CAT Registration 2026 is now open at iimcat.ac.in. The application window started on August 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM, and the last date for CAT registration 2026 is September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Candidates must complete the registration, application form, document upload, and fee payment before the deadline to appear for CAT 2026.
IIM Indore is conducting CAT 2026, which will be held on November 29, 2026, in three sessions. Candidates can apply online through the official CAT website by creating a login ID, entering personal and academic details, selecting test cities, uploading the required documents, and paying the application fee.
CAT Registration 2026: Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| CAT Registration Starts | August 3, 2026, 10:00 AM |
| CAT Registration Last Date | September 15, 2026, 5:00 PM |
| CAT Form Correction | To be announced |
| CAT Admit Card | November 4, 2026 |
| CAT Exam Date | November 29, 2026 |
- The CAT 2026 application fee is ₹2,700 for General, EWS, and NC-OBC candidates and ₹1,350 for SC, ST, and PwBD candidates.
- Candidates with a Bachelor's degree securing at least 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD) are eligible to apply.
- They need to upload the required documents like Class 10 and Class 12 mark sheets, Graduation marks and certificate, Category or PwD certificates along with a scanned photo and signature.
- Once documents are uploaded, they need to select preferred test cities for the exam.
The CAT 2026 exam will be conducted by IIM Indore on November 29, 2026, across 170+ test cities in three sessions
Note: Candidates are advised to complete their registration well before the last date to avoid server issues and secure their preferred test centre.
With CAT registrations consistently remaining close to the 3 lakh mark, this year the CAT 2026 registration is expected to be around 3 lakh applicants.
This page provides the latest updates on CAT Registration 2026, including the direct application link, last date, registration fee, eligibility criteria, required documents, application process, correction window and important instructions.
Related Links:
- CAT 2026 Notification LIVE Updates: CAT 2026 Registration Date, Expected PDF Release & Latest News
- CAT Login 2026: Registration (Soon), How to Download Admit Card and Result
- CAT Eligibility Criteria 2026, Age Limit, Educational Qualification, Reservation Policy
- CAT 2026 Exam Date November 29 Confirmed by Trends: Full Schedule & Slot Details
CAT Registration 2026: Key Highlights
- CAT Registration 2026 has started on August 3, 2026 (10:00 AM).
- The last date to submit the application form is September 15, 2026 (5:00 PM).
- Candidates can register online only through iimcat.ac.in.
- Applicants must create a CAT login ID before filling out the application form.
- Required documents include Class 10 & 12 marksheets, graduation details, passport-size photograph, signature, and category/PwBD certificate (if applicable).
- The application fee is ₹2,700 for General/EWS/NC-OBC and ₹1,350 for SC/ST/PwBD candidates.
- Candidates can select their preferred CAT exam cities during registration.
- The CAT 2026 exam will be held on November 29, 2026, by IIM Indore.
- Candidates are advised to complete the registration early to avoid payment or server-related issues.
CAT Registration 2026 Last Date and Latest Updates
- The CAT Registration 2026 last date is September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Candidates must complete the entire application process, including registration, form submission, document upload, and application fee payment, before the deadline. The registration window opened on August 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM.
- Candidates should not wait until the CAT form last date to submit their applications.
- If IIM Indore announces any extension to the CAT registration deadline, the revised date will be updated on the official CAT website.
Important: The CAT Registration 2026 last date and the application correction window are separate. Candidates must submit the application before September 15 even if a correction window is announced later.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Registration Starts | August 3, 2026 (10:00 AM) |
| Registration Last Date | September 15, 2026 (5:00 PM) |
| Registration Mode | Online |
| Official Website | iimcat.ac.in |
| Conducting Institute | IIM Indore |
| CAT Exam Date | November 29, 2026 |
| Registration Fee | ₹2,700 (General/EWS/NC-OBC), ₹1,350 (SC/ST/PwBD) |
Check: CAT Registration 2026: Direct Link, Last Date, Fee & How to Apply
CAT Registration 2026 Direct Link: Apply Online
CAT Registration 2026 direct link is now active at iimcat.ac.in. Candidates can click the link below to create their account and complete the application form.
