Important Details on CAT 2026: Exam Dates, Eligibility, and Registration

The notification for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 has been released, detailing essential information such as exam dates, eligibility criteria, and registration fees. The exam will take place on November 29, 2026, with applications opening on August 3 and closing on September 15. Candidates can expect results in January 2027. This article provides a comprehensive overview of what prospective students need to know to prepare for the CAT 2026.

By Ambika Singh Jul 27, 2026, 10:00 IST

Overview of CAT 2026

CAT 2026 Announcement: The notification for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 has been officially released. The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) will administer the CAT exam in 170 cities across the country on Sunday, November 29, 2026, divided into three sessions. The application window will open on August 3 at 10:00 AM and will close on September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM.

Admission Process

Successful candidates will gain admission to 21 IIMs and other prestigious business schools, including FMS Delhi, SPJIMR, MDI Gurgaon, IITs, and IIFT.

Key Dates and Results

Results Announcement:
The detailed notification for CAT 2026 is now available on the official website. The admit card will be accessible online starting November 4, 2026, with the exam scheduled for November 29, 2026. Results are anticipated to be released in the first week of January 2027. Candidates should be aware that the CAT 2026 score will be valid until December 31, 2027.

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply:
Applicants must possess a bachelor's degree from a recognized institution with at least 50% marks (or 45% for SC/ST/PwD candidates). Final-year students are also eligible to apply, and there is no upper age limit.

Exam Structure

Exam Format:
The CAT 2026 exam pattern is expected to remain consistent with that of CAT 2025. It will consist of 68 questions divided into three sections: 24 questions in Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), 22 in Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and 22 in Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Each section will have a strict time limit of 40 minutes, and candidates will not be allowed to switch sections. Approximately 70% of the questions will be Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), while 30% will be 'Type-in-the-Answer' (TITA) questions. A penalty of one mark will be applied for incorrect answers to MCQs.

Registration Fees

Cost to Register:
The registration fee for CAT 2026 is set at ₹2,700 for candidates in the General category and ₹1,350 for those belonging to SC, ST, and PwD categories. Candidates are encouraged to frequently check iimcat.ac.in for the latest updates.