How to Apply for CAT 2026: Registration Guide for MBA Aspirants

The CAT 2026 registration process is expected to begin in August 1 2026 through the official CAT website. MBA aspirants must complete the online application by registering, filling personal and academic details, uploading documents and paying the application fee before the deadline.

• CAT 2026 registration is fully online process and it takes about one hour with all documents ready.
• Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks for general and 45% for SC/ST/PwD categories or be in the final year to apply.
• Candidates should apply early to avoid last minute server issues during the 4–6 week registration period.
• Candidates should verify all details before final submission as the information entered in the application form will be used throughout the CAT 2026 admission process.
• Up to six test cities can be selected in order of preference during the CAT 2026 registration process.
• The CAT 2026 application fee is expected to be ₹2400 for General/EWS/OBC NCL and ₹1200 for SC/ST/PwD candidates.
   

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CAT 2026 Registration Overview

CAT 2026 is expected to be conducted on 29 November 2026 by IIM Indore, the convening institute for this year.

• The entire CAT 2026 registration process will be conducted online through iimcat.ac.in.
• Offline applications and registrations through third-party websites will not be accepted.

Source: Jagranjosh

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Eligibility Criteria for CAT 2026

Candidates should verify their CAT 2026 eligibility before submitting the application form.

• Ineligible applications may be rejected at any stage, including after the examination.
• The CAT 2026 application fee is non-refundable, even if the application is rejected.

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Documents Required for CAT 2026 Registration

Candidates need to keep the following documents ready in digital format (scanned) before starting their application. Uploading incorrect file size or format is one of the most common reasons for form errors or rejection.

• Photograph: Recent passport-size colour photo in JPEG format (size: 20 KB – 50 KB).
• Signature: Scanned on white paper with blue/black ink in JPEG format (size: 10 KB – 50 KB).
• Class 10 marksheet: For date of birth verification.
• Class 12 marksheet: For academic profile completion.
• Graduation marksheets / degree certificate: All semester or year-wise marksheets (final-year students can upload available marksheets).
• Category certificate (if applicable): Valid SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS/PwD certificate issued by competent authority.
• Work Experience Documents (optional at registration): Offer letters, experience certificates, or salary slips (these are mainly needed later for IIM shortlisting).

Source: CAT Registration Guide

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How to Apply for CAT 2026: Step-by-Step Process

Candidates need to follow these steps on the official website iimcat.ac.in once registration opens which is expected on August 1 2026:

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Go to iimcat.ac.in and click on the “New Registration” or “Register” link. This link will be active after the official notification is released.

Step 2: Create a new account

• Candidates need to enter their name exactly as it appears on their Class 10 certificate.
• Provide date of birth, valid mobile number and active email ID.
• Candidates need to verify OTPs sent to their email and mobile to generate User ID and Password.

Step 3: Fill the application form.

Log in and complete the following sections carefully:

• Personal details: Name, date of birth, gender, nationality, category, contact information.
• Academic details: Class 10, 12, and graduation percentages; enter figures exactly as on candidates marksheets.
• Work experience: Enter total months of post-qualification work experience (if any). Freshers can leave it blank.
• Test city preferences: Select up to six cities in order of preference.

Step 4: Upload Documents

Upload recent passport-size photograph and signature in the prescribed JPEG format and size (as mentioned in the notification).

Step 5: Pay the application fee.

Pay the fee online (credit/debit card, net banking, UPI, etc.). The fee is non-refundable. Note the transaction ID for reference.

Step 6: Final Submit & Download Confirmation

Review all details, submit the form, and download/save the confirmation page and registration number. These credentials are required for admit card, results, and future login.

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CAT Topic Wise Weightage for QA, VARC and DILR, Check Previous Years’ Question

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CAT 2026 Application Fee

The CAT 2026 application fee must be paid online during the registration process and it is non-refundable under all circumstances.

• The expected CAT 2026 fee is based on the CAT 2025 fee structure and will be confirmed in the official notification.
• Candidates can pay using net banking, credit card, debit card, UPI, and other online payment methods.
• Candidates should save the payment receipt and transaction ID for future reference and payment-related queries.

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CAT Preparation 2026: 6 Month Strategy, Self-Preparation, Books, Mock Tests & Online Coachings

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CAT 2026 Important Dates for Application

The dates below are expected based on recent CAT cycles and current trends. Always confirm the exact dates on the official website iimcat.ac.in after the notification is released.

Source: hitbullseye

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CAT QA Paper Analysis 2026: Difficulty Level, Topic Distribution, and Good Attempts

CAT 2026 Application: Reddit Discussion

• According to a Reddit discussion, candidates sought clarification on claiming work experience in the CAT 2026 application after clearing a backlog and work experience from the joining date may be considered valid, provided employment documents are available for verification.

• According to a Reddit discussion, candidates sought clarification on including additional Class 12 subjects while filling the CAT 2026 application form and guidelines vary across B-schools, but including all subjects listed on the marksheet was suggested as a practical approach.