CAT Notification 2026 Out | Registration, Exam Date, Pattern, Syllabus & Apply Online
The CAT Exam Notification 2026 has been officially released, bringing exciting opportunities for MBA aspirants aiming to secure admission into India’s top management institutes. Every year, lakhs of candidates appear for the Common Admission Test (CAT) to compete for seats in the prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other leading B-schools.
As per the official schedule, CAT 2026 will be conducted on 29th November 2026, while the online registration process began on 3rd August 2026 and will continue until 15th September 2026. If you are planning to pursue an MBA from an IIM or a reputed management institute, this is the right time to complete your application and start your preparation.
In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about the CAT Notification 2026, including important dates, registration details, application fee, exam pattern, marking scheme, and preparation insights.
CAT Notification 2026: Highlights
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is India’s most popular MBA entrance examination. Conducted once every year by one of the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), the exam is accepted by 21 IIMs and over 100 reputed management institutes across the country.
For CAT 2026, the examination is expected to be held in around 170 exam cities and will be conducted in three separate sessions on the same day. Candidates will be allowed to select up to five preferred exam cities while filling out the application form.
Some key highlights of CAT 2026 are:
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 |
| Conducting Body | One of the IIMs (To Be Announced) |
| Exam Level | National Level |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| CAT 2026 Exam Date | 29 November 2026 |
| Registration Begins | 03 August 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 15 September 2026 |
| Result Declaration | First Week of January 2027 (Expected) |
| Exam Duration | 2 Hours |
| Total Questions | Approximately 66–68 |
| Question Type | MCQs & TITA (Type In The Answer) |
| Sections | VARC, DILR & QA |
| Number of Exam Cities | Around 170 |
| Validity of Score | One Year |
CAT 2026 Important Dates
Candidates should keep track of all major events related to the examination to avoid missing any deadlines.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| CAT 2026 Notification Release | 26 July 2026 |
| Online Registration Starts | 03 August 2026 |
| Last Date to Submit Application | 15 September 2026 |
| CAT 2026 Examination | 29 November 2026 |
| Result Announcement | First Week of January 2027 |
Download CAT 2026 Notification PDF
Apply Online for CAT 2026
CAT 2026 Registration Process
The CAT application process is completely online. Before starting the registration, candidates should keep all required documents ready, including a valid email ID, mobile number, passport-size photograph, signature, and educational details.
The registration process generally includes the following steps:
- Register using a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Verify the generated OTP.
- Fill in personal, academic, and communication details.
- Select up to five preferred test cities.
- Upload the required documents in the prescribed format.
- Pay the application fee online.
- Submit the form and download the confirmation page for future reference.
Completing the registration well before the last date helps avoid server-related issues during peak traffic.
CAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Before filling out the CAT 2026 application form, candidates must ensure that they meet the eligibility criteria prescribed in the official notification. Fulfilling the minimum eligibility requirements is mandatory to register for the examination. However, candidates should note that meeting these criteria does not guarantee shortlisting or admission to the IIMs, as each institute follows its own selection process.
CAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria Official PDF
Educational Qualification
Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university or educational institution established by an Act of Parliament or State Legislature, declared as a deemed university under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956, or possess an equivalent qualification recognized by the Ministry of Education, Government of India.
The minimum qualifying marks are:
| Category | Minimum Marks Required |
|---|---|
| General / EWS / NC-OBC | 50% or Equivalent CGPA |
| SC / ST / PwBD | 45% or Equivalent CGPA |
Final-Year Students Can Also Apply
Candidates who are currently in the final year of their Bachelor’s degree or have completed all degree requirements and are awaiting their final results are also eligible to apply for CAT 2026.
If selected, such candidates will be granted provisional admission, provided they submit a certificate from the Principal or Registrar of their university/institution within the timeline specified by the respective IIM. The certificate must confirm that all requirements for obtaining the Bachelor’s degree have been completed.
Eligible Qualifications for CAT 2026
A candidate can apply for CAT 2026 if they satisfy any one of the following conditions:
- Completed a Bachelor’s degree with the required minimum percentage.
- Completed a professional qualification such as CA, CS, ICWA (CMA), or Fellow of the Institute of Actuaries of India (FIAI) with the required percentage.
- Currently in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree with the required minimum percentage.
