The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 will implement AI-based facial recognition technology for the first time, enhancing candidate identity verification at examination centres. This initiative aims to prevent impersonation and ensure the integrity of the examination process. Himanshu Rai, Director of IIM Indore, confirmed that this technology will be utilised across all centres where the examination is conducted.

Rai stated, “Yes, it is being introduced for the first time for CAT. The procedure will be implemented across all examination centres.” This development marks a significant step in the evolution of the examination, which is overseen by IIM Indore this year.

Addressing Candidates’ Concerns

Despite the benefits of AI verification, candidates have expressed concerns regarding potential entry denials due to technical issues, such as poor image quality or system errors. To alleviate these worries, Rai assured that measures have been established to ensure that genuine candidates will not face entry difficulties. “A standard operating procedure has been developed to address such eventualities,” he explained.

Rai further emphasised that the new system is designed to prevent any candidates from being denied entry due to mismatches during the verification process. The institute is committed to ensuring that all applicants can sit for the examination without undue hassle. The introduction of this technology is expected to bolster the examination’s credibility while maintaining a smooth entry process for all candidates. IIM Indore is taking proactive steps to ensure that the implementation is seamless and effective.

Functionality and Privacy Considerations

The AI facial recognition mechanism will function as an additional layer of identity verification at examination centres. It will compare the candidate’s face with the photograph submitted during the application process. Rai highlighted that the primary goal of this technology is to enhance the verification process and prevent impersonation.

Concerns regarding the collection and storage of candidates’ personal data have also been raised. In response, Rai clarified that the facial recognition system will strictly be used for identity matching and will not involve the storage of any new data. “The facial recognition mechanism is used solely to match the candidate present at the examination centre with the photograph submitted at the time of application,” he stated.

However, Rai did not provide specific details regarding data retention timelines or the technical safeguards that will be in place to protect candidates’ facial information. This lack of detail may leave some candidates seeking further clarification on how their data will be handled.

Purpose of AI Verification in CAT 2026

The CAT is the national-level entrance examination for postgraduate management programmes at Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other business schools. The introduction of AI-based facial recognition for CAT 2026 represents a significant advancement in the examination’s identity verification process.

This technological enhancement aims to reduce instances of impersonation while ensuring that genuine candidates are not inconvenienced by potential technical failures during the verification process. The move reflects a broader trend towards integrating technology in educational assessments, aiming to uphold the integrity of the examination system.

As CAT 2026 approaches, IIM Indore is focused on ensuring that the implementation of AI verification is smooth and effective, thereby reinforcing the credibility of the examination and safeguarding the interests of all candidates involved.

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