CAT 2026 Exam Day Guidelines: Documents to Carry and Items Not Allowed

The CAT 2026 examination will be conducted on 29 November 2026 (Sunday) in three shifts. Candidates appearing for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 must follow the examination-day instructions issued by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). Understanding the CAT exam rules, carrying the required documents and avoiding prohibited items can help candidates complete the entry and verification process smoothly.

The CAT 2026 admit cards will be available for download from 6 November to 29 November 2026 through the official website, iimcat.ac.in, using the registered login ID and password. Candidates should regularly check the official website for the latest examination-related instructions.

CAT 2026 Exam Schedule and Shift Details

The official media release outlines the complete timeline for the entrance test. Candidates must note the shift details and admit card availability dates provided in the official schedule below.

Note: IIMs reserve the right to change the test date and time if the situation warrants.

CAT 2026 Exam Documents to Carry

Candidates must keep their examination documents ready before leaving for the test centre. The following CAT exam documents should be checked in advance.

Candidates should check the CAT Admit Card Correction 2026 process to learn how to correct errors in their admit card details before the examination.

Accepted Photo ID Proofs for CAT 2026

Candidates can check the following commonly accepted identity documents for the CAT examination:

• Aadhaar Card

• PAN Card

• Passport

• Voter ID Card

• Driving Licence

• College or University ID Card

• Employer ID Card

Important: Candidates should carry an original photo ID rather than relying on a digital copy. The final list of accepted documents and verification requirements should be checked against the CAT 2026 admit card instructions.

CAT Prohibited Items: Things Not Allowed Inside the Exam Hall

Candidates must understand the CAT prohibited items list to avoid difficulties during security checks. Electronic devices, personal stationery and other restricted belongings should not be carried inside the examination hall. The following items are generally prohibited:

Candidates facing issues while downloading their CAT 2026 admit cards can check the CAT Admit Card Download Problem guide for possible solutions and troubleshooting steps.

CAT 2026 Exam Day Checklist

Candidates can use the following checklist before leaving for the examination centre:

• Download and print the CAT 2026 admit card.

• Keep an original valid photo ID proof.

• Check the photograph and personal details on the admit card.

• Read all examination-day instructions.

• Check the examination centre address and reporting time.

• Avoid carrying mobile phones and electronic gadgets.

• Leave prohibited items at home.

• Reach the examination centre before the reporting time.

• Cooperate during security and identity verification.

Candidates can check the CAT Exam Centre 2026 details to learn about the allotted examination centres, city-wise test locations, and important information related to their CAT exam venue.