CAT Exam Registration 2026: Date, Last Date, Fees, Link & Step-by-Step Process

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most popular MBA entrance exams in India, conducted for admission to various management programmes offered by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other participating institutes. Candidates planning to appear for CAT 2026 must complete the online registration process within the prescribed timeline to be eligible for the examination.

CAT Exam Registration 2026 is expected to begin in August 2026, while the official notification and registration schedule are currently awaited. To help aspirants prepare in advance, this article covers the expected CAT exam registration date, last date, registration fees, application link, required documents, and the complete step-by-step process based on previous-year guidelines.

CAT Exam Registration 2026 Overview

CAT Exam Registration 2026 details are summarized below, covering the expected registration dates, application mode, exam mode, conducting authority, and other important information. 

CAT Exam Registration Date 2026

The official CAT Exam Registration Date 2026 has not been announced yet. Based on previous years, registration is expected to start in August 2026 and continue for approximately six weeks.

Candidates are advised to regularly check the official website for updates regarding the CAT exam registration date.

CAT Exam Registration Link 2026

The CAT Exam Registration Link 2026 will be activated on the official website once the registration process begins.

Candidates must register using a valid email ID and mobile number, as all future communication related to CAT 2026 will be sent through these registered details.

CAT Exam Registration 2026: Documents Required

Before starting the registration process, candidates should keep the following documents ready:

• Valid email address

• Active mobile number

• Passport-size photograph

• Scanned signature

• Class 10 marksheet/certificate

• Class 12 marksheet/certificate

• Graduation details and marksheets

• Work experience details (if applicable)

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

• PwD certificate (if applicable)

As per the previous registration guidelines, candidates need to upload a recent passport-size photograph and signature in the prescribed format. The photograph should have a white background and should not be older than six months.

How to Complete CAT Exam Registration 2026?

The CAT registration process is expected to follow the same pattern as previous years.

Step 1: New Candidate Registration

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

Fill in:

• Candidate Name

• Date of Birth

• Email Address

• Mobile Number

An OTP verification process will be completed using the registered email ID and mobile number. After successful verification, a User ID and Password will be generated.

Step 2: Login to CAT Portal

Use the generated User ID and Password to log in to the candidate dashboard and access the application form.

Step 3: Fill Personal Details

Enter:

• Personal information

• Category details

• Nationality

• Communication address

• Emergency contact details

Candidates claiming reservation benefits must upload valid certificates as required.

Step 4: Enter Academic Details

Provide information related to:

• Class 10

• Class 12

• Bachelor's Degree

• Master's Degree (if applicable)

• Professional Qualifications (if applicable)

Academic information should be entered carefully as it will be used during the admission process.

Step 5: Add Work Experience

Candidates with full-time work experience after graduation can enter their experience details. Internship, part-time, and pre-graduation work experience are generally not considered under the work experience section.

Step 6: Select Programmes

Candidates can choose the IIM programmes they wish to apply for during the application process.

Step 7: Choose Test Cities

Applicants can select up to five preferred test cities. One test city will be allotted based on availability after the registration process closes.

Step 8: Pay Application Fee

After reviewing all details, candidates must complete the fee payment process to submit the application successfully. Once payment is made and the form is submitted, editing options may not be available.

CAT Exam Registration Fees 2026

The official CAT Exam Registration Fees 2026 have not yet been announced. Based on CAT 2025, the fee structure was:

The CAT 2026 fee structure may be revised after the official notification is released.

Important Instructions for CAT Registration 2026

Following these important instructions during CAT Registration 2026 can help you complete the application process accurately and avoid errors that may affect your candidature later. 

• Use a valid and active email ID.

• Use a valid mobile number for OTP verification.

• Keep all academic details ready before starting the application.

• Upload documents in the prescribed format.

• Verify all details before making payment.

• Save a copy of the submitted application form for future reference.

• Keep the registered email and mobile number active until the admission process is completed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During CAT Registration

Avoiding common registration mistakes can help ensure a smooth CAT application process and prevent unnecessary issues during form submission or later stages of admission. 

• Entering incorrect personal information.

• Uploading unclear photographs or signatures.

• Using an invalid email ID or mobile number.

• Entering incorrect academic percentages.

• Waiting until the last date to submit the application.

• Not checking the application preview before payment.

What Happens After CAT Exam Registration?

After successful registration and fee payment:

1. The application confirmation email is sent.

2. Candidates can access the application summary from their dashboard.

3. Admit cards are released before the examination.

4. Candidates appear for CAT 2026.

5. Results are declared after the examination process.