CAT 2026 Test Cities and Centres: What Candidates Should Know Before Choosing Exam Cities

The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 will be conducted by IIM Indore in approximately 170 test cities across the country. While filling out the CAT application form, candidates will have the opportunity to choose their preferred test cities. However, the final exam centre allocation depends on seat availability and is decided by the CAT authorities.

Candidates should carefully select their preferred cities during registration, as the allotted test centre cannot be changed after the process is completed unless announced by the conducting authority.

CAT 2026 Test Cities Highlights

CAT 2026 Registration: Choose Five Preferred Test Cities

While filling out the CAT 2026 application form, candidates must select any five test cities in order of preference from the drop-down list available on the official website.

After the registration window closes, CAT authorities will allot one of the five preferred cities, subject to availability. Candidates are therefore advised to select their preferences carefully based on convenience and accessibility.

How Are CAT 2026 Test Centres Allotted?

The CAT 2026 test centre allotment process follows the guidelines mentioned in the official Information Bulletin.

• Candidates must choose five preferred test cities during registration.

• One city will be allotted from the selected preferences, depending on seat availability.

• In rare cases, if none of the chosen cities are available, the CAT Centre may allot a nearby test city.

• The exact test centre name and address will be available only after the release of the CAT admit card.

Where Will the CAT 2026 Test Centre Be Mentioned?

The complete details of the allotted examination centre will be printed on the CAT 2026 Admit Card, including:

• Test centre name

• Complete address

• Reporting time

• Exam session

• Important exam day instructions

Candidates can download the admit card from November 4, 2026, to November 29, 2026 through the official CAT website.

Can CAT 2026 Test Centres Be Changed?

As per the official Information Bulletin, IIMs reserve the right to add, remove, change, or cancel any test city or test centre. They may also change the examination date or session if required due to administrative or unforeseen circumstances.

Candidates should regularly check the official CAT website for any updates regarding their examination centre.

Tips for Choosing CAT 2026 Test City Preferences

While selecting test city preferences, candidates should keep the following points in mind:

• Choose cities that are easily accessible from your current location.

• Select nearby cities as alternative options if your first preference has high demand.

• Avoid choosing cities where travel may become difficult during the examination period.

• Complete your registration early to avoid last-minute issues.

Important Points for CAT 2026 Candidates

Candidates appearing for CAT 2026 should remember the following:

• CAT 2026 will be conducted in approximately 170 test cities.

• Candidates can select five preferred test cities during registration.

• Final city allotment depends on availability.

• The exact examination centre will be mentioned only on the CAT admit card.

• IIMs reserve the right to modify or cancel test centres whenever necessary.

• Candidates must maintain a valid email ID and mobile number throughout the admission process to receive important updates.

What Happens After CAT 2026?

After the examination:

• CAT 2026 scorecards are expected to be available in the first week of January 2027.

• The score will remain valid until December 31, 2027.

• Individual IIMs will conduct their own admission process based on CAT scores, academic performance, work experience, and other selection criteria.

• Several non-IIM institutions will also use CAT 2026 scores for admissions. Their list will be available on the official CAT website.