CAT 2026 Exam Details: Date, Application Process, Preparation

CAT 2026 notification is expected to be released in the last week of July 2026. The official date is yet to be announced. The application window is likely to open from August 1 and may continue till September 2026 based on previous year trends. 

The CAT exam date is expected to fall in the last week of November, mostly around November 29, 2026. As of now, there is no official update from the exam authorities.

The CAT exam is a gateway to admission into MBA programmes at IIMs and other top B-schools in India. Nearly 2.95 lakh candidates registered, and around 2.58 lakh candidates appeared for the CAT 2025 exam.

The CAT exam is a computer-based test that assesses candidates in three key areas: VARC, DILR, and Quantitative Ability (QA). 

Continue reading to know more about the CAT 2026 exam, including notification, updated exam pattern, syllabus, exam dates, application, and other relevant details.

CAT 2026 Latest Updates

The official CAT exam notification is yet to be released. This section will be updated throughout the admission cycle with every major update related to the examination.

Candidates are advised to check this page regularly to stay informed about all the events.

Particular	CAT 2026 Exam Live Updates
Latest Announcement	The official CAT 2026 admission process is expected to begin soon.
Notification Update	The CAT notification PDF will include important information such as eligibility, the application process, the exam schedule, the reservation policy, and the participating institutes.
Registration Update	Online registration has not started yet. Candidates should keep the required documents ready to complete the application process.
Conducting IIM	The organising IIM for CAT 2026 will be announced through the official notification.
New Changes	No official changes regarding the syllabus, exam pattern, or marking scheme have been announced so far.

What’s New? (Live Update Box) 

Last Updated: July 18, 2026 

Event	Status
Notification	🟡 Awaited
Registration	🟡 Not Started
Admit Card	⚪ Pending
Exam	⚪ Upcoming
Answer Key	⚪ Pending
Result	⚪ Pending

CAT 2026 Highlights

Here is the quick overview of the CAT exam shared below for candidates’ reference:

Particulars	Details
Exam Name	Common Admission Test
Exam Conducting Body	IIM
Number of Applicants	2.95 lakh (CAT 2025)
Eligibility	Graduation
Exam Mode	Computer-Based Test
Sections	Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) Quantitative Ability (QA)
Duration	120 minutes
Sections	3
Total Questions	68
Maximum Marks	204
Sectional Time Limit	40 minutes each
Marking Scheme	+3 for correct answer-1 for incorrect answer (MCQs)

CAT 2026 Important Dates

Based on past exam trends, the CAT registration is likely to begin in the first week of August 2026. Since these dates have not been officially released, candidates must always check the official CAT website for actual dates.

Events	Date (Expected)
CAT 2026 Notification	Last Week of July 2026
CAT 2026 Registration Starts	August 1, 2026
CAT Registration 2026 Ends	September 2026
CAT Exam Date 2026	Last Week of November 2026

CAT Notification 2026

The CAT Notification 2026 is expected to be released on July 31, 2026, based on past year trends. Candidates can download the CAT 2026 notification PDF only from the official CAT website.

Once the CAT advertisement is officially released, we will update the PDF link on this page. The CAT exam notification provides information about the CAT exam conducting body, application fees,  examination process, important deadlines, and admission-related updates.

The key details mentioned in the CAT advertisement PDF are shared below:

Registration Window and Key Deadlines: The CAT 2026 notification will announce the complete registration schedule. It will include the application start date, last date to apply, admit card release date, exam date, and result date.

Number of Seats Offered Through CAT: The notification is also expected to mention the participating IIMs accepting CAT scores. Together, these institutes offer more than 6,000 MBA seats across different management programmes.

Exam Schedule and Session Allocation: CAT is usually conducted in multiple sessions on a single day. The notification will confirm the exam date and explain how candidates will be allotted their exam session.

Exam Pattern and Sectional Distribution: Candidates will find the complete CAT 2026 exam pattern in the notification. It will cover the number of sections, sectional time limit, question format, and marking scheme.

Category-Wise Application Fee: The CAT 2026 notification will specify the application fee for different categories. It will also mention the available online payment methods for fee submission.

Test City Availability: The notification will provide the list of cities where the CAT exam will be held. Candidates will be able to choose their preferred test cities while filling out the application form.

Conducting IIM and Admission Cycle Details; The official notification will confirm which IIM is conducting CAT 2026. It will also briefly explain the admission process that begins after the declaration of the CAT result.

Click Here to Evaluate Your CAT 2026 Profile

Previous Year CAT Notification Release Date – 10 Years Trend

Check the CAT exam notification release date for the last 10 years in the table below:

CAT Exam Year	CAT Notification Date
CAT 2025	July 30, 2025
CAT 2024	July 28, 2024
CAT 2023	July 30, 2023
CAT 2022	July 31, 2022
CAT 2021	July 31, 2021
CAT 2020	July 29, 2020
CAT 2019	July 28, 2019
CAT 2018	July 29, 2018
CAT 2017	July 30, 2017
CAT 2016	July 31, 2026

CAT 2026 Registration

The CAT registration process will begin after the official notification is announced. The registration process is expected to begin on 1st August 2026.

Candidates must submit the application form online within the prescribed deadline. Only successfully registered candidates will be allowed to participate in the CAT exam. 

Who Can Register for CAT 2026?

