IIM Indore CAT 2026 Notification: Regs Open Aug 3 | MatchToCollege
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The wait is over for aspiring management professionals! The prestigious Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore has officially released the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 notification, signaling the commencement of the race for coveted MBA seats in the 2026-27 academic year. This crucial announcement marks a pivotal moment for thousands of students dreaming of a career in top-tier management.
According to the notification, online registration for CAT 2026 is set to open on August 3rd, providing an early start for candidates to secure their spot in the most competitive entrance exam for management programs in India.
For many, IIM Indore represents the pinnacle of management education. Its rigorous curriculum, world-class faculty, exceptional placement records, and vibrant campus life make it a highly sought-after institution. The CAT exam serves as the primary gateway to not just IIM Indore but also to all other IIMs and numerous other premier B-schools across the country. Understanding the intricacies of the notification, adhering to deadlines, and preparing strategically are paramount for success.
This early notification provides a significant advantage for candidates to meticulously plan their CAT preparation journey. It’s not just about registering; it’s about embarking on a transformative path that demands dedication, strategic planning, and often, expert guidance. Whether you're a fresh graduate or a working professional looking to accelerate your career, the journey to an IIM requires more than just academic prowess – it demands a holistic approach to skill development, test-taking strategies, and application finesse.
This is where platforms like MatchToCollege become indispensable, offering AI-powered personalized insights and guidance to navigate the complex landscape of higher education admissions, ensuring you are not just prepared, but poised for success in your pursuit of an MBA admission.
Stay tuned as we break down all the essential details of the IIM Indore CAT 2026 notification, from registration dates and eligibility criteria to key preparation strategies. Your dream of joining a top B-school is now closer than ever, and MatchToCollege is here to illuminate your path.
IIM Indore Releases CAT 2026 Notification; Registration from August 3
The Indian Institutes of Management have released the CAT 2026 notification. Registration opens on August 3 and closes on September 15. The computer based exam will be held on November 29 in three sessions. The application fee is now Rs 2700.
The Indian Institute of Management Indore (IIM Indore) has released the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 notification on the official website at iimcat.ac.in. The computer-based test will be held on Sunday, November 29, 2026. It will be conducted in three sessions across more than 170 test cities in India.
Registration for CAT 2026 will open on August 3, 2026. The last date to submit the application form is September 15, 2026. Candidates seeking admission to the IIMs and other participating B-schools must apply within this window.
The CAT score is used for admission to MBA and PGDM programmes at all 21 IIMs. Several non-IIM institutes such as FMS, MDI, SPJIMR, and IITs also accept CAT scores for their management programmes.
CAT 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
| Notification release | July 26, 2026 |
| Registration start | August 3, 2026 |
| Last date to apply | September 15, 2026 |
| Admit card release | November 4, 2026 to November 29, 2026 |
| CAT 2026 exam date | November 29, 2026 (Sunday) |
| Result declaration | Second week of January 2027 |
CAT 2026 Application Fee
The application fee must be paid online through net banking, debit card, credit card, or UPI. The fee is non-refundable once submitted.
| Category | Fee (Rs) |
| General, EWS, and NC-OBC | 2,700 |
| SC, ST, and PwD | 1,350 |
Who Is Eligible to Apply for CAT 2026?
Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree with at least 50 percent marks. The minimum requirement is 45 percent for SC, ST, and PwD candidates. Equivalent CGPA is also accepted by IIM Indore.
Students in the final year of their graduation can also apply. There is no upper age limit or cap on the number of attempts. Foreign nationals and NRIs are also eligible under the prescribed rules.
CAT 2026 Exam Pattern
CAT 2026 will be conducted as a computer-based test of 120 minutes duration. The paper will carry 68 questions divided across three sections. Each correct answer will fetch three marks.
There will be a negative marking of one mark for every incorrect MCQ response. No marks will be deducted for unanswered questions or non-MCQ items. Candidates cannot switch between sections during the test.
| Section | Questions | Duration |
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 24 | 40 minutes |
| Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 22 | 40 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude (QA) | 22 | 40 minutes |
How to Apply for CAT 2026?
Candidates must complete the application process on the official CAT website. Registration requires a valid email ID, mobile number, and scanned documents. The uploaded photograph and signature must meet the specified format.
During the form, applicants will list their programme preferences. Candidates can select up to five preferred test cities in order of choice. IIM Indore will allot the centre based on availability.
CAT 2026 Test Session Slots
The exam will be conducted in three shifts on November 29, 2026. Each candidate will be assigned one slot on the admit card. The slot allotment is done through a computerised process.
| Session | Timing |
| Morning | 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM |
| Afternoon | 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM |
| Evening | 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM |
Action Plan for Candidates
- Visit the official CAT portal at iimcat.ac.in from August 3, 2026.
- Read the official information bulletin carefully before starting the form.
- Check the eligibility criteria and keep your graduation marksheet ready.
- Keep scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and category certificate ready.
- Pay the application fee online before September 15, 2026.
- Download the confirmation page after successful submission.
CAT 2026 Key Dates & Registration: What You Need to Know
The IIM Indore CAT 2026 notification brings clarity to the admissions timeline for the upcoming academic cycle. The most significant date to remember is August 3rd, when the online registration window for CAT 2026 officially opens. While the exact closing date and the exam date are typically announced later, candidates should aim to complete their registration well in advance to avoid last-minute glitches. Historically, the CAT exam is conducted in the last week of November, giving aspirants ample time to prepare.
