CAT 2026 Registration Window: Important Dates

The CAT 2026 Registration Window is the official period during which eligible candidates can complete the Common Admission Test application process. Missing the registration deadline means you will not be able to appear for CAT 2026. Therefore, it is important to keep track of every key date. 

According to the CAT 2026 Information Bulletin, registration opens on August 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM and closes on September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Candidates should complete the application well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.

CAT 2026 Registration Window

The CAT 2026 registration process will be conducted online through the official CAT website. During this period, candidates must create an account, complete the application form, upload the required documents, and pay the registration fee. 

The registration window begins:

• Start Date: August 3, 2026

• Start Time: 10:00 AM

The registration closes:

• Last Date: September 15, 2026

• Closing Time: 5:00 PM

After the registration window closes, no new applications will be accepted unless the conducting authority announces an extension.

CAT 2026 Important Dates

The CAT 2026 Information Bulletin provides the following schedule.

Candidates should regularly check the official CAT website for any updates regarding these dates.

What Can You Do During the Registration Window?

The registration period allows candidates to complete all application-related formalities.

You can:

• Create your CAT login credentials.

• Fill in personal information.

• Enter academic qualifications.

• Provide work experience details, if applicable.

• Upload your photograph and signature.

• Select preferred IIM programmes.

• Choose five preferred test cities.

• Pay the application fee.

• Submit the completed application form.

Candidates should carefully verify every detail before final submission.

Choosing Test Cities

While filling out the CAT application form, candidates are required to select five preferred test cities.

Important points include:

• Select cities in order of preference.

• Cities are allotted based on availability.

• One of the five preferred cities is usually allotted.

• If none of the preferred cities are available, a nearby city may be assigned.

The final examination centre will be mentioned on the CAT admit card.

Why You Should Register Early

Although the registration window remains open for several weeks, candidates should avoid waiting until the last day.

Early registration offers several advantages:

• More time to review the application.

• Lower chances of server-related issues.

• Easier correction of mistakes before submission.

• Sufficient time to arrange required documents.

• Better planning for exam preparation.

Submitting the application early also reduces stress during the registration period.

Documents to Keep Ready

Before beginning the CAT 2026 registration process, keep the following documents ready:

• Passport-size photograph

• Scanned signature

• Graduation details

• Category certificate (if applicable)

• PwBD certificate (if applicable)

• Valid email address

• Active mobile number

• Debit card, credit card, UPI or net banking details for fee payment

Having these documents ready makes the registration process smoother.

Registration Fee

The CAT 2026 Information Bulletin specifies the following application fees:

Candidates pay the registration fee only once, irrespective of the number of IIMs they apply to. The fee is non-refundable.

Common Mistakes During Registration

Many candidates make avoidable mistakes while filling out the application form.

Avoid the following:

• Waiting until the final day to register.

• Entering incorrect academic details.

• Uploading unclear documents.

• Using an inactive email address.

• Providing an incorrect mobile number.

• Selecting test cities without careful consideration.

• Forgetting to save the application confirmation.

• Not verifying payment status.

Taking time to review your application can help prevent these issues.

Tips for a Smooth CAT 2026 Registration

Follow these suggestions for a hassle-free registration experience:

• Read the Information Bulletin before applying.

• Keep all documents ready beforehand.

• Use a stable internet connection.

• Enter details exactly as per official records.

• Double-check uploaded documents.

• Save the application PDF and payment receipt.

• Keep your login credentials secure.

• Regularly monitor the official CAT website for announcements.

The CAT 2026 Registration Window opens on August 3, 2026, and closes on September 15, 2026, giving candidates a limited period to complete the application process. 

Registering early, keeping all required documents ready, and carefully reviewing your application can help you avoid unnecessary errors. 

Always refer to the official CAT website and Information Bulletin for the latest updates and complete the registration well before the closing deadline.