The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 registration fee has increased, with candidates in the General, Economically Weaker Section (EWS), and Non-Creamy Other Backward Classes (NC-OBC) categories now paying ₹2,700. This represents a ₹100 rise from the previous year's fee. Candidates from Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) categories will pay ₹1,350, a ₹50 increase.
Fee Hike Explained
IIM Indore, the organizing body for CAT 2026, attributes the 3.85% increase to rising inflation and operational costs. Officials stated that managing registration for an estimated three lakh candidates requires significant investment in testing infrastructure. This includes computer labs, server maintenance, and logistical support across numerous cities. The revised fees also cover upgrades to technology and management systems to enhance test security.
CAT 2026 Fee Structure
The fee adjustment follows a consistent percentage hike across all categories.
| Candidate Category | CAT 2025 Fee | CAT 2026 Fee | Absolute Increase | Percentage Hike |
| General / EWS / NC-OBC | ₹2,600 | ₹2,700 | +₹100 | 3.85% |
| SC / ST / PwBD | ₹1,300 | ₹1,350 | +₹50 | 3.85% |
Key Dates and Registration Details
Apart from the fee change, other details for CAT 2026 remain unchanged. The announcement date is set for July 26, 2026 . Registration will open on August 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM and close on September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM . Candidates can download their admit cards starting November 4, 2026 . The CAT 2026 exam date is in November .
Important Information for Candidates
- The registration fee is a one-time payment valid for applications to all 22 participating IIMs.
- The fee is non-refundable. Candidates should verify all details before submission.
- While UPI payments incur no additional gateway charges, net banking and credit card payments may have associated fees.