Register Here:
Note: Registration is accepted only through the official CAT website. Applications submitted through any other portal will not be considered.
Before registering, candidates should verify their eligibility and review the official registration schedule.
- CAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria: Educational Qualification, Minimum Marks, Age Limit
- CAT 2026 Exam Dates (Soon): Check Registration, Schedule, Admit Card & Result
- CAT Notification 2026: Check Dates, Download PDF @iimcat.ac.in 2026 and Application Form
Step-by-Step Guide to CAT 2026 Online Registration
Step 1: Visit iimcat.ac.in
Open iimcat.ac.in and click on "New Candidate Registration."
Step 2: New Candidate Registration
Register using your name, email ID, mobile number, and date of birth. A User ID and password will be sent to your registered email and phone.
Step 3: Fill the CAT Application Form
Enter your personal details, academic qualifications, work experience, and preferred exam cities.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Upload your passport-size photograph, signature, and category or PwD certificate (if applicable) in the prescribed format.
Step 5: Pay the Registration Fee
Complete the payment using Debit Card, Credit Card, UPI, Net Banking, or other available online payment methods.
Step 6: Submit and Download Confirmation
Review all details carefully before submitting the application. Download and save the confirmation page and payment receipt for future reference.
Can I Edit My CAT Registration Form?
Yes. IIM is expected to provide a CAT 2026 Application Correction Window after the registration process closes. During this period, candidates can edit selected details in their submitted application form. The CAT 2026 correction window is expected to open in late September 2026. Candidates will be able to log in using their CAT User ID and Password on the official website iimcat.ac.in to make the permitted changes.
| Editable Fields | Usually Non-Editable Fields |
|---|---|
| Photograph | Candidate's Name |
| Signature | Date of Birth |
| Test City Preferences | Email ID |
| Category Certificate | Mobile Number |
| PwD Certificate | Registration Details |
Tip: Upload the correct photograph, signature, and academic details during registration to avoid issues later, as some fields may remain non-editable after submission.
Can I Register for CAT 2026 After the Last Date?
No. The last date for CAT Registration 2026 is September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Candidates must complete the application form and pay the registration fee before the deadline through the official CAT website, iimcat.ac.in. Once the registration window closes, candidates will not be able to submit a new application unless IIM Indore officially extends the CAT 2026 registration deadline. Any extension will be announced through the official CAT website.
Candidates are advised not to wait until the CAT form last date to apply. Completing the registration early gives enough time to resolve payment, document-upload, or other technical issues before the application window closes
Collegedunia Analysis: In recent years, a large number of candidates waited until the final week to register, resulting in heavy traffic on the portal. Completing the registration early provides sufficient time to verify details and resolve any payment-related issues.
Ques. What is the Last Date for CAT Registration 2026?
Ans. The CAT Registration 2026 last date is September 15, 2026 (5:00 PM). The registration window opened on August 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM. Candidates must submit the application form and complete fee payment before the deadline
Before You Start CAT Registration
Keep the following information and documents ready before beginning the application process.
| Requirement | Status |
|---|---|
| Valid Email ID | Required |
| Active Mobile Number | Required |
| Class 10 & 12 Academic Details | Required |
| Graduation Marks/CGPA | Required |
| Passport-size Photograph | Required |
| Scanned Signature | Required |
| Category Certificate | If applicable |
| PwBD Certificate | If applicable |
| Online Payment Method | Required |
Note: Candidates can use any available online payment method, such as Debit Card, Credit Card, UPI or Net Banking. They do not need all payment methods.
Preparing these documents in advance can help candidates complete the CAT registration process in a single session and avoid upload or payment-related issues.