Calculation of Percentage / CGPA
The percentage of marks will be calculated according to the rules followed by the candidate’s university or institution.
If marks are awarded in the form of CGPA or grades, the conversion to percentage will be done using the official conversion formula certified by the respective university or institution.
In cases where the university does not provide any official CGPA-to-percentage conversion method, the percentage will be calculated by dividing the candidate’s CGPA by the maximum possible CGPA and multiplying the result by 100.
Important Instructions
Candidates should keep the following points in mind before applying:
- Meeting the minimum eligibility criteria does not automatically qualify a candidate for shortlisting by the IIMs.
- Eligibility may be verified by the IIMs at different stages of the admission process.
- Candidates must use and maintain a valid and unique email ID and mobile number throughout the CAT registration and admission process.
CAT 2026 Application Fee
The application fee for CAT 2026 has been revised as follows:
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General / EWS / NC-OBC | ₹2,700 |
| SC / ST / PwBD | ₹1,350 |
The application fee can be paid through various online payment methods, including Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, UPI, and other supported digital payment options.
CAT Exam Pattern 2026
Understanding the exam pattern is the first step toward building an effective preparation strategy. CAT 2026 is expected to follow the same structure as the previous edition of the examination.
The paper will be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode and will include both Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Type-In-The-Answer (TITA) questions.
CAT 2026 Exam Pattern Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode of Examination | Computer-Based Test |
| Duration | 120 Minutes |
| Number of Sections | 3 |
| Total Questions | Approximately 66–68 |
| Question Types | MCQs & TITA |
| Marks for Correct Answer | +3 |
| Negative Marking | -1 (Only for MCQs) |
| Sectional Time Limit | 40 Minutes Each |
Section-wise Exam Pattern
| Section | Expected Questions | Time Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 24 | 40 Minutes |
| Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 22 | 40 Minutes |
| Quantitative Ability (QA) | 22 | 40 Minutes |
Important Points About CAT Exam Pattern
- The exam consists of three mandatory sections.
- Each section has a fixed 40-minute time limit.
- Candidates cannot switch between sections during the examination.
- MCQs carry negative marking, whereas TITA questions do not.
- Time management plays a crucial role in maximizing the overall percentile.
Why Starting Early Matters
Every year, nearly 2 to 3 lakh candidates compete for admission into India’s leading MBA colleges. Since the competition is intense, beginning your preparation immediately after the notification can significantly improve your chances of securing a high percentile.
A well-planned strategy, regular mock tests, sectional practice, and expert guidance can make a noticeable difference in your final score.
If you’re looking for the Best CAT Coaching in Mumbai, choosing the right institute can help you stay ahead with structured study plans, experienced mentors, personalized doubt-solving sessions, and comprehensive mock test analysis.
Prepare for CAT 2026 with The Prayas India
Cracking CAT requires much more than studying from books—it demands the right strategy, consistent practice, and expert mentorship.
At The Prayas India, students receive:
- Experienced CAT mentors
- Updated study material
- Comprehensive mock test series
- Section-wise preparation strategy
- Performance analysis and doubt-solving sessions
- Classroom and online learning options
If you’re searching for the Best CAT Coaching in Mumbai, The Prayas India provides the guidance and support needed to prepare confidently for CAT 2026 and secure admission to your dream MBA college.
CAT 2026 Syllabus: Section-wise Topics for VARC, DILR & Quantitative Ability
Unlike many competitive examinations, the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) do not release an officially defined syllabus for CAT. However, based on previous years’ question papers, the syllabus follows a consistent pattern covering three major sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA).
A clear understanding of the syllabus helps candidates prepare strategically and focus on high-weightage topics that appear frequently in the exam.
CAT 2026 Section-wise Syllabus
1. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
The VARC section evaluates your reading ability, vocabulary, grammar, logical interpretation, and comprehension skills. Reading Comprehension generally contributes the highest number of questions in this section.
Important Topics
- Reading Comprehension
- Para Jumbles
- Para Summary
- Para Completion
- Sentence Completion
- Sentence Correction
- Grammar
- Verbal Reasoning
- Verbal Logic
- Fill in the Blanks
- Subject-Verb Agreement
- One Word Substitution
- Idioms & Phrases
- Analogies
- Antonyms
- Foreign Words Used in English
- Parts of Speech
- Articles
- Prepositions
- Error Spotting
- Types of Clauses
- Phrases & Modifiers
- Tenses
- Syllogisms
2. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
The DILR section tests analytical thinking, logical reasoning, data interpretation, and decision-making skills. It is often considered the most unpredictable section of the CAT examination.
