The notification for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 is expected in July 2026. This exam is the gateway for admission to MBA programs at the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and over 1,600 other business schools nationwide. IIM Indore is likely to organize CAT 2026, continuing the tradition of a rotating host institute among the IIMs.
CAT 2026 Key Dates
The official notification, detailing registration start dates and other essential information, will be released on the CAT website. Registration is anticipated to begin in August 2026 and conclude by mid-September 2026. The admit card will be available for download throughout November 2026. Candidates can expect test results in late December 2026 or early January 2027.
| Event | Likely Date |
| Notification Release | July 2026 |
| Registration Start | August 2026 |
| Registration End | Mid-September 2026 |
| Admit Card Download | November 2026 |
| Test Date | Late November 2026 (estimated) |
| Result Declaration | Late December 2026 / Early January 2027 |
Registration Fees
The CAT 2026 registration fee is set at ₹2600 for General, EWS, NC-OBC, and OBC candidates. Candidates belonging to Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Persons with Disability (PwD) categories will pay ₹1300 . This fee covers applications to all desired institutes and is paid once during registration.
CAT Exam Structure
The CAT is a computer-based test lasting 120 minutes. It comprises three sections, with candidates allocated 40 minutes for each. The sections are:
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning
- Quantitative Ability
Candidates cannot switch between sections during their allocated time. A mock test will be available on the official CAT website to familiarize applicants with the exam format.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must have the following documents ready for the CAT 2026 application:
- Passport-size photograph
- Signature
- Class 10 and 12 marksheets
- Graduation certificate or degree
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- PwD certificate (if applicable)
