
Content Writer and Translator | Updated On - Aug 5, 2026
CAT Registration 2026 has started on Aug 3 at 10 AM. Check live updates, application fee, last date, eligibility, documents required, and direct registration link.
The CAT Registration 2026 window is now open on the official website, iimcat.ac.in. The application process began on August 3, 2026 (Monday), at 10:00 AM, and will remain open until September 15, 2026 (5:00 PM).
IIM Indore, the conducting institute for CAT 2026, is accepting online applications from eligible candidates seeking admission to MBA and other postgraduate management programmes offered by the IIMs and participating B-schools.
| Click here to Register for CAT 2026 (Link Activated) |

- Candidates applying under the General, EWS, and NC-OBC categories must pay an application fee of ₹2,700, while SC/ST/PwD candidates will pay ₹1,350.
- A fee hike of ₹100 for general category candidates means the CAT 2026 application fee is now the highest it has ever been.
- The CAT 2026 application fee is non-refundable once paid, regardless of category.
- CAT 2026 will be conducted across approximately 170 test cities in India, and candidates can choose five preferred cities during registration.

The CAT 2026 registration last date is September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM, after which the direct link on iimcat.ac.in will close for new applications..
Related Links:
- CAT Registration 2026 Begins on (Aug 3): Apply Online, Last Date, Registration Link @ iimcat.ac.in
- CAT Eligibility Criteria 2026, Age Limit, Educational Qualification, Reservation Policy

What’s New in CAT Registration 2026?
- CAT 2026 registration already started on August 3, 2026 at 10:00 AM on iimcat.ac.in.
- The last date to register is September 15, 2026, by 5:00 PM.
- Application fee is ₹2,700 for General/EWS/NC-OBC and ₹1,350 for SC/ST/PwD candidates.
- CAT 2026 will be conducted on November 29, 2026 (Sunday) in three sessions.
- The exam is being conducted by IIM Indore, with Prof. Aditya Billore as the CAT 2026 convener.
- Candidates need a Bachelor's degree with 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD) to be eligible.
- The exam will be held across approximately 170 test cities in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.
- CAT 2026 result is expected in the first week of January 2027 (to be confirmed).
How to Apply for CAT Registration 2026?
Candidates can complete the CAT Registration 2026 process online by creating a new account on the official website, verifying their email ID and mobile number through OTP, and filling out the application form.
For more details: Candidates can:

Check: How to Apply for CAT 2026: Registration Guide for MBA Aspirants
CAT 2026 Convener has advised candidates to complete their registration well before the deadline to avoid last-minute rush. Aspirants should also regularly visit the official CAT website for the latest updates and announcements

