CAT 2026 Overview

The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 is a national level exam for students aspiring to pursue an MBA at IIMs in India. The CAT 2026 exam will be conducted by IIM Kozhikode. Registration for the IIM CAT was open from August 1 to September 20, 2026, and the exam is scheduled for November 30, 2026. For more details, check the table below.

CAT 2026 - Summary

CAT 2026 Correction Window

CAT 2026 application correction window opened on October 4, 2026, and remained active until October 7, 2026. During this period, candidates could log in to the official IIM CAT portal on its website and make edits to specific fields in their application form. Only limited details such as uploaded photographs, signatures, and certain exam city preferences can be corrected. No changes will be allowed once the window closes. Candidates are advised to carefully review their form and make necessary corrections before the deadline.

CAT 2026 Registration

The registration for the CAT exam 2026 started on August 1, 2026, at 10:00 AM and concluded on September 20, 2026, at 5:00 PM, as per IIM Kozhikode’s announcement. Candidates were required to complete their application on the official CAT portal within this window to be eligible for the exam. To avoid last-minute technical issues, it is strongly recommended to fill out the application form well in advance of the deadline.

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CAT Exam Date 2026

Candidates need to fulfil the CAT eligibility criteria to be able to apply for the top B-schools and other MBA Colleges in India. The CAT exam date 2026 is listed in the table below along with other important dates related to IIM CAT exam.

How to fill CAT Application Form 2026?

Candidates who wish to fill the CAT 2026 application form can go through the step-by-step process mentioned here. The registration for CAT exam 2026 started from August 1, 2026, and ended on September 20, 2026.

• Visit the official CAT website, iimcat.ac.in
• Click on 'New Candidate Registration' and enter your personal details
• Pay the application fee online using payment methods like credit/debit cards, UPI, or Net Banking
• Login using the User ID and password you received during registration.
• Proceed to fill out the application form
• Provide all required details carefully and accurately
• Upload scanned copies of the necessary documents, such as your photo, signature, and category certificate (if applicable)
• Review your application form to ensure all information is correct, then click on Submit
• Download the CAT application form for future reference

CAT 2026 Application Fees

The CAT Application fees 2026 are to be paid at the end of the application process to confirm the CAT registration. The payment can be made through various online modes, ensuring a secure and convenient transaction for all applicants.

CAT 2026 IIM Selection Process

The selection process for CAT 2026 involves multiple stages and varies across institutes. Indian Institute of Management (IIM) follows its own admission policy and shortlisting criteria, which are published on their respective official websites. The CAT score plays a vital role in the selection process for IIMs and other participating B-schools.

CAT 2026 exam pattern, set by the IIMs, includes three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). The exam duration is 120 minutes, candidates have to clear & score well in order to get the preferred institute.

CAT 2026 Exam Eligibility

All the undergraduate candidates who want to pursue PG Management courses must fulfil all the eligibility criteria. In order to complete the registration process, candidates must meet the minimum eligibility criteria stated by the conducting authority for CAT exam 2026. Remember the application fees will not be refunded once paid.

Have a look at the CAT 2026 Eligibility for the CAT exam 2026: Applicants must hold a Bachelor's Degree, with a minimum of 50% marks or CGPA by any university (45% for the candidates from the SC/ST/PWD category). Those candidates who have completed a professional degree (CA/CS/ICWA) with a minimum of 50% or equivalent (45% for the Reserved category) are also eligible to apply. Applicants from the final year of their bachelor’s degree or waiting for results are also eligible to apply for the CAT exam.

CAT 2026 Exam Pattern

CAT is a computer-based test conducted in three shifts with a total duration of 2 hours. Candidates are required to answer 68 questions divided into three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) with 24 questions, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) with 22 questions, and Quantitative Aptitude (QA) with 22 questions. Each correct answer is awarded 3 marks, while 1 mark is deducted for each incorrect answer. There is no negative marking for unanswered questions. The exam has a sectional time limit of 40 minutes per section (53.20 minutes for PwD candidates). Once the time for a section is over, the screen automatically moves to the next section. Candidates must follow the fixed order of sections – starting with VARC, followed by DILR, and then QA – and cannot return to previous sections.

CAT 2026 Syllabus

CAT 2026 Syllabus outlines the key topics and sections that candidates need to focus on while preparing for the exam. A strong understanding of the syllabus helps aspirants plan their schedule effectively. The exam is divided into three main sections: i.e. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, and Quantitative Aptitude. Each section has equal weightage, so comprehensive preparation for all sections is crucial.

