The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore will open registration for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 on August 3. This exam is a key gateway for admission into MBA programs at IIMs and other top business schools across India. Candidates can apply through the official CAT website, iimcat.ac.in, and must complete their applications by September 15.
CAT 2026 is scheduled for November 29 and will be conducted in three sessions at 170 test centers nationwide. This year, the application fee has increased, with general, EWS, and NC-OBC candidates required to pay Rs 2,700, while SC, ST, and PwBD candidates will pay Rs 1,350. Admit cards will be available from November 4 until the exam day, and results are expected in the first week of January 2027.
Understanding the CAT Exam and Its Importance
The Common Admission Test is one of the most competitive MBA entrance exams in India. Conducted annually by one of the Indian Institutes of Management on a rotating basis, CAT assesses candidates on quantitative ability, verbal ability, data interpretation, and logical reasoning. Success in CAT opens doors to prestigious management programs, influencing career trajectories in business and leadership.
Each year, hundreds of thousands of aspirants compete for limited seats in IIMs and other affiliated institutions. For example, CAT 2025, conducted by IIM Kozhikode, saw approximately 2.58 lakh candidates participate. Among them, only 12 students achieved a perfect 100th percentile score, highlighting the exam’s rigor and the high level of competition.
Key Details for CAT 2026 Applicants
- Registration Start Date: August 3, 2026
- Application Deadline: September 15, 2026
- Exam Date: November 29, 2026
- Exam Sessions: Three sessions on the exam day
- Test Centers: 170 locations across India
- Application Fees: Rs 2,700 for General, EWS, NC-OBC; Rs 1,350 for SC, ST, PwBD
- Admit Card Availability: November 4 to November 29, 2026
- Result Announcement: First week of January 2027
- Application Process: Online registration, document upload, fee payment, and choice of five preferred test cities
How the CAT 2026 Registration Process Works
Applicants must first create a new candidate profile on the official CAT website by providing basic details and verifying their identity through an OTP. After registration, candidates log in to complete the application form, which includes personal information, academic qualifications, work experience if any, and uploading necessary documents.
It is important for candidates to keep a valid email and mobile number active throughout the process for communication and updates. Those applying under reserved categories such as SC, ST, and PwBD need to upload relevant certificates to avail of fee concessions and reservation benefits. Selecting five preferred test cities during application helps in exam center allocation.
Why CAT 2026 Registration Changes Matter
The increase in application fees reflects rising administrative and logistical costs associated with conducting an exam of this scale. With 170 test centers and multiple sessions, ensuring smooth operations requires significant resources. The extended registration window and clear timelines provide candidates ample time to prepare and complete their applications without last-minute rush.
For aspirants, understanding these changes early helps in planning finances and scheduling study routines. The CAT exam remains a critical step for MBA hopefuls aiming for top-tier management education, and timely registration is the first essential move in this competitive journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does CAT 2026 registration start and end?
A: Registration opens on August 3, 2026, and the last date to apply is September 15, 2026.
Q: What is the application fee for CAT 2026?
A: General, EWS, and NC-OBC candidates must pay Rs 2,700, while SC, ST, and PwBD candidates pay Rs 1,350.
Q: How can candidates apply for CAT 2026?
A: Candidates must register on the official CAT website, complete the application form with all required details, upload documents, select test cities, and pay the application fee online.