Source: PRESS RELEASE for Common Admission Test 2026 (CAT 2026)
- Candidates can download a copy of the submitted CAT application form after successful registration.
- Keep the downloaded application form safely for future admission and verification purposes.
- The CAT registration fee can be paid through UPI, debit card, credit card, net banking, or wallets.
- Applicable gateway charges may be added during online payment.
- The registration fee is non-refundable after successful payment.
| Accepted ID Proofs |
|---|
| Aadhaar Card |
| Passport |
| Voter ID |
| PAN Card |
| Driving Licence |
| College ID |
- PwBD candidates opting for a scribe must arrange one on their own before the examination.
- The candidate and scribe must submit the prescribed affidavit at the test centre.
- The scribe cannot be another CAT 2026 applicant.
- Candidates must complete the CAPTCHA verification before generating the OTP for registration.
- If the CAPTCHA is unclear, applicants can refresh the image and try again.
- The CAT 2026 application form is available only on the official CAT portal.
- Candidates should avoid third-party websites while completing the registration process.
- Candidates holding CA, CS, or CMA qualifications are eligible to apply for CAT 2026.
- Applicants must satisfy the minimum eligibility requirements prescribed for professional degree holders.
- Candidates can contact the CAT Centre for queries related to eligibility, reservation, or PwBD guidelines.
- Use the official email ID or helpline mentioned on the CAT website for assistance.
| Contact | Details |
|---|---|
| Toll-Free Number | 1800-210-0175 |
| Working Hours | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Mon–Sat) |
- Candidates can contact the CAT Helpdesk for registration-related queries.
- Keep your User ID handy while contacting the support team.
- Candidates facing registration, payment, or document upload issues can raise a ticket through the Grievance Portal.
- Up to three supporting documents can be uploaded while submitting a grievance.
- The helpdesk generally responds within two working days.
- Once the CAT application form is submitted and the fee is paid, no further edits are allowed.
- Candidates can only view, download, or print the submitted application form.
- Review all details carefully before making the final submission.
- Candidates should verify the eligibility criteria of every IIM programme before selecting it.
- Programme-specific requirements may vary across participating IIMs.
- Selecting only eligible programmes can help avoid issues during admission.
- Candidates must select an interview city preference for every IIM programme they choose.
- Different interview cities can be selected for different IIM programmes.
- Choose interview locations carefully based on travel convenience.
- Candidates can choose their preferred IIM programmes in the Programmes section of the application form.
- Applicants can select all programmes or choose only the IIMs they are interested in.
- Remember to click "Save & Next" after selecting programmes.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Admit Card | November 4, 2026 |
| CAT 2026 Exam | November 29, 2026 |
- CAT 2026 will be conducted on November 29, 2026, across multiple test centres.
- The examination will be held in three sessions based on the allotted test centre and city.
- Candidates will be assigned only one exam slot.
- The CAT 2026 admit card will be available for download from November 4, 2026, at 5:00 PM.
- Candidates can download the admit card only through the official CAT login portal.
- No physical admit cards will be sent by post.
- Candidates with pending backlogs are eligible to apply for CAT 2026 if they complete their degree requirements by June 2027.
- Such applicants should select "Yes" for the final-year bachelor's degree option while filling the application form.
- Admission will remain subject to fulfilling the eligibility criteria of the participating institutes.
- Indian applicants must provide a valid 10-digit mobile number during registration.
- International candidates should enter their country code in the designated field.
- Use an active mobile number to receive OTPs and important CAT updates.
These versions are more original, SEO-friendly, and Google Discover-friendly than the source while keeping the concise live-blog style.
- Candidates must accept the declaration before submitting the CAT application form.
- By selecting "I Agree," applicants confirm that all entered information is correct.
- Incorrect or misleading details may lead to application cancellation.
- Candidates receive a confirmation email after successfully completing the CAT registration process.
- Domestic applicants also receive an SMS containing their login credentials.
- Save the confirmation email for future reference during the admission process.
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| 1 | Personal Details |
| 2 | Academics |
| 3 | Work Experience |
| 4 | Programmes |
| 5 | Test City |
| 6 | Declaration |
- The CAT application form is divided into six sections that must be completed one after another.
- Click "Save & Next" after each section to avoid losing entered information.
- Review all details carefully before making the final submission.
- Candidates must provide an emergency contact number while filling the application form.
- The emergency number should be different from the registered mobile number.
- IIMs recommend using the contact number of a parent, guardian, or close relative.
| Document | Format | Maximum Size | Minimum Resolution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photograph | JPG/JPEG | 80 KB | 150 dpi |
| Signature | JPG/JPEG | 80 KB | 150 dpi |
- Upload a recent passport-size photograph with a plain white background.
- Ensure both images match the official size and format requirements before submission.
- Incorrect image specifications may delay the application process.
- Candidates claiming reservation must upload valid EWS, NC-OBC, SC, ST, or PwBD certificates during registration.
- Original scanned certificates can be uploaded directly without self-attestation.
- Photocopied documents must be self-attested before scanning and uploading.
- NC-OBC candidates must upload a certificate issued on or after April 1, 2026.
- The certificate should clearly mention the candidate's caste and Non-Creamy Layer status.
- Hindi and English certificates are accepted if they follow the prescribed format.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Income Limit | Below ₹8 lakh annually |
| Certificate Validity | FY 2026–27 |
| Income Assessment | FY 2025–26 |
- Candidates applying under the EWS category must upload a valid certificate issued for FY 2026–27.
- The certificate should confirm that the annual family income is below ₹8 lakh
- Candidates waiting for a new EWS or NC-OBC certificate can still complete the CAT 2026 registration.
- Upload the previous certificate, proof of the new application, and the prescribed undertaking while submitting the form.
- The updated certificate must be produced during the admission process, if required.
- PwBD candidates must enter their disability type, percentage of disability, and UDID number during registration.
- Candidates requiring a scribe or wheelchair assistance should select the appropriate option while filling the application form.
- Applicants opting for a scribe must arrange one themselves and submit the required affidavit before the exam.
- Candidates who passed Class 10, 12, Diploma, or Graduation in 2020 or 2021 without marks can use the special provision in the application form.
- Select the "Promotion/Pass without Marks" option if your board or university awarded only a pass status.
- Eligible candidates can complete the CAT application form without entering percentage marks for the affected qualification.
- A CAT aspirant asked on Reddit whether a retired parent's pension could affect EWS eligibility for CAT 2026.
- Another user replied that EWS eligibility is determined based on the family's income for the relevant financial year and advised calculating the total income before applying under the EWS category.

