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CAT

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national-level management entrance examination conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) on a rotational basis. CAT is the primary gateway for admission to postgraduate management programmes such as the MBA/PGP at the IIMs and numerous other top business schools across India that accept CAT scores. Conducted once a year in computer-based online mode, the exam assesses candidates on Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability. With a very large number of aspirants annually, CAT is among the most competitive management entrance exams in the country. This page covers complete CAT details – eligibility, exam pattern, important dates, application process and preparation tips.

CAT Important Dates

Application Start
01 Aug 2026
Last Date to Apply
20 Sep 2026
Admit Card
12 Nov 2026
Recommended Books
Arihant Quantum CAT Quantitative Aptitude by Sarvesh K Verma (Latest Edition)
Arihant Quantum CAT Quantitative Aptitude by Sarvesh K Verma (Latest Edition)
Arihant A New Approach to Reasoning (Verbal, Non-Verbal & Analytical)
Arihant A New Approach to Reasoning (Verbal, Non-Verbal & Analytical)

About CAT

CAT is the Common Admission Test, a national-level management entrance exam conducted by the IIMs for admission to MBA/PGP and other postgraduate management programmes.

What is CAT?

  • National-level management entrance exam.
  • Conducted by the IIMs on a rotational basis.
  • Gateway to IIMs and many top B-schools.
  • Held once a year in computer-based mode.

CAT Highlights

FeatureDetails
Exam NameCommon Admission Test (CAT)
Conducting BodyIndian Institutes of Management (IIMs)
Exam LevelNational
FrequencyOnce a year
ModeOnline (computer-based test)
Courses OfferedMBA / PGP and management programmes
Official Websiteiimcat.ac.in

CAT Exam Pattern

  • Sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability.
  • Computer-based test format.
  • Refer to the official notification for exact marks, question count and duration.

CAT Eligibility

  • Bachelor's degree with the minimum required percentage.
  • Final-year students may also be eligible to apply.
  • Relaxation for reserved categories as per rules; see the notification.

CAT Selection Process

  • Appear for CAT and obtain a percentile/score.
  • Shortlisting by individual institutes based on CAT score.
  • Further rounds such as WAT, GD and PI as per the institute.
  • Final admission based on the institute's composite criteria.

How to Apply for CAT

  1. Visit iimcat.ac.in.
  2. Register to generate login credentials.
  3. Fill the application form.
  4. Upload photograph, signature and documents.
  5. Pay the fee online.
  6. Submit and print the confirmation.

How to Prepare for CAT

  • Build strong fundamentals in quant, verbal and reasoning.
  • Practise previous papers and take regular mock tests.
  • Improve reading speed and comprehension.
  • Focus on accuracy and time management.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who conducts CAT?

The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), on a rotational basis.

How often is CAT held?

Once a year.

What is the mode of CAT?

Online (computer-based test).

What are the sections in CAT?

Verbal Ability & RC, DI & LR, and Quantitative Ability.

What courses does CAT lead to?

MBA/PGP and other postgraduate management programmes.