Candidates must satisfy the CAT eligibility criteria before filling out the application form. In general, the following candidates can register:

• Candidates with a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university.
• Final-year graduation students can also apply.
• Candidates need to secure at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA [45% in the case of candidates belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Persons with Disability (PwD) categories] in their bachelor’s degree.
• Candidates from any academic stream, provided they fulfil the eligibility conditions.

CAT Registration Timeline: Previous Year Trends

The CAT registration process has consistently begun during the first week of August based on previous year trends.

Here is the CAT registration timeline of previous years in the table below. This gives you a rough idea of the CAT registration expected dates:

CAT Exam	Registration Start	Registration End
CAT 2025	August 1, 2025	September 20, 2025
CAT 2024	August 1, 2024	September 20, 2024
CAT 2023	August 2, 2023	September 20, 2023
CAT 2022	August 3, 2022	September 21, 2022
CAT 2021	August 4, 2021	September 22, 2021

CAT Registration Vs Actual Test-Takers

The CAT 2025 exam attracted 2.95 lakh registrations, out of which 2.58 lakh candidates participated in the test. The attendance rate stood at 86%.

Here is the detailed comparison of CAT registrations vs actual participation over the years:

CAT Year	Number of Registered Candidates	Number of Candidates Appeared	Attendance Rate
2025	2.95 lakh	2.58 lakh	86%
2024	3.29 Lakh	2.93 Lakh	89%
2023	3.28 Lakh	2.88 Lakh	88%
2022	2.55 Lakh	2.22 Lakh	87%
2021	2.30 Lakh	1.92 Lakh	83%
2020	2.27 Lakh	1.90 Lakh	83.5%

Mistakes to Avoid During CAT Registration

A small mistake in the application form can create issues later. Keep these points in mind while filling out the CAT application form.

• Use the same name as mentioned in official documents.
• Enter your email ID and mobile number carefully.
• Upload photographs and signatures in the specified format only.
• Verify educational qualification before submitting the form.
• Choose exam centres carefully, as changes may not be allowed later.
• Pay the application fee only through the official website.
• Download and save the confirmation page for future reference.

CAT 2026 Application Edit Window 

Candidates always ask, “What’s Next after CAT Registration? In some previous years, CAT exam authorities have permitted candidates to edit a few details after the registration window closed. Candidates are usually permitted to edit only selected fields, such as:

• Photograph
• Signature
• Test city preferences

How to Fill the CAT Application Form

The CAT 2026 registration process is likely to begin in August 2026. Here is the step-by-step guide on how to register for the CAT 2026 exam without any hassles:

Registration for User ID and Password 

1. Visit the official website at https://iimcat.ac.in.
2. Click the ‘Register’ button under the New Candidate Registration header.
3. Now,  create your user profile. The registration form window will open.
4. Enter these details in the CAT registration form:

• Candidate’s name
• Date of Birth
• Email Address
• Mobile Number

Click the “Generate OTP” button to receive the User ID and Password at your registered email address/ mobile number 

Log in to the CAT 2026 Website 

1. Log in with User ID and Password as a “Registered Candidate” on the official website.
2. Fill out the CAT 2026 application form with this information:

• Personal Details
• Upload documents
• Academics
• Work Experience 
• Programmes
• Test City
• Declaration

3. Proceed to pay the fees through the specified payment mode.
4. Hit the “Preview” button to submit the online form.
5. Save the confirmation page for future reference.

Documents Required for CAT Registration

Candidates should keep all required documents handy to fill out the CAT 2026 application form. Here is the list of documents required for CAT registration:

Particulars	Details
Passport Size Photograph	Upload a recent and clear photograph. File format: .jpg or .jpeg Maximum file size: 80 KB Dimensions: 1200 × 1200 pixels Minimum resolution: 150 px/inch The photograph should not be older than 6 months A white background is mandatory
Signature	Avoid uploading blurred or cropped signatures File format: .jpg or .jpeg Maximum file size: 80 KB Dimensions: 80 mm × 35 mm Minimum resolution: 150 px/inch The signature should be clear and properly scanned
Valid EWS/NC-OBC/SC/ST Certificate (If Applicable)	Document Requirements Upload the certificate in PDF format Ensure the certificate is valid and contains all the required details.
Valid PwD Certificate (If Applicable)	Upload a valid disability certificate during the application process.
10th/12th/Equivalent Details	Board or University Year of passing Marks or percentage Stream or qualification details
Bachelor’s Degree Details	Degree name University or Institution Year of passing or expected completion Marks or CGPA
Professional Degree Details (If Applicable)	This may include professional qualifications such as: CACSICWA (CMA) Fellow of the Institute of Actuaries of India (FIAI)
Personal Information	First Name Middle Name (if applicable) Last Name Father’s/Guardian’s Name Mother’s/Guardian’s Name Spouse’s Name (if applicable) Gender Nationality
Valid Email ID and Mobile Number	–

CAT 2026 Application Fee

The CAT application fees for all categories will be released soon. It is mandatory to pay the CAT registration fee to complete the application process successfully. 

The CAT registration fees vary category-wise. The application fees will be paid through Debit card, Credit card, Net banking, or UPI. Till then, candidates can check the previous year’s CAT registration fees for General, OBC, SC/ST, and other categories.

