CAT 2026: Complete Exam Guide

CAT (Common Admission Test) is a National level examination conducted by IIM Kozhikode. The exam is conducted in Online mode and is held annual for candidates seeking admission.

CAT evaluates candidates based on subject knowledge, analytical skills, and problem-solving ability. Candidates who qualify can use their scores for admission into participating institutions.

CAT is a standardized examination conducted by IIM Kozhikode to assess candidates for admission. The exam is held in Online mode and follows a structured pattern.

The full form of CAT is Common Admission Test, and it is widely recognized for evaluating candidate performance.

The official schedule for CAT 2025 has been announced by IIM Kozhikode. Candidates should keep track of all important dates.

Note: All dates are tentative and subject to change. Candidates are advised to check the official website regularly for updates.

The eligibility criteria for CAT are defined by IIM Kozhikode. Candidates must meet the required educational qualifications before applying.

The registration process for CAT is conducted online through the official website. Candidates must complete the application process before 20 Sep 2025.

Step-by-Step Registration Process:

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to the official exam portal
2. New Registration: Click on "New Registration" and provide basic details
3. Fill Application Form: Enter personal, educational, and contact details
4. Upload Documents: Upload scanned photograph and signature
5. Pay Application Fee: Pay the fee online using available payment methods
6. Submit & Print: Submit the form and take a printout for future reference

Application Fee:

The application fee varies by category. Check the official notification for detailed fee structure.

Note: The fee is non-refundable. Candidates should keep the payment receipt for future reference.

The syllabus of CAT includes subject-based topics along with aptitude and reasoning sections. The syllabus is designed to evaluate candidate knowledge relevant to the exam level.

The exam pattern of CAT is designed to test candidates on various parameters. The exam is conducted in Online mode with a structured format.

Practice mock tests and previous year papers.

The admit card for CAT is released before the exam date. Candidates can download it from the official website using their registration credentials.

Steps to Download Admit Card:

1. Visit the official website of CAT
2. Click on "Download Admit Card" link
3. Enter Registration Number/Application ID and Date of Birth/Password
4. Verify details displayed on screen
5. Download and take 2-3 printouts of the admit card

Important Information on Admit Card:

• Candidate Name and Photograph
• Roll Number and Registration Number
• Exam Date and Time
• Exam Center Name and Address
• Reporting Time and Instructions

Documents to Carry:

• Printed Admit Card (mandatory)
• Valid Photo ID Proof (Aadhar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License)
• Passport size photograph

Note: Without a valid admit card, candidates will not be allowed to enter the examination hall.

Varies by category and year.

The result of CAT is declared on 05 Jan 2026 by IIM Kozhikode. Candidates can check their results online.

Steps to Check Result:

1. Visit the official website of CAT
2. Click on "Result" or "Scorecard" link
3. Enter Roll Number/Registration Number and Date of Birth
4. Click on "Submit" to view your result
5. Download and take a printout of the scorecard

Details on Scorecard:

• Candidate Name and Roll Number
• Subject-wise marks obtained
• Total marks and percentage
• Qualifying status (Qualified/Not Qualified)
• All India Rank (AIR) and Category Rank

Note: The scorecard is valid for admission for the academic year 2026-2027.

Many colleges accept this exam score.

The counseling process for CAT begins after result declaration. Qualified candidates must register for counseling for seat allocation.

Counseling Process Steps:

1. Online Registration: Register on the counseling portal
2. Choice Filling: Fill preferred colleges and courses in order of priority
3. Seat Allotment: Seats allocated based on rank, preferences, and availability
4. Document Verification: Get documents verified at designated centers
5. Fee Payment: Pay the admission fee to confirm the seat
6. Reporting to College: Report to the allotted college within the given timeframe

Documents Required for Counseling:

• Admit Card and Scorecard
• Class 10 and 12 Mark Sheets & Certificates
• Graduation Mark Sheets (for PG courses)
• Category Certificate (if applicable)
• Transfer/Migration Certificate
• Passport size photographs

Important: Multiple rounds of counseling may be conducted. Keep checking the official website for updates.

Candidates must follow all instructions provided by IIM Kozhikode for CAT.

Exam Day Guidelines:

• Report to the exam center at least 1 hour before the reporting time
• Carry a printed copy of the admit card and valid photo ID proof
• Do not carry prohibited items (mobile phones, calculators, smartwatches)
• Follow the dress code if specified
• Read instructions carefully before starting the exam
• Manage time effectively during the examination

General Instructions:

• Use only black/blue ballpoint pen for offline exams
• Do not make any stray marks on the answer sheet
• Submit the answer sheet before leaving the exam hall
• Raise your hand for any assistance during the exam

Note: Violation of exam guidelines may lead to disqualification.