CAT Exam Date 2026: Official Schedule, City Intimation — Explained

CAT 2026 is scheduled for November 29, 2026, across approximately 155 test cities in India. As the primary gateway to the 21 Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and premier Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), this computer-based test will be conducted in three sessions. Candidates seeking admission to MBA and PGDM programs or management trainee positions in government-owned companies must track these timelines strictly to avoid missing the application window.

CAT 2026 Exam Schedule: Quick Overview

CAT 2026 City Intimation Slip and Admit Card Details

The CAT 2026 city intimation details are usually embedded within the official admit card. Unlike some other national exams like JEE or NEET, the IIMs typically release the admit card on October 25, 2026, which serves as the final confirmation of your assigned test city and center. You can download this document from the official website (iimcat.ac.in) using your User ID and Password.

During the registration process, you are required to select six preferred test cities. The organizing IIM attempts to allot the first or second preference; however, center allocation depends on the number of applicants in that specific region. Your admit card will display the specific venue address, the reporting time, and the assigned exam slot. If you find discrepancies in your name, category, or photograph on the admit card, contact the CAT helpdesk immediately at /admit-card.

CAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria for Aspirants

To apply for CAT 2026, you must meet specific academic requirements. The eligibility is not just for IIM admissions but also serves as the baseline for PSU recruitments that utilize CAT scores. The criteria are as follows:

• General/OBC/EWS Candidates: A minimum of 50% marks or equivalent CGPA in a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
• SC/ST/PwD Candidates: A minimum of 45% marks in graduation.
• Final Year Students: Candidates appearing for the final year of their Bachelor’s degree or awaiting results are eligible to apply. They must provide a certificate from the Principal/Registrar of their college stating they will complete the degree requirements by June 2027.
• Professional Degrees: Candidates with CA, CS, or ICWA degrees who meet the percentage criteria are also eligible.

There is no age limit for appearing in CAT 2026. Whether you are a fresh graduate or a working professional with 10 years of experience, the eligibility remains focused on your academic percentage and degree status.

How to Apply for CAT 2026: Step-by-Step Registration

1. Visit the official website (iimcat.ac.in) and click on 'New Candidate Registration'.
2. Generate a User ID and Password by providing your name, date of birth, email address, and mobile number.
3. Log in using the credentials sent to your email and fill out the personal details section.
4. Upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature. The photograph must be recent (not older than 6 months) with a white background.
5. Enter your academic details from Class 10, Class 12, and Graduation. Ensure the marks entered match your official mark sheets.
6. Select your work experience (if applicable) in months. This is crucial for IIM shortlisting but not mandatory for the exam itself.
7. Choose your preferred IIM programs and interview cities. You can select all 21 IIMs and their respective programs at no extra cost.
8. Select six test cities in order of preference.
9. Pay the registration fee online. For 2026, the fee is expected to be ₹2,500 for General/OBC and ₹1,250 for SC/ST/PwD categories.

CAT 2026 Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme

The CAT 2026 exam pattern follows a standardized format consisting of 66 questions to be solved in 120 minutes. The exam is divided into three sections, with a strict 40-minute sectional time limit. You cannot switch between sections; you must complete one before the system allows you to move to the next.

The marking scheme includes both positive and negative marks. For every correct answer, you receive +3 marks. For every incorrect Multiple Choice Question (MCQ), -1 mark is deducted. However, for Type-In-The-Answer (TITA) questions, there is no negative marking. This makes TITA questions a safe bet for increasing your score without the risk of deduction.

Detailed Syllabus for CAT 2026

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

This section tests your English proficiency and critical thinking. Reading Comprehension (RC) carries the maximum weightage, usually with 16 questions across 4 passages. Topics range from philosophy and sociology to science and economics. The Verbal Ability part includes Para Jumbles, Para Summary, and Odd One Out questions. Focus on reading editorials from newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express to build stamina for long passages.

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

DILR is often considered the most challenging section due to its unpredictable nature. Data Interpretation includes charts, graphs, and tables that require calculation and observation. Logical Reasoning covers seating arrangements, blood relations, syllogisms, and complex puzzles. In CAT 2026, expect 4 sets of 5 questions each. Accuracy is more important than speed in this section.

Quantitative Ability (QA)

The QA section covers mathematics from Class 6 to Class 10 levels. Arithmetic (Percentages, Profit & Loss, Ratios, Averages, Time & Work) usually accounts for 8-10 questions. Algebra and Geometry are the next biggest contributors. Modern Math (Probability, Permutation & Combination) and Number Systems usually have a smaller share but are vital for reaching the 99th percentile. Consistent practice of basic concepts is the key here.

PSU Recruitment through CAT 2026

Many job seekers do not realize that CAT is not just for MBAs. Several top-tier Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) use CAT scores to recruit Management Trainees in disciplines like Finance, HR, and Marketing. If you are looking for a stable government career with high pay scales, appearing for CAT is a viable path. Organizations that have historically used CAT scores include:

• CAT 2026 FAQs

  What is the CAT 2026 exam date?

  The CAT 2026 exam is scheduled for November 29, 2026.

  How many test cities are there for CAT 2026?

  The exam will be conducted in approximately 155 test cities across India.

  When will the CAT 2026 registration start?

  Online registration is expected to begin on August 5, 2026.

  What is the last date to apply for CAT 2026?

  The registration deadline is September 16, 2026.

  When is the CAT 2026 admit card released?

  The admit card, containing city intimation details, is tentatively released on October 25, 2026.

  Related Resources

  • Top PSU Jobs India 2026 Guide
  • How to Read Government Job Notifications
  • UPSC CSE 2026 Syllabus
  • Bank Jobs After Graduation 2026
  • SSC CGL Preparation Guide