Category	CAT application fees (Expected)
SC, ST and PwD candidates	Rs 1300
Other candidates	Rs 2600

CAT Eligibility Criteria 2026

Here is the detailed CAT 2026 eligibility criteria explained below for the candidate’s reference:

Particulars	Details
Basic Qualification	Bachelor’s Degree
Minimum Marks in Bachelor’s degree for General/OBC category	50%
Minimum Marks in Bachelor’s degree for SC/ST category	45%
Professional Qualifications	CA/CS/ICWA (CMA)/Fellow of the Institute of Actuaries of India (FIAI)
Age Limit	Not Specified
Number of Attempts	No Limit
Work Experience	Not Mandatory

CAT Eligibility Criteria 2026: Educational Qualification

Check the academic qualification required to apply for the CAT exam:

• Bachelor’s Degree from any recognised University. 
• Candidates must obtain at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA [45% in the case of candidates belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Persons with Disability (PwD) categories] in their bachelor’s degree.
• Candidates who are in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree can also apply.
• Completed professional degree (CA/CS/ICWA (CMA)/Fellow of the Institute of Actuaries of India (FIAI)) with 50% marks (45% marks for SC/ST/PwD) can also apply.

CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria 2026: Final Year Students

Here is the CAT eligibility criteria for final year students explained below:

• Candidates participating in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent can apply. 
• Applicants who are awaiting results of their bachelor’s degree can also apply. 
• CAT Eligibility Criteria 2026 for all IIMs
• Candidates can find the CAT eligibility requirements for different IIMs in the table below:

CAT Reservation Policy

Check the category-wise reservation criteria for the CAT exam eligibility shared below:

Category	Reservation
Scheduled Caste (SC)	15% of seats
Scheduled Tribe (ST)	7.5% of seats
Other Backward Classes candidates from the “non-creamy” layer (NC-OBC)	27% of seats
Economically Weaker Sections (EWS)	10% of seats

Who Should Take the CAT 2026?

CAT is open to graduates from all academic streams. Since there is no stream-specific restriction, candidates from engineering, commerce, arts, science, law, medicine, and professional courses can appear for the exam if they meet the eligibility criteria. 

The exam tests aptitude rather than subject-specific knowledge. This makes it suitable for a wide range of aspirants. Still, many candidates ask, “Am I ready for the CAT Exam?” Well, the answer depends on your subject knowledge and level of preparation. 

Particulars	Details
Freshers	Graduates and final-year students who want to pursue an MBA immediately after college can take the CAT.
Working Professionals	Candidates with full-time work experience can appear for CAT to improve their career prospects, switch industries, or move into managerial roles
Engineers	Engineering graduates form a significant share of CAT applicants every year
Commerce Students	Commerce graduates with knowledge of business, finance, or accounting often choose CAT to pursue MBA specialisations such as Finance, Marketing, or Business Analytics.
Arts Graduates	Students from humanities and social science backgrounds are equally eligible for the CAT
Chartered Accountants (CA)	Qualified Chartered Accountants often take the CAT exam

CAT 2026 Exam Pattern (Overall)

The CAT exam usually comprises 68 questions across three sections. The CAT exam duration will be 120 minutes (2 hours). Learn more about the expected CAT exam pattern 2026 below:

Section	Questions	Duration
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)	24	40 Minutes
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)	22	40 Minutes
Quantitative Ability (QA)	22	40 Minutes
Total	68	120 Minutes

CAT Section-wise Pattern

The CAT exam has three sections: VARC, DILR, and Quant. Each section is designed to test a different set of skills. Understanding what each section covers can help you prepare smartly.

CAT Exam Pattern for VARC (Expected)

A total of 24 questions are typically asked in the CAT VARC section. Check the detailed exam pattern below:

Particulars	Details
Questions	24
Duration	40 Minutes
Maximum Marks	72
Difficulty Level	Moderate
Major Topics	Reading Comprehension, Para Summary, Para Jumbles, Odd Sentence Out
Question Nature	Reading-based and analytical

CAT Exam Pattern for DILR (Expected)

A total of 22 questions are typically asked in the CAT DILR section. Check the detailed exam pattern below:

Particulars	Details
Number of Questions	22
Section Duration	40 Minutes
Maximum Marks	66 Marks
Difficulty Level	Moderate to Difficult
Key Topics	Tables, Pie Charts, Bar Graphs, Caselets, Venn Diagrams, Seating Arrangement, Games & Tournaments, Routes & Networks
Nature of Questions	Set-based and highly unpredictable

CAT Exam Pattern for Quant (Expected)

A total of 22 questions are typically asked in the CAT Quant section. Check the detailed exam pattern below:

Particulars	Details
Number of Questions	22
Section Duration	40 Minutes
Maximum Marks	66 Marks
Difficulty Level	Moderate
Key Topics	Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number System, Modern Math
Nature of Questions	Concept-based and calculation-oriented

CAT Marking Scheme

Here is the expected CAT 2026 marking scheme shared below for candidates’ reference:

• + 3 marks for each correct answer
• -1 mark for each incorrect MCQ
•  No negative marking for Non-MCQs 

Formula: 3 X Number of Correct Answers – (1 X Number of Wrong Answers)

Check the complete CAT Negative Marking Scheme here!

