CAT 2026 Exam: Syllabus, Important Dates, Eligibility, Registration & Latest Updates

The CAT 2026 Exam is the most important step for candidates who have their sights set on an MBA from the top management institutes in India. The CAT Exam is administered by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and is the gateway to the top B-schools in the country, including the IIMs, FMS, MDI, SPJIMR, IITs, and other top colleges.

As the level of competition is rising every year, it is necessary to have the right and earliest information regarding the CAT 2026 syllabus, CAT 2026 important dates, CAT 2026 eligibility criteria, and CAT exam 2026 latest updates.

Overview of CAT 2026 Exam-

The CAT 2026 Exam (Common Admission Test) is a national-level computer-based test designed to evaluate a candidate’s aptitude in verbal ability, logical reasoning, data interpretation, and quantitative skills.

Key highlights:

• Exam Mode: Online (CBT)
• Duration: 2 hours
• Sections: 3
• Frequency: Once a year
• Score Validity: One admission cycle

CAT scores are widely accepted, making the exam a gateway to some of the best management careers in India.

CAT Exam 2026 Latest Updates-

As per recent trends and announcements, the CAT exam 2026 latest updates indicate the following:

• No major changes expected in the exam pattern
• Sectional time limits will remain in place
• CAT 2026 is expected to be held on November 29, 2026 (Sunday)
• Official notification is expected around July 2026

Candidates are advised to begin preparation well in advance rather than waiting for the official notification.

CAT 2026 Important Dates (Expected)

Here is a tentative timeline for CAT 2026 important dates:

These dates may change slightly once the official notification is released.

CAT 2026 Registration Date 2026 & Application Process

The CAT 2026 registration date 2026 is expected to begin in August 2026. Registration will be completely online.

How to Apply for CAT 2026

• Visit the CAT official website
• Register with a valid email ID and mobile number
• Enter personal, academic, and work experience details
• Upload photograph, signature, and documents
• Pay the application fee
• Submit the form and save the confirmation page

Applying early is always recommended to avoid last-minute technical issues.

CAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the CAT 2026 eligibility criteria.

• Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
• Minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD candidates)
• Candidates in the final year of graduation are eligible to apply for the CAT 2026 Exam
• There is no age limit for appearing in CAT 2026

Meeting eligibility criteria is mandatory, but final selection depends on multiple factors beyond CAT score.

CAT 2026 Exam Pattern

Understanding the structure of the exam helps in better time management and strategy.

1. Total Questions: 66
2. Marking Scheme: +3 for correct answers
3. Negative Marking: -1 for incorrect MCQs
4. Non-MCQs: No negative marking

CAT 2026 Syllabus (Detailed & Section-Wise)

Although IIMs do not release an official syllabus, the CAT 2026 syllabus follows a predictable pattern.

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

• Reading comprehension passages
• Para jumbles
• Sentence completion
• Summary-based questions
• Odd sentence out

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

• Tables, bar graphs, and pie charts
• Caselets
• Seating arrangements
• Logical puzzles
• Blood relations and series

Quantitative Aptitude

• Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratio & Proportion, Time & Work)
• Algebra
• Geometry and Mensuration
• Number System
• Modern Mathematics

Covering the entire CAT 2026 syllabus systematically is key to improving accuracy and speed.

Why CAT 2026 Exam is Important

• Entry to top IIMs and premium B-schools
• Accepted by over 1,000 management institutes
• High return on investment (ROI)
• Strong career growth and leadership opportunities
• Globally respected MBA credentials

Preparation Strategy for CAT 2026

• Start preparation at least 12 months in advance
• Focus on fundamentals before advanced problems
• Take regular mock tests and analyze performance
• Work on weak sections consistently
• Maintain balance between speed and accuracy

A disciplined approach aligned with the CAT 2026 syllabus can significantly improve results.

FAQs on CAT 2026 Exam

Is CAT 2026 tough for non-engineering candidates?

No. CAT requires aptitude and not technical knowledge. Many non-engineers have scored outstandingly well every year.

Am I eligible to take CAT 2026 while working full-time?

Yes. A huge number of CAT toppers are working professionals who prepare for CAT while working.

How many attempts are allowed for CAT exams?

There is no limit on the number of attempts for CAT exams.

When should I start preparing for CAT 2026?

Ideally, 10-12 months before the exam is a good time to start.

Does CAT have sectional cut-offs?

Yes. Most IIMs and best B-schools use both overall and sectional cut-offs.

Is the CAT 2026 syllabus likely to change?

Not at present. There are no major changes expected in the CAT 2026 syllabus.

Do I need to join coaching classes to prepare for CAT 2026?

Coaching classes can be very beneficial for guidance, planned study, and practice through mock tests, but it is not mandatory. Many people have achieved success through self-study using books and online material. It is up to you to decide what suits you best.

Final Thoughts

The CAT 2026 Exam is more than an entrance exam; it is a defining moment in one’s career. Keeping oneself updated with the CAT exam 2026 latest news, CAT 2026 important dates, CAT 2026 eligibility criteria, and applying within the CAT 2026 registration date 2026 will provide a huge advantage to the candidates.Preparation, understanding of concepts, and practice are the actual tools required to crack CAT.