The registration for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 is set to commence on August 3, 2026, at 10 am, as announced on the official website, iimcat.ac.in. The examination is scheduled to take place on Sunday, November 29, 2026, across nearly 170 test cities in three distinct sessions. CAT serves as a critical entry point for candidates seeking admission to various prestigious business schools, including 21 Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). Candidates interested in participating must submit their applications by September 15, 2026, before the deadline of 5 pm.

Important Dates and Notification Details

A comprehensive notification for CAT 2026 has been released, detailing crucial dates and procedures. Candidates can view the full PDF of the notification on the official website. Notable events include the release of admit cards on November 4, 2026, which will be available for download until the date of the exam. The results are projected to be announced in the first week of January 2027. It is important for prospective test-takers to remember that the scores obtained in this examination will remain valid until December 31, 2027.

Prospective candidates should take note of the following essential dates related to the CAT 2026: the commencement of registration on August 3, 2026; the final application date on September 15, 2026; the admit card release on November 4, 2026; and the examination itself on November 29, 2026. This timeline allows candidates to prepare adequately in advance.

The CAT examination has a significant role in shaping the future of management education in India, making it imperative for candidates to stay informed about all developments and deadlines associated with the test. Interested individuals can visit the official website for continuous updates and further details.

Eligibility Criteria for CAT 2026

Candidates aiming to register for CAT 2026 must possess a Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university or institution, achieving a minimum of 50 per cent marks or equivalent CGPA. For candidates belonging to the SC, ST, and PwD categories, the minimum requirement is set at 45 per cent. Moreover, final-year undergraduate students and those awaiting their results are encouraged to apply, provided they meet the eligibility criteria by the time of the examination.

In addition to standard undergraduate degrees, those with professional qualifications such as CA, CS, ICWA, and CFA, or students in their final year of graduation who meet the requisite marks are also eligible to sit for the exam. This inclusivity allows a broader range of candidates to aspire for management education through CAT.

It is essential for candidates to ensure they fulfil the eligibility requirements before applying to avoid any discrepancies later in the process. The examination committee will verify these qualifications as part of the selection process.

Registration Fees for CAT 2026

The fee structure for CAT 2026 has been established, with a registration cost of Rs. 2,700 for candidates belonging to the General category. For those in the SC, ST, and PwD groups, the fee is reduced to Rs. 1,350. This fee structure aims to make the examination accessible while covering the administrative costs associated with conducting such a large-scale test.

Applicants are encouraged to complete their registrations early, as this could help avoid any last-minute issues with payment or technical glitches on the website. Once the registration opens, detailed instructions will be available online, guiding candidates through the application process.

Potential candidates are advised to review all relevant information and ensure their applications are completed accurately and within the stipulated timeframe. Visiting the official website will provide further insights and updates regarding CAT 2026. Such diligence is crucial for a smooth application experience.

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