If you’re planning to pursue an MBA from one of India’s top business schools, this is the update you’ve been waiting for. CAT Registration 2026 has officially started, giving lakhs of MBA aspirants the opportunity to apply for admission to prestigious institutes like the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and several other leading B-schools across the country.
The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 will be conducted by IIM Indore on Sunday, November 29, 2026, in computer-based mode. The registration window is open from August 3, 2026 (10:00 AM IST) and will remain available until September 15, 2026 (5:00 PM IST).
In this detailed guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about CAT Registration 2026, including important dates, application form process, exam pattern, syllabus, fees, preparation resources, and expert tips.
CAT 2026 Important Dates
Keeping track of deadlines is essential to avoid missing any important event.
| Event | Date |
| CAT Registration Starts | August 3, 2026 (10:00 AM IST) |
| Last Date to Apply | September 15, 2026 (5:00 PM IST) |
| Admit Card Release | November 4, 2026 |
| CAT Exam Date | November 29, 2026 (Sunday) |
Students are advised not to wait until the last day to submit their application, as heavy website traffic can sometimes cause technical issues.
IIMs CAT 2026 Notification
The official CAT 2026 notification confirms that IIM Indore is conducting this year’s examination. CAT is one of India’s most competitive MBA entrance exams and is accepted by all IIMs along with hundreds of other management institutes.
Every year, more than three lakh candidates appear for CAT to secure admission into MBA and PGDM programs offered by top business schools.
CAT Registration Timeline 2026
Understanding the complete registration timeline helps you plan better.
- Registration Opens: August 3, 2026
- Application Window Closes: September 15, 2026
- Admit Card Download Begins: November 4, 2026
- CAT Exam: November 29, 2026
- Results: Expected in the coming months after the examination
Mark these dates on your calendar so you don’t miss any important deadline.
CAT 2026 Application Form Process
Filling out the application form correctly is one of the most important steps. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Visit the Official CAT Website
Go to the official CAT registration portal.
Step 2: Register Yourself
Create a new account using your email ID and mobile number.
Step 3: Verify Your Details
Complete the OTP verification process.
Step 4: Fill Personal Information
Enter your name, date of birth, category, address, and other required details.
Step 5: Academic Qualifications
Provide your Class 10, Class 12, graduation, and other educational information accurately.
Step 6: Work Experience (If Applicable)
Candidates with professional work experience can enter their employment details.
Step 7: Select Test Cities
Choose your preferred exam cities carefully.
Step 8: Upload Documents
Upload your passport-size photograph, signature, and other required documents in the prescribed format.
Step 9: Pay the Application Fee
Complete the payment using the available online payment methods.
Step 10: Submit the Form
Review every detail carefully before final submission and download the confirmation page for future reference.
CAT Registration Fee 2026
The application fee for CAT 2026 is as follows:
| Category | Application Fee |
| General / EWS / NC-OBC | ₹2,700 |
| SC / ST / PwD | ₹1,350 |
The fee can be paid online through debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI (depending on the payment options available on the official portal).
CAT Exam 2026 Pattern
Before starting your preparation, it’s important to understand the exam pattern.
| Particular | Details |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Duration | 2 Hours |
| Expected Questions | Around 68 |
| Sections | VARC, DILR, QA |
Sections Included
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Tests reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, para jumbles, and verbal reasoning.
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
Focuses on logical thinking, analytical ability, data interpretation, puzzles, and reasoning.
Quantitative Ability (QA)
Includes Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number System, Modern Mathematics, and Mensuration.
CAT Marking Scheme
The CAT marking scheme is straightforward:
- Correct Answer: +3 Marks
- Incorrect MCQ: -1 Mark
- TITA (Non-MCQ) Questions: No Negative Marking
Because of negative marking in MCQs, accuracy is just as important as speed.
CAT Exam Syllabus
Although IIMs do not release an official detailed syllabus, candidates generally prepare the following topics.