Candidates can also check:
- CAT Exam Centers 2026: Check State-wise List of CAT Test Centers
- CAT Syllabus 2026- Download Syllabus PDF, Section-wise Weightage and Preparation Tips
Ques. When is CAT 2026?
Ans. CAT 2026 will be conducted on Sunday, November 29, 2026, in three computer-based test (CBT) sessions across approximately 170 test cities in India. For more details, check: CAT 2026 Exam Dates, Check Registration, Schedule, Admit Card & Result
Documents Required for CAT 2026 Registration
There are a few things that you should keep in mind before filling out the CAT Application Form.
Documents Required for CAT Registration 2026
| Tip | What You Should Do |
|---|---|
| Keep documents ready | Prepare scanned copies of all required documents in the prescribed format and file size before starting the application. |
| Enter details exactly as per official records | Ensure your name, date of birth, and other personal details match your Class 10 certificate to avoid verification issues during admission. |
| Use a dedicated email ID and mobile number | Register with an active email address and mobile number, as all CAT-related updates, OTPs, and notifications will be sent there. |
| Store login credentials safely | Save your User ID and password securely for future logins, application edits, admit card download, and result access. |
| Enter academic details carefully | Mention total marks obtained across all subjects (not best-of-five) and convert CGPA to percentage using your university's official conversion formula. |
| Report work experience correctly | Include only full-time, paid work experience gained after graduation. Do not mention internships, freelance work, or part-time jobs unless specified. |
| Use recommended browsers | Complete the application using the latest version of Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge for a smoother experience. |
| Ensure a stable internet connection | A reliable internet connection helps prevent OTP delays, document upload failures, and payment interruptions. |
| Avoid last-minute registration | Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid heavy server traffic, payment issues, and technical glitches during peak hours. |
Read More: CAT 2026 Application Form: Step-by-Step Guide, Documents & Photo Specs
CAT 2026 Photograph Specifications
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Background | Plain white or off-white |
| Photograph Age | Not older than 6 months |
| Dimensions | 30 mm × 45 mm |
| File Size | Maximum 1 MB |
| File Format | JPEG/JPG |
Tip: Ensure that your face is clearly visible without sunglasses, heavy filters, or shadows.
CAT 2026 Signature Specifications
The signature uploaded during CAT Registration 2026 should match the one you use on official documents and during the examination.
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| File Format | JPEG/JPG |
| Maximum File Size | 80 KB |
| Dimensions | 80 mm × 35 mm |
| Signature Colour | Black or blue ink on white paper |
CAT 2026 Academic Information Required
While filling out the CAT 2026 application form, candidates must accurately enter their academic qualifications as mentioned in their official mark sheets and certificates.
Keep the following information ready:
- Class 10 board, marks/CGPA, and year of passing
- Class 12 board, marks/CGPA, and year of passing
- Graduation degree, university, percentage/CGPA, and passing year
- Master's or professional degree details (if applicable)
- Conversion formula for CGPA to percentage (if required by your university)
- Work experience details after graduation (if applicable)
Discussion about CGPA Conversion on Reddit for CAT 2026 exam
A Reddit user recently asked whether a CGPA of 7.988 (79.88%) can be rounded off to 80% while filling the CAT application form. The discussion concluded that candidates should enter the exact percentage calculated using their university's official conversion formula and avoid rounding off marks, as academic details may be verified during the admission process.
Source: Reddit
Ques. What is the CAT 2026 Form Date?
Ans. The CAT 2026 form date has been officially announced. The CAT 2026 application form will be available from August 3, 2026 (10:00 AM), and candidates can submit their applications until September 15, 2026 (5:00 PM) through the official CAT website, iimcat.ac.in.
