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CAT 2026: Exam Dates, Eligibility & Complete Guide
Author: Lalita Vishwakarma | Published: November 27, 2025
Key Update: CAT 2026 exam date is November 30, 2026. IIM Kozhikode conducts it. Registration starts August 1, 2026.
This guide helps you prepare for CAT 2026. You’ll find all important details here. Start your preparation now.
CAT 2026 Key Dates
Mark these dates in your calendar. They are crucial for CAT preparation.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification | July 27, 2026 |
| Registration Opens | August 1 |
| Registration Closes | September 20 (5 PM) |
| Admit Card | November 12-30 |
| Exam Day | November 30 |
Joint Admission Process 2026
Four IIMs launched JAP. It simplifies MBA admissions.
- IIM Kashipur
- IIM Raipur (Main)
- IIM Ranchi
- IIM Tiruchirappalli
What is CAT Exam?
CAT means Common Admission Test. It’s for MBA admissions. IIMs conduct it every year.
The exam has three sections:
- VARC – Reading skills
- DILR – Logic & Data
- QA – Math ability
Registration Fees
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| General | ₹2,600 |
| SC/ST/PwD | ₹1,300 |
CAT 2026 Highlights
- Computer-based test
- 120 minutes duration
- 68 questions total
- 170+ test cities
Who Can Apply?
You need a bachelor’s degree. Minimum marks required:
- 50% for General
- 45% for SC/ST/PwD
Final year students can apply too.
Exam Pattern
| Section | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| VARC | 24 | 40 min |
| DILR | 22 | 40 min |
| QA | 22 | 40 min |
Marking: +3 for correct answers. -1 for wrong MCQs only.
Quick Syllabus
- QA: Math basics
- DILR: Puzzles & charts
- VARC: English reading
5 Steps to Register
- Visit iimcat.ac.in
- Create account
- Fill form details
- Choose test city
- Pay fee online
Ready for CAT 2026?
