CAT 2026 Registration Last Date
MBA aspirants have already started . On one side, IIMs and top B-schools are at the end of the admission process, and on the other side, students are aiming for the 2026-2028 admission cycle.
However, preparation is not the only thing you are concerned about. From now on, you have to keep an eye on the CAT 2026 registration dates and IIM cut-offs. Along with them, you should ensure that you have all the required documents set for filing.
Every year, candidates lose a full year just because of a late application or confusion. Let’s see the important dates, process, fees, and documents for CAT 2026.
CAT 2026 Important Dates
First, understand the CAT 2026 application timeline. This helps in planning both preparation and the CAT application filing. Note the following dates in your calendar for future reference.
Event | CAT 2026 (Expected) |
29th July 2026 | |
CAT Registration Start Date | 1st August 2026 |
CAT Registration Last Date | 20th September 2026 |
CAT Form Correction Window | 22-25th September 2026 |
CAT Admit Card Release | 5th November 2026 |
30th November 2026 |
CAT follows a very predictable pattern similar to the previous year. Dates do not change drastically
CAT 2026 Registration Process Step-by-Step
The CAT 2026 application process is not difficult but a little lengthy. But small mistakes can create big problems later. So, let’s go step by step.
Step No. | Stage | What to Do | Important Tip |
Step 1 | Registration | Visit the official CAT website and click on “New Registration.” | Use an active email ID and mobile number |
Step 2 | Create Login | Enter name, DOB, email, and mobile number | Details must match the Class 10 certificate |
Step 3 | OTP Verification | Verify email and mobile using OTP | Do not refresh during verification |
Step 4 | Login Again | Use the generated ID and password to log in | Save credentials safely |
Step 5 | Personal Details | Fill in gender, category, nationality, and address | Double-check spelling and category |
Step 6 | Academic Details | Enter Class 10, 12, and graduation marks | Calculate the percentage correctly |
Step 7 | Work Experience | Add job details if applicable | Freshers can skip this section |
Step 8 | Program Selection | Choose IIMs and courses | Select carefully, changes are limited |
Step 9 | Test City Preference | Select 6 preferred exam cities | Choose nearby cities to avoid travel stress |
Step 10 | Upload Documents | Upload a photo and a signature | Follow exact size and format rules |
Step 11 | Application Preview | Review the full form before submission | Check every section once again |
Step 12 | Payment | Pay the application fee online | Ensure payment success before closing |
Step 13 | Final Submission | Submit the form and download the confirmation | Save PDF for future use |
Note: Follow the steps and fill out the CAT 2026 form. Check each detail twice, avoid silly mistakes, and upload the correct documents.
CAT 2026 Registration Fees & Documents Required
The CAT 2026 registration fee is expected to be the same as last year. In case of any updates, keep an eye on the CAT 2026 official website.
Registration Fees
Category | CAT 2026 Expected Fees | CAT 2025 Fees |
General / EWS / NC-OBC | ₹2400 | ₹2400 |
SC / ST / PwD | ₹1200 | ₹1200 |
Read Also,CAT Eligibility Criteria 2026
Documents Required
Let’s make this simple. Keep these ready before starting the CAT application filling.
Document | Why It Is Needed |
Passport Size Photo | Identity verification |
Signature | Form validation |
Class 10 Marksheet | Date of birth proof |
Class 12 Marksheet | Academic record |
Graduation Marksheets | Degree proof |
Work Experience Proof | If applicable |
Category Certificate | Reservation benefits |
PwD Certificate | If applicable |
Quick tip. Keep scanned copies of the dy in the correct size. This saves time during form filling.
What is the last date to apply for CAT 2026?
The expected last date is September 2026, the third week. This is based on previous year trends.
Here is why early registration is smarter:
- Website traffic increases near the deadline
- Payment failures become common
- Less time remains for correction
- Panic leads to mistakes
Many candidates think the deadline will be extended. Sometimes it does. Sometimes it does not.
Read Also, CAT Exam Syllabus 2026
CAT Previous Year Registration Data:
The category-wise CAT 2025 registration data is given in the table below:
Category | Registered Candidates (%) | Registered (Number) | Appeared Candidates (%) | Appeared (Number) |
General | 65.76% | 1,93,992 | 65.32% | 1,68,526 |
NC-OBC | 17.82% | 52,569 | 18.52% | 47,782 |
SC | 8.78% | 25,901 | 8.34% | 21,517 |
EWS | 5.26% | 15,517 | 5.59% | 14,422 |
ST | 2.38% | 7,021 | 2.22% | 5,728 |
Total | 100% | 2,95,000 | 100% | 2,58,000 |
CAT 2026 Registration Last Date : Conclusion
The CAT 2026 registration last date is one of the most important deadlines for MBA aspirants aiming to secure admission into top institutes like the Indian Institutes of Management. Candidates should complete the application process well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues or errors. Staying updated with official announcements and keeping documents ready can make the process smooth and stress-free.
In conclusion, understanding the CAT 2026 registration schedule, eligibility, and application process is crucial for success. Early preparation and timely registration will ensure that candidates stay ahead in the competition and focus more on exam preparation rather than deadlines. Make sure to track all important dates and apply on time for a hassle-free experience.
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