The Common Admission Test (CAT 2026), scheduled for November 29, 2026, by IIM Kozhikode. CAT does not have an official separate dress code rulebook published in the information bulletin, but test centres enforce strict security and frisking protocols.
As per the previous year's test centre rules:
- You should wear simple, light-colored, single-layered clothes with half-sleeves or loosely fitting sleeves (such as plain T-shirts, light shirts, or simple kurtis).
- For lower wear, go for trousers, jeans, simple salwar, or leggings without pockets or with minimal/no large pockets.
- Similarly, for footwear, wear simple, open sandals, or flat slippers that are easy to remove and check.
- You need to avoid wearing full-sleeved shirts, hoodies, jackets, blazers, heavily embroidered clothes, or garments with large buttons or multiple pockets.
- Do not wear closed shoes, boots, high heels, or thick-soled footwear.
- Do not bring mobile phones, calculators, pagers, Bluetooth devices, and smartwatches.
The CAT 2026 admit card is scheduled for release on November 4, 2026. The dress-code guidance below covers common questions about full sleeves, jeans, nail polish, footwear, and accessories.
Related Links:
- CAT 2026: Admit Card on Nov 4, Exam on Nov 29, Mock Test, Sample Papers, Syllabus & Preparation Tips
- CAT Previous Year Question Paper
- PwD Scribe Guideline for CAT Exam 2026
Is There Any Dress Code for CAT Exam?
Yes, candidates should follow the examination authority's dress and security instructions. Simple clothing is recommended to make security checks easier. However, not every restriction mentioned in older CAT dress-code articles is necessarily an official rule for CAT 2026.
| Clothing or Item | CAT 2026 Guidance |
|---|---|
| Simple shirts, T-shirts and trousers | Practical choices for the examination. |
| Full-sleeved shirts | Not listed as universally prohibited in the available guidance. |
| Jeans | A practical option; avoid bulky designs and multiple pockets. |
| Jewellery | Avoid unnecessary jewellery and accessories. |
| Smartwatches and fitness bands | Do not wear them during the examination. |
| Hoodies and bulky jackets | Avoid them because they may lead to additional checks or be restricted. |
| Footwear | Choose simple, comfortable footwear; thick soles may be restricted under reported guidance. |
| Nail polish | No specific prohibition confirmed in the available CAT 2026 sources. |
Candidates should distinguish between general precautions and restrictions explicitly announced by the examination authority.
Check:
CAT Exam Dress Code for Female
Female candidates should choose simple, comfortable clothing for CAT 2026. Avoid unnecessary accessories and bulky outfits that could make security checks more time-consuming.
| Clothing or Item | CAT 2026 Guidance |
|---|---|
| Kurta, shirt or top | Simple and comfortable options. |
| Jeans and trousers | Suitable practical options; avoid bulky designs and multiple pockets. |
| Full sleeves | Regular full-sleeved clothing is not listed as universally prohibited in the available guidance. |
| Jewellery | Avoid unnecessary jewellery, including necklaces, bracelets and rings. |
| Makeup | No specific prohibition on ordinary makeup has been confirmed in the available CAT 2026 sources. |
| Nail polish | No specific CAT 2026 ban has been confirmed in the available sources. |
| Footwear | Choose comfortable footwear; avoid thick soles if the reported restriction applies. |
| Religious or cultural attire | Candidates should be prepared for additional security checks if required. |
Female candidates should prioritize comfortable clothing and avoid accessories that may cause delays during frisking.
Also Read: CAT 2026 Preparation Online: Coaching, Free Courses
CAT Exam Dress Code for Male
Male candidates should wear simple clothing that allows easy movement and makes security checks easier. Avoid bulky outfits and unnecessary accessories.
| Clothing or Item | CAT 2026 Guidance |
|---|---|
| Shirts and T-shirts | Simple, comfortable options. |
| Jeans and trousers | Practical choices; avoid cargo pants with numerous pockets. |
| Full sleeves | Regular full-sleeved shirts are not listed as universally prohibited in the available guidance. |
| Jackets and hoodies | Avoid bulky outerwear because it may be restricted or require additional checks. |
| Jewellery | Avoid unnecessary metallic accessories. |
| Watches | Do not wear smartwatches or electronic wearable devices. |
| Footwear | Choose simple footwear; thick soles may be restricted under reported guidance. |
| Caps and headwear | Avoid ordinary caps unless permitted; religious headwear may require verification. |
These recommendations cover common precautions. A specific restriction should be described as an official CAT 2026 rule only when supported by the examination authority's instructions.
Can I Wear Full Sleeves in CAT Exam?
Regular full-sleeved shirts are not listed as universally prohibited in the available CAT 2026 guidance. Candidates can choose comfortable clothing, but bulky jackets and hoodies may lead to additional security checks or be restricted.
| Type of Clothing | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Full-sleeved shirt | Not listed as universally prohibited in the available guidance. |
| Full-sleeved T-shirt | Not listed as universally prohibited in the available guidance. |
| Thick jacket | Avoid it because it may be restricted or require additional checks. |
| Hoodie | Avoid it because it may be restricted. |
| Bulky outerwear | Choose a simpler alternative to reduce potential security delays. |
There is no basis in the available sources to claim that all full-sleeved clothing is banned for CAT 2026.
