Step-by-Step Guide to CAT 2026 Online Registration

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is the gateway to MBA and other management programmes offered by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and several leading business schools across India. To appear for the exam, candidates must complete the online registration process within the prescribed timeline.

 Since the CAT application form requires accurate personal, academic, and work-experience details, applicants should understand each stage before starting the registration process. This step-by-step process explains how to register for CAT 2026, the documents required, important dates, application fee, and common mistakes to avoid.

CAT 2026 Registration Dates

Candidates must complete the registration process within the official schedule announced by the conducting IIM.

Documents Required Before Registration

Keep the following documents ready before filling out the CAT application form:

• Valid email ID and mobile number

• Passport-size photograph (as per prescribed specifications)

• Signature (scanned copy)

• Class 10 and Class 12 mark sheets

• Bachelor's degree details

• Master's degree details (if applicable)

• Work experience details (if applicable)

• Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS), if applicable

• PwBD certificate, if applicable

• Valid photo identity proof

Step-by-Step CAT 2026 Registration Process

Candidates can complete the CAT 2026 registration process online through the official CAT portal. Follow the steps below to fill out and submit the application form successfully. The registration window will remain open from 3 August 2026 (10:00 AM) to 15 September 2026 (5:00 PM). 

Step 1: Visit the Official CAT Website

Visit the official CAT 2026 website and click on "New Candidate Registration."

Step 2: Create Your Login

Enter the following details:

• Full Name

• Date of Birth

• Email ID

• Mobile Number

• Country

After verification, login credentials will be sent to your registered email ID and mobile number.

Step 3: Log in to Your Account

Use the generated User ID and Password to access the CAT application portal.

Step 4: Fill Personal Details

Enter your:

• Father's and Mother's Name

• Gender

• Nationality

• Category

• PwBD status (if applicable)

• Communication and permanent address

Ensure all information matches your official documents.

Step 5: Enter Academic Details

Provide details of your:

• Class 10

• Class 12

• Bachelor's degree

• Master's degree (if applicable)

• Professional qualifications (if applicable)

Candidates in the final year of their bachelor's degree can also apply.

Step 6: Add Work Experience

If applicable, mention:

• Organisation name

• Designation

• Total work experience

• Employment duration

Fresh graduates can skip this section.

Step 7: Select Interview Cities

• Select your preferred interview city from the given choices.

Step 8: Choose Test Cities

• Select five preferred test cities in order of preference.

• The exam authority will allot one city based on availability.

Step 9: Upload Required Documents

Upload scanned copies of:

• Passport-size photograph

• Signature

• Category certificate (if applicable)

• PwBD certificate (if applicable)

Ensure the uploaded files meet the prescribed size and format requirements.

Step 10: Pay the Application Fee

Complete the payment using:

• Debit Card

• Credit Card

• Net Banking

• UPI

• Other online payment options available

The application will be submitted successfully only after payment is completed.

CAT 2026 Registration Fee

Candidates must pay the CAT 2026 registration fee online while submitting the application form. The fee can be paid using a debit card, Credit Card, Net Banking, UPI, or other available online payment methods. Once the payment is made, it is non-refundable under any circumstances. The registration fee has been revised for CAT 2026. 

Important Instructions

Candidates should keep the following points in mind while filling the CAT application form:

• Use a valid and active email ID and mobile number.

• Enter the name and date of birth exactly as mentioned in official documents.

• Review all details carefully before final submission.

• Upload clear and readable documents.

• Submit the application before the deadline to avoid technical issues.

• Save and print the confirmation page for future reference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many applications are delayed due to avoidable errors. Ensure you do not:

• Use an incorrect email ID or mobile number.

• Upload blurred photographs or signatures.

• Enter incorrect academic percentages.

• Select the wrong category.

• Wait until the last day to register.

• Forget to verify all details before payment.

What Happens After Registration?

After successfully submitting the CAT 2026 application:

• Download and save the confirmation page.

• Wait for the release of the admit card.

• Download the admit card once available.

• Appear for CAT 2026 on the scheduled examination date.

Accurately completing the CAT 2026 online registration is the first step towards securing admission to the IIMs and other participating management institutes. Before submitting the application, candidates should verify all personal, academic, and category details, upload the required documents in the prescribed format, and pay the application fee within the registration period. Applying early and carefully reviewing the form can help avoid last-minute issues and ensure a smooth registration process for CAT 2026.