Source: Reddit
- The CAT application form 2026 will remain available until September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM.
- Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted.

- Candidates must enter their Class 10, Class 12, Bachelor's, Master's, and professional qualification details, if applicable.
- Academic details should match the official marksheets and certificates.

- IIM Bangalore PGP-EM accepts CAT scores along with other specified entrance tests for admission.
- Eligible professionals should check the programme's latest admission criteria before applying.
- The IIMCAT 2026 registration portal is active for MBA aspirants across the country.
- Registered candidates can log in to complete the application form and pay the registration fee.
- Candidates can submit the CAT 2026 application form through the official website iimcat.ac.in.
- Applicants should avoid unofficial websites and complete registration only through the official CAT portal.
- Candidates must provide an emergency mobile number different from their registered mobile number.
- The emergency contact should belong to a parent, guardian, or close relative.
- Only full-time employment after graduation should be entered in the CAT 2026 work experience section.
- Internships, even after graduation, are not counted unless the candidate was later converted to a full-time employee.

- Only full-time work experience after graduation is considered while filling the CAT 2026 application form.
- Internships, apprenticeships, projects, articleship, and pre-graduation work experience should not be included in the work experience section.

- Final-year bachelor's degree students graduating in 2027 are eligible to apply for CAT 2026.
- Candidates must complete their graduation within the timeline specified by the participating IIMs to be eligible for admission.

- Apprenticeship is generally not considered valid work experience for CAT 2026 unless it meets the eligibility criteria specified by participating IIMs.
- Candidates should enter only eligible full-time work experience while filling the CAT application form

- EWS certificates issued in Hindi or English are accepted for CAT 2026 registration if they meet the prescribed validity requirements.
- Candidates should upload an EWS certificate issued on or after April 1, 2026, in the prescribed format while filling the CAT application form.

Source: Reddit
- Candidates can include family business or self-employment experience in the CAT application form if they have valid supporting documents.
- Business registration, licence, or salary records may be required to verify the claimed work experience, as discussed by CAT aspirants and experts.

Source: Reddit
- Keep Class 10, Class 12, graduation mark sheets, photograph, signature, and a valid ID proof ready before registration.
- Reserved category candidates must upload valid category or PwD certificates in the prescribed format.
- Candidates claiming work experience must calculate it up to July 31, 2026 while filling the CAT application form.
- Only work experience completed on or before the cut-off date should be entered.
| Particular | Photograph | Signature |
|---|---|---|
| Format | JPG/JPEG | JPG/JPEG |
| Maximum Size | 80 KB | 80 KB |
| Resolution | 150 dpi | 150 dpi |
| Requirement | White background, photo taken within six months | Black ink signature on white paper |
- Candidates should keep printed copies of the uploaded passport-size photograph for use during the CAT 2026 examination.
- The same photograph uploaded in the application form must be pasted on the printed admit card on exam day.
- The CAT application form 2026 requires both current and permanent postal addresses.
- Candidates must provide the correct state, district, and PIN code before submitting the application.
- Candidates can recover their User ID or password using the "Forgot User ID/Password" option.
- A password reset link or login credentials will be sent to the registered email ID.
- Keep your registered email accessible throughout the admission process.
- Candidates can use the same email ID used for previous CAT registrations if it remains active and accessible.
- A valid and frequently checked email ID is recommended, as all CAT 2026 communication will be sent to the registered address.

Source: Reddit
- Candidates should complete the CAT application form 2026 well before the September 15 deadline.
- Early registration helps avoid payment failures and last-minute technical issues.

