CAT 2026 Registration Begins: Apply Online, Eligibility, Application Fee & Important Dates
CAT 2026 registration has started at iimcat.ac.in. Check eligibility, application fee, important dates, exam schedule, required documents, and the official CAT 2026 application link.
The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 registration process has officially started. Conducted by IIM Indore, CAT is the gateway for admission to MBA and other postgraduate management programmes offered by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and several top B-schools across India. Eligible candidates can submit their online applications through the official CAT website until 15 September 2026. The examination will be held on 29 November 2026 in approximately 170 cities across India.
CAT 2026 Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 |
| Conducting Institute | IIM Indore |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Registration Starts | 3 August 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 15 September 2026 (5:00 PM) |
| Exam Date | 29 November 2026 (Sunday) |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Exam Cities | Approximately 170 cities across India |
| Official Website | https://iimcat.ac.in |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Begins | 3 August 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 15 September 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | 4 November 2026 |
| CAT 2026 Examination | 29 November 2026 |
| Exam Sessions | Three Sessions |
The detailed admission schedule will be announced after the declaration of CAT results.
CAT 2026 Application Fee
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General / EWS / NC-OBC | ₹2,700 |
| SC / ST / PwD | ₹1,350 |
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must satisfy the following eligibility requirements:
- Hold a Bachelor's degree from a recognized university.
- Minimum 50% marks or equivalent CGPA for General/EWS/NC-OBC candidates.
- Minimum 45% marks for SC, ST, and PwD candidates.
- Final-year undergraduate students who are expected to complete their degree within the prescribed timeline are also eligible to apply.
How to Apply Online
- Visit the official CAT portal. Click Here
- Click on New Candidate Registration.
- Register using a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill in the online application form.
- Upload the required documents.
- Select preferred test cities and programmes.
- Pay the application fee online.
- Submit the form and download the confirmation page.
Documents Required
- Passport-size photograph
- Signature
- Graduation marksheets/details
- Category/PwD certificate (if applicable)
- Valid email ID and mobile number
- Identity proof
CAT 2026 Exam Highlights
- Conducted in three sessions on a single day.
- Scores are accepted by all IIMs and numerous leading management institutes, including several IIT MBA programmes and other premier B-schools.
- CAT scores are used for admission to MBA, PGDM, and doctoral management programmes.
Official Application Link
Apply Online: Click Here
FAQ
When is the last date to apply for CAT 2026?
The last date to submit the CAT 2026 online application is 15 September 2026 (5:00 PM).
Who can apply for CAT 2026?
Candidates with a bachelor's degree securing at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD) are eligible. Final-year students can also apply.
What is the CAT 2026 exam date?
CAT 2026 will be conducted on 29 November 2026 (Sunday) in three sessions.
What is the CAT 2026 application fee?
The application fee is ₹2,700 for General/EWS/NC-OBC candidates and ₹1,350 for SC/ST/PwD candidates.
Where can I apply for CAT 2026?
Eligible candidates can register online through the official CAT website: https://iimcat.ac.in