The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of IndiaΓ’β¬β’s most competitive MBA entrance exams. Every year, lakhs of students appear for CAT to secure admission into IIMs and top B-schools across the country. If you are planning to appear for CAT Exam 2026, hereΓ’β¬β’s a complete, easy-to-understand guide covering the expected exam date, registration schedule, and preparation timeline.
Γ°ΕΈββ¦ CAT Exam 2026 Γ’β¬β Expected Date
Based on previous yearsΓ’β¬β’ trends, CAT 2026 is expected to be conducted on the last Sunday of November 2026.
Γ°ΕΈββ° Expected CAT 2026 Exam Date:
29 November 2026 (Sunday) (Tentative)
Γ°ΕΈβΕ CAT is usually conducted in three slots on a single day.
Γ°ΕΈβΒ CAT 2026 Registration Γ’β¬β Expected Schedule
Here is the tentative registration timeline for CAT 2026:
| Event | Expected Date |
|---|---|
| CAT 2026 Notification Release | Last week of July 2026 |
| Registration Start Date | First week of August 2026 |
| Registration Last Date | Third week of September 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | Last week of October 2026 |
| CAT Exam Date | 29 November 2026 (Expected) |
| CAT Result Declaration | First week of January 2027 |
Γ°ΕΈβΒ’ Note: Official dates will be released on the CAT official website by the IIM conducting CAT 2026.
Γ’ΒΒ³ CAT 2026 Preparation Timeline (Month-Wise)
Γ°ΕΈΕΈΒ’ January Γ’β¬β March 2026: Foundation Phase
Understand CAT exam pattern & syllabus
Focus on Quantitative Aptitude basics
Start reading daily for VARC
Learn basics of Logical Reasoning
Γ°ΕΈΕΈΒ‘ April Γ’β¬β June 2026: Concept Building
Strengthen all three sections:
VARC
DILR
Quantitative Aptitude
Start topic-wise practice
Attempt sectional tests
Γ°ΕΈβΒ΅ July Γ’β¬β September 2026: Practice Phase
Take mock tests regularly
Improve speed & accuracy
Analyze weak areas
Complete CAT registration carefully
Γ°ΕΈβΒ΄ October Γ’β¬β November 2026: Revision Phase
Full-length mock tests (2Γ’β¬β3 per week)
Revise formulas & shortcuts
Focus on time management
Stay calm and confident
Γ°ΕΈβΕ‘ CAT Exam Pattern (Quick Overview)
Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Duration: 120 minutes
Sections:
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
Marking Scheme:
+3 for correct answer
-1 for wrong answer (MCQs)
Γ°ΕΈΕ½Β― Final Tip for CAT 2026 Aspirants
Starting early is the biggest advantage. A well-planned 10Γ’β¬β11 months preparation strategy, consistent practice, and mock test analysis can significantly boost your CAT score.