CAT Exam Pattern Changes (Previous Year Trends)

The CAT exam pattern has undergone various changes in recent years. Given below are the last 5 years of the CAT exam pattern changes:

CAT Year	Number of questions	Time duration	Sections
2025	68	120 minutes	QA, DILR, VARC
2024	68	120 minutes	QA, DILR, VARC
2023	66	120 minutes	QA, DILR, VARC
2022	66	120 minutes	QA, DILR, VARC
2021	66	120 minutes	QA, DILR, VARC
2020	76	120 minutes	QA, DILR, VARC

CAT Syllabus 2026

The CAT syllabus mainly covers three sections: VARC, DILR, and Quantitative Ability (QA). The exam authorities never release the CAT syllabus and high-weightage topics. We have shared the CAT 2026 syllabus based on the previous year’s trends and analysis.

Candidates should understand the CAT exam syllabus to master all the relevant topics. Check the CAT latest syllabus for VARC, DILR, and QA sections in the table below.

CAT VARC Syllabus 2026

Here is the expected CAT VARC syllabus 2026 for candidates’ reference:

Topic	No. of Questions (Approximate)	Approximate Weightage
Reading Comprehension	16 questions	67-68%
Para Jumble	3-4 questions	12-13%
Summary	3-4 questions	12-13%
Odd Questions	2-3 questions	7-8%

CAT DILR Syllabus 2026

Here is the expected CAT DILR syllabus 2026 for candidates’ reference:

DI & LR Topics	No. of Questions (Approximate)	Approximate Weightage (%)
Tables and Charts	3-6	45–50%
Puzzle and Seating Arrangements	2-4	55-60%
Scheduling and Blood Relations	2-4	5-10%
Games and Tournaments	4-5	10-20%
Scheduling and Blood Relations	4-5	5-10%
Venn Diagrams & Hybrid Sets	2-3	5-10%

CAT QA Syllabus 2026

Here is the expected CAT QA syllabus 2026 for candidates’ reference:

Topic Name	No. of Questions (Approximate)
Number System	2-3
Averages, Ratios and Proportion	4-5
Progressions and Series	1-2
Time, Work and Distance	2-3
Logarithms, Surds and Indices	2-3
Profit, Loss and Interest	2-3
Geometry	2-3
Inequalities and linear equations	1-2
Functions and Graphs	1-2
PnC and Probability	1-2
Quadratic Equations	2-3

CAT Quant Topic-Wise Weightage

Topic	Weightage
Number System	5-10%
Arithmetic	35-50%
Algebra	30-35%
Geometry & Mensuration	10-15%
Modern Maths	5-10%

Click Here to Evaluate Your CAT 2026 Profile

Expected Changes in CAT 2026

The CAT 2026 notification has not been announced yet, so no official changes have been released. However, based on recent exam trends, candidates can expect a few updates in the CAT registration process, exam pattern, or admission process. Any confirmed change will be updated after the official CAT advertisement is announced.

• CAT is likely to continue with its three-section format unless the conducting IIM releases otherwise.
• The overall number of questions in each section can vary slightly, as seen in previous years.
• There are chances of minor improvements in the online application portal and document upload process.
• New exam cities may be added, while the list of available centres can also be updated.
• Candidates should rely only on the official notification for any confirmed changes.

CAT 2026 Preparation Strategy

A smart CAT 2026 preparation strategy is not about studying for long hours every day. It is about following a structured study plan, practising consistently, and improving your performance through regular mock tests. Since the CAT exam has three sections: VARC, DILR, and Quantitative Aptitude. 

Each section requires a different preparation approach.  One of the most important parts of CAT preparation is mock analysis.

Attempting mocks without reviewing mistakes offers limited improvement. Candidates should analyse every mock, identify weak topics, refine their attempt strategy, and track their progress regularly.

MBA KARO CAT Toppers at a Glance 

CAT Topper	CAT 2025 Percentile	Converted B-School	Attempt	Biggest Strength
Khushi Goyal	95.97	IIM Kozhikode	Second serious attempt	VARC (98.91 %ile)
Sneha Kabra	96.09	IIM Lucknow	Third attempt	QA (98.45 %ile)

Strategy 1: Learn From MBA KARO CAT Topper Khushi Goyal

Khushi Goyal secured 95.97 percentile in CAT 2025 and converted IIM Kozhikode. She focused on strengthening her best section while making her weakest section exam-ready.

Key Preparation Lessons

• Don’t restart your preparation every year. Improve your weak areas.
• Focus on maximising your strongest section.
• Set realistic targets instead of chasing every question.
• Analyse every mock thoroughly.
• Stay consistent even on low-energy days.
• Use progress trackers to measure improvement.

Khushi Goyal’s CAT Section-wise Strategy

Particulars	Details
VARC	Fixed her attempt strategy by April.Attempted almost every question in mocks.Practised RC drills regularly.Analysed every incorrect answer.Tried to understand the examiner’s thought process.
LRDI	Regular sectional practice.Built consistency instead of chasing difficult sets.
QA	Accepted it as her weakest section.Targeted around 10 correct questions instead of attempting everything.Skipped topics she knew wouldn’t suit her.Relied on sectional tests and reverse engineering.
Mock Strategy	Attempted 45-50 mocks.Stuck to 2-3 test series.Increased frequency closer to CAT.Treated mock analysis as seriously as the mock itself.

