CAT 2026 Registration Opens August 3, Exam on November 29
The Indian Institutes of Management will open CAT 2026 registrations on August 3, with the computer-based test scheduled for November 29, 2026.
Key points
- CAT 2026 registration opens on August 3, 2026
- Exam scheduled for November 29, 2026 in computer-based mode
- Conducted by IIMs on a rotational basis; scores accepted by 20 IIMs and 100+ B-schools
- Eligibility requires a Bachelor's degree with minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD)
- Three sections tested: VARC, DILR, and Quantitative Aptitude
Important details
| Organisation | Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) |
|---|---|
| Application starts | 03 Aug 2026 |
| Exam date | 29 Nov 2026 |
| Qualification | Bachelor's degree with minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD) |
| Official website | https://iimcat.ac.in |
Aspiring MBA candidates across India have a key date to mark on their calendars: CAT 2026 registrations will commence on August 3, 2026, with the Common Admission Test (CAT) set to be held on November 29, 2026. The announcement aligns with the IIMs' established pattern of conducting the exam in the final quarter of each year.
What is CAT and Why Does It Matter?
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is India's premier national-level management entrance examination, conducted annually by one of the Indian Institutes of Management on a rotational basis. Scores are accepted by all 20 IIMs as well as hundreds of other top business schools across the country. A strong CAT percentile can open doors to some of the most sought-after MBA and PGDM programmes in India.
CAT 2026 Key Schedule at a Glance
| Event | Tentative Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Window Opens | August 3, 2026 |
| CAT 2026 Exam Date | November 29, 2026 |
Eligibility at a Glance
Candidates who hold a Bachelor's degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD candidates) from a recognised university are eligible to apply. Final-year undergraduate students who expect to complete their degree before joining a programme are also permitted to appear.
How to Apply for CAT 2026
- Visit the official CAT website at iimcat.ac.in once registration opens on August 3.
- Register with a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill in academic, personal, and work-experience details carefully.
- Upload scanned documents as required.
- Pay the application fee online before the deadline.
Preparation Tips for CAT 2026
With registration opening in August, aspirants have a meaningful window to build their preparation strategy. CAT tests three core sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA). Consistent mock-test practice and sectional time management are critical to achieving a high percentile.
For the latest updates on CAT 2026 notifications, admit cards, and results, keep visiting CollegeUnify's CAT exam hub and our Entrance Exams section.
Official Notification & Application Link: iimcat.ac.in
Important links
Links open the official website. Always verify details there before applying.
