CAT 2026 registration begins at iimcat.ac.in, check important dates

As per the announced schedule for the forthcoming CAT 2026, the exam authority will release the admit cards on November 4 at the online portal. Note that only registered candidates will be able to download the admit card once released by IIM Indore.

CAT 2026: How to apply?

Candidates can register for the CAT 2026 by following these steps:

Step 1: Visit the official CAT website at iimcat.ac.in.

Step 2: Register as a new user using a valid email ID and mobile number and create login credentials.

Step 3: Log in and fill in the application form with personal, academic and other required details.

Step 4: Select the preferred test cities and other examination-related choices.

Step 5: Upload the required documents and pay the application fee online.

Step 6: Submit the application form and check the confirmation page.

Step 7: Download and save a copy of the completed application form and confirmation for future reference.

CAT 2026 application fee

Candidates belonging to the General, Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and Other Backward Classes – Non-Creamy Layer (NC-OBC) categories have to pay an application fee of Rs 2,600. The fee for SC, ST and PwD candidates is Rs 1,300. The application fee can be paid through the online payment modes available on the CAT 2026 portal.

CAT 2026 exam pattern

CAT 2026 will be a 120-minute computer-based test comprising 68 questions divided across three sections — Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA).

Candidates will get 40 minutes for each section and will not be allowed to switch between sections while answering the test.

The CAT score will be used for admission to the postgraduate and fellow/doctoral programmes of the IIMs. Other institutions may also use CAT scores for their admission processes, subject to their respective eligibility and admission criteria.