CAT 2026 Test City Preference: Selection Process, Allotment & Important Guidelines

CAT 2026 registration will began on August 3, 2026 and choosing your CAT 2026 test city is one of the important steps during the application process. Every candidate is required to submit five city preferences while filling out the CAT application form. However, selecting a city does not guarantee allotment of that location, as the final allocation depends on seat availability.

The CAT 2026 Information Bulletin clearly explains how test city preferences are collected, how cities are allotted, and when candidates can check their allotted examination centre. Understanding these guidelines before registering can help candidates make informed choices and avoid confusion during the application process.

CAT 2026 Test City Preference Overview

Before selecting your preferred exam cities, it is helpful to understand the key details related to the CAT 2026 test city selection process. The table below provides an overview of the number of city preferences, allotment process, test centre details, and other important information released in the official CAT 2026 Information Bulletin: 

How to Select CAT 2026 Test City Preferences

During the CAT 2026 registration process, candidates must select five preferred test cities from the drop-down list provided during registration. These preferences should be chosen carefully, as the final allotment is subject to seat availability. Follow these steps while selecting your preferred test cities:

STEP 1: Open the CAT 2026 registration form and reach the test city preference section.

STEP 2: Select five different test cities from the available drop-down list.

STEP 3: Arrange the cities according to your preferred order.

STEP 4: Review all five selections carefully before submitting the application form.

STEP 5: Complete and submit the registration form before the last date of registration.

After the registration window closes, the CAT authorities will allot one of the preferred test cities based on availability. In rare cases, if none of the selected cities are available, a nearby test city may be assigned. The allotted test city and examination centre will be communicated through the CAT 2026 admit card.

CAT 2026 Test Centres

According to the CAT 2026 Information Bulletin:

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

• The complete list of available cities will be displayed during registration.

• The exact examination centre is allotted only after the city allocation process.

The IIMs also reserve the right to:

• Add new test cities.

• Remove existing test cities.

• Change or cancel a test centre if required.

• Change the examination date or session if necessary.

CAT 2026 Admit Card and Test Centre Details

Candidates can download the CAT 2026 admit card from 4 November 2026 to 29 November 2026.

The admit card will include:

• Allotted test city

• Exact examination centre

• Reporting time

• Exam session

• Candidate details

• Exam-day instructions

Candidates should carefully verify all details mentioned on the admit card before the examination.

Important Dates Related to CAT 2026 Test City Selection

Candidates can select their preferred test cities only during the CAT 2026 registration window. After registration closes, the examination authority processes city allotment, and the allotted test centre is communicated through the admit card.

Important Guidelines for CAT 2026 Test City Selection

Candidates should remember the following official guidelines while submitting their application:

• Select all five city preferences during registration.

• City allotment depends on seat availability.

• A nearby city may be allotted if preferred cities are unavailable.

• The exact test centre will be communicated through the admit card.

• IIMs reserve the right to add, remove, change, or cancel any test city or centre if required.