Important DILR Topics
- Tables
- Bar Graphs
- Pie Charts
- Line Graphs
- Caselets
- Data Arrangement
- Data Analysis
- Data Sufficiency
- Seating Arrangement
- Puzzles
- Binary Logic
- Coding-Decoding
- Blood Relations
- Family Tree
- Direction Sense
- Clocks & Calendars
- Venn Diagrams
- Statements & Assumptions
- Critical Reasoning
- Series
- Sets
- Grouping Problems
3. Quantitative Ability (QA)
The Quantitative Ability section examines mathematical aptitude and problem-solving skills. Arithmetic and Algebra generally contribute the largest share of questions, followed by Geometry and Number System.
Important QA Topics
- Arithmetic
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Mensuration
- Number System
- Ratios & Proportion
- Percentages
- Profit & Loss
- Time & Work
- Time, Speed & Distance
- Simple & Compound Interest
- Partnership
- Logarithms
- Probability
- Permutations & Combinations
- Mean, Median & Mode
- Quadratic Equations
- Linear Equations
- Inequalities
- Surds & Indices
- Square Root & Cube Root
- Geometric Progression
- Binomial Theorem
- Trigonometry
CAT Previous Year Topic-wise Question Distribution
The following table gives an approximate idea of the number of questions asked from different topics based on recent CAT examinations.
| Section | Topic | Expected Questions |
|---|---|---|
| VARC | Reading Comprehension | 16–18 |
| VARC | Para Jumbles | 2–4 |
| VARC | Para Summary | 1–3 |
| VARC | Odd Sentence Out | 1–3 |
| DILR | Data Interpretation Sets | 8–12 |
| DILR | Logical Reasoning Sets | 8–12 |
| QA | Arithmetic | 8–12 |
| QA | Algebra | 4–8 |
| QA | Geometry & Mensuration | 2–4 |
| QA | Number System | 1–3 |
| QA | Modern Mathematics | 1–3 |
Preparation Tip: Instead of trying to master every topic at once, begin with high-weightage areas like Reading Comprehension, Arithmetic, Algebra, Data Interpretation, and Logical Reasoning. Once your fundamentals are strong, move on to medium and low-weightage chapters.
CAT 2026 Exam Centres
CAT 2026 is expected to be conducted in approximately 170 cities across India. During registration, candidates can choose five preferred exam cities according to their convenience.
Some of the major CAT exam cities include:
- Mumbai
- Navi Mumbai
- Pune
- Thane
- Delhi
- Noida
- Gurugram
- Bengaluru
- Hyderabad
- Chennai
- Kolkata
- Ahmedabad
- Jaipur
- Lucknow
- Kanpur
- Bhopal
- Indore
- Nagpur
- Chandigarh
- Patna
- Ranchi
- Bhubaneswar
- Kochi
- Guwahati
- Raipur
- Dehradun
- Srinagar
- Jammu
The final allotted exam centre will be mentioned on the CAT 2026 Admit Card.
Top MBA Colleges Accepting CAT 2026 Score
A strong CAT percentile opens the door to some of India’s most prestigious MBA colleges. Besides the 21 IIMs, more than 100 leading business schools consider CAT scores for admission.
Some of the top institutes include:
- IIM Ahmedabad
- IIM Bangalore
- IIM Calcutta
- IIM Lucknow
- IIM Kozhikode
- IIM Indore
- IIM Shillong
- IIM Kashipur
- SPJIMR Mumbai
- JBIMS Mumbai
- FMS Delhi
- MDI Gurgaon
- IMI New Delhi
- IMT Ghaziabad
- IIT Delhi (DMS)
- IIT Bombay (SJMSOM)
- IIT Kharagpur (VGSoM)
- BITSoM Mumbai
- SIMSREE Mumbai
- XIM University Bhubaneswar
Admission to these institutes depends not only on the CAT percentile but also on factors such as academic profile, work experience, written ability test, group discussion, and personal interview.
Why Choose The Prayas India for CAT 2026 Preparation?
