How to Fill CAT 2026 Application Form: Step-by-Step Guide

CAT 2026 Application Form: The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore has started the registration process for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 on the official website, iimcat.ac.in. Candidates seeking admission to MBA and other postgraduate management programmes offered by the IIMs and participating B-schools must complete the online application process within the prescribed deadline.

While filling out the CAT application form is straightforward, candidates should enter all details carefully and upload the required documents in the prescribed format. Any incorrect information may create issues during the admission process. This step-by-step guide explains how to complete the CAT 2026 application form without errors.

CAT 2026 Application Form Highlights

Documents Required Before Filling the CAT 2026 Application Form

Before beginning the registration process, candidates should keep the following documents and information ready:

• Valid email ID and mobile number

• Recent passport-size colour photograph

• Scanned signature

• Class 10 and Class 12 mark sheets

• Graduation mark sheets or degree certificate

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

• PwBD certificate, if applicable

• Work experience details (if any)

• Debit Card, Credit Card, UPI, or Net Banking details for online fee payment

Preparing these documents in advance helps complete the application process smoothly.

Step 1: Visit the Official CAT Website

Open the official CAT portal at iimcat.ac.in and click on "New Candidate Registration" available on the homepage.

Step 2: Complete the Registration

Enter the required basic details, including:

• Full Name

• Date of Birth

• Email ID

• Mobile Number

• Country

After submitting the information, verify your mobile number using the OTP. Once verification is complete, your User ID and Password will be sent to your registered email address.

Step 3: Log In to the CAT 2026 Portal

Use the registered User ID and Password to log in and access the CAT 2026 application form.

Step 4: Fill Personal Information

Enter your personal details carefully, such as:

• Father's Name

• Mother's Name

• Gender

• Category

• Nationality

• Address

• Communication Details

Ensure that all information matches your official documents.

Step 5: Enter Academic Details

Fill in your educational qualifications, including:

• Class 10 details

• Class 12 details

• Bachelor's degree information

• Professional qualifications (if applicable)

Candidates currently studying in the final year of graduation should enter the required academic details as specified in the application form.

Step 6: Provide Work Experience Details

Candidates who have professional work experience should enter:

• Organisation Name

• Industry Type

• Job Designation

• Duration of Employment

Applicants without work experience can leave this section blank.

Step 7: Select Preferred MBA Programmes and Test Cities

Next, choose the IIM programmes you wish to apply for and select up to five preferred CAT exam cities.

The examination authority will allot the test centre based on the choices submitted and seat availability.

Step 8: Upload Required Documents

Upload the scanned copies of the following documents in the prescribed format:

• Passport-size photograph

• Signature

• Category certificate (if applicable)

• PwBD certificate (if applicable)

Before uploading, check that the documents meet the size and format requirements mentioned on the application portal.

Step 9: Pay the CAT 2026 Application Fee

After completing all sections, proceed to the payment page and pay the application fee through any online payment method.

Accepted payment options include:

• Credit Card

• Debit Card

• UPI

• Net Banking

CAT 2026 Application Fee

The application fee is non-refundable.

Step 10: Review and Submit the Application Form

Before clicking the final submit button:

• Verify all personal and academic details.

• Check uploaded documents.

• Confirm your selected test cities and programmes.

• Ensure all information is correct.

After successful submission:

• Download the application confirmation page.

• Save a copy of the completed application form.

• Keep the payment receipt for future reference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Filling the CAT 2026 Application Form

Many candidates make avoidable mistakes during registration. Keep the following points in mind:

• Do not enter incorrect personal or academic information.

• Use an active email ID and mobile number.

• Upload clear images in the specified format.

• Select the correct category while applying.

• Avoid waiting until the last day to register.

• Download the confirmation page after successful payment.

Reviewing the application before submission can help prevent unnecessary issues later.

Can Candidates Edit the CAT 2026 Application Form?

If IIM Indore announces an application correction window, candidates may be allowed to edit certain fields after submission. However, not every detail can be modified. Therefore, applicants should ensure that all information is accurate before submitting the form.

Tips for a Smooth CAT 2026 Registration

To complete the registration without difficulty, candidates should:

• Read the official instructions before starting the application.

• Keep all required documents ready in advance.

• Use a stable internet connection while filling the form.

• Complete the registration before the last date to avoid heavy website traffic.

• Save copies of the application form and payment receipt.

• Regularly visit the official CAT website for updates regarding the admit card, exam schedule, and important announcements.

Filling the CAT 2026 application form correctly is the first step towards admission to the IIMs and other leading management institutes. Candidates should carefully verify every detail and complete the registration well before the closing date to ensure a hassle-free application process.