CAT Registration Fees 2026
The CAT 2026 application fee is increased as compared to the CAT 2025 fee structure, as per the CAT 2026 notification. The fee must be paid online while submitting the application form on the official portal.
| Category | CAT 2026 Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General / EWS / NC-OBC | ₹2700 |
| SC / ST / PwD | ₹1350 |
Check: CAT 2026 Registration Fee INR 2,600: Category-Wise Fee, Payment Modes & Deadline
Ques. Is the fee the same regardless of how many IIMs or programs I apply to?
Ans. For the CAT 2026, the application fee remains the same regardless of how many IIMs or programs you select in the application form.
Once the fee is paid, candidates can select multiple programs offered by IIM while filling out the CAT application form
Ques. How and when do I pay the fee?
Ans. The candidates must pay the CAT 2026 application fee online during the final stage of the application form.
Make sure to complete all the sections of the application form, review carefully before submitting, and proceed to the payment page.
You can pay by: Debit Card, Credit card, Net Banking, UPI/Digital Wallets.
Ques. Is the fee refundable?
Ans. No, the CAT application fees is non-refundable under any circumstances, once the payment is completed.
You cannot request a refund even if you submit the incorrect information in the application form or decide not to take the CAT 2026 exam.
CAT Registration 2026 Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
The CAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria has been released. As per the official CAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria, the candidates must meet the provided eligibility criteria to apply for the CAT 2026.
| Eligibility Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Educational Qualification | Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university or institution incorporated by an Act of Parliament/State Legislature or declared as a Deemed University under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956 |
| Minimum Marks (General / EWS / NC-OBC) | At least 50% aggregate marks or equivalent CGPA |
| Minimum Marks (SC / ST / PwD) | At least 45% aggregate marks or equivalent CGPA |
| Final Year Candidates | Candidates in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree or awaiting results are eligible to apply |
| Condition for Final Year Candidates | Must submit a certificate from the Principal/Registrar confirming completion of degree requirements before the deadline specified by the respective IIM |
| Professional Degree Holders | Candidates with CA, CS, ICWA (CMA), or Fellow of the Institute of Actuaries of India (FIAI) with required marks are eligible |
| CGPA / Grade Conversion | Conversion to a percentage will follow the method certified by the respective university/institution |
| If CGPA Conversion Not Provided | Percentage calculated using the formula: (CGPA ÷ Maximum CGPA) × 100 |
| Reservation Policy | SC – 15%, ST – 7.5%, NC-OBC – 27%, EWS – up to 10%, PwD – 5% seats reserved |
| PwD Definition | Candidates with at least 40% benchmark disability as defined under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 |
| Eligibility Verification | IIMs may verify eligibility at different stages of the selection process |
| Important Note | Meeting minimum eligibility does not guarantee shortlisting for admission to IIMs |
SourcE: CAT 2026 Notification PDF
Check: CAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria: 50% Marks Rule, Final-Year Students & Reservation
Can Final-Year Students Apply for CAT 2026?
Yes. Candidates who are appearing for the final year of their Bachelor's degree or are awaiting their final results are eligible to register for CAT 2026, provided they meet the eligibility conditions specified in the official notification.
Note: Final-year students should ensure that they complete their degree requirements within the timeline specified by the admitting institute.
Can Working Professionals Apply for CAT 2026?
Yes. Working professionals are fully eligible to apply for CAT 2026. There is no upper age limit or work experience requirement for appearing in the examination. Candidates from private companies, government organisations, startups, family businesses, and other sectors can apply if they meet the educational eligibility criteria.
Candidates should mention their work experience accurately while filling out the CAT application form and keep supporting documents ready for the admission process.
CAT Candidates Discuss Work Experience Eligibility on Reddit
A Reddit user recently asked whether CAT work experience should be calculated from the date the university declared the final result or from the graduation/degree certificate date. According to the discussion, work experience is generally counted from the day after the university officially declares the final results, rather than the convocation date or the date the degree certificate is issued.
Source: Reddit
Ques. Am I eligible if I'm in my final year of graduation (graduating in 2026 or 2027)?
