CAT 2026 Application Procedure

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The official notification for CAT 2026 is expected to be released in the last week of July 2026. Following this, the online application process is anticipated to begin on August 1, 2026. The deadline for submitting online applications is expected to be in the third week of September 2026. Additionally, candidates will be provided with a correction window, likely to be open in the latter part of September 2026, during which they can make necessary edits to their application forms. The CAT 2026 exam is tentatively scheduled to be conducted on November 29, 2026; however, please note that these dates are projections based on historical trends, and the official schedule will be confirmed by the authorities in the official notification.

CAT 2026 Application Form Guidelines

The application process for CAT 2026 is conducted exclusively through online mode. Below are the essential steps and requirements for candidates:

• Official Portal: Candidates must visit the official CAT website to initiate the process by selecting the “New Candidate Registration” link.
• Initial Registration: Before accessing the application form, candidates must register by providing basic details, including full name, date of birth, valid email ID, and mobile number.
• Credential Generation: Upon submitting these details, an OTP will be sent to the registered mobile number for verification. Once verified, the candidate will receive a unique User ID and Password via email/SMS.
• Filling the Form: Using these credentials, applicants must log in to the portal to fill out the application form with accurate personal and academic information.
• Fee Payment: The application fee must be paid exclusively through online payment channels, including Credit Cards, Debit Cards, Net Banking, or UPI services.
• Confirmation: Once the submission is complete, candidates are strictly advised to download and maintain a printed copy or digital backup of the completed application form for future reference and administrative requirements.

CAT 2026 Application Process Steps

The application process for CAT 2026 is expected to follow the established online-only procedure. As of June 2026, the official notification has not yet been released; however, based on consistent historical trends, here is what you need to know to prepare.

Anticipated Timeline

• Official Notification: Late July 2026
• Registration Begins: August 1, 2026
• Registration Deadline: Mid-to-late September 2026
• Form Correction Window: Late September 2026

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. New Registration: Visit the official portal (iimcat.ac.in) and click on "New Candidate Registration." You will need to provide your full name, date of birth, a valid email ID, and a mobile number.
2. Verify & Generate Credentials: After submitting your basic details, you will receive an OTP for verification. Once verified, a unique User ID and Password will be sent to your registered email and mobile number.
3. Complete Application Form: Log in to the portal and fill in the following sections:
• Personal Details: Confirm your information matches your official documents.
• Academic Details: Enter records for Class 10, Class 12, and Graduation.
• Work Experience: Include details if applicable.
• Program Selection: Select your preferred IIM programs and institutes.
• Test City Preferences: Select up to six cities in order of your preference.
4. Upload Documents: Upload the required files in the specified formats:
• Recent passport-size photograph (JPEG/JPG, approx. 50 KB).
• Scanned signature (JPEG/JPG, approx. 30 KB).
• Category/PwD certificates (PDF, if applicable).
5. Review & Submit: Carefully verify all information before submission. Most fields cannot be changed once the form is submitted.
6. Fee Payment: Pay the application fee (expected to be INR 2,600 for General/OBC/EWS and INR 1,300 for SC/ST/PwD) via Credit/Debit card, Net Banking, or UPI.
7. Final Confirmation: Download and save the final confirmation page and payment receipt for your records.

Check out the CAT 2026 Exam Pattern