CAT Study Material

CAT 2026 study material is a key resource for candidates preparing for this exam. It includes books, mock tests, sample papers, previous year question papers, and online resources that help improve your skills in Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability, Logical Reasoning, and Data Interpretation. With the right CAT preparation material candidates can understand the exam pattern, practice time management and boost their confidence. Make sure to choose the latest and most trusted CAT study material for the best results.

CAT 2026 Exam Preparation Tips

Given below are some CAT Exam 2026 Preparation Tips which can help you prepare for the Examination. Start by thoroughly understanding the exam pattern and syllabus. Familiarize yourself with the sections, topics, and marking scheme. This will help you create a structured study plan.

Solve CAT Previous Year Question Papers. This will not only familiarize you with the exam pattern but also help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. Focus more on areas where you face difficulty and work on improving them.

Take regular CAT mock tests to assess your preparation level. Analyze your performance in these tests and identify areas that need improvement.

Allocate dedicated time for revision in your study schedule. Make concise notes of important points, formulas, and concepts to aid in quick revision. CAT Exam 2026 Preparation tips will help you prepare better for the exam.

CAT Exam 2026 Cut Off

IIM Kozhikode will announce the qualifying CAT cut-off marks before the exam and release the final cut-offs marks after the results are out. MBA admission to all B-schools, including IIMs and non-IIMs, is based on the CAT cut-off, which is the minimum score needed to get shortlisted. Candidates can find more details about the CAT Exam 2026 Cut Off by following the attached link.

CAT Exam 2026 Admit Card

The CAT 2026 admit card will be issued on November 5, 2026. It contains essential information such as the candidate's name, registration number, exam date, reporting time, exam center address, and important instructions. It's advised to download and print the admit card well in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles and to ensure a smooth and stress-free exam experience.

CAT Exam 2026 Answer Key

CAT 2026 Answer Key will be issued in the form of a response sheet 3-4 days after the exam is conducted. It provides transparency in the evaluation process and allows candidates to compare their responses with the officially released key. CAT Answer key 2026 challenge window will allow you to raise objections against the provisional answer key for the written exam. If there are any valid objections then they will be revised and a final answer key will be published.

CAT 2026 Result

The CAT 2026 result will be announced soon after the final answer key will be published. This will allow the candidates to move further with the selection process. This CAT Score will allow the candidates to decide which college to consider to pursue MBA programs across India's top business schools.

CAT 2026 Conducting IIMs

CAT 2026 will be conducted by IIM Kozhikode, the table given below shows the IIMs that have conducted the exam in past years.

CAT Exam Centres

The CAT 2026 exam will be conducted across approximately 375 test centres in 170 cities across India to ensure candidates have convenient access to nearby locations. The CAT examination authorities allocate a CAT exam centre based on the candidate’s preferred cities and home address to minimize travel and ensure timely arrival on the CAT exam date 2026. The complete list of CAT exam cities was released along with the application form on August 1, 2026. While completing the CAT 2026 registration, candidates could select up to five preferred cities for test centre allocation. It’s important to note that once the form is submitted, no changes can be made to the selected test city, so candidates should make their choices carefully before the CAT exam date 2026 approaches.

CAT 2026 Mock Test

Preparing for the CAT 2026 exam requires more than just studying concepts; it demands real-time practice under exam-like conditions. Taking regular mock tests is crucial for building confidence, improving time management, and identifying areas that need improvement. Testbook’s CAT Mock Test Series offers a comprehensive platform to simulate the actual exam experience.

• Full-Length Mock Tests: These simulate the actual CAT exam, helping you build stamina and accuracy under pressure.
• Sectional Tests: Focused practice on individual sections like VARC, DILR, and QA to strengthen specific areas.
• Previous Year Papers (PYPs): Familiarize yourself with the types of questions asked in previous exams.
• Detailed Performance Analysis: Receive insights into your strengths and weaknesses, along with percentile predictions.
• Bilingual Support: Tests available in both English and Hindi to cater to a wider audience.

CAT Formula Sheet 2026

The CAT Formula Sheet 2026 is a comprehensive guide that compiles all the essential formulas and shortcuts needed for the Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and Data Interpretation sections of the CAT exam. It helps aspirants revise key concepts quickly and solve problems with greater accuracy. Having a structured CAT Formula Sheet 2026 saves time during preparation and boosts confidence before the exam. Regular practice with this sheet ensures better speed, accuracy, and conceptual clarity for achieving a higher percentile.

We hope that candidates have got all the information regarding the CAT 2026 Exam. Aspirants who want to score a nice percentile in CAT exam and get into IIMs must prepare well for the examination. Apart from the books listed above candidates can download our Testbook App. Here you will get section-wise mock tests, various practice sets, the previous year's paper, and much more.