Ans. Yes, final-year graduation students can apply for CAT 2026. Candidates who are currently in the final years of their graduation or are waiting for their results can register for the exam.
But IIM has set some important conditions:
- The candidates must complete their graduation and submit proof of eligibility before the admission deadline set by the respective college.
- During the admission process, candidates are required to submit a certificate from their university stating that they have completed their degree.
Ques. How is the percentage/CGPA calculated for eligibility? What if my university uses CGPA?
Ans. For CAT 2026, candidates must calculate their graduation marks as a percentage based on their university’s official conversion rule.
- Use the official CGPA-to-percentage conversion formula provided by your university or institute.
- If no conversion formula is available, divide the CGPA by the maximum CGPA and multiply by 100 to get the percentage.
Ques. I have less than 50% in graduation (General category). Can I still apply?
Ans. No, for the General, EWS and NC-OBC candidates, the minimum graduation percentage required for CAT eligibility is 50% or an equivalent CGPA.
If a General category candidate has less than 50% marks in graduation, they will not be eligible for admission to IIMs through CAT.
Ques. Does having academic gaps (e.g., drop years after 12th or between graduation) affect eligibility?
Ans. No, having an academic gap or a drop year does not affect your CAT eligibility. Candidates can still apply for the exam.
However, candidates should keep the following points in mind:
- Academic gaps may be questioned during the Personal Interview (PI) stage.
- Candidates should be prepared to explain the reason for the gap.
CAT Registration Login/OTP Issues: What Candidates Are Reporting on Reddit
Some CAT aspirants have reported difficulties accessing their accounts after forgetting their CAT login password. In one recent Reddit discussion, a candidate said they were unable to receive the OTP on their registered email while trying to reset the password, despite confirming that the email ID was correct.
A Reddit user responding to the query suggested contacting the CAT administration team by email for a password reset. The response also advised candidates not to delay the process and, if necessary, consider registering with a new email ID.
Source: Reddit
Collegedunia Tip: If you do not receive the CAT password-reset OTP, first check your spam or junk folder and verify that you are using the registered email ID. If the issue continues, contact the official CAT helpdesk rather than creating a duplicate account immediately.
Common CAT Registration 2026 Mistakes to Avoid
Many candidates make avoidable mistakes while filling out the CAT Registration 2026 application form. Reviewing the application carefully before submission can help prevent rejection or delays during the admission process.
| Common Mistake | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|
| Uploading incorrect photograph or signature | Check the required format before uploading. |
| Entering incorrect academic marks | Verify all marks from official mark sheets. |
| Using an inactive email ID | Register with an email ID that will remain active throughout the admission process. |
| Waiting until the last day to register | Complete the application early to avoid server issues. |
| Selecting the wrong category | Upload the correct category certificate, if applicable. |
| Not reviewing the application form | Check every detail before making the payment. |
Collegedunia Advice: Most registration-related issues occur due to incorrect document uploads, payment failures near the deadline, or mistakes in personal details. Completing the application a few days before the last date gives candidates enough time to resolve any technical or data-entry is
CAT Form Correction 2026: How to Edit Application Form
The CAT Form Correction 2026 window is expected to open after the registration process closes. During this period, candidates can edit only a few details in their submitted application form by logging in to the official CAT website. Generally, IIM allows candidates to change their photograph, signature, and preferred test city, while all other details remain non-editable.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Visit the official CAT website: iimcat.ac.in. |
| Step 2 | Click on the 'Login' tab and enter your User ID and Password. |
| Step 3 | Open the CAT 2026 Application Form from your dashboard. |
| Step 4 | Go to the editable section and update your photograph, signature, or preferred test city. |
| Step 5 | Enter the CAPTCHA code and click 'Continue' to save the changes. |
Editable Details in CAT Form Correction 2026
| Editable Fields | Non-Editable Fields |
|---|---|
| Photograph | Candidate's Name |
| Signature | Date of Birth |
| Preferred Test City | Email ID |
| Mobile Number | |
| Academic Details | |
| Category & Personal Information |
Note: Candidates should carefully review their application before submission, as only limited fields are available for correction during the CAT Form Correction window.