Check: How to Attempt the VARC Section for a 99 Plus Percentile
Can I Wear Jeans in CAT Exam?
Yes, jeans are a practical clothing option for CAT 2026. Candidates should avoid bulky designs, especially cargo pants with multiple pockets, because they may make security checks more complicated.
| Type of Jeans or Trousers | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Regular jeans | A practical choice for the examination. |
| Slim or straight-fit jeans | Generally convenient if comfortable. |
| Cargo pants with multiple pockets | Avoid them to reduce the possibility of additional security checks. |
| Trousers with bulky accessories | Avoid unnecessary accessories and metallic additions. |
| Comfortable formal trousers | A practical alternative to jeans. |
Candidates should choose comfortable clothing that allows them to sit through the examination without distraction.
Check: Free CAT Mock Test 2026: Free PDF Download, Solutions and Performance Analysis
Is Nail Polish Allowed in CAT Exam?
No specific CAT 2026 rule prohibiting nail polish has been confirmed in the available sources. Candidates should not be told that nail polish is banned unless the examination authority explicitly announces such a restriction.
| Nail Polish or Grooming Choice | CAT 2026 Guidance |
|---|---|
| Regular nail polish | No specific prohibition confirmed in the available sources. |
| Clear nail polish | No specific prohibition confirmed in the available sources. |
| Artificial nails | No specific CAT 2026 restriction confirmed in the available sources. |
| Heavy jewellery or metallic accessories | Avoid unnecessary accessories that may require additional security checks. |
The available evidence does not establish nail polish as a prohibited item. It should therefore not be presented as a confirmed CAT 2026 restriction.
Check: Best Books for CAT 2026 Preparation: VARC, DILR and Quantitative Aptitude
CAT 2026: Documents to Carry on Exam Day
Candidates should keep their documents ready before leaving for the examination center. The following table summarizes the main documents and when additional paperwork may be needed.
| Document | What Candidates Should Carry |
|---|---|
| CAT 2026 Admit Card | A printed copy of the admit card. |
| Original Photo ID | An original, valid photo ID accepted under the examination instructions. |
| Passport-size Photograph | Carry one if required by the examination instructions. |
| PwD or Scribe Documents | Applicable supporting documents for approved accommodations. |
| Name-Change Proof | Supporting legal documents if the candidate's name differs across records and proof is required. |
Common photo ID options include Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID, driving licence, and PAN card, subject to the accepted-ID instructions for the examination.
Candidates should not rely solely on a digital ID stored on a mobile phone. Mobile phones and other unauthorized electronic devices should not be taken into the examination hall.
Ques. How many rough sheets do you get in the CAT exam?
Ans. CAT candidates are provided with a scribble pad rather than ordinary loose sheets for rough work. The exact arrangement and availability of additional rough-work material should be confirmed through the instructions provided at the test center. Candidates must return the scribble pad to the invigilator after completing the examination.
Ques. Is a pencil allowed in the CAT exam?
Ans. Candidates should not bring their own pencil or pen unless specifically permitted under the examination instructions. The examination center provides writing material for rough work along with the scribble pad. Candidates must use the materials provided and follow the invigilator's instructions.
CAT 2026 Exam Timings and Reporting Time
CAT 2026 runs in three sessions on 29 November 2026. Each session lasts 120 minutes. Also, your admit card shows your session and its final timings.
In CAT 2025, reporting for Session 1 began at 7:00 AM. The gate then closed 15 minutes before each session (reported). As a result, arrive at least an hour early.
CAT 2026 Session Timings (tentative, as per CAT 2025)
| Session | Exam time | Gate closing | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session 1 | 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM | 8:15 AM | 120 minutes |
| Session 2 | 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM | 12:15 PM | 120 minutes |
| Session 3 | 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM | 4:15 PM | 120 minutes |
CAT 2026 Exam Day Guidelines
The table below lists 8 common items and their status at CAT 2026.
Allowed and Prohibited Items at CAT 2026
| Item | Allowed? | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Printed admit card | Yes | Mandatory |
| Original photo ID | Yes | Mandatory |
| Scribble pad and pen | Provided | Issued at your desk; return the pad before leaving |
| On-screen calculator | Yes | Basic calculator on the test screen |
| Physical calculator | No | Only the on-screen calculator is allowed |
| Mobile phone or smartwatch | No | Deposit outside or leave at home |
| Own pen, pencil or paper | No | The centre provides stationery (as per CAT 2025) |
| Bags and wallets | No | Carry only the required documents |
Do's on CAT 2026 Exam Day
- Reach the centre before the reporting time on your admit card.
- Carry the printed admit card and one original photo ID.
- Follow the invigilator's instructions at frisking and identity checks.