Cracking CAT requires more than hard work—it demands the right strategy, expert mentorship, and consistent practice. Whether your target is an IIM or another premier MBA college, structured preparation can significantly improve your chances of success.
If you’re looking for the Best CAT Coaching in Mumbai, The Prayas India offers a comprehensive learning ecosystem designed for serious MBA aspirants.
What Makes The Prayas India Different?
- Experienced CAT faculty with proven mentoring expertise
- Updated study material based on the latest CAT pattern
- Topic-wise classroom and online learning programs
- Comprehensive mock test series with detailed analysis
- Daily practice questions and sectional tests
- Personal doubt-solving sessions
- Performance tracking and one-to-one mentoring
- Interview guidance for MBA admissions
- Flexible weekday and weekend batches
From building strong fundamentals to mastering advanced concepts and maximizing your CAT percentile, The Prayas India supports students at every stage of their preparation.
If you are searching for the Best CAT Coaching in Mumbai, this is the right time to begin your preparation and stay ahead of the competition.
Get Ready for CAT 2026 with The Prayas India
The release of the CAT Notification 2026 marks the beginning of one of the most competitive MBA entrance examinations in India. From completing your registration on time to following a structured preparation plan, every step plays an important role in achieving a high percentile.
With lakhs of aspirants competing for admission to the 21 IIMs and other leading B-schools, early preparation can give you a significant advantage. Understanding the latest exam pattern, focusing on high-weightage topics, taking regular mock tests, and improving your time management skills are essential for success.
If your goal is to secure admission to a top MBA college, expert guidance can make your preparation more effective.
Why Students Choose The Prayas India
At The Prayas India, students receive a complete CAT preparation ecosystem designed to maximize their performance.
Our CAT Preparation Includes:
- Experienced CAT mentors
- Structured classroom and online programs
- Comprehensive study material
- Daily practice questions
- Topic-wise assignments
- Full-length mock tests
- Sectional test series
- Detailed performance analysis
- One-to-one doubt-solving support
- GD, PI & MBA admission guidance
Whether you’re a beginner or a repeat CAT aspirant, our expert faculty helps you prepare with confidence through a well-planned strategy.
Looking for the Best CAT Coaching in Mumbai?
If you’re searching for the Best CAT Coaching in Mumbai, The Prayas India provides everything required to crack CAT with confidence.
📞 Call: +91-77100 13217
🌐 Website: https://theprayasindia.com
📍 Centres: Andheri | Borivali | Dadar | Nerul | Bhandup
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When was the CAT Notification 2026 released?
The CAT Notification 2026 was officially released on 26 July 2026.
2. When does CAT 2026 registration start?
The online registration process started on 3 August 2026.
3. What is the last date to apply for CAT 2026?
Candidates can submit their applications until 15 September 2026.
4. When will CAT 2026 be conducted?
CAT 2026 is scheduled to be held on 29 November 2026.
5. What is the duration of the CAT Exam?
The examination duration is 120 minutes, with 40 minutes allotted to each section.
6. How many sections are there in CAT?
The exam consists of three sections:
- VARC
- DILR
- Quantitative Ability
7. Is there negative marking in CAT?
Yes.
- MCQs: -1 mark for every incorrect answer.
- TITA Questions: No negative marking.
8. How many questions are expected in CAT 2026?
The exam is expected to contain approximately 66–68 questions.
9. Which MBA colleges accept CAT scores?
CAT scores are accepted by:
- All 21 IIMs
- SPJIMR
- FMS Delhi
- MDI Gurgaon
- JBIMS
- IMI Delhi
- BITSoM
- SIMSREE
- IIT Delhi
- IIT Bombay
- IIT Kharagpur
- and many other reputed B-schools.
10. Is coaching necessary for CAT preparation?
While self-study can help, coaching provides expert mentorship, structured preparation, mock tests, and performance analysis, which can significantly improve your chances of scoring a high percentile.
11. Which is the Best CAT Coaching in Mumbai?
The Prayas India is one of the leading institutes for CAT preparation, offering experienced faculty, updated study material, mock test series, and complete MBA admission guidance.
12. Can final-year students apply for CAT 2026?
Yes. Candidates in the final year of their bachelor’s degree can apply, provided they satisfy the eligibility requirements prescribed in the official notification.