Strategy 2: Learn From MBA KARO CAT Topper Sneha Kabra

Sneha Kabra improved from 60 percentile in her first CAT attempt to 96.09 percentile in CAT 2025 and converted IIM Lucknow. Her journey shows that consistency over multiple attempts can lead to significant improvement.

Key Preparation Lessons

• Improvement takes time.
• Balance CAT preparation with work using recorded lectures.
• Keep resources limited.
• Revise repeatedly.
• Solve questions every day.
• Don’t stop after a poor mock score.

Sneha Kabra’s CAT Section-wise Strategy

Particulars	Details
DILR	Solved Sudoku daily for nearly six months.Completed daily DILR challenges.Revisited difficult sets multiple times.Maintained a revision list of new concepts.
QA	Built on her mathematics background.Focused on accuracy under pressure.Improved speed through repeated mock practice.
VARC	Tried multiple approaches.Selected the one that suited her and stayed consistent.
Mock Strategy	Attempted 40+ mocks.Prioritised set selection in DILR.Focused on accuracy in QA.Used every mock to improve time management.

Common CAT Preparation Habits Shared by Both MBA KARO Toppers

Both toppers followed different paths, but a few CAT preparation habits were common.

• Both solved 40+ mock tests before CAT.
• Both analysed mocks instead of only checking scores.
• Both accepted that one section would always be weaker.
• Both focused on consistency rather than studying for extremely long hours.
• Both trusted a limited number of quality study resources.
• Both relied on mentorship whenever they felt stuck.
• Both continued preparing despite setbacks and disappointing scores.

CAT Preparation for Beginners

Candidates starting their CAT preparation should first understand the exam pattern and syllabus. Beginners should build concepts first, followed by sectional practice and mock tests.

A structured CAT study plan helps cover the syllabus without any stress. 

Preparation Stage	What to Focus On	Duration
Understand the Exam	Exam pattern, syllabus, marking scheme, and previous year trends	1 week
Build Concepts	Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Reading Comprehension, Logical Reasoning	8-10 weeks
Topic-wise Practice	Daily questions from all three sections	6-8 weeks
Sectional Tests	Timed practice for VARC, DILR, and QA	Along with preparation
CAT Mocks for Beginners	Improve speed, accuracy, and attempt strategy	Last 10-12 weeks
Revision	Formulae, concepts, mistakes, and mock analysis	Throughout preparation

Beginner’s Weekly Study Plan

Section	Recommended Time
VARC	5-6 hours
DILR	4-5 hours
Quantitative Aptitude	7-8 hours
Mock Test	1 Full-Length Mock
Mock Analysis	3-4 hours
Revision	3-4 hours

CAT Beginner Preparation Tips

• Start with basic concepts before solving difficult questions.
• Study all three sections every week instead of focusing on one subject.
• Maintain a formula and error notebook.
• Solve sectional tests regularly after completing important topics.
• Begin taking mocks once basic concepts are covered.
• Analyse every mock before attempting the next one.

CAT Preparation for Working Professionals

Working professionals often have limited study hours. They should make consistency more important than long study sessions.

A fixed weekly schedule, regular mock tests, and focused revision can help candidates prepare effectively. 

Weekly Study Plan for Working Professionals 

Day	Recommended Study Time	Focus Area
Monday	2 hours	Quant Concepts + Practice
Tuesday	2 hours	VARC Reading + RC Practice
Wednesday	2 hours	DILR Sets
Thursday	2 hours	Quant Practice
Friday	2 hours	VARC + Vocabulary Review
Saturday	4-5 hours	Sectional Tests + Revision
Sunday	5-6 hours	Full-Length Mock + Analysis

Practical CAT Preparation Tips for Working Professionals

• Fix a daily study slot and follow it consistently.
• Use weekdays for concept learning and weekends for mock tests.
• Revise important formulas and notes during short breaks.
• Attempt at least one full-length mock every week.
• Increase the number of mocks during the final two to three months.
• Track weak topics after every mock and revise them before the next test.
• Prioritise quality study hours over total study hours.
• Join the best MBA coaching for working professionals for expert guidance.

CAT 6-Month Study Plan

The CAT 2026 6-Month Study Plan divides preparation into six structured phases. It starts with concept building and ends with revision and exam-day execution. 

The study plan gradually shifts the focus from fundamentals to mock tests, strategy refinement, and accuracy improvement.

Each month has clear objectives, section-wise targets, and dedicated time for revision, mock analysis, and error correction. 

