The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 registration opens August 3. Aspiring candidates must prepare specific documents for the application process on the official website, iimcat.ac.in.
Key Dates Announced
The CAT 2026 notification was released on July 25. Registration closes September 15. A form correction window opens the second week of September. Admit cards will be available November 4. The exam is scheduled for November 29, with results expected in January 2027.
| Event | Date |
| CAT 2026 Notification Release | July 25, 2026 |
| CAT 2026 Registration Start | August 3, 2026, 10:00 AM |
| CAT 2026 Registration End | September 15, 2026, 5:00 PM |
| Form Correction Window | Second week of September 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | November 4, 2026 |
| CAT 2026 Exam Date | November 29, 2026 |
| Results Announcement | First week of January 2027 |
Required Personal Documents
Applicants need a valid photo ID. Accepted IDs include Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, voter ID, and driver's license. Candidates must also have their full name, father's name, mother's name, and permanent address ready. A functional mobile number and email ID are essential for all communications and One-Time Passwords (OTPs).
Academic Details to Prepare
Accurate academic records are necessary. This includes 10th-grade marks, board name, and year of passing. For 12th grade, candidates need their stream (Science, Commerce, Arts), aggregate marks, and board. Bachelor's degree details require the university name, semester-wise marks, and chosen subject. Information for professional degrees like CA, CS, or ICWA is needed if applicable.
Universities that use CGPA must provide a conversion formula to percentage. If no formula exists, use the standard calculation: (CGPA / Max CGPA) * 100.
Image Specifications for Upload
Incorrectly formatted images are a common cause for application rejection. A passport-size photograph must be a minimum of 1200 x 1200 pixels. The format must be .jpg or .jpeg with a plain white background. The photo should be no older than six months. A digital signature requires dimensions of 80mm x 35mm, in .jpg or .jpeg format. Sign in black ink on white paper before scanning.
Category and Special Certificates
Candidates applying under reserved categories must have relevant certificates. SC/ST/OBC-NC certificates are needed for the 2026-27 financial year. Economically Weaker Section (EWS) certificates must be current. Persons with Disability (PwD/DA) certificates are required for benefits. A Scribe Affidavit, downloaded from the CAT website, must be completed and uploaded for eligible candidates.
Work Experience Information
While no documents are uploaded during registration, accurate work experience details are crucial. Only full-time, paid experience gained after graduation counts. Candidates must enter the exact start and end dates of their employment. Internship and articleship experience are not considered.
Registration Fee
The registration fee is ₹1300 for SC/ST/PwD candidates. Other categories must pay ₹2600. A confirmation receipt should be downloaded after successful payment and form submission.
