The Common Admission Test (CAT) is India’s most prestigious MBA entrance examination conducted annually by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). Thousands of MBA aspirants across the country are eagerly waiting for the announcement of the CAT Exam Date 2026.
Although the official CAT 2026 notification has not yet been released, analysis of previous years’ schedules suggests that the examination is likely to be conducted in the last week of November 2026. Understanding the expected timeline can help candidates plan their preparation, registration, and application strategy effectively.
CAT Exam Date 2026: Expected Schedule
Based on historical patterns followed by the IIMs over the last several years, CAT 2026 is expected to follow the timeline below:
Event |
Expected Date |
|---|---|
CAT 2026 Notification Release |
July 2026 |
Registration Start Date |
August 2026 |
Registration Last Date |
September 2026 |
Application Correction Window |
September 2026 |
Admit Card Release |
October/November 2026 |
CAT Exam Date 2026 |
November 29, 2026 (Expected) |
Answer Key Release |
December 2026 |
Result Declaration |
December 2026 / January 2027 |
Note: These dates are tentative and based on previous year trends. Official dates will be confirmed through the CAT 2026 notification.
CAT Exam Date Trend Analysis (Previous Years)
Analyzing previous CAT exam schedules helps estimate the likely CAT 2026 exam date.
Year |
Exam Date |
|---|---|
CAT 2025 |
November 30, 2025 |
CAT 2024 |
November 24, 2024 |
CAT 2023 |
November 26, 2023 |
CAT 2022 |
November 27, 2022 |
CAT 2021 |
November 28, 2021 |
CAT 2020 |
November 29, 2020 |
Key Observation
A clear trend can be observed:
- CAT is usually conducted on the last Sunday of November.
- The examination is generally held in three shifts.
- Registration typically begins in the first week of August.
- Results are generally announced within 4–6 weeks after the examination.
Based on this pattern, November 29, 2026, emerges as the strongest expected date for CAT 2026.
CAT 2026 Registration Schedule
The CAT registration process is completely online. Candidates should keep essential documents ready before the application window opens.
Documents Required
- Passport-size photograph
- Signature scan
- Graduation marksheets
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Work experience details
- Valid email ID
- Mobile number
Registration Steps
- Visit the official CAT portal.
- Create a user account.
- Verify email and mobile number.
- Fill personal and academic details.
- Upload required documents.
- Select preferred exam cities.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit and download confirmation page.
CAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must satisfy the following eligibility requirements:
Educational Qualification
- Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
- Minimum 50% marks for General, EWS, and NC-OBC candidates.
- Minimum 45% marks for SC, ST, and PwD candidates.
Final-Year Students
Students appearing in the final year of graduation can also apply for CAT 2026.
No Age Limit
There is no upper age limit for appearing in the CAT examination.
CAT Exam Pattern 2026 (Expected)
The exam pattern is likely to remain similar to previous years.
Section |
Expected Questions |
|---|---|
VARC (Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension) |
24 |
DILR (Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning) |
20 |
QA (Quantitative Aptitude) |
22 |
Total |
66 |
Important Highlights
- Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Duration: 120 Minutes
- 40 Minutes per Section
- Negative Marking for MCQs
- Three Exam Slots
Why Knowing the CAT Exam Date Early Matters
Being aware of the expected CAT schedule provides several advantages:
Better Preparation Planning
Candidates can create a structured preparation roadmap spanning 5–6 months.
Mock Test Strategy
Knowing the expected timeline allows aspirants to schedule sectional and full-length mocks effectively.
MBA Application Planning
Many top B-schools begin their admission process immediately after CAT results. Early awareness helps candidates prepare SOPs, resumes, and interview strategies.
CAT 2026 Preparation Timeline
June – August 2026
- Build concepts in Quant and VARC.
- Start basic DILR practice.
- Develop reading habits.
August – September 2026
- Begin sectional tests.
- Improve speed and accuracy.
- Strengthen weak areas.
October 2026
- Take regular mock tests.
- Analyze performance thoroughly.
- Focus on time management.
November 2026
- Revise key concepts.
- Solve previous CAT papers.
- Maintain consistency and confidence.
Expected CAT 2026 Participating IIMs
CAT scores are accepted by all IIMs including:
- IIM Ahmedabad
- IIM Bangalore
- IIM Calcutta
- IIM Lucknow
- IIM Kozhikode
- IIM Indore
- IIM Shillong
- IIM Udaipur
- IIM Trichy
- IIM Raipur
- IIM Kashipur
- IIM Ranchi
- IIM Rohtak
- IIM Nagpur
- IIM Bodh Gaya
- IIM Jammu
- IIM Sambalpur
- IIM Sirmaur
- IIM Visakhapatnam
- IIM Amritsar
Additionally, CAT scores are accepted by several leading MBA institutes across India.
CAT 2026 Expected Cut-Offs
Institute Category |
Expected Percentile |
|---|---|
Top IIMs |
98–99.9+ |
New IIMs |
90–97 |
Top Non-IIM B-Schools |
85–99 |
Emerging MBA Colleges |
70–85 |
Actual cut-offs vary based on category, academic profile, work experience, and institute-specific selection criteria.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. When will CAT 2026 be conducted?
CAT 2026 is expected to be conducted on 29 November 2026, following the historical trend of holding the exam on the last Sunday of November.
Q2. When will CAT 2026 registration start?
Registration is expected to begin in August 2026.
Q3. Who will conduct CAT 2026?
The conducting IIM for CAT 2026 will be announced through the official notification.
Q4. How many times is CAT conducted in a year?
CAT is conducted once every year.
Q5. Is CAT mandatory for MBA admission?
Many top MBA colleges accept CAT scores, but some institutions also conduct their own entrance examinations.
Final Thoughts
CAT 2026 remains one of the most competitive MBA entrance examinations in India. Based on previous year trends, the exam is expected to be held on 29 November 2026, with registration likely starting in August 2026.
MBA aspirants should not wait for the official notification to begin preparation. Starting early, following a disciplined study plan, and consistently taking mock tests can significantly improve the chances of securing admission to top IIMs and leading management institutes across India.
He is an experienced content writer with 10+ years of expertise in education, careers, admissions, and government-related content. He specializes in creating accurate, SEO-friendly, and reader-focused articles based on official and reliable sources.
