When Can I Apply for the CAT Exam in 2026?

If you are planning to appear for CAT 2026 then you can expect CAT 2026 registration date to be in August 2026 where CAT application form release date would be probably in late July 2026 after the official notification for CAT 2026. Based on past trends, the CAT registration last date is likely to be in mid to late September 2026 and the exam is likely to be held in November. Understanding the full CAT exam timeline 2026 will help you strategically prepare and not miss out on important deadlines.

What Is CAT and Who Conducts It?

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national level MBA entrance examination conducted every year by one of the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) on rotation basis.

The exam is organised under the guidance of the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and the scores are accepted by:

• All IIMs

• Top B-schools such as Faculty of Management Studies

• The list includes: - SP Jain Institute of Management and Research

• Development of management (MDI)|

Read More - What Is the Fee for CAT Application 2026?

Expected CAT Exam Timeline 2026

While official dates will be known in the CAT notification 2026, here is the expected schedule based on past trends:

Tentative CAT Exam Timeline 2026

It is recommended to regularly check the official website of Indian Institute of Management after the announcing of conducting IIM.

CAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, make sure that you meet the eligibility requirements:

• Bachelor's degree with a minimum of marks 50% (45% in case of reserved categories).

• Eligibility is given to final year graduation students.

• No age limit.

• Note: - There is no limit on the number of attempts.

Step-by-Step CAT 2026 Application Process

Once the CAT application form release date is announced, follow these steps:

1. Online Registration

• Required information: - Create a login ID with email and mobile number.

• Verify through OTP.

2. Fill Application Form

• Personal details

• Academic qualifications

• Work experience (if any)

3. Upload Documents

• Passport-size photograph

• Signature

• Category certificate (if applicable)

4. Pay Application Fee

CAT 2026 Application Fee (Expected)

Final fee details will be confirmed in CAT notification 2026.

How to Prepare After CAT Registration?

After you've filled your application, preparation should become your main concern. Choosing the right resources is very important.

Section-Wise Preparation Strategy

CAT is divided into three sections:

1. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

2. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

Suggested Weekly Study Plan

Consistent mock practice is essential to improving speed and accuracy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During CAT Registration

• Waiting till the CAT registration last date

• Entering wrong academic details

• Posting inappropriate photograph/signature

• Carelessly choosing exam center

Apply early to avoid technical problems close to the deadline.

When Should You Start Preparing for CAT 2026?

Ideally:

• Start of preparation by January 2026

• Begin mock tests by June 2026.

• As we know that revision is most important for any exam so it is better to revise more after the CAT 2026 registration date.

Early preparation makes it possible to have several cycles of revision before November.

Final 3-Month Strategy Before CAT 2026

Mock test analysis is more important than number of tests attempted.

Conclusion

If you are planning to apply expect the CAT 2026 registration date in August 2026 after the official CAT notification 2026 in July. The CAT application form date and CAT registration last date usually fall between August and September with the exam conducted in November as per the normal CAT exam date 2026. Apply early, be prepared always with the best CAT books for CAT preparation 2026, practice CAT 25 years back solved question papers and practice CAT topic wise mock test to have maximum chances of scoring high.