Management EntranceNational Level Management Entrance
Common Admission Test (CAT 2026)
CAT is the premier national-level management entrance examination for admission into 21 IIMs, FMS Delhi, SPJIMR Mumbai, MDI Gurgaon, and over 1,200 prestigious business schools across India.
Conducted By: Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs)•Mode: Computer Based Test (CBT)•Total: 198 Marks
Important Dates & Timeline
| Event Milestone | Scheduled Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| CAT Official Notification | July 30, 2026 | Upcoming |
| Registration Window | August 05 - September 20, 2026 | Upcoming |
| Admit Card Download | October 25, 2026 | Upcoming |
| CAT Exam Day (3 Slots) | November 29, 2026 | Upcoming |
| Scorecards & Cutoffs | January 05, 2027 | Upcoming |
Exam Pattern & Marking Structure
Total Duration
2 Hours (120 Minutes)
Marking Scheme
+3 for correct, -1 for incorrect MCQs, 0 for TITA
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
24 Questions (40 Mins)Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
20 Questions (40 Mins)Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
22 Questions (40 Mins)Eligibility Criteria & Board Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline with minimum 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD).
- Final year undergraduate students are also eligible to apply conditionally.
- No age limit bar for appearing in CAT.
Frequently Asked Questions
General category candidates typically require a 99.5+ percentile with strong academic profile and work experience for interview shortlists.