CAT 2026 Registration Open: Eligibility, Fee & Apply Now

CAT 2026 Registration: What Candidates Need to Know

The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026, the premier national-level management entrance examination conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), has officially opened its registration window. Candidates aspiring to secure a seat in MBA and allied postgraduate management programmes at IIMs and hundreds of other top business schools across India can now begin their application process through the official CAT portal.

What is CAT and Why Does It Matter?

CAT is widely regarded as one of the most competitive entrance examinations in India for management studies. A strong CAT percentile opens doors not only to the prestigious IIMs but also to several other leading institutions such as FMS Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, SPJIMR, and many more. For students planning a career in management, registering early and preparing strategically is strongly advised.

CAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Before filling out the application form, candidates must ensure they meet the prescribed eligibility conditions:

• Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognised university or institution.
• The minimum aggregate marks required in the qualifying degree is 50% (45% for candidates belonging to SC, ST, and PwD categories).
• Students currently in the final year of their graduation are also eligible to apply, subject to submitting proof of eligibility at the time of admission.
• There is no upper age limit for appearing in CAT 2026.

Application Fee Details

Candidates are required to pay a non-refundable registration fee at the time of submitting the online application. The fee structure is as follows:

Note: Fee figures are based on the standard CAT fee structure as per official IIM notifications. Candidates must verify the exact amount on the official website before payment.

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

• Visit the official CAT website: iimcat.ac.in
• Click on the 'Registration' or 'New Candidate Registration' link on the homepage.
• Enter your basic details such as name, date of birth, email ID, and mobile number to create your login credentials.
• Log in with your newly created credentials and fill in the application form carefully, including academic and personal details.
• Upload scanned copies of the required documents, including photograph and signature, in the specified format and size.
• Select your preferred test cities from the available options.
• Pay the application fee through the available online payment modes (net banking, debit/credit card, UPI).
• Submit the form and save or print the confirmation page for future reference.

Key Documents Required

• Valid photo identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, etc.)
• Recent passport-size photograph
• Scanned signature
• Graduation marksheets and certificates (or provisional certificate for final-year students)
• Category certificate (if applicable)

Official Notification & Apply Link

Candidates can download the official CAT 2026 notification and access the application portal through the link below:

• Official CAT 2026 Portal – iimcat.ac.in

For more updates on national management entrance exams, results, and admission news, visit CollegeUnify and explore our college and course finder to shortlist the right MBA programme for you.