CAT Exam Dates 2026: Registration, Admit Card, Exam Schedule and Result Dates

CAT exam dates are among the most important updates for MBA aspirants planning to appear for the Common Admission Test. From notification release to registration, admit card download, exam day, answer key, result, and admission deadlines, every stage of CAT has a specific timeline. Missing even one important date can affect the entire MBA admission process.

The CAT exam date 2026 is expected to be November 29, 2026, based on current education updates and the usual CAT schedule trend. However, aspirants should note that the final dates will be confirmed only after the official CAT notification is released on the IIM CAT website. Current CAT 2026 schedule pages mention that the official announcement is expected around the last week of July 2026, with registration likely to begin in the first week of August 2026.

This My College Route guide covers the complete CAT exam dates 2026, including expected registration dates, admit card release, exam schedule, answer key, result date, and preparation planning tips.

CAT Notification 2026 & Exam Overview

The CAT Notification 2026, a significant milestone in the CAT Exam Calendar, is expected to be released in the last week of July 2026. This official announcement provides key details, including eligibility, the registration process, the syllabus, the exam pattern, and important dates. Candidates must review the notification carefully to ensure they meet all criteria and understand the timeline.

CAT Registration Dates & Application Deadline

The CAT Registration Dates usually begin in the first week of August and remain open for 30 to 45 days. Aspirants must register online via the official IIM CAT website by providing academic details, uploading documents, and paying the registration fee. Missing the CAT Application Deadline can have serious consequences, potentially disqualifying candidates from taking the exam. Therefore, it's crucial to register well in advance.

Key dates for CAT exam registration, admit card release, and other important events are listed below:

• CAT Notification Date: Most likely between July 26 – July 31, 2026

• Registration Start Date: August 2026

• Registration Last Date: September 2026 (Tentative)

• Admit Card Release: November 2026

• CAT Exam Dates: November 2026 (Mostly on Sunday)

• CAT Answer Key Release Date: 1st Week of December 2026

• CAT Result Date: Last week of December 2026

CAT Admit Card Date

The CAT Admit Card Date typically falls in the last week of October. Once released, candidates can download their hall tickets using their login credentials. The admit card contains vital information such as the CAT Test Date 2026, time slot, exam center, and candidate ID. On exam day, it is mandatory to bring a printed copy of the admit card and proof of valid ID.

CAT 2026 Exam Dates & Schedule

The CAT 2026 Exam Dates are expected to fall on the last Sunday of November 2026, aligning with the traditional CAT MBA Exam Dates from previous years. The exam is conducted in three sessions—morning, afternoon, and evening—across hundreds of test centers in India. The CAT 2026 Schedule will confirm session timings and other exam-day instructions.

CAT Entrance Exam Dates & Timelines

The CAT Entrance Exam Dates include the test day and cover all related timelines, such as the mock test release, admit card download, and exam city selection window. Staying updated with the CAT Exam Timeline helps candidates plan their preparation, travel, and revision strategies effectively.

CAT Result Date & Scorecard

The CAT Result Date is usually in the last week of December or first week of January following the exam. Candidates can access their scorecard online using their login credentials. The scorecard includes overall and sectional percentiles, which IIMs and other top B-schools use to shortlist candidates for further rounds of admission. Awareness of the CAT Exam Calendar ensures that candidates don't miss the result declaration and subsequent admission steps.

Importance of Knowing CAT Important Dates

Tracking the CAT Important Dates is essential for timely registration, preparation planning, and exam strategy. A delay in any step—application, document upload, or admit card download—can impact a candidate’s chances. For instance, missing the CAT Application Deadline can disqualify a candidate from taking the exam. Whether self-studying or attending coaching, aligning your prep schedule with the official CAT 2026 Exam Dates enhances focus and goal orientation.

Conclusion

The CAT exam date 2026 is expected to be November 29, 2026, with notification likely in the last week of July and registration expected from the first week of August. Admit card release, answer key, and result are expected around November and December 2026. These dates are based on current updates and past trends, so students should verify the final schedule from the official CAT notification.

CAT aspirants should use the exam timeline wisely. Instead of waiting for the official notification, they should begin preparation early, complete registration on time, take mock tests regularly, and stay updated with every important deadline.

A clear understanding of CAT exam dates can help students stay organized, avoid mistakes, and focus better on preparation.

FAQs on CAT Exam Dates

1. What is the CAT exam date 2026?

The CAT 2026 exam is expected to be held on November 29, 2026. The final date will be confirmed in the official CAT notification.

2. When will the CAT 2026 notification be released?

The CAT 2026 notification is expected in the last week of July 2026. It will confirm the exam date, registration schedule, fees, eligibility, and other details.

3. When will CAT 2026 registration start?

CAT 2026 registration is expected to start in the first week of August 2026 through the official CAT website.

4. What is the expected CAT 2026 registration last date?

The registration last date is expected in the third week of September 2026. Students should complete the application before the deadline.

5. When will the CAT 2026 admit card be released?

The CAT 2026 admit card is expected to be released in November 2026. Candidates will be able to download it by logging into the official CAT portal.

6. What are the expected CAT 2026 slot timings?

CAT 2026 is expected to be conducted in three slots: morning, afternoon, and evening. The likely timings are 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM, and 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM.

7. When will the CAT 2026 answer key be released?

The CAT 2026 answer key is expected in December 2026, after the exam. Candidates may also get access to their response sheets.

8. When will the CAT 2026 result be declared?

The CAT 2026 result is expected in December 2026, likely around the third week of the month.

9. Is CAT conducted more than once a year?

No, CAT is generally conducted once a year. Candidates who miss the exam usually need to wait for the next exam cycle.

10. Where can I check official CAT exam dates?

Candidates should check the official IIM CAT website for confirmed CAT exam dates, notification, registration, admit card, result, and other updates.