4th February, 2026

JAP 2026: Eligibility Criteria, Important Dates & Application Process

JAP 2026: Eligibility Criteria, Important Dates & Application Process

Planning to apply for JAP 2026 MBA admissions? Don’t miss these key updates before you proceed further.

The Joint Admission Process 2026 (JAP 2026) is a significant milestone for MBA candidates aiming for select IIMs. As the procedure commences only after the CAT results, candidates often get confused regarding the eligibility criteria, dates, and application procedure. This article will provide you with all the necessary information right from the JAP 2026 eligibility criteria to key dates, application process, and FAQs.

JAP 2026

JAP 2026: This is the Joint Admission Process 2026, which is a common MBA entrance process for four Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs):

  • IIM Raipur (Coordinating Institute)

  • IIM Kashipur

  • IIM Ranchi

  • IIM Tiruchirappalli

The Joint Admission Process 2026 allows shortlisted candidates of CAT to have a common Personal Interview (PI) and Written Ability Test (WAT) rather than having separate interviews at different IIMs. The final selection is made individually by each institute.

JAP 2026 Eligibility Criteria

The following are the JAP 2026 Eligibility Criteria that candidates must fulfill to be eligible for the selection process:

  • Have a valid score in CAT 2025

  • Have a bachelor’s degree with minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD candidates)

  • Final-year graduation students are eligible to apply, provided they complete their degree within the stipulated timeline

  • Have fulfilled the respective IIM sectional and overall, CAT cut-offs

Eligibility for selection does not guarantee selection, as candidates will be shortlisted based on CAT performance, academic record, work experience, and diversity considerations.

JAP 2026 Important Dates

The JAP 2026 Important Dates are closely related to the CAT 2025 results. After the results were announced, qualified candidates were asked to finish their registration process for the Joint Admission Process 2026. Only candidates who registered within the stipulated time received interview invitations from the participating IIMs. The Personal Interview rounds are scheduled and are taking place in February-March 2026.

JAP 2026 EVENTS

EXACT DATE

CAT 2025 Results

24 Dec 2025

JAP 2026 Registration Open

After CAT results

JAP 2026 Registration Close

16 Jan 2026

JAP 2026 Interview Calls Released

After 16 Jan 2026 (post-registration)

JAP 2026 Personal Interview Period

February – March 2026

JAP 2026 Application Process

The JAP 2026 Application Process is not like other application processes. There is no separate application form for JAP.

This is how it is done:

  • Candidates apply for CAT 2025

  • While registering for CAT, they choose the IIMs they want to participate in

  • Candidates are shortlisted based on CAT performance and other factors

  • Shortlisted candidates are called for common PI & WAT for Joint Admission Process 2026

The final merit list is prepared by each IIM separately.

JAP 2026 Application Form

There is no separate JAP 2026 Application Form.

Important points to remember:

  • CAT 2025 application is the base application

  • No separate fee is required for JAP

  • Letters for interview are sent directly by the coordinating IIM

  • Candidates are required to carry original documents during PI/WAT

Always check official emails and IIM websites for updates.

How to Apply for JAP 2026

Follow these steps to participate in JAP 2026 successfully:

  1. Register and apply for CAT 2022. 

  2. Select participating IIMs during CAT form filling

  3. Meet the CAT cut-offs and eligibility criteria

  4. Wait for JAP 2026 PI/WAT shortlist notification

  5. Attend the interview and WAT rounds

  6. Check final admission offers from individual IIMs.

FAQs on JAP 2026

1. What is JAP 2026?

JAP 2026 stands for Joint Admission Process 2026 for MBA admissions, which is organized by certain IIMs after the CAT exam.

2. Is there a separate application form for JAP 2026?

No, there is no separate form for JAP 2026.

3. Which IIMs are involved in JAP 2026?

The IIMs involved in JAP 2026 are IIM Raipur, IIM Kashipur, IIM Ranchi, and IIM Tiruchirappalli.

4. Is CAT compulsory for JAP 2026?

Yes, a valid CAT 2025 score is required.

5. When will JAP 2026 interviews take place?

The interviews for JAP 2026 are expected to take place between February and March 2026.

6. Will one interview suffice for all IIMs?

Yes, the Joint Admission Process 2026 comprises a common PI/WAT process.

7. Are the final selections common for all IIMs?

No, the final merit list for each IIM is separate.

Final Thoughts on JAP 2026

The JAP 2026 makes the MBA admission process easier by providing a common platform for interviews for various IIMs. Candidates can increase their chances of getting admission by understanding the JAP 2026 Eligibility Criteria, being aware of the JAP 2026 Important Dates, and preparing well for the PI and WAT rounds. Candidates are advised to keep themselves updated with the latest notifications after the CAT results and prepare well to take full advantage of the Joint Admission Process 2026.