CAT 2026 Fee Payment Window Extended: Crucial Update for Aspirants

Oct 16, 2026Author:Dhuruv Singh
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CAT 2026 Fee Payment Window Extended: Crucial Update for Aspirants
The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore has announced a crucial update for Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 aspirants. The deadline for paying the CAT 2026 application fee has been extended until September 24, 2026, at 5 PM. This provides a vital two-day grace period for candidates who have already completed their registration. It is critical to note that while the payment window has been extended, the registration deadline itself remains unchanged. Aspirants must have completed their online registration by September 22, 2026, at 5 PM to be eligible for this fee payment extension. All official announcements and updates are available on the official CAT website, iimcat.ac.in.

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Key Dates & Schedule for CAT 2026

Activity / ParameterDetails & Schedule
Conducting BodyIIM Indore
Exam NameCommon Admission Test (CAT) 2026
Registration Last DateSeptember 22, 2026, at 5 PM
Fee Payment Last DateSeptember 24, 2026, at 5 PM
CAT 2026 Exam DateNovember 29, 2026
Admit Card Release DateNovember 4, 2026
Fee for General, EWS, and NC-OBC CandidatesRs 2,700
Fee for SC, ST, and PwBD CandidatesRs 1,350
Official Websiteiimcat.ac.in

Who Can Utilize the Extended Payment Window?

This two-day extension for fee payment is exclusively for candidates who successfully completed their CAT 2026 online registration by the original deadline of September 22, 2026, at 5 PM. IIM Indore has made it clear that there will be no further opportunity for new registrations. If you missed the September 22 registration cut-off, you will not be able to apply for CAT 2026 this cycle. This extension applies strictly to the application fee payment process, not to fresh registrations.

How to Complete Your CAT 2026 Application Fee Payment

For eligible candidates, paying the CAT 2026 application fee is a straightforward online process. Follow these steps on the official CAT portal:
  • Visit the official CAT 2026 website: iimcat.ac.in.
  • Log in using your registered User ID and Password.
  • Navigate to the 'Application Fee Payment' section.
  • Select your preferred payment method (Credit Card, Debit Card, or Net Banking).
  • Complete the transaction and ensure you receive a confirmation.
  • Download and save the payment receipt for your records.

What This Means for Your CAT 2026 Strategy

This extension offers a brief but critical window for those who completed registration but faced payment hurdles. It underscores the importance of adhering to deadlines in competitive exams like CAT. Ensure your payment is processed well before the September 24, 5 PM deadline to avoid any last-minute technical glitches. As you finalize your application, remember to plan your preparation strategically. You can also use our CAT College Predictor to estimate your chances at top IIMs and B-schools based on your target percentile. This tool can help you set realistic goals and refine your study plan for the November 29 exam.

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FAQFrequently Asked Questions

Q: Has the CAT 2026 registration deadline been extended?

No, the CAT 2026 registration deadline has NOT been extended. It closed on September 22, 2026, at 5 PM. The extension is only for the application fee payment.

Q: Who is eligible to pay the CAT 2026 application fee by September 24?

Only candidates who successfully completed their online registration for CAT 2026 by September 22, 2026, at 5 PM are eligible to pay the application fee by the extended deadline of September 24, 2026, at 5 PM.

Q: What are the CAT 2026 application fees?

The application fee for General, EWS, and NC-OBC candidates is Rs 2,700. For SC, ST, and PwBD candidates, the fee is Rs 1,350.

Q: Where can I pay the CAT 2026 application fee?

You must pay the CAT 2026 application fee online through the official CAT website, <a href='https://iimcat.ac.in' target='_blank'>iimcat.ac.in</a>, by logging in with your registered credentials.