- Name, date of birth, email ID, and mobile number cannot be edited after profile registration.
- Candidates who enter incorrect details must register again with a new email ID.
- Candidates can submit only one CAT application form 2026, and multiple registrations may lead to rejection.
- Photo ID and biometric verification will be used to prevent duplicate applications.
| Category | Registration Fee |
|---|---|
| General/EWS/NC-OBC | ₹2,700 |
| SC/ST/PwD | ₹1,350 |
- The CAT application form 2026 requires a registration fee of ₹2,700 for General, EWS, and NC-OBC candidates.
- SC, ST, and PwD candidates need to pay ₹1,350 to successfully submit the CAT application form.
- Candidates can submit only one CAT application form 2026, and multiple registrations may lead to rejection.
- Photo ID and biometric verification will be used to prevent duplicate applications.
- The CAT 2026 application form is supported on Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge in the recommended versions.
- Candidates must complete all mandatory fields marked with an asterisk (*) while filling the application form.

- Candidates must accept the privacy notice before proceeding with the CAT 2026 application form.
- The portal collects name, date of birth, mobile number, and email ID for registration and official communication.

- The CAT 2026 registration link has been activated on the official website.
- Eligible candidates can now complete the online application form and pay the registration fee.

- Candidates must meet the CAT 2026 eligibility criteria before submitting the application.
- Final-year bachelor's degree students are also eligible to register.
- Keep your photograph, signature, graduation details, and ID proof ready before registration begins.
- Reserved category candidates should also keep their category certificates ready for upload.
- The CAT 2026 registration link will be activated at 10:00 AM on August 3.
- Candidates can complete the online application after the official portal becomes active.
- The CAT 2026 registration process will begin today at 10:00 AM on the official website.
- Candidates should keep all required documents ready before the application window opens.
- The September 15 deadline is the final opportunity to complete the CAT 2026 application.
- Applications submitted after the closing date will not be accepted.
- Upload the photograph and signature in JPG/JPEG format with a maximum file size of 80 KB.
- Ensure both images are clear and meet the prescribed specifications.
- Completing the application early helps avoid payment failures and website traffic near the deadline.
- Early registration also provides more time to verify application details.
- After successful payment, a confirmation page and email are generated.
- Download and save this page, as it serves as proof of successful CAT 2026 registration and will be needed for future reference.

For more details, candidates can:
- Upload a recent passport-size photograph and a scanned signature as per the specifications given in the CAT 2026 notification.
- Both files must be in JPG or JPEG format, under 80 KB, with a plain white background for the photograph.
- Candidates from reserved categories must also upload a self-attested scanned copy of the relevant certificate in PDF format.

- Choose five different preferred test cities in order of preference.
- The test centre will be allotted based on availability after the registration process closes.


- Enter full-time work experience gained after graduation as of July 31, 2026.
- Part-time work, internships, and pre-graduation experience are not considered.
- Candidates can add multiple employers if applicable.

- Provide Class 10, Class 12/Diploma, Bachelor's, Master's, and Professional Degree details, including board/university, passing year, and marks.
- Final-year candidates should enter marks obtained up to the latest completed semester.



Note: The candidates should read the updated description of the selection process followed by each IIM on their respective websites. No change in the category will be entertained after CAT registration. The applicants are advised to pay attention while registering.
| Common Mistake | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|
| Using an inactive email ID or mobile number | Register with an active email ID and mobile number that will remain accessible throughout the admission process. |
| Entering incorrect personal or academic details | Verify all details with your official documents before submitting the application. |
| Uploading incorrect photograph or signature | Upload clear images in the prescribed size and format mentioned in the CAT guidelines. |
| Selecting the wrong category | Choose the correct category and upload valid supporting certificates, if applicable. |
| Entering incorrect graduation marks or CGPA | Cross-check marks carefully and use the official CGPA-to-percentage conversion method, if required. |
| Including internships or part-time work as experience | Mention only full-time work experience gained after graduation. |
| Choosing test cities without proper preference | Select five preferred test cities carefully based on convenience and availability. |
| Waiting until the last day to register | Complete the application early to avoid server congestion and payment failures. |
| Not reviewing the application form | Check every section thoroughly before making the final submission. |
| Forgetting to save the confirmation page | Download and keep a copy of the application form and payment receipt for future reference. |
- Registered candidates will be able to edit selected details during the correction window.
- Only the photograph, signature, and test city preferences can be modified.

- The CAT application fee must be paid before September 15, 2026 (5:00 PM IST).
- Applications without successful fee payment will not be considered complete.
- The CAT application form requires personal, academic, and work experience details.
- Candidates must also upload documents, select test cities, and complete the fee payment.

