The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 registration process, conducted by IIM Indore, remains open on the official website iimcat.ac.in. The application window started on August 3, 2026 (10:00 AM) and will close on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM IST. No extension has been announced so far. Candidates are strongly advised to complete the form and payment well before the deadline to avoid last-minute server congestion or technical issues.
CAT 2026 will be held on Sunday, November 29, 2026, in computer-based mode across approximately 170 test cities in three sessions. Admit cards are scheduled for release on November 4, 2026. Scores will be accepted by all 21+ IIMs and 1,500+ other B-schools for MBA and related postgraduate management programmes.
Key Dates
| Event | Date |
| Registration Start | August 3, 2026 (10:00 AM) |
| Registration Last Date | September 15, 2026 (5:00 PM) |
| Admit Card Release | November 4, 2026 |
| CAT 2026 Exam Date | November 29, 2026 |
| Result (Tentative) | First week of January 2027 |
Registration Fees (Non-Refundable)
- General / EWS / NC-OBC: INR 2,700
- SC / ST / PwBD: INR 1,350
The fee is paid only once, irrespective of the number of IIM programmes selected. Payment modes include UPI, net banking, credit/debit card, or wallet (additional bank/gateway charges may apply). Fees once paid cannot be refunded.
How to Apply for CAT 2026
- Visit the official website: iimcat.ac.in.
- Click on “New Candidate Registration.”
- Enter basic details (name, date of birth, email, mobile number, etc.) and complete OTP verification.
- Log in with the generated User ID and password.
- Fill personal, academic, work experience, and other details carefully.
- Select up to five preferred test cities (allotment is subject to availability, generally on a first-come-first-served basis within preferences).
- Upload recent photograph, signature, and category/PwBD certificates (if applicable) in the prescribed format.
- Preview the entire form, accept the declaration, and pay the fee online.
- Submit the form and download/save the confirmation page for future reference.
Important: Double-check all entries (especially category, academic percentages, and test city preferences) before final submission. A limited correction window is typically opened later (expected in early October), but major changes may not be allowed.
Eligibility Snapshot
- Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwBD).
- Final-year students are eligible.
- Professional qualifications such as CA, CS, CMA are also accepted.
- No age limit.
Candidates must ensure documents match the details entered (e.g., category certificates valid as per the last date of registration).
CAT 2026 Registration Live Updates: Check Fees & Apply Now - IIM Indore to Close Window on September 15, 2026 FAQs
What is the exact last date and time for CAT 2026 registration?
September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM IST. Forms submitted after this time will not be accepted.
Has the registration fee increased this year?
Yes. It is INR 2,700 for General/EWS/NC-OBC (up from INR 2,600) and INR 1,350 for SC/ST/PwBD (up from INR 1,300).
Can I apply after September 15 if I miss the deadline?
No. There is no late fee provision, and extensions are rare. Missing the deadline means you cannot appear for CAT 2026.
How many test cities can I select, and how is the centre allotted?
You must select any five preferred cities. One centre among them will be allotted based on availability (typically first-come preference order).
Is the application fee refundable if I decide not to appear?
No. The fee is strictly non-refundable under any circumstances.
Do I need to pay the fee separately for each IIM programme I select?
No. Pay once only, regardless of the number of programmes or institutes chosen in the form.
What documents/photos are required during registration?
Recent colour photograph, signature, and relevant category/PwBD certificates (in PDF as specified). Academic mark sheets are usually not uploaded at this stage but details must be accurate.
Will there be a form correction window?
Yes, a short correction window is expected (typically early October) for limited fields. Details will be notified on the official website after registration closes.
When will the CAT 2026 admit card be available?
From November 4, 2026, until the exam day. Download it from iimcat.ac.in using your login credentials.
What if I face technical issues while submitting the form near the deadline?
Complete the process early. Use a stable internet connection, updated browser, and keep payment details ready. Contact the official CAT helpdesk (details on iimcat.ac.in) for genuine issues. Avoid third-party agents.