CAT 2026 candidates must follow the examination-day instructions mentioned on their admit cards to enter the test centre and complete the examination.
These include carrying a printed admit card, presenting an original government-issued photo ID, following the prescribed dress code and avoiding prohibited belongings.
Candidates must also report before their slot’s gate closing time, as late entry will not be permitted.
The CAT 2026 examination will be conducted on November 29, 2026, in three sessions. Each candidate must follow the instructions applicable to their assigned test date and session.
Here is a detailed explanation of CAT exam day instructions 2026, including document requirements, entry rules, dress restrictions and examination hall guidelines.
CAT 2026 Exam Day: Documents You Must Carry
Candidates must arrange the required documents before leaving for the examination centre.
An admit card without a clearly visible photograph and signature may create problems during verification. Keep the following documents ready:
| Document | Important Instructions |
| CAT 2026 Admit Card | Print every page on A4 paper using a laser printer. |
| Photograph | Affix the same photograph that you uploaded during CAT registration at the designated space on the admit card. |
| Original Photo ID | Carry any one valid, original government-issued photo identification document. |
Which Photo ID Proofs Are Accepted for CAT 2026?
Candidates can carry any one of the following identification documents:
- PAN Card
- Driving Licence
- Voter ID Card
- Passport
- Aadhaar Card with photograph
- E-Aadhaar
- Ration Card
- Identification Affidavit
The identification document must be original, valid and in good physical condition. Avoid carrying an ID card with a damaged or smudged photograph or other details that cannot be read clearly.
How to Prepare Your CAT 2026 Admit Card Before Exam Day?
The CAT Admit Card is an essential document for examination-centre verification. Follow these instructions while preparing your printout:
- Print all pages of the admit card on A4-size paper using a laser printer.
- Check whether your photograph and signature are clearly visible in the printed copy.
- Paste the same photograph that you uploaded during the registration process in the specified space.
- Verify your examination date, session and test-day details.
- Carry the printed admit card to the examination centre.
The admit card is valid only for the date and session mentioned in its Test Day Details section. A candidate cannot use it to appear in another session.
CAT 2026 Reporting Time and Gate Closure Rules
Candidates must follow the reporting and entry schedule printed on their admit cards.
Reaching the centre after the gate closing time will result in denial of entry, even if the examination has not started. The CAT 2026 slot-wise schedule is as follows:
| Particulars | Slot 1 | Slot 2 | Slot 3 |
| Session | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
| Reporting Time | 7:00 AM | 11:00 AM | 3:00 PM |
| Exam Timing | 8:30-10:30 AM | 12:30-2:30 PM | 4:30-6:30 PM |
Important entry rules:
- Reach the examination centre by the reporting time mentioned on your admit card.
- Do not expect entry after the specified gate closure.
- Candidates cannot leave the examination centre before the test ends.
- Parents and guardians accompanying candidates cannot enter the test centre.
Candidates should also visit or locate their examination centre at least one day before CAT 2026.
Check the route, distance and available transportation so that you can plan your journey without last-minute confusion.
CAT 2026 Dress Code: Clothes and Footwear Restrictions
The examination instructions specify restrictions on certain clothing and accessories. Candidates should check their attire before leaving for the test centre. Keep these restrictions in mind:
- Do not wear footwear with thick soles.
- Avoid garments with large buttons.
- Do not wear jewellery or accessories containing metal.
- Choose simple clothing and footwear that comply with the examination instructions.
- Check your outfit in advance to avoid issues during the security screening process.
Items Not Allowed Inside the CAT 2026 Examination Centre
CAT 2026 candidates must not carry electronic gadgets, stationery or personal belongings that are prohibited inside the test centre. The following items are not permitted:
| Category | Prohibited Items |
| Electronic devices | Mobile phones, smart glasses, smartwatches, watches and calculators |
| Stationery | Pens, pencils and other personal stationery items |
| Personal belongings | Wallets, goggles and papers |
| Accessories | Jewellery and other items containing metal |
Candidates should not depend on the examination centre for storing their personal belongings.
There is no safekeeping facility outside the Test Hall, and the examination authority will not take responsibility for damage or loss of personal items.
CAT 2026 Examination Hall Rules for Rough Work and Bio-Breaks
Candidates will receive a writing pad and pen at the examination centre for rough calculations and other work during the test. Follow these instructions while using the writing pad:
- Write your name and CAT application number clearly on it.
- Use the pad for rough work during the examination.
- Return the writing pad after completing the test.
Can You Take a Bio-Break During CAT 2026?
Candidates should avoid taking bio-breaks during the examination unless they have an emergency or medical requirement.
If you leave the examination area for a bio-break, you will have to undergo frisking again before entering the computer lab.
Any time lost during this security procedure will not be added to your examination duration. Plan your personal requirements before entering the examination hall.
Other Important CAT 2026 Admit Card Instructions
Apart from document verification and entry requirements, candidates must understand the following conditions:
- No change in examination centre: Requests to change the allotted CAT examination centre will not be accepted. Candidates must appear at the location printed on their admit cards.
- Travel and accommodation: Candidates must arrange their own transportation and stay for attending the examination. The examination authority will not make these arrangements.
- Admit card and eligibility: The admit card is provisional. Its validity is subject to the candidate meeting the eligibility requirements declared in the application, including academic qualifications, category and PwD status. These details may be verified during subsequent selection stages.
- One examination attempt: Candidates attempting to appear for more than one CAT 2026 session will face disqualification.
- Compliance with examination rules: Impersonation or any other violation of the examination guidelines and code of conduct can lead to cancellation of candidature and/or legal action.
Conclusion
Following the CAT 2026 exam day instructions is essential for completing the entry and verification process without document or rule-related issues.
Print your admit card correctly, carry an accepted original photo ID, check the dress restrictions and reach your examination centre before the gate closure time.
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FAQs on CAT Exam Day Instructions 2026
Q1. Can I carry a digital copy of my CAT 2026 admit card?
A. Candidates must carry a printed copy of the CAT admit card. All pages should be printed on A4-size paper using a laser printer. A digital copy should not be treated as a substitute for the required printout.
Q2. Is an original photo ID mandatory for CAT 2026?
A. Yes. Candidates must carry one original and valid government-issued photo identification document, such as a PAN Card, Passport, Driving Licence, Voter ID or Aadhaar Card with photograph.
Q3. Can I leave the CAT examination centre before the test ends?
A. No. Candidates are not permitted to leave the examination centre before completing the test.
Q4. What happens if I take a bio-break during CAT 2026?
A. You will undergo frisking again before re-entering the computer lab. The time lost during this process will not be compensated.