Month	Phase	Primary Objective	Key Topics Covered	Major Activities
June 2026	Diagnostic & Foundation	Assess current preparation level and strengthen fundamentals	QA: Number System, Percentages, Profit & Loss, SI & CI, Ratio, Mixtures, TSD, Time & Work, Algebra, Inequalities.VARC: Editorial reading, RCs, Para Jumbles, Para Summary, VA.DILR: Seating Arrangements, Blood Relations, Directions, Scheduling, Data Sufficiency, Basic LR.	Diagnostic tests, Error log creation, Daily RC practice, Basic DILR sets, Arithmetic & Algebra practice, Weekly review sessions.
July 2026	Core Concept Building	Complete the major CAT syllabus across all three sections	QA: Geometry, Mensuration, Coordinate Geometry, Trigonometry, Permutation & Combination, Probability.VARC: Long RCs, Para Completion, Science & Technology passages, VA drills.DILR: Team Formation, Tournaments, Route Diagrams, Venn Diagrams, DI sets, LR topics.	Complete major QA concepts, Intensive RC practice, DI & LR practice, Weekly mini mocks, Update error log.
August 2026	Advanced Concepts & Speed Building	Improve speed, accuracy, and handling of difficult questions	QA: Advanced Algebra, Progressions, Quadratic Equations, Geometry, Difficult Word Problems.VARC: Difficult RCs, Speed Reading, Inference Questions, Tone & Purpose, Timed VA.DILR: Advanced Arrangements, Network Diagrams, Caselets, Graph-based DI, Set Selection.	Timed sectional drills, Advanced topic practice, Speed & accuracy tracking, Full-length mock cycle, Topic-wise analysis.
September 2026	Mock Marathon	Improve performance through regular mock tests and analysis	Revision of weak topics based on mock performance across QA, VARC, and DILR.	Full-length mocks, Percentile tracking, Mock analysis, Error log updates, Timed mixed practice, DILR set-selection strategy.
October 2026	Peak Performance	Finalise exam strategy and maximise scores	Formula revision, Reading strategy, DILR set-selection approach, Question-selection strategy, Exam-day planning.	High-frequency mocks, Strategy refinement, Accuracy improvement drills, Formula sheet preparation, Final strategy lock.
November 2026	Revision & Execution	Complete revision and prepare for exam day	Full syllabus revision, Formula sheets, Error log review, Proven strategies.	Sectional mocks, Formula revision, Final error-log review, Exam-day planning, Sleep and routine management.

Click Here to Download MBA KARO 6 Month Battle Plan

Section-Wise CAT Preparation Strategy

Here is the section-wise CAT preparation strategy for reference purposes:

Section	CAT Preparation Focus Across Six Months
Quantitative Aptitude (QA)	Progress from Arithmetic fundamentals to Algebra, Geometry, Modern Maths, followed by regular mock-based improvement and formula revision.
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)	Build reading habits, practise RCs daily, strengthen Verbal Ability, and improve accuracy through continuous mock analysis.
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)	Start with basic puzzles and arrangements before progressing to advanced DI sets, caselets, graph-based questions, and set-selection strategy.

Best CAT 2026 Books

Choosing the right CAT 2026 books can make your preparation more focused. A good set of books helps you understand concepts, practice different question types, and improve your speed and accuracy. 

It is always better to study from a few reliable books and revise them regularly. Check the best CAT books for effective preparation:

Book	Author	Suitable For
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT	Arun Sharma	Beginners to advanced students preparing for Quantitative Aptitude
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations	R.S. Aggarwal	Building basic mathematical concepts and practice
How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT	Arun Sharma	Data Interpretation practice and concept building
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT	Nishit K. Sinha	Intermediate and advanced DILR preparation
How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT	Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay	Complete preparation for VARC section
Word Power Made Easy	Norman Lewis	Improving vocabulary and word usage
High School English Grammar and Composition	Wren & Martin	Strengthening grammar fundamentals
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT	Nishit K. Sinha	Advanced VARC practice with CAT-level questions

Best CAT Mock Tests

A strong mock test strategy is one of the most important parts of CAT preparation. It helps you measure your current level, improve question selection, and build the stamina needed for a two-hour exam. 

MBA KARO CAT Mock Tests are designed on the latest CAT pattern and include 45 tests, 15 full-length mocks, 30 sectional tests (10 each for VARC, DILR, and QA), 1,703 questions, and over 50 hours of practice.

The series also includes 4 trial lessons, making it suitable for both beginners and repeat test-takers.

Why CAT Mock Tests Matter

• Mock tests are more than practice papers. They help you:
• Understand your preparation level before the actual exam.
• Learn how to manage time across all three sections.
• Improve question selection instead of attempting everything.
• Build consistency under exam-like conditions.

How Frequently Should You Take Mocks?

Your mock frequency should increase as the exam approaches.

Preparation Phase	Recommended Frequency
6-5 months before CAT	1 mock every 2 weeks
4-3 months before CAT	1 mock every week
Last 2 months	2-3 mocks every week
Last 2 weeks	Alternate between mocks and revision

CAT Mock Analysis Tips

• Attempting a mock is only half the job. Spend sufficient time reviewing every test.
• Analyse every incorrect and skipped question.
• Track accuracy in VARC, DILR, and QA separately.
• Note the topics where you repeatedly lose marks.
• Update your study plan based on your weak areas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Attempting mocks without reviewing the solutions.
• Judging performance only by percentile.
• Ignoring sectional performance and focusing only on the overall score.
• Taking too many mocks without revising concepts.

If you are looking for a structured test series, MBA KARO CAT Mock Tests provide 15 full-length mocks, 30 sectional tests, 1,703 practice questions, and 50+ hours of exam-oriented practice to help you improve speed, accuracy, and overall CAT performance. The tests closely follow the latest exam pattern. This makes them a practical choice for aspirants.

CAT Previous Year Papers

The CAT exam is conducted in three slots. Each paper follows the latest exam pattern with 68 questions to be solved in 120 minutes.

Solving previous year papers helps you understand the actual difficulty level, section-wise question distribution, and changing trends over the years. 

MBA KARO provides year-wise CAT Previous Year Papers in a real test interface. This allows you to attempt each paper under exam-like conditions.

You can also download the PDF or take the complete test online. This makes your preparation more practical than simply reading questions from a document.

