CAT 2027: Exam Date, Preparation, Registration (All Details)
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What is CAT Exam 2027?
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is India’s most popular MBA entrance exam, conducted annually by one of the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) on a rotational basis. It evaluates candidates’ abilities in Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning.
CAT 2027: Key Highlights
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Common Admission Test (CAT) 2027 |
| Conducting Body | To be announced (one of the IIMs) |
| Exam Level | National-level MBA Entrance Exam |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Frequency | Once a Year |
| Medium | English |
| CAT 2027 Exam Date | 28th November 2027 (Sunday) |
| Duration | 2 Hours (120 Minutes) |
| Sections | VARC, DILR, QA |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Expected Registration Dates | 1st August – 20th September 2027 |
| Admit Card Release | 5th November 2027 (Tentative) |
| Result Declaration | 3rd–4th Week of December 2027 |
| Official Website | www.iimcat.ac.in |
CAT 2027 Exam Dates
| Event | Dates (Tentative) |
|---|---|
| CAT 2027 Notification Release | 15th July 2027 |
| CAT 2027 Registration Start Date | 1st August 2027 |
| CAT 2027 Registration Last Date | 20th September 2027 |
| Application Form Correction Window | 25th – 27th September 2027 |
| CAT 2027 Admit Card Release Date | 5th November 2027 |
| CAT 2027 Exam Date | 28th November 2027 (Sunday) |
| CAT 2027 Answer Key Release | 5th December 2027 |
| CAT 2027 Result Date | 3rd–4th Week of December 2027 |
CAT 2027 Eligibility Criteria
To appear for the CAT exam 2027, candidates must meet the academic and category-based eligibility conditions set by the IIMs.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Education Required | Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or institution |
| Minimum Marks (General/EWS/NC-OBC) | At least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA |
| Minimum Marks (SC/ST/PwD) | At least 45% marks or equivalent CGPA |
| Final Year Students | Eligible to apply but must provide a certificate confirming completion of degree requirements when asked |
| Professional Degrees | Candidates with CA, CS, ICWA (CMA), or FIAI are also eligible |
| CAT Age Limit | No age limit to appear for CAT |
| Score Conversion (CGPA to %) | If not specified by your university, divide CGPA by maximum CGPA and multiply by 100 |
| Reservation – SC | 15% of seats |
| Reservation – ST | 7.5% of seats |
| Reservation – NC-OBC | 27% (Non-Creamy Layer only) |
| Reservation – EWS | Up to 10% of seats |
| Reservation – PwD | 5% (as per RPwD Act, 2016) |
| PwD Categories | Blindness/low vision, deaf/hard of hearing, locomotor disability, cerebral palsy, autism, etc. |
| Certificate Requirement | SC/ST/NC-OBC/EWS/PwD candidates must upload valid certificates during registration and show originals at admission |
- Final-year students receive provisional admission until submitting mark sheets.
- Meeting minimum marks doesn’t guarantee a call from IIMs.
- Always use a valid email ID and phone number during registration.
CAT 2027 Exam Pattern
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Number of Sessions | 3 slots in a single day |
| Total Duration | 120 minutes (2 hours) |
| Sectional Duration | 40 minutes per section (fixed) |
| Language of Exam | English only |
| Type of Questions | MCQs + Non-MCQs (TITA – Type in the Answer) |
| Marking Scheme | +3 for correct, -1 for wrong (MCQs only) |
| No Negative Marking | For TITA questions |
| Answering Rule | No section switching allowed after time ends |
| Calculator Allowed? | Yes, on-screen calculator provided |
- CAT 2027 will be held in three slots.
- Each section has 40 minutes.
- TITA questions carry no negative marking.
- Use the on-screen calculator for basic calculations only.
- Time management and accuracy will be key to scoring above 95 percentile.
CAT 2027 Registration
Create a New Account
Visit www.iimcat.ac.in and click on “New Candidate Registration”. Enter your basic details like name, email ID, and mobile number to generate your login credentials.
Verify Email and Mobile Number
Complete verification via OTP or email link. Without verification, you cannot proceed to the application form.
Fill in Personal Details
Log in and provide your personal, academic, and category details accurately. Ensure all spellings match your official documents.
Enter Academic Qualifications
Add details for Class 10, 12, and graduation (or equivalent). Include percentages/CGPA as per official marksheets.
Add Work Experience (If Any)
Enter total experience in months (only full-time, post-graduation work). Internships are generally excluded.
Choose Preferred Programs
Select IIMs and programs (like PGP, MBA, etc.) based on your interest and eligibility.
Select Test Cities
Choose preferred cities in order of preference.
Upload Required Documents
Upload a recent passport photo, signature, and category/PwD certificates in prescribed format and size.
Preview Your Form
Double-check all details carefully. Edit before final submission.
Pay the Application Fee
Pay online through net banking, UPI, or card. Wait for confirmation and download the payment receipt.
Submit and Download Application
After payment, submit your form and download the filled application PDF for future use.
Documents Required for CAT 2027 Exam
| Document | Purpose / Requirement |
|---|---|
| Passport-size Photograph | Recent color photo with clear background |
| Signature | On white paper, scanned as per prescribed dimensions |
| Photo ID Proof | Aadhaar / PAN / Passport / Voter ID / Driving License |
| Category Certificate | For SC/ST/NC-OBC/EWS applicants in official format |
| PwD Certificate | As per RPwD Act, 2016 |
| Final-Year Certificate | For candidates yet to complete graduation |
| Name Change Proof (if applicable) | Gazette, affidavit, or marriage certificate |
CAT 2027 Registration Fees
| Category | Fee Amount |
|---|---|
| General / EWS / NC-OBC | ₹2,600 |
| SC / ST / PwD | ₹1,300 |
- Payment must be made online only.
- Transaction charges may apply.
- Fees are non-refundable under all circumstances.
- Download the fee receipt immediately after payment.
CAT 2027 Syllabus
The CAT syllabus remains the same as previous years, covering three main sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA).
| Section | Syllabus & Topics |
|---|---|
| Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) |
|
| Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) |
|
| Quantitative Ability (QA) |
|
CAT Exam 2027: Difficulty Level (Expected)
| Section | Expected Difficulty Level | Key Insights |
|---|---|---|
| VARC | Moderate to Difficult | RC passages could be lengthy and inference-heavy. Focus on comprehension and time control. |
| DILR | Difficult | Complex multi-layer puzzles and data-heavy caselets likely to dominate. Practice accuracy under pressure. |
| QA | Moderate | Arithmetic and Algebra to carry maximum weightage. Emphasis on logic, not lengthy calculations. |
Explore additional free resources for CAT Exam:
CAT 2027 Preparation Strategy
Start CAT 