CAT 2026 Notification Expected Shortly
The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) are expected to release the official notification for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 in the coming weeks. The notification will contain crucial information regarding eligibility criteria, exam pattern, syllabus, important dates, and the application process. Candidates aspiring for admission to MBA and other management programs at IIMs and other top B-schools should stay alert for updates.
Eligibility Criteria for CAT 2026
To appear for CAT 2026, candidates must hold a bachelor's degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD categories) from a recognized university. Final-year students are also eligible to apply, provided they can submit proof of completion by the specified deadline. There is no age limit or restriction on the number of attempts.
Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme
The CAT 2026 exam will be conducted in a computer-based format, comprising three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Each section will have a duration of 40 minutes, totaling 120 minutes. The total number of questions is expected to be around 66, with varying marks per question. Negative marking of 1 mark will apply for each incorrect answer in multiple-choice questions, while non-MCQ questions have no negative marking.
Key Dates and Application Process
The CAT 2026 registration window is likely to open in August 2026 and close in September 2026. The exam is scheduled to be held on the last Sunday of November 2026. Candidates must apply online through the official CAT website. The application fee is Rs. 2,400 for general category candidates and Rs. 1,200 for SC/ST/PwD candidates. Late fees may apply for registrations after the deadline.
Score Validity and Usage
CAT scores are valid for one year and are accepted by over 1,000 B-schools in India, including all IIMs, FMS, SPJIMR, and others. Shortlisted candidates will undergo further selection rounds such as Written Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD), and Personal Interview (PI).
Preparation Tips for CAT 2026
Experts recommend starting preparation early, focusing on conceptual clarity, regular practice with mock tests, and time management. Analyzing previous years' question papers can help understand the exam trends. Many coaching institutes offer online and offline courses for CAT preparation.