Benefits of Solving CAT Previous Year Papers

Practising CAT Previous Year Papers is one of the best ways to prepare for CAT. It helps you practice actual questions asked in the exam.

• Experience the real CAT paper in an exam-like interface.
• Understand the latest question pattern and difficulty level.
• Improve speed, accuracy, and time management.
• Identify frequently tested concepts across VARC, DILR, and QA.
• Analyse your performance before moving to mock tests.

How to Access CAT Previous Year Papers?

MBA KARO allows you to attempt the CAT previous year papers as full-length online tests instead of static PDFs.

• Visit the MBA KARO homepage.
• Open the Free Library menu.
• Click on Previous Year Questions.
• Select CAT and click “Click Here.”
• Choose the desired year and slot.
• Either “Take Test” to attempt the paper in a real exam environment or “Download PDF” for offline practice.

This approach helps you understand the actual CAT exam pattern. It will also provide you with the flexibility to revise using downloadable PDFs.

CAT 2026 Admit Card

The CAT Admit Card is usually released around 2-3 weeks before the exam. The CAT 2026 exam will be held in November 2026. Only registered candidates can download it using their login credentials. 

The admit card contains details such as the candidate’s name, roll number, exam date, slot, reporting time, and exam centre address. Candidates must carry a hard copy of the admit card along with a valid photo ID to the allotted test centre.

Steps to Download CAT 2026 Admit Card

Here are the steps to access the CAT admit card online without any hassles.

• Visit the official CAT 2026 website.
• Click on the CAT 2026 Admit Card link.
• Log in using your CAT application login ID and password
• Cross-check all the details that appear on the screen.
• Download the admit card PDF.
• Print at least two copies for future reference.

Errors to Check on the CAT Admit Card

Before the CAT exam day, candidates must carefully verify every detail printed on their admit card.

• Candidate’s name.
• Registration/Roll Number.
• Date of Birth
• Exam date and slot timing.
• Exam centre name and address.
• Category and PwD status (if applicable).
• Photograph and Signature and other personal details.

If you notice any errors, contact the CAT helpdesk immediately to get it rectified before the exam.

Documents to Carry on CAT Exam Day

Candidates should keep certain documents ready before leaving for the test centre.

• Printed copy of the CAT 2026 Admit Card.
• Original valid photo ID (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, etc).
• Passport-size photograph (recommended as a backup option).
• Any additional documents mentioned in the admit card instructions.

CAT 2026 Answer Key

The CAT Answer Key is expected to be released in December 2026. It will be published a few days after the examination. Candidates will be able to log in to the official portal to view the provisional answer key. 

If they find any discrepancies, they can file an objection against the provisional keys. After reviewing candidate objections, the conducting IIM will publish the final answer key, which will be used for preparing the CAT 2026 results.

How to Download the CAT 2026 Answer Key

Candidates can access the CAT answer key online through their CAT login credentials once it is released.

• Visit the official CAT website.
• Click on the CAT 2026 Answer Key link.
• Log in using your CAT application login ID and password.
• Download the provisional answer key.
• Save the PDF for score calculation and future use.

CAT Answer Key Objection Process

If a candidate finds any discrepancy in the provisional answer key, they can challenge the answer key through the Objection Management portal during the prescribed window.

The expected process is:

• Log in to the CAT candidate portal.
• Open the Objection Management section.
• Select the question(s) you want to challenge.
• Provide supporting evidence or documents, if required.
• Pay the applicable objection fee.
• Submit the objection before the last date.

CAT 2026 Result

The CAT 2026 Result is expected to be announced in December 2026. It will be released three to four weeks after the exam. Candidates can download their scorecard by logging in with their CAT application login ID and password on the official CAT portal. 

The scorecard will display the overall percentile, sectional percentiles, scaled scores, and candidate details. It will be used by IIMs and other participating B-schools during the MBA admission process.

How to Download the CAT 2026 Result

Candidates can download their CAT result by following these easy steps:

• Visit the official CAT website.
• Click on the CAT 2026 Result link.
• Log in using your CAT application login ID and password.
• View your CAT scorecard.
• Download and save the PDF for future reference.

Validity of CAT 2026 Score

The CAT score will remain valid for one admission cycle.

Candidates can use the same scorecard to apply for admissions to IIMs and other participating MBA colleges accepting CAT scores for the 2027-29 MBA batch.

A fresh CAT score will generally be required for admissions in subsequent years.

CAT Marks vs Percentile 2026 (Expected)

The CAT Marks vs Percentile 2026 helps candidates understand the approximate score required to achieve a particular percentile.

CAT follows a normalisation process across multiple slots. The table below presents the expected CAT score vs percentile ranges based on recent CAT trends. 

These are indicative estimates and may change depending on the exam difficulty level, number of test-takers, and normalisation process. 

CAT Percentile	Slot 1 (Expected Marks)	Slot 2 (Expected Marks)	Slot 3 (Expected Marks)
99	80–82	81–83	82–84
95	64–66	65–67	66–68
90	51–53	52–54	52–54
85	44–46	44–46	44–46
80	39–41	39–41	39–41

CAT 2026 Cut Off 

The CAT Cut Off 2026 is expected to be announced by the participating IIMs and other MBA colleges after the CAT results are out.

