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The CAT 2026 notification brings a few important updates that every MBA aspirant should know before registering for the exam. While the overall exam pattern, eligibility criteria, and marking scheme remain unchanged, there are notable revisions to the registration schedule, application fees, and conducting institute. Understanding these changes early can help candidates avoid registration errors and prepare more effectively.
Major Changes in CAT 2026 Notification?
The CAT 2026 notification has introduced a few important updates while retaining the overall examination framework. Candidates should carefully review the notification before beginning registration to avoid mistakes that could affect their application.
The major changes and updates are:
| Particular | CAT 2025 | CAT 2026 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registration Dates | August 1 – September 20 | August 3 – September 15 | Registration window revised |
| Registration Fee (General) | ₹2,600 | ₹2,700 | Fee increased by ₹100 |
| Registration Fee (SC/ST/PwD) | ₹1,300 | ₹1,350 | Fee increased by ₹50 |
| Exam Date | November 30, 2025 | November 29, 2026 | Last Sunday of November |
| Conducting Institute | IIM Kozhikode | IIM Indore | Updated annually |
| Information Bulletin | 2025 Guidelines | Updated 2026 Guidelines | Minor policy updates |
Key Takeaways:
- CAT Registration timeline has been slightly shortened.
- Application fee has increased.
- The exam will continue to be conducted in three sessions as a Computer-Based Test (CBT).
- CAT Eligibility criteria, IIM reservation Policy, and the basic exam structure remain largely unchanged.
CAT 2026 Notification vs CAT 2025: Complete Comparison
| Feature | CAT 2025 | CAT 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Notification Release | July 27, 2025 | July 26, 2026 |
| Registration Start | August 1 | August 3 |
| Registration End | September 20 | September 15 |
| Application Fee (General) | ₹2,600 | ₹2,700 |
| Application Fee (Reserved) | ₹1,300 | ₹1,350 |
| Exam Mode | CBT | CBT |
| Test Duration | 120 Minutes | 120 Minute |
| Number of Sections | 3 | 3 |
| TIme Per Section | 40 Minutes each | 40 Minutes each |
| Exam Slots | 3 | 3 |
| Official Website | iimcat.ac.in | iimcat.ac.in |
Key Takeaways:
- No major structural changes have been introduced.
- The registration fee has been revised upward.
- Registration closes earlier than last year.
- Candidates should complete registration well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Also Read: CAT 2026 Registration Last Date, Fees & Documents Required
Changes in CAT 2026 Registration Process
The registration process remains online through the official CAT portal, but candidates should note the following updates:
Revised Registration Timeline: The application window is shorter than in CAT 2025, leaving less time for corrections and document preparation.
Updated Registration Fee:
- General/EWS/NC-OBC: ₹2,700
- SC/ST/PwD: ₹1,350
Document Verification: Candidates should ensure:
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Signature in prescribed format
- Valid category certificates (if applicable)
- Graduation details
- Work experience information (if any)
Earlier Planning Required:
Since the application window is now tighter and ends earlier, aspirants should prepare their documents before registration opens.
Also Read: Documents Required for CAT 2026 Registration, Check Now
CAT 2026 Exam Pattern: Has Anything Changed?
The CAT 2026 notification has retained the same examination pattern followed in recent years.
| Section | Expected Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| VARC | 24 | 40 Minutes |
| DILR | 22 | 40 Minutes |
| QA | 22 | 40 Minutes |
| Total | 68 | 120 Minutes |
The marking scheme also remains unchanged:
- +3 for every correct answer
- -1 for every incorrect MCQ
- No negative marking for TITA questions
- Sectional time limits continue to apply.
Important Rules Introduced in CAT 2026 Notification
Although there are no sweeping policy changes, the notification reiterates several important rules that candidates must follow.
Complete Registration Carefully
Personal details such as:
- Name
- Date of Birth
- Category
- Academic information
must be entered accurately, as editing options remain limited after submission.
Keep Valid Documents Ready
Candidates claiming reservation under SC, ST, NC-OBC, EWS, or PwD categories must upload valid certificates in the prescribed format.
Test City Preference
Candidates can continue selecting multiple preferred exam cities, but allotment depends on availability.
Admit Card
The admit card must be downloaded from the official website within the specified dates. No physical copy will be sent.
Multiple Registrations
Submitting more than one CAT application is generally not permitted and may lead to cancellation of candidature.
Major Changes in CAT 2026 Notification: Conclusion
The CAT 2026 Notification Changes are primarily administrative rather than structural. Aspirants will notice a shorter registration window, revised application fees, and IIM Indore taking over as the conducting institute. However, the exam pattern, eligibility criteria, reservation policy, marking scheme, and overall selection process remain unchanged, allowing candidates to continue their preparation without altering their study strategy.