CAT 2026 Registration Helpdesk
Since Indian Institute of Management Indore is conducting the CAT 2026, candidates facing issues during registration, payment, or login can contact the official CAT helpdesk.
| Helpdesk Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Official CAT Website | CAT Official Website |
| Helpdesk Email | cathelpdesk@iimcat.ac.in |
| Toll-Free Helpline | 1800-266-3549 / 1800-212-2663 |
| Helpdesk Timings | Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| CAT Conducting Institute | Indian Institute of Management Indore |
| CAT Office Address | CAT Centre, IIM Indore, Prabandh Shikhar, Rau–Pithampur Road, Indore – 453556, Madhya Pradesh |
| Institute Contact Number | +91-731-2439666 / +91-731-2439800 |
| Query Types Handled | Registration issues, OTP problems, payment failure, document upload errors, admit card download issues |
CAT Registration 2026 FAQs
Ques. What is the last date for CAT Registration 2026?
Ans. The last date for CAT Registration 2026 is September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Candidates must complete the application form, upload the required documents, and pay the application fee before the deadline through iimcat.ac.in.
Ques. What is the CAT form last date 2026?
Ans. The CAT form last date 2026 is September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Applications must be submitted online through the official CAT website before the registration window closes.
Ques. Can I register for CAT 2026 after September 15?
Ans. No. Candidates cannot submit a new CAT 2026 application after September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM, unless IIM Indore officially extends the registration deadline. Candidates should complete the application early to avoid last-minute technical or payment issues.
Ques. Is CAT Registration 2026 currently open?
Ans. Yes. CAT Registration 2026 is currently open. The application window started on August 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM, and candidates can apply until September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM through iimcat.ac.in.
Ques. What is the CAT Registration 2026 fee?
Ans. The CAT Registration 2026 fee is ₹2,700 for General, EWS and NC-OBC candidates. SC, ST and PwD candidates need to pay ₹1,350. The fee is paid online while submitting the application form.
Ques. How do I apply for CAT 2026 online?
Ans. Candidates can apply for CAT 2026 by visiting iimcat.ac.in and following these steps:
Click on New Candidate Registration.
Enter the required personal details and complete OTP verification.
Create the CAT login and sign in.
Fill in personal, academic and work experience details.
Select preferred test cities and programmes.
Upload the required photograph, signature and certificates, if applicable.
Pay the CAT 2026 application fee.
Submit the form and download the confirmation page.
Ques. What documents are required for CAT Registration 2026?
Ans. Candidates should keep their Class 10 and Class 12 academic details, graduation marks/CGPA, passport-size photograph and scanned signature ready. Category and PwBD certificates are required where applicable. Candidates also need a valid email ID, active mobile number and an online payment method to complete the application.
Ques. Can I edit the CAT application form after submission?
Ans. IIM Indore is expected to provide a CAT 2026 application correction window after registration closes. The exact dates and editable fields will be confirmed through the official CAT website. Candidates should carefully review their application before submitting it because only limited details may be editable during the correction period.
Ques. What should I do if I don't receive the CAT OTP?
Ans. If the CAT OTP is not received, candidates should first check their registered email ID, spam or junk folder and ensure that the entered mobile number or email address is correct. They can also retry after a short interval or use a different browser. If the issue continues, candidates should contact the official CAT helpdesk instead of creating multiple registrations.
Ques. Can I apply for CAT 2026 if I am a final-year student?
Ans. Yes. Final-year Bachelor's degree students and candidates awaiting their graduation results can apply for CAT 2026, provided they meet the eligibility conditions specified by IIMs. They must complete the required degree requirements and submit the necessary proof within the timeline prescribed by the admitting institute.
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