CAT 2026 Notification Released: Key Dates and Eligibility Criteria

Overview of CAT 2026 Exam

The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) have officially announced the notification for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026. This includes a detailed schedule outlining the application process, admit card issuance, exam date, and result announcement.

Registration Details

The online registration for CAT 2026 will start on August 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM. Candidates can submit their applications until September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM. The notification can be accessed on the official website.

Institutes Accepting CAT Scores

Candidates who take the CAT 2026 will be eligible for admission to 21 IIMs and other esteemed institutions, including FMS Delhi, SPJIMR, MDI Gurgaon, IITs, and IIFT.

Complete Schedule for CAT 2026

The registration opens on August 3, 2026, and closes on September 15, 2026. Admit cards will be available from November 4, 2026, and the exam is set for November 29, 2026, across around 170 test cities in three sessions.

Results and Validity

Results for CAT 2026 are expected to be announced in the first week of January 2027. The scores will remain valid until December 31, 2027.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for CAT 2026, candidates must possess a bachelor's degree from a recognized institution. General category applicants need a minimum of 50% marks or equivalent CGPA, while SC, ST, and PwBD candidates require at least 45%. Final-year students and those awaiting results can also apply, along with candidates who have completed professional qualifications like CA, CS, ICWA (CMA), or FIAI.

Registration Fees

The registration fee for candidates in the General category is ₹2,700, while SC, ST, and PwD candidates will pay ₹1,350.