How CAT 2026 Test City Allotment Works

Selecting the right test city is an important step while filling out the CAT 2026 application form. Although candidates can choose five preferred test cities during registration, the final allotment depends on seat availability and administrative considerations. 

Understanding how the CAT test city allotment process works can help candidates make informed choices and avoid confusion after the registration window closes. 

How Does CAT 2026 Test City Allotment Work?

The CAT 2026 test city allotment process is carried out after the registration window closes. During the application process, candidates must select five preferred test cities from the list of available locations. The exam authority then allocates one of these cities based on availability and operational requirements.

If seats are unavailable in all five selected cities, the conducting IIM reserves the right to allot a nearby test city. The decision regarding city allocation is final.

Step-by-Step CAT 2026 Test City Allotment Process 

The CAT 2026 test city allotment process is conducted after the registration window closes. Candidates can select five preferred test cities while filling out the application form, but the final allotment depends on seat availability and administrative requirements. Follow the steps below to understand how the process works. 

Step 1: Select Five Preferred Cities

While filling out the CAT 2026 application form, candidates must choose five test cities in order of preference.

Step 2: Registration Window Closes

Once the registration period ends, the exam authority begins the city allocation process based on the preferences submitted by all candidates.

Step 3: Seat Availability is Checked

The system attempts to allot one of the five preferred cities, depending on the availability of seats at the respective test centres.

Step 4: Nearby City May Be Allotted

If all preferred cities are fully occupied, candidates may be assigned a nearby city to ensure they can appear for the examination.

Step 5: Test Centre Details Released

The final test city, exact test centre address, reporting time, and exam slot are mentioned on the CAT 2026 admit card, which will be available from 4 November 2026.

Can You Change Your Allotted Test City?

Generally, no. Once the test city has been allotted, requests for changes are not entertained. Candidates should therefore choose their city preferences carefully while filling out the application form.

Tips for Choosing Test City Preferences

Selecting your CAT 2026 test city preferences carefully can help ensure a smooth exam-day experience. Keep the following tips in mind while choosing your preferred cities:

• Select cities that are convenient and easily accessible.

• Give preference to locations where you can arrange accommodation if required.

• Avoid choosing cities that may be difficult to reach during the examination period.

• Submit your application early, as early registration may improve the chances of getting a preferred city.

• Double-check your selected cities before submitting the application form.

Important Points to Remember

Candidates should keep the following points in mind regarding the CAT 2026 test city allotment process:

• You can select five preferred test cities while filling out the CAT 2026 application form.

• Test city allotment is based on your preferences, seat availability, and administrative feasibility.

• The conducting IIM will try to allot one of your preferred cities, but it is not guaranteed.

• If none of your preferred cities is available, a nearby test city may be allotted.

• The allotted test city, test centre address, reporting time, and exam slot will be mentioned on the CAT 2026 admit card.

• Requests for changing the allotted test city are generally not entertained after the allocation process.

• Complete your registration well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.

• Verify your city preferences carefully before submitting the application, as they cannot usually be modified later.

The CAT 2026 test city allotment process is designed to allocate candidates to an examination city based on their preferences and seat availability. While candidates can choose five preferred test cities during registration, the final allotment is made by the conducting IIM after the registration period ends. To improve the chances of getting a preferred city, candidates should submit their application early, select their preferences carefully, and regularly check the official CAT website for updates regarding the admit card and examination schedule.