VARC
- Reading Comprehension
- Para Summary
- Para Completion
- Odd One Out
- Para Jumbles
- Vocabulary
- Grammar
DILR
- Tables
- Charts
- Graphs
- Seating Arrangement
- Puzzles
- Data Interpretation
- Logical Reasoning
QA
- Arithmetic
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Number System
- Profit & Loss
- Percentage
- Time & Work
- Probability
- Permutation & Combination
A clear understanding of the syllabus helps you prepare strategically instead of studying random topics.
CAT Previous Year Question Papers
One of the best ways to prepare for CAT is by solving previous years’ question papers.
Benefits include:
- Understanding the actual exam pattern
- Identifying frequently asked topics
- Improving time management
- Practicing under exam-like conditions
- Learning the level of difficulty
Experts recommend solving multiple previous year papers before appearing for the exam.
Best CAT Exam Preparation Books
Choosing the right books can make your preparation more effective.
Some popular resources include:
Quantitative Ability
- Quantitative Aptitude by Arun Sharma
Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation
- Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation by Nishit K. Sinha
VARC
- Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis
- High-quality Reading Comprehension practice material
Along with books, regular mock tests and sectional practice are equally important.
CAT Preparation Online
Today, many students prefer online preparation because it offers flexibility, structured practice, and instant performance analysis.
For effective CAT preparation, make sure you focus on:
- Full-length mock tests
- Topic-wise practice
- Previous year questions
- Daily quizzes
- Time-based sectional tests
- Performance tracking
If you’re looking for online practice and exam preparation resources, you can explore Aaopadhein.org, where students can access study materials, practice tests, and guidance designed to support competitive exam preparation.
Consistent practice combined with regular mock tests can significantly improve your performance before the final exam.
Tips to Crack CAT 2026
Preparing for CAT requires consistency more than long study hours.
Here are a few practical tips:
- Create a realistic study schedule.
- Focus on concepts before shortcuts.
- Solve previous year papers regularly.
- Attempt weekly mock tests.
- Analyze every mock test thoroughly.
- Improve reading habits for VARC.
- Practice mental calculations for QA.
- Work on accuracy to avoid unnecessary negative marking.
- Revise weak topics every week.
Even studying for a few focused hours daily can produce better results than irregular long study sessions.
Why CAT 2026 Matters
CAT is not just an entrance examination; it opens the door to some of India’s best MBA colleges, including the IIMs and many other reputed institutions.
A good CAT percentile can help you secure admission to programs that offer excellent faculty, industry exposure, internships, strong placement opportunities, and long-term career growth.
Whether you’re a final-year student or a working professional planning to pursue an MBA, starting your preparation early can give you a significant advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When did CAT Registration 2026 start?
CAT Registration 2026 started on August 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM IST.
What is the last date to apply for CAT 2026?
The last date to submit the application form is September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM IST.
Who is conducting CAT 2026?
IIM Indore is conducting CAT 2026.
What is the CAT exam date in November 2026?
The CAT 2026 exam will be held on Sunday, November 29, 2026.
When will the CAT 2026 admit card be released?
Candidates can download their admit cards starting November 4, 2026.
What is the CAT application fee for General category candidates?
The application fee is ₹2,700 for General, EWS, and NC-OBC candidates.
Is there negative marking in CAT?
Yes. Incorrect MCQ answers carry -1 mark, while TITA (Non-MCQ) questions do not have negative marking.
Final Thoughts
With CAT Registration 2026 now open, this is the right time to complete your application and begin your preparation without delay. Keep track of all important dates, understand the exam pattern and syllabus, practice with previous year papers, and take regular mock tests to improve your performance.
Remember, success in CAT is rarely about last-minute preparation. It comes from consistent effort, smart strategy, and disciplined practice over time. Stay focused, prepare systematically, and make use of reliable online resources to strengthen your preparation.
We wish all CAT 2026 aspirants the very best for their MBA journey.
