CAT Syllabus for 2026 Exam

CAT Syllabus 2026: Complete Section-wise Syllabus, Topics & PDF Guide

The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 is expected to be conducted by IIM Indore on November 29, 2026. One of the most important steps in CAT preparation is understanding the syllabus thoroughly. Unlike many other national-level exams, the IIMs do not release an official CAT syllabus. However, based on the previous 10+ years of CAT question papers, a comprehensive and reliable syllabus can be derived. The CAT 2026 syllabus is divided into three sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA).

CAT 2026 Syllabus Overview

Section 1: VARC – Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

The VARC section tests a candidate's reading speed, comprehension ability, grammar, and verbal reasoning. It is split into two sub-sections.

Reading Comprehension (RC)

RC carries the highest weightage in the VARC section, typically featuring 4–5 passages of 500–800 words each, drawn from areas such as:

• Economy and Business

• Environment and Science

• Philosophy and Ethics

• History and Culture

• Literature and Arts

Verbal Ability (VA)

Tip: Read The Hindu, The Economist, or Aeon Essays daily to improve RC speed and comprehension.

Section 2: DILR – Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning

The DILR section consists of 4–6 sets, each containing 3–5 questions. It tests a candidate's analytical and logical thinking ability.

Data Interpretation Topics

Logical Reasoning Topics

Section 3: QA – Quantitative Aptitude

The QA section tests mathematical ability based on Class 10–12 level concepts. Arithmetic typically carries the highest weightage at around 40%.

CAT 2026 Syllabus: Important Points

• IIMs do not publish a fixed CAT syllabus; the above is derived from previous year trends.

• CAT is based primarily on Class 10–12 level Mathematics and English concepts.

• Both MCQ (Multiple Choice Questions) and TITA (Type In The Answer) questions appear in all sections.

• TITA questions carry no negative marking, making them safer to attempt.

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CAT 2026 Preparation Strategy by Section

Phase 1 (Months 1–3): Foundation Building

• Understand CAT pattern and sectional timing.

• Complete Arithmetic topics: Percentages, Ratio, Averages, Profit & Loss.

• Begin Algebra basics and Number System.

• Read 1–2 RC passages daily.

• Solve 2 basic LRDI sets daily.

Phase 2 (Months 4–6): Strengthening Performance

• Take 2–3 diagnostic full mocks by Month 3.

• Begin sectional tests, moving from untimed to timed formats.

• Focus on Geometry, Permutation & Combination, and Para Jumbles.

Phase 3 (Months 7–9): Optimization and Mock Practice

• Increase mock frequency to 2 per week.

• Analyse each mock thoroughly for weak areas.

• Focus on TITA questions for DILR and VARC.