The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026, conducted by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore, is a highly competitive postgraduate entrance examination for MBA admissions across IIMs and other premier business schools in India. The admit card for CAT 2026 will be released online on 4 November 2026, and candidates must download it before appearing for the examination scheduled on 29 November 2026.
Overview
CAT 2026 is an all-India entrance test conducted online. IIM Indore, the nodal agency for CAT 2026, will manage the entire examination process. The admit card serves as proof of registration and must be presented at the examination centre. Candidates can download their admit cards exclusively from the official website iimcat.ac.in by logging in with their registration credentials.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| CAT 2026 Notification | 25 July 2026 |
| Online Registration Start | 3 August 2026 |
| Extended Registration End | 22 September 2026 |
| Application Correction Window | 5–6 October 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | 4 November 2026 |
| CAT 2026 Exam Date | 29 November 2026 |
Exam Schedule and Slots
The CAT 2026 examination will be conducted in three slots on 29 November 2026. Each slot runs for 2 hours, and candidates will be allotted to one slot based on the conducting institute's discretion.
| Exam Slot | Time | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Slot 1 (Morning) | 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM | 2 Hours |
| Slot 2 (Afternoon) | 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM | 2 Hours |
| Slot 3 (Evening) | 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM | 2 Hours |
Exam Structure and Sections
The CAT 2026 exam comprises three sections, each with equal weight and duration. Candidates must answer all sections within the total time of 120 minutes (2 hours). The exam tests conceptual knowledge, problem-solving ability, and analytical thinking.
| Section | Subject/Topic | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Section I | Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 40 Minutes |
| Section II | Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 40 Minutes |
| Section III | Quantitative Ability (QA) | 40 Minutes |
| Total | Three Sections | 120 Minutes |
How to Download the Admit Card
- Visit the official CAT website at iimcat.ac.in
- Log in using your registered email ID and password
- Verify your details and download the admit card in PDF format
- Print the admit card on A4 paper and retain a copy for your records
- Carry the printed admit card to the examination centre along with a valid government-issued ID
Important Instructions
The admit card must be produced at the examination centre without fail. It contains essential details such as your roll number, examination slot, reporting time, and centre address. Candidates should download the admit card at least two days before the examination date to avoid last-minute technical issues. Verify all particulars on the admit card and contact the conducting institute immediately if any information is incorrect.
Important Links
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the CAT 2026 admit card be available?
The admit card will be released on 4 November 2026 on the official website. Candidates can download it from that date onwards.
What should I do if my admit card is not available for download?
Verify that you have completed your registration and paid the application fee. Check your registration status on the official website. If issues persist, see the official notification or contact IIM Indore support.
Can I change my exam slot after receiving the admit card?
Slot changes are typically not permitted after the admit card is issued. See the official notification for any provisions regarding slot modifications.
What documents should I carry to the exam centre?
Carry your printed admit card and a valid government-issued ID (Aadhaar, PAN, driving licence, or passport). Other documents as specified in the admit card instructions must also be brought.
Is there an application correction window?
Yes, the application correction window is scheduled for 5–6 October 2026. Candidates must make any necessary corrections within this period as no changes will be permitted after this window closes.
What is the total duration of the CAT 2026 exam?
The total duration is 120 minutes (2 hours), divided equally among three sections of 40 minutes each.
Disclaimer: Candidates are advised to visit the official website iimcat.ac.in and verify all details before appearing for the examination.