to the CAT Helpdesk. The approval must be produced at the test centre in addition to routine screening.
53. How does the CAT 2026 exam handle charts, diagrams, and graphs for visually impaired (VI) candidates?
The CAT question paper for VI candidates is designed without any graphs, charts, or diagrams.
54. Can VI candidates adjust screen magnification?
Yes. Two levels of screen magnification are available in the software, exclusively for VI candidates.
55. Can candidates adjust the screen brightness of their computer monitor?
Screen brightness can be adjusted to appropriate levels, but only by the invigilator. Candidates must request the invigilator if adjustment is needed.
56. What happens if a candidate faces a technical issue during the exam?
Candidates should inform the invigilator immediately. The system will be locked by the technical support team and the candidate will be assigned a new system. The timer is paused during the system shift, so no total exam time is lost.
57. Can candidates take a bio-break during the CAT 2026 exam?
Bio-breaks are not allowed except in cases of emergency or medical conditions. If a candidate takes a bio-break, they will be re-frisked upon re-entry to the exam lab, and any time lost during this process will not be compensated under any circumstances. Candidates are advised to plan accordingly and avoid bio-breaks unless absolutely necessary.
Which IIMs and Programmes Accept CAT 2026 Scores?
A. Post Graduate Programmes in Management (PGP)
Institute | Programmes | Website |
IIM Ahmedabad | PGP, PGP-FABM, MBA-BPGP: BA & AI | |
IIM Amritsar | MBA, MBA-Business Analytics, MBA-HRM, Executive MBA, M.Sc. in Data Science and Management (MSDSM) | |
IIM Bangalore | PGP, PGPEM, PGPBA, PGPPM | |
IIM Bodh Gaya | MBA, MBA (Digital Business and AI), MBA (Hospital and Healthcare Management), Executive MBA (EMBA) | |
IIM Calcutta | MBA | |
IIM Guwahati | MBA | |
IIM Indore | PGP, PGP-HRM, MSDSM, PGPMX | |
IIM Jammu | MBA, MBA (Healthcare), MBA (AI & Business Analytics), Executive MBA | |
IIM Kashipur | MBA, MBA (Analytics), EMBA, EMBA (Analytics) | |
IIM Kozhikode | PGP, PGP-BL, PGP-FINANCE, PGP-LSM, EPGP-IL, EPGP Kochi | |
IIM Lucknow | MBA, MBA-ABM, MBA-SM, PGPWE, Blended MBA, Tech-MBA | |
IIM Mumbai | MBA, MBA (Operations and Supply Chain Management), MBA (Sustainability Management) | |
IIM Nagpur | MBA, E-MBA, BMWP (Blended MBA for Working Professionals), EMBA-EM (EMBA in Energy Management) | |
IIM Raipur | MBA, Executive MBA, MBA in Public Policy and Governance (only for Chhattisgarh State domicile) | |
IIM Ranchi | MBA, MBA-HRM, MBA (Business Analytics) | |
IIM Rohtak | PGP, EPGDSM, PGPx | |
IIM Sambalpur | MBA, MBA-BA, MBA for Working Professionals | |
IIM Shillong | PGP, PGPEX, PGP(WE) | |
IIM Sirmaur | MBA, MBA (Tourism Management), MBA (Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Management), PGPEX-LSM, ExMBA (Artificial Intelligence) | |
IIM Tiruchirappalli | PGPM (MBA), PGPM-HR (MBA-HR), PGPBM (MBA for Working Executives in Chennai) | |
IIM Udaipur | MBA, MBA-DEM (Digital Enterprise Management), MBA-GSCM (Global Supply Chain Management), Executive MBA (Online) | |
IIM Visakhapatnam | PGP, EMBA, PGPMCI, PGDMEx, MBA-AI & Innovation |
B. Fellow Programmes in Management (FPM/PhD)
Institute | Programmes | Website |
IIM Ahmedabad | Doctoral Programme in Management | |
IIM Amritsar | PhD | |
IIM Bangalore | PhD | |
IIM Bodh Gaya | PhD | |
IIM Calcutta | Doctoral Programme (PhD) | |
IIM Indore | Doctoral Programme in Management | |
IIM Jammu | PhD, PhD (Working Professionals) | |
IIM Kashipur | PhD, Executive PhD | |
IIM Kozhikode | DPM, DPM (Teaching Track), DPM (Practice Track) | |
IIM Lucknow | PhD | |
IIM Mumbai | Ph.D., Ph.D. (Executive) | |
IIM Nagpur | PhD, E-PhD | |
IIM Raipur | PhD, PhD (Practice Track) | |
IIM Ranchi | PhD, EPhD | |
IIM Rohtak | PhD | |
IIM Sambalpur | PhD, Executive PhD | |
IIM Shillong | Doctoral Program, Doctoral Program (WP) | |
IIM Sirmaur | PhD, PhD (Executive) | |
IIM Tiruchirappalli | PhD, Executive PhD | |
IIM Udaipur | PhD, Executive PhD | |
IIM Visakhapatnam | Doctoral Program (PhD), Executive PhD Program (Exec-PhD) | www.iimv.ac.in |
Separate advertisements may appear for programmes other than PGP, specific to each participating IIM. Before deciding to appear for CAT 2026, candidates should visit the website and read the programme advertisement of the concerned IIM to confirm accurate and updated eligibility requirements and admission processes for the specific programme they intend to apply for.
Source ranking reference: Poets & Quants Top MBA Admissions Consultants list, published May 18, 2026.