The CAT 2026 Notification has been officially released, announcing all the important details for candidates planning to appear for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026. Conducted by IIM Indore, CAT 2026 is scheduled to be held on November 29, 2026, in three computer-based test (CBT) sessions across multiple test cities in India. The online registration process will begin on August 3, 2026, and candidates can submit their applications until September 15, 2026. The official notification also outlines the CAT eligibility criteria, exam pattern, registration process, application fee, important dates, test cities, and admission process. In this article, you'll find all the latest updates about CAT Notification 2026 in one place to help you complete your registration and kick-start your CAT preparation with confidence.

CAT Notification 2026 Highlights

CAT 2026 Important Dates

The table below outlines the key dates for CAT 2026 based on the official notification. Candidates should complete each stage of the admission process well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues. It is also advisable to regularly check the official CAT website for any updates or schedule changes.

*The result announcement timeline is tentative and will be confirmed by the conducting IIM.

CAT Eligibility Criteria 2026

To apply for CAT 2026, candidates must meet the eligibility requirements prescribed by the conducting IIM. Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree from a recognized university with the minimum qualifying marks specified for their category. Final-year undergraduate students and candidates awaiting their results are also eligible to apply, provided they complete their degree requirements within the prescribed timeline. Professional degree holders such as CA, CS, ICWA/CMA, and FIAI can also appear for the exam if they satisfy the minimum percentage criteria. There is no upper age limit or restriction on work experience, making CAT accessible to both fresh graduates and working professionals.

CAT Eligibility Criteria 2026 Highlights

CAT Exam Pattern 2026

The CAT Exam Pattern 2026 is expected to remain similar to previous years. The exam will be conducted as a Computer-Based Test (CBT) and will consist of three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Candidates will have 120 minutes to complete the exam, with 40 minutes allotted to each section. The paper includes both MCQ and TITA (Type in the Answer) questions. While MCQs carry negative marking, there is no negative marking for TITA questions.

CAT 2026 Exam Pattern

CAT 2026 Exam Pattern Highlights

CAT Registration Process 2026

The CAT 2026 registration process is conducted entirely online through the official CAT website. Before filling out the application form, candidates should keep their academic details, photograph, signature, and relevant certificates ready. Follow these simple steps to complete your registration successfully:

1. Register using your name, email ID, mobile number, and date of birth.

2. Fill the Application Form by entering your personal, academic, and work experience details (if applicable).

3. Upload Documents, including your passport-size photograph, signature, and category certificates (if required).

4. Select Test Cities by choosing up to five preferred exam cities in order of preference.

5. Pay the Application Fee using debit card, credit card, UPI, net banking, or other available online payment methods. After successful payment, download and save the confirmation page for future reference.

CAT Application Fees 2026

The application fee for CAT 2026 varies based on the candidate's category and must be paid online while submitting the application form. Registration is considered complete only after successful fee payment.

Accepted Payment Modes

• Debit Card

• Credit Card

• Net Banking

• UPI

• Mobile Wallets (if available)

CAT Syllabus 2026 Overview

The CAT Syllabus 2026 is divided into three sections that evaluate a candidate's aptitude in language, logical reasoning, data analysis, and mathematics. Although the IIMs do not publish an official syllabus, the topics are based on previous years' exam trends. The VARC section focuses on reading comprehension and verbal ability, DILR assesses logical reasoning and data interpretation skills, while QA tests mathematical concepts such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and modern mathematics. A topic-wise understanding of the syllabus is essential for effective preparation and maximizing your CAT score.

CAT Preparation Tips for 2026

Preparing for CAT 2026 requires a consistent strategy rather than long study hours. Start by understanding the CAT syllabus and exam pattern, then focus on strengthening your fundamentals in VARC, DILR, and QA. Solve CAT Previous Year Questions (PYQs) to understand the question types and difficulty level. Take regular CAT Mock Tests to improve accuracy, speed, and exam temperament. Analyze every mock to identify weak areas and avoid repeating mistakes. Dedicate time to daily practice through sectional tests and topic-wise questions. You can also use Coachify's free resources, including mock tests, previous year papers, and topic-wise practice questions, to build a structured and effective preparation routine.