CAT 2026 registration: How to apply, fees, dates, and documents required

Eligibility criteria for CAT 2026 application

Understanding who can apply is essential before you begin filling out the CAT registration form. The eligibility norms are defined by the IIMs to ensure fairness and transparency in the selection process. Whether you're a recent graduate or a final-year student, verifying your eligibility beforehand helps avoid complications later in the admission journey.

Meeting the eligibility criteria is mandatory to avoid disqualification during document verification. Before filling out the CAT application form, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD)
• Final-year students can also apply
• No age limit for appearing in the CAT exam

What documents are required for CAT 2026 registration?

Candidates should keep all academic and supporting documents ready before they start filling out the form. While filling the CAT application form, keep the following documents ready:

• Class 10 and 12 mark sheets
• Graduation mark sheets and certificates
• Category certificate (if applicable)
  Candidates belonging to SC, ST, OBC-NCL, or GEN-EWS categories must upload a valid and recent certificate.
• PwD certificate (if applicable)
  If you are a person with a disability, you must upload a valid PwD certificate issued by a recognized medical authority. It should clearly state the percentage of disability.
• Scribe request letter (if applicable)
  PwD candidates who need a scribe must upload a formal request letter, as per the official guidelines.
• OCI/PIO card (for applicable candidates)
  Candidates with Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) or Person of Indian Origin (PIO) status need to upload a valid copy of their OCI or PIO card. GMAT scorecard (for those applying through the international route). Statement of purpose or other documents as required by individual IIMs.
• Passport or citizenship proof (for foreign candidates)
  Foreign nationals must upload a scanned copy of their passport or any other official document that proves their citizenship. GMAT scorecard (for those applying through the international route). Statement of purpose or other documents as required by individual IIMs.
• Scanned photo and signature

Uploading incorrect or blurry images may lead to rejection of the form. Candidates should also retain physical copies of these documents for use during the admission and counselling process.

How to fill out the CAT application form 2026

Filling out the CAT 2026 application form might seem intimidating at first, but the process is quite straightforward if you follow each step carefully. Registering successfully not only ensures you're eligible to take the CAT exam but also secures your slot at a preferred test centre. The official portal provides a user-friendly interface to guide applicants through each stage, from registration to fee payment.

• Visit the official website
  Go to iimcat.ac.in using a stable internet connection and a supported browser.
• Register as a new user
  Click on the 'New Candidate Registration' link and enter your full name, date of birth, mobile number, and email ID. An OTP will be sent to your phone and email for verification.
• Generate login credentials
  After successful verification, you will receive your User ID and Password via SMS and email.
• Log in to access the application form
  Use your User ID and Password to log in and begin the application.
• Choose your preferred IIM programmes and interview cities
  You can select multiple IIMs and indicate your preference for interview locations.
• Select test cities
  Choose up to six preferred test cities in order of preference. The final allotment depends on availability.
• Upload documents
  Upload a recent passport-size photograph, signature, and applicable category or PwD certificates. Ensure the files meet the specified size and format requirements (JPEG/JPG format).
• Pay the application fee
  Complete the process through secure online payment options such as credit/debit card or net banking.
• Submit and save confirmation
  After a successful transaction, download the application summary and fee receipt for your records.

CAT 2026 application form correction

Even the most cautious applicants can make mistakes while filling out the CAT application form. Thankfully, the conducting IIM opens a limited-time form correction window after the registration deadline. This facility allows candidates to rectify specific errors and ensure their form is accurate before the exam.

If you make a mistake in your CAT form, don’t worry. The conducting IIM usually provides a form correction window for limited fields:

• Uploaded image (photo/signature)
• Test city preference
• Academic details (limited fields) such as marks or percentage obtained, year of passing, board/university name, type of degree (for graduation and post-graduation if applicable)

You cannot change personal details like name, date of birth, or email ID. Always review the form carefully before final submission.

The correction window usually remains open for a few days in the last week of September. Candidates are notified via email or SMS once the window is live. It is advisable to access the official portal promptly and make necessary changes during this period..

Application form status and confirmation page

After successful submission and payment, candidates can view the status of their CAT application form on the official website. A confirmation email and SMS will also be sent to the registered email ID and mobile number. Candidates must download and securely store the confirmation page or acknowledgment slip for future reference, especially during the admission process.

To check application status:

• Log in to your CAT account
• Go to the 'Application Summary'.
• Verify that all sections show 'Completed'
• Download the confirmation page

What to do after submitting the application?

Once you've submitted the CAT application form and received confirmation, the next step is preparation. This is a critical phase that bridges your registration and the actual exam. Being proactive during this period ensures you stay ahead of schedule and ready for every key milestone.

Here’s what you should focus on post-registration:

• Start revising your study plan: Use your remaining time efficiently. Prioritize mock tests, strengthen weak areas, and stick to a well-structured revision timetable.
• Track communications: Check your registered email ID and mobile number regularly for updates from the CAT authorities regarding admit card, exam centre, or corrections.
• Download the admit card: The admit card will be available for download on the official CAT website on November 4, 2026. It contains important details such as your roll number, exam centre, reporting time, and instructions. You must carry a printed copy on exam day.
• Secure your credentials: Store your application number, user ID, and password in a safe place. You’ll need them to access your admit card and results.
• Stay updated: Follow the official CAT website and trusted education portals for any notifications about changes in the schedule, instructions, or processes.

This is the time to be organized, stay calm, and prepare with confidence.

How can candidates correct the CAT 2026 form?

When the correction window becomes available, eligible candidates generally need to:

• Visit the official CAT website
• Log in with CAT credentials
• Open the application form
• Navigate to the editable field
• Make the permitted correction
• Review the change and submit the corrected form

Candidates should check the official announcement to confirm which fields can be edited.

What are the important guidelines for CAT 2026 registration?

Candidates should follow these points throughout the application process:

• Register only through the official CAT website
• Use a valid email address and mobile number
• Keep academic documents ready
• Enter information exactly as shown in certificates
• Upload a recent photograph
• Use valid category certificates
• Select IIM programmes carefully
• Select practical test-city preferences
• Check every section before submission
• Verify payment status
• Save the acknowledgement
• Regularly check official CAT notices

CAT registration for foreign nationals and OCI/PIO candidates

Foreign nationals usually apply through the GMAT route, and most IIMs have a dedicated international admissions portal for them. They are not required to fill out the regular CAT application form. On the other hand, OCI/PIO candidates are treated at par with Indian nationals in many cases and are required to appear for the CAT exam if applying under the general admissions route.

Here’s what applicants should know:

• Foreign nationals should apply directly to the respective IIMs using their GMAT scores. The application process, deadlines, and fees vary across IIMs.
• OCI/PIO candidates are often required to register through the official CAT portal and appear for the CAT exam just like Indian applicants, unless otherwise stated by individual institutes.
• The application fee for foreign nationals is typically around USD 150 (approx. INR 12,000), while OCI/PIO candidates usually pay the standard domestic fee unless applying via the international route.