Understanding the eligibility criteria for CAT 2026 is crucial before applying. While specific nuances might be detailed in the full prospectus, the general requirements remain consistent:
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must hold a Bachelor's Degree with at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA (45% for candidates belonging to Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Persons with Disability (PwD) categories).
- Final Year Students: Those appearing for the final year of their Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification examination, and those awaiting results, are also eligible to apply, provided they complete all requirements for the Bachelor's degree by a specified date (usually around June of the admission year).
- No Age Limit: CAT does not have an upper age limit.
It is vital for all prospective applicants to carefully review the detailed eligibility criteria specified in the official CAT 2026 information bulletin once it is fully released. Meeting these requirements is the first step towards realizing your dream of an IIM MBA.
Mastering CAT 2026: Your Strategic Preparation Roadmap
Choosing where to pursue your Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a monumental decision, and IIM Indore consistently stands out as a top choice for a multitude of reasons. Established in 1996, IIM Indore has rapidly climbed the ranks to become one of the most respected management institutions in India, renowned for its academic excellence, innovative programs, and strong industry connections.
Here’s why IIM Indore should be at the top of your list:
- NIRF Ranking: Consistently ranked among the top 10 management institutes in India, IIM Indore's PGP (Post Graduate Programme in Management) is highly acclaimed.
- World-Class Faculty: The institute boasts a faculty pool comprising accomplished scholars and industry veterans, ensuring a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical insights.
- Holistic Curriculum: IIM Indore's curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, leadership skills, and an entrepreneurial mindset. Its flagship PGP offers a diverse range of specializations.
- Exceptional Placements: Graduates from IIM Indore are highly sought after by leading national and international companies across various sectors, commanding competitive salary packages. The institute has a strong track record of 100% placements.
- Vibrant Campus Life: Beyond academics, IIM Indore offers a dynamic campus environment with numerous student clubs, events, and initiatives that contribute to overall personal and professional development.
Securing admission to such a prestigious institution via the challenging Common Admission Test requires unparalleled dedication. IIM Indore is not just a college; it’s a launchpad for future leaders and entrepreneurs, making the preparation for CAT 2026 an investment in a bright and promising career.
Beyond CAT: IIM Indore & Your MBA Admission Journey
Navigating the complex and highly competitive landscape of CAT 2026 preparation and MBA admissions can be daunting. With the IIM Indore notification now out, the clock is ticking, and personalized, strategic guidance becomes more critical than ever. This is where MatchToCollege steps in as your ultimate AI-powered higher education counselling platform, designed to transform your aspiration into achievement.
At MatchToCollege, we understand that every student's journey is unique. Our platform leverages advanced artificial intelligence to provide a tailored approach to your CAT preparation and college application process:
- Personalized Study Plans: Based on your strengths, weaknesses, and learning style, our AI crafts an optimal study schedule, focusing on areas that need improvement to maximize your CAT score.
- Strategic College Shortlisting: Beyond just IIM Indore, we help you identify the best-fit B-schools based on your profile, preferences, and CAT score potential, optimizing your chances of admission to top-tier management programs.
- Application Essay & Interview Prep: From crafting compelling Statements of Purpose (SOPs) and essays to rigorous mock interview sessions, our expert mentors provide invaluable feedback to polish your application components.
- Real-time Progress Tracking: Monitor your performance with detailed analytics on mock tests and practice sessions, ensuring continuous improvement.
- Expert Mentorship: Connect with experienced mentors who have successfully navigated the CAT exam and IIM admission process, offering insights and support at every stage.
Don't leave your higher education career to chance. Partner with MatchToCollege to gain a competitive edge in your CAT 2026 journey and secure your spot in a dream institution like IIM Indore. We’re here to ensure your application stands out and your preparation is second to none.
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FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Q: When does CAT 2026 registration officially begin?
According to the IIM Indore CAT 2026 notification, online registration for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 will officially open on August 3rd, 2025. Candidates are advised to register early to avoid any last-minute issues.
Q: What are the general eligibility criteria for CAT 2026?
Generally, candidates need a Bachelor's Degree with at least 50% marks or an equivalent CGPA (45% for SC/ST/PwD categories). Final year students are also eligible to apply, provided they complete their degree requirements by a specified date. There is no upper age limit for CAT.
Q: How can MatchToCollege help me with my CAT 2026 preparation and IIM Indore admission?
MatchToCollege offers AI-powered personalized guidance for CAT 2026. This includes custom study plans based on your profile, strategic college shortlisting, expert assistance with application essays and interviews, real-time performance tracking, and mentorship from experienced professionals to maximize your chances of admission to IIM Indore and other top B-schools.
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Indian Institute of Management
Indian Institute of Management
The Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIMC) was established as the first national institute for postgraduate studies and research in management by the Government of India in November 1961 in collaboration with the Alfred P. Sloan School of Management (MIT), the Government of West Bengal, the Ford Foundation, and Indian industry. During its initial years, several prominent faculty formed part of its nucleus, including Jagdish Sheth, J. K. Sengupta, and others. Over the years, IIMC has grown into a mature institution with a global reputation, imparting high-quality management education. It has been playing a pioneering role in professionalizing Indian management through its postgraduate and doctoral-level programs, executive training programs, and research and consulting activities. Today, the institute serves as an autonomous body, continually evolving to meet its goals in an ever-changing business environment.
Total Fees
₹40K - ₹33.5L
Total Courses
11



