CAT 2026 Registration Live: Dates, Fees & Eligibility
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Aspiring MBA candidates, mark your calendars! The highly anticipated Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 registration window has officially opened on the IIM CAT Website. This is your first crucial step towards securing a coveted seat in India's premier B-schools, including the prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and numerous other top management institutions.
With the competition for management programs intensifying each year, staying ahead of the curve and meticulously planning your application is paramount. This comprehensive guide from MatchToCollege brings you all the vital information you need about CAT 2026 registration, key dates, application fees, eligibility criteria, and important changes to the exam pattern.
Missing a deadline can jeopardize your dreams, so let's dive into the details and ensure you're fully equipped for a successful application journey.
At MatchToCollege, we understand the complexities of the higher education landscape. Our AI-powered platform is designed to simplify your journey, offering personalized insights, college predictions, and career guidance.
As you embark on your CAT 2026 preparation, leverage our cutting-edge tools to make informed decisions and optimize your chances of admission to your dream B-school. The path to an MBA begins here, and we're with you every step of the way.
CAT 2026: Key Dates & Deadlines You Must Know
To ensure a smooth application process, it's critical to be aware of all the important dates for CAT 2026.
Missing any of these deadlines could mean losing out on your chance to appear for the exam.
Here's a quick overview:
- Registration Window: August 3, 2026 (10:00 AM) to September 15, 2026 (5:00 PM) – Don't wait till the last minute!
- Admit Card Download: November 4, 2026, to November 29, 2026
- CAT 2026 Exam Date: November 29, 2026 (conducted in three separate slots)
- Result Declaration (Tentative): First week of January 2027
These dates are crucial for planning your preparation strategy, application submission, and travel arrangements for the exam. Ensure you have reminders set for each milestone.
Application Fees & Eligibility: What's New for CAT 2026?
The IIM CAT Committee has announced a few updates regarding application fees and pattern changes for CAT 2026.
Familiarize yourself with these details to avoid any surprises:
Application Fees:
- General/Unreserved Candidates: ₹2,700
- SC, ST, and PwBD Candidates: ₹1,350
Note: There has been a slight increase in registration fees compared to previous cycles. Ensure you pay the correct amount to successfully complete your application.
Eligibility Criteria:
The core eligibility requirements remain consistent:
- Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA for General/EWS/NC-OBC categories.
- For SC/ST/PwBD candidates, the minimum aggregate marks required is 45%.
- Students in their final year of a Bachelor’s degree program can also apply, provided they complete their degree within the specified timeline and meet the minimum percentage criteria.
Exam Pattern & Application Changes:
- Test Cities: Candidates now have the flexibility to choose up to 5 preferred test cities during the registration process, increasing convenience.
- The exam format, including the number of sections (Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude) and duration, is expected to remain similar to previous years. However, always refer to the official CAT website for the latest pattern specifics.
Your Strategic Advantage: How MatchToCollege Powers Your CAT 2026 Journey
Navigating the competitive CAT landscape requires more than just exam preparation; it demands strategic planning for admissions.
MatchToCollege is your ultimate AI-powered partner in this journey.
Our advanced CAT College Predictor tool helps you estimate your chances of admission to various IIMs and other top B-schools based on your expected CAT percentile, academic profile, and other parameters. This invaluable tool gives you a realistic understanding of where you stand and helps you tailor your target list of colleges.
Beyond college prediction, MatchToCollege offers a suite of tools to support your higher education aspirations:
- Explore thousands of domestic colleges and programs.
- Utilize our Career Pathway Matcher to align your MBA goals with long-term career success.
- Consider financing options with our Education Loan EMI Calculator.
Don't leave your MBA future to chance. Register for CAT 2026 on time, prepare diligently, and let MatchToCollege empower you with the insights and tools needed to achieve your academic and career goals.
Start your journey to an IIM today!
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FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Q: When does CAT 2026 registration open and close?
CAT 2026 registration opens on August 3, 2026 (10:00 AM) and closes on September 15, 2026 (5:00 PM).
Q: What is the application fee for CAT 2026?
The application fee for General/Unreserved candidates is ₹2,700, and for SC, ST, and PwBD candidates, it is ₹1,350.
Q: What are the eligibility criteria for CAT 2026?
Candidates need a Bachelor's degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwBD). Final-year degree students are also eligible to apply.
Get More Info About CAT 2026 Registration Live
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