Every institute releases its own cutoff based on factors such as the number of test-takers, available seats, exam difficulty, and admission policy. 

The qualifying CAT percentile is important. But institutes also consider academic records, work experience, diversity, and interview scores during the final selection process. 

Candidates should treat the expected cutoffs as a reference and aim to score higher to improve their chances of success.

The table below provides the expected CAT 2026 cutoff range for top IIMs and leading B-schools. 

College	CAT Cutoffs (Approx, Expected)	Fees	Average Package
IIM Ahmedabad	95+	INR 27 Lakhs+	INR 35.22 LPA
IIM Bangalore	85+	INR 26 Lakhs+	INR 34.88 LPA
IIM Calcutta	≥85	INR 27 Lakhs+	–
IIM Kozhikode	85+	INR 23 Lakhs+	INR 28.18 LPA
IIM Lucknow	90+	INR 20 Lakhs+	INR 32.3 LPA
SPJIMR, Mumbai	85+	INR 25 Lakhs+	INR 32 LPA
FMS Delhi	98+	INR 2.32 Lakhs+	INR 30.1 LPA
MDI Gurgaon	95+	INR 25 Lakhs+	INR 25.6 LPA

IIM-wise CAT Cut Off

Each IIM sets its own CAT cutoff to shortlist candidates for the next stage of the admission process. The cutoff is announced separately for different categories. It generally includes both overall and sectional percentile requirements. 

Candidates who meet these cutoff criteria are shortlisted for the WAT, GD, and PI, as applicable. The previous year’s CAT qualifying cutoffs for IIMs are given below for reference. 

IIM	GEN	EWS	OBC	SC	ST
IIM Ahmedabad	95+	95+	90+	85+	75+
IIM Bangalore	85+	75+	75+	70+	65+
IIM Trichy	90	75	75	50	30
IIM Calcutta	≥85	≥75	≥75	≥70	≥65
IIM Lucknow	90+	82+	82+	65+	60+
IIM Vishakhapatnam	82+	72+	72+	50+	40+
IIM Kozhikode	85+	75+	75+	65+	55+
IIM Mumbai	85+	75+	75+	70+	65+
IIM Rohtak	97+	93+	83+	60+	50+
IIM Amritsar	90+	90+	80+	55+	40+
IIM Kashipur	90	75	75	50	30
IIM Indore	90+	90+	80+	60+	45+
IIM Sirmaur	95	81	81	66	42
IIM Udaipur	94	81	81	66	42
IIM Raipur	90	75	75	50	30
IIM Bodhgaya	95	81	81	66	42
IIM Ranchi	90	75	75	50	30
IIM Sambalpur	90+	80+	75+	55+	40+
IIM Nagpur	95	85	85	65	40

Non-IIM Colleges Accepting CAT Scores

More than 1,300 MBA colleges in India accept CAT scores for admission to their management programmes. Apart from the 22 IIMs, several leading business schools also use CAT scores for shortlisting candidates. 

The list below includes some of the top MBA colleges accepting CAT 2026 scores, along with their expected cutoff requirements. 

Institute	CAT Cutoff Expected)
JBIMS Mumbai	97-98+
MDI Gurgaon	95+
IIT Kharagpur	90+
SPJIMR	85+
IMT Ghaziabad	71-72+
FMS	97-98+

CAT Selection Process After the Exam

Qualifying for the CAT exam is only the first step towards MBA admission. After the result is declared, participating IIMs and other MBA colleges begin their shortlisting process based on CAT percentile and institute-specific admission criteria. 

Here is the detailed CAT selection process after the exam:

Appear for the CAT Exam: Candidates must register for CAT and appear for the entrance test to become eligible for admission to participating MBA colleges.

Apply to MBA Colleges: After the CAT result is declared, candidates should apply to the MBA colleges they wish to join. Some institutes accept the CAT application itself, while others require a separate application form.

Get Shortlisted: Colleges prepare a shortlist based on factors such as CAT percentile, sectional scores, academic record, work experience, and category, wherever applicable.

Participate in the Selection Rounds: Shortlisted candidates are invited to the further stage of the admission process. This may include the Written Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD), and Personal Interview (PI). Some institutes may conduct only a PI or use a different assessment process.

Receive the Final Admission Offer: The final merit list is prepared after considering CAT performance, WAT-GD-PI scores, academic profile, work experience, and other institute-specific criteria. Candidates who meet the overall requirements receive the final admission offer.

Which is the best CAT Online Coaching for Preparation?

Choosing the right CAT online coaching can make your preparation more organised. The ideal platform should provide concept-based learning, regular mock tests, and expert guidance.

It should offer CAT preparation resources that cover every stage of the exam. MBA KARO CAT Online Coaching is designed to offer all these features in one place, helping aspirants prepare for CAT and other MBA entrance exams through a structured approach.

Why Choose MBA KARO CAT Online Coaching?

Complete Preparation Package: Get access to 4 comprehensive courses covering CAT and other OMETs.

• Section-wise Expert Learning: Master every section with 201 DILR lessons, 167 QA lessons, 105 VARC lessons, and 51 English Grammar lessons.
• Extensive Mock Test Practice: Improve your performance with 2 dedicated test series, including 45 CAT Mock Tests designed to simulate the actual exam.
• Learn Before You Enrol: Experience the platform through a free trial with access to selected lessons and mock tests before purchasing the complete course.