- Candidates must register using their name, date of birth, email ID, and mobile number.
- A User ID and Password will be generated after successful OTP verification.

- Keep your email ID, mobile number, photograph, signature, graduation details, and ID proof ready before applying.
- Reserved category candidates must also upload valid category or PwD certificates, wherever applicable.
- The CAT 2026 application form will be available on the official CAT website after registration begins.
- Candidates should submit the application only through the official registration portal.
| Year | Registered | Appeared | Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2.95 Lakh | 2.58 Lakh | 86% |
| 2024 | 3.29 Lakh | 2.93 Lakh | 89% |
| 2023 | 3.28 Lakh | 2.88 Lakh | 88% |
| 2022 | 2.55 Lakh | 2.22 Lakh | 87% |
| 2021 | 2.30 Lakh | 1.92 Lakh | 83% |
| 2020 | 2.27 Lakh | 1.90 Lakh | 83.5% |
- Candidates with a bachelor's degree are eligible to apply for CAT 2026.
- Final-year students can also register, and there is no upper age limit for the exam.

- The CAT 2026 application fee is ₹2,700 for General, EWS, and NC-OBC candidates.
- SC, ST, and PwD candidates need to pay ₹1,350 as the registration fee.

- The CAT 2026 registration window will close on September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM IST.
- Candidates should complete the application well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
- Keep the photograph, signature, academic details, and ID proof ready before starting the CAT 2026 application.
- Reserved category candidates should also keep their valid category certificates ready for upload.

- The CAT 2026 registration link will be activated on August 3 at 10:00 AM IST.
- Candidates can access the application form only after the official registration portal goes live.

- The CAT 2026 registration window will open on August 3 at 10:00 AM IST through the official CAT website.
- Candidates can keep their documents and scanned images ready before the application portal goes live.
- CAT 2026 admissions will follow the Government of India's reservation policy for SC, ST, NC-OBC, EWS, and PwD candidates.
- PwD candidates must have at least 40% benchmark disability to claim reservation benefits under the RPwD Act, 2016.
- Candidates applying under reserved categories must upload valid supporting documents during the CAT 2026 registration process.

- CAT 2026 will be conducted across approximately 170 test cities in India.
- Candidates can choose up to five preferred test cities while submitting the CAT 2026 application form.
- IIMs may add, remove, or change test centres and revise the exam date or session, if required.


- The CAT 2026 registration window will open at 10:00 AM on August 3 and remain active until 5:00 PM on September 15, 2026.
- Candidates can select up to five preferred test cities while filling out the CAT 2026 application form.
- Candidates can download the CAT 2026 admit card from November 2, while test cities will be allotted based on availability.

- Candidates must meet the CAT 2026 eligibility criteria before submitting the application form.
- A valid email ID and mobile number are mandatory for registration and all future communication.
- All mandatory fields marked with an asterisk (*) must be completed before the application can be submitted.

| CAT Year | Registered Candidates | Candidates Appeared | Attendance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2.95 lakh | 2.58 lakh | 86% |
| 2024 | 3.29 lakh | 2.93 lakh | 89% |
| 2023 | 3.28 lakh | 2.88 lakh | 88% |
| 2022 | 2.55 lakh | 2.22 lakh | 87% |
| 2021 | 2.30 lakh | 1.92 lakh | 83% |
| 2020 | 2.27 lakh | 1.90 lakh | 83.5% |
| Document/Details | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Passport-size Photograph | Recent photograph (not older than 6 months) with a white background in JPG/JPEG format (maximum 80 KB) |
| Signature | Scanned signature in JPG/JPEG format (maximum 80 KB) |
| Class 10 Details | Marksheet and academic details |
| Class 12 Details | Marksheet and academic details |
| Graduation Details | Degree/college details, marks or CGPA, and year of passing |
| Work Experience | Employer details and duration of full-time work experience (if applicable) |
| Category Certificate | Valid SC/ST/NC-OBC/EWS certificate in PDF format (if applicable) |
| PwD Certificate | Valid PwBD certificate in PDF format (if applicable) |
| Email ID & Mobile Number | Valid and active email ID and mobile number for OTP verification and future communication |
| Payment Method | Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, UPI, or other online payment options to pay the application fee |















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