CAT 2026 Syllabus

The CAT 2026 syllabus covers Quants, English, and Logical reasoning topics from Class 10th level but with higher difficulty. The paper includes MCQ and non-MCQ with 40 minutes for each section. Arithmetic, Algebra, and Geometry carry more weight, so candidates should prepare these well. One mark is deducted for wrong MCQ answers.

CAT 2026 Syllabus Topics

• Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus: Covers Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Mensuration from Class 10 level, tested at higher difficulty.
• Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension Syllabus: Focuses on reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and verbal ability questions like para jumbles and sentence correction.
• Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation Syllabus: Includes puzzles, seating arrangements, data interpretation, and logical problem-solving questions.

CAT 2026 Syllabus

The CAT 2026 syllabus covers Quants, English, and Logical reasoning topics from Class 10th level but with higher difficulty. The paper includes MCQ and non-MCQ with 40 minutes for each section. Arithmetic, Algebra, and Geometry carry more weight, so candidates should prepare these well. One mark is deducted for wrong MCQ answers.

CAT 2026 Syllabus Topics

• Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus: Covers Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Mensuration from Class 10 level, tested at higher difficulty.
• Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension Syllabus: Focuses on reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and verbal ability questions like para jumbles and sentence correction.
• Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation Syllabus: Includes puzzles, seating arrangements, data interpretation, and logical problem-solving questions.

CAT MBA Syllabus 2026 PDF Download

The CAT Syllabus 2026 PDF includes access to the complete syllabus for the Common Admission Test (CAT). The syllabus encompasses three major sections Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). The direct link to download CAT MBA Syllabus 2026 PDF shared below.

CAT Syllabus 2026 Section Wise Distribution

CAT VARC Syllabus 2026

The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section in CAT 2026 has 24 questions in total. It includes passages from different genres and verbal ability questions that test a candidate’s reading skills, grammar, and logical arrangement of ideas. The Verbal Ability and Reading comprehension sections are divided into two parts.

CAT VARC 2026 Syllabus

• Reading Comprehension Passage Based Questions
• Para completion
• Vocabulary-based (Synonyms/Antonyms)
• English usage or grammar
• Fill in the blanks
• Cloze Passage
• Para Jumbles
• Odd- Sentences
• Verbal reasoning
• Summary questions
• Meaning- Usage match
• Sentence Correction
• Para Summary
• Jumbled paragraph
• Facts- Inferences- Judgements
• Reading comprehension
• Analogies or Reverse analogies

CAT DILR Syllabus 2026

The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) portion of the CAT exam tests an individual's skills in analyzing, interpreting, and working with data along with their logical reasoning abilities. The DILR syllabus includes many topics, covering tables, and graphs, along with caselets based on conditions.

CAT DILR 2026 Syllabus

• Logical Reasoning: Routes and networks, Scheduling and allocation, Grids, Arrangements, Word puzzles, Math puzzles, Games and tournaments, Coding decoding.
• Data Interpretation: Bar graphs, Tables, Venn diagrams, Line graphs, Pie charts, Scatter plots, Gantt charts, Radar charts.

CAT Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2026

The Quantitative Aptitude (QA) section of the CAT exam is designed to assess a candidate's proficiency in mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills. The questions and topics asked are based on classes 10 & 12.

CAT QA 2026 Syllabus

• Arithmetic: Averages, Ratio, Percentages
• Algebra: Linear equations, Quadratic equations, Polynomials, Binomial Theorem
• Geometry: 2D, 3D, Coordinate geometry
• Number Theory: LCM/HCF, Divisibility, Remainders, Factorials, Base systems, Logarithms
• Modern Math: PnC, Probability, Surds and Indices, Set theory, Progressions

CAT Exam Pattern 2026

It is necessary to be aware of the exam pattern before you start preparing for the CAT 2026. The CAT consists of three sections and is conducted in the mode of Computer-Based Test (CBT). Each section is separately timed.

Tips to Crack CAT MBA Exam 2026

• Know the syllabus thoroughly and focus more on weak areas.
• Create a study plan that covers all three sections and gives time for revision.
• Solve CAT mock tests regularly and analyze performance after every test.
• Use previous year papers to understand question patterns.
• Don’t skip any section. Balanced preparation is key.
• Work on speed and accuracy by solving sample questions with a timer.
• Stay consistent in preparation, even if you start small.
• Stay calm and positive, especially during practice and exam time.

Preparation Strategy for CAT Exam

Cracking the CAT exam requires a clear strategy and consistent practice. Below are some direct preparation tips to help you maximize your score.

