Introduction
The final opportunity for management aspirants to apply for the Common Admission Test is coming to an end. The extended registration window for CAT 2026 closes today. Candidates who have not yet submitted their application forms must act quickly to complete the process before the deadline expires.
All applications must be submitted directly through the official portal at iimcat.ac.in. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about completing your registration today, along with upcoming dates for admit cards, the exam schedule, and the paper pattern.
How to Complete CAT 2026 Registration Today
If you are rushing to complete your application before the window shuts, ensure you have all personal, academic, and professional details ready. Follow these steps to finish the process smoothly:
- Visit the official website of IIM CAT at iimcat.ac.in.
- Click on the active CAT 2026 registration link displayed on the homepage.
- Register using a valid email address and mobile number to generate your login credentials.
- Log in with your newly created user ID and password to access the application form.
- Fill in all required personal details, academic qualifications, and select your preferred test cities.
- Upload scanned copies of your passport-size photograph and signature as per the specified dimensions.
- Proceed to pay the requisite application fee via the online payment gateway.
- Submit the form and download the confirmation page for your records.
Make sure to print or save a digital copy of the final confirmation page, as it will be required during subsequent stages of the admission process.
CAT 2026 Important Dates and Schedule
Keeping track of the timeline is crucial for every management aspirant. Following the closure of the registration window, the Indian Institutes of Management will prepare for the next phases of the examination cycle.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| CAT 2026 Extended Registration Closes | September 22, 2026 |
| Admit Card Download Begins | November 4, 2026 onwards |
| CAT 2026 Exam Date | November 29, 2026 |
Candidates must download their hall tickets as soon as they are released on November 4 to verify exam center details and reporting times.
Overview of the Exam Pattern
Understanding the structure of the test helps candidates fine-tune their last-minute preparation strategies. The CAT 2026 examination is a computer-based test designed to evaluate candidates across three primary sections.
- Total Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes)
- Total Questions: 68 questions
- Marking Scheme: +3 marks for every correct answer, -1 mark for every incorrect MCQ answer (no negative marking for non-MCQ questions).
Section-Wise Breakdown
The exam comprises the following sections:
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I complete the CAT 2026 registration?
You can complete your registration by visiting the official website at iimcat.ac.in before the extended window closes today.
When will the CAT 2026 admit cards be released?
The IIM CAT admit cards will be available for registered candidates to download from November 4, 2026, onwards.
When is the CAT 2026 exam scheduled?
The CAT 2026 examination is scheduled to be held on November 29, 2026.
What is the marking scheme for the CAT exam?
Candidates are awarded 3 marks for every correct answer, while 1 mark is deducted for every incorrect multiple-choice question.