- Use the on-screen timer to track each 40-minute section.
Don'ts and Prohibited Items
- Do not arrive after the gate-closing time, because staff refuse late entry.
- Do not carry phones, smartwatches, calculators or loose paper.
- Do not take the scribble pad out of the lab.
- Do not leave your seat until the invigilator permits.
Ques. Is it allowed to carry a calculator in the CAT exam?
Ans. No, candidates cannot carry personal calculators into the CAT examination hall. A basic on-screen calculator is available on the test interface for calculations during the exam. Candidates should practice using the on-screen calculator during mock tests to become familiar with its functions.
Ques. Is rough paper allowed in the CAT exam?
Ans. Candidates cannot bring their own rough paper into the CAT examination hall. The examination center provides a scribble pad for rough work during the test. Candidates must follow the invigilator's instructions and return the scribble pad before leaving the examination hall.
CAT 2026 Exam Day Process, Step by Step
- Reach the centre before the reporting time. Use the address and Google Maps link on your admit card.
- Pass the security check. Staff frisk candidates and store items that are not allowed.
- Complete the identity check. Staff match your admit card, photo ID, photo and signature.
- Go to your lab and seat using the reference number on the admit card.
- Collect the scribble pad and pen, then read the on-screen instructions.
- Attempt VARC, DILR and QA, 40 minutes each.
- Return the scribble pad and leave only when the invigilator allows it.
CAT Preparation 2026: Sectional Mock Tests
Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
| Mock Test | Difficulty Level | Link |
|---|---|---|
| QA CAT Sectional Mock Test 1 | Intermediate | Start Test |
| QA CAT Sectional Mock Test 2 | Intermediate | Start Test |
| QA CAT Sectional Mock Test 3 | Intermediate | Start Test |
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
| Mock Test | Difficulty Level | Link |
|---|---|---|
| CAT VARC Sectional Test 1 | Intermediate | Start Test |
| CAT VARC Sectional Test 2 | Intermediate | Start Test |
| CAT VARC Sectional Test 3 | Intermediate | Start Test |
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
| Mock Test | Difficulty Level | Link |
|---|---|---|
| DILR CAT Sectional Mock Test 1 | Intermediate | Start Test |
| DILR CAT Sectional Mock Test 2 | Intermediate | Start Test |
| DILR CAT Sectional Mock Test 3 | Intermediate | Start Test |
For more practice, explore Free CAT Mock Tests 2026: PDFs, Solutions and Performance Analysis
CAT 2026 Dress Code FAQs
Ques. Can female candidates wear jewellery during CAT 2026?
Ans. Female candidates should avoid unnecessary jewellery, including necklaces, bracelets, rings, and other metallic accessories, to reduce the possibility of additional security checks. Simple, accessories-free clothing is a practical choice for exam day. Candidates should also avoid wearing smartwatches and other electronic wearable devices.
Ques. Can male candidates wear a T-shirt during CAT 2026?
Ans. Yes, a simple and comfortable T-shirt is a practical option for male candidates appearing for CAT 2026. Candidates can pair it with comfortable jeans or trousers. Avoid bulky clothing, unnecessary metallic accessories, and garments with numerous pockets to make security checks easier.
Ques. Can I wear a smartwatch during CAT 2026?
Ans. No, candidates should not wear smartwatches or other electronic wearable devices during CAT 2026. Fitness bands and similar accessories should also be avoided. Personal electronic devices are not permitted in the examination hall, so candidates should leave them at home or make alternative arrangements for their safekeeping.
Ques. Which documents are required for CAT 2026?
Ans. Candidates should carry a printed copy of the CAT 2026 admit card and an original, valid photo ID accepted under the examination instructions. Candidates who require approved accommodations may also need supporting documents. It is advisable to keep all required documents ready before leaving for the test centre.
Ques. Can I carry a calculator to the CAT 2026 exam?
Ans. No, candidates cannot use personal calculators during CAT 2026. An on-screen calculator is available for calculations during the computer-based examination. Candidates should practice using it during mock tests and avoid carrying unauthorised electronic devices to the test centre.
Ques. When will CAT 2026 be conducted?
Ans. CAT 2026 is scheduled to be conducted on November 29, 2026, in three sessions. Candidates should check their admit cards for their assigned session, reporting time, examination centre, and entry deadline. Reaching the centre well before the reporting deadline can help avoid last-minute problems.
Ques. When is the CAT 2026 admit card scheduled for release?
Ans. The CAT 2026 admit card is scheduled to be released on November 4, 2026. Candidates will be able to download it through the official CAT website. The admit card contains important information such as the exam centre, assigned session, and reporting instructions.
Ques. Are masks compulsory for CAT 2026?
Ans. No blanket requirement making face masks compulsory for all CAT 2026 candidates has been confirmed in the available sources. The COVID-19 instructions published for previous CAT examinations should not automatically be treated as applicable in 2026. Candidates should follow any specific health-related requirements announced for the current examination.
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