• Learn the CAT pattern: 3 sections (VARC, DILR, QA), 2 hours, 40 mins each.
• Start with basics of Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratio, Time-Speed-Distance), Algebra, Geometry.
• For VARC, read editorials daily + solve 4–5 RC passages every week.
• For DILR, practice 2 sets daily (tables, charts, puzzles, arrangements).
• Take topic-wise tests after each concept.
• Begin mocks after 1 month of basics → 1 mock every 2 weeks, then weekly.
• After each mock: note mistakes, revise weak topics, and reattempt wrong questions.
• Maintain formula sheet for QA, note RC strategies, and shortcuts for DILR.
• Last 3 months: solve previous 5 years’ CAT papers.
• Last 1 month: 3–4 mocks weekly, focus on accuracy over attempts.
• Exam day rule: attempt easy questions first, skip tough ones, manage time strictly.

We hope we have provided all the information to you. For a clear understanding and better scores, download the Testbook App today for interactive concept-based learning. Prep up your learning journey with Testbook!

CAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria

MBA aspirants appearing for the CAT exam 2026 must meet the required eligibility criteria before registering for the IIM CAT exam. These include educational qualification, minimum marks, age limit, backlog eligibility, attempt limit, and nationality. The official notification for CAT 2026 has been released, and the details are given below. Check if you meet the CAT eligibility before applying.

CAT Eligibility Criteria 2026

• Educational Qualification for CAT 2026: Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognised university. Students in their final year of graduation can also apply for the CAT exam 2026.
• Minimum Marks Required in Graduation: A minimum of 50% aggregate marks or equivalent CGPA is required for General and OBC categories. SC, ST, and PwD category candidates need 45% marks to meet the CAT 2026 eligibility conditions.
• Age Limit for CAT Exam 2026: There is no age limit specified by IIMs to appear for the CAT 2026 exam. Applicants of any age who meet the qualification and marks criteria can register.
• Backlog Status: Aspirants with active backlogs during their graduation can still apply for the CAT exam 2026, provided they submit required documents later.
• CAT Exam Attempt Limit: There is no restriction on the number of attempts for the CAT exam. Candidates can appear for CAT every year if they fulfil the eligibility norms.
• Nationality Requirement: The exam is open to Indian citizens and also to foreign nationals who meet the degree and marks requirements.
• Work Experience Requirement: Work experience is not mandatory for CAT 2026. Both fresh graduates and working professionals can appear for the exam.

How to Check Eligibility for CAT Exam?

Visit the official website, iimcat.ac.in. Look for the latest CAT 2026 information bulletin or notification on the homepage. Click on it to download the PDF file. Scroll through the document and find the section titled 'Eligibility Criteria'. Check all the points like nationality, residency, educational qualification, and age. See if you meet all the conditions listed and apply for the exam.

Reservation Criteria For CAT Exam 2026

The CAT reservation criteria 2026 explain how seats are divided among different categories in IIMs. Knowing the CAT 2026 reservation helps candidates understand their chances of admission and plan their preparation better.

To find more details about the exam, pieces of information, and additional resources for the examination, download the Testbook App now. The app contains all the information about each of the topics in detail.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions regarding the CAT 2026 exam along with their answers to help candidates prepare better.

1. What is the CAT Exam?

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national level entrance exam conducted for admission into various management programs offered by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top business schools across India.

2. Who conducts the CAT Exam?

The CAT exam is conducted by one of the IIMs on a rotational basis. For 2026, the exam will be conducted by IIM Kozhikode.

3. What is the eligibility criteria for CAT 2026?

Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PWD candidates). There is no age limit for appearing for the exam.

4. How can I apply for CAT 2026?

Candidates can apply for CAT 2026 by visiting the official CAT website, iimcat.ac.in, and following the registration process outlined there.

5. When will the CAT 2026 exam be held?

The CAT 2026 exam is scheduled to be conducted on November 30, 2026.

6. What is the exam pattern for CAT 2026?

The CAT exam consists of three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Each section is timed, with a total duration of 120 minutes.

7. Is there negative marking in CAT 2026?

Yes, there is negative marking for incorrect answers in the MCQ type questions. One mark will be deducted for each wrong answer, while unanswered questions will not incur any penalty.

8. How can I prepare for CAT 2026?

Candidates should start by understanding the exam syllabus and pattern, practicing previous year question papers, taking mock tests, and focusing on their weak areas to improve their overall performance.

9. How are CAT scores used for admission?

CAT scores are used by IIMs and other participating institutions for shortlisting candidates for admission into their MBA programs. Each institute has its own cutoff score and selection criteria.

10. When will the CAT 2026 results be announced?

The CAT 2026 results are expected to be announced in the first week of January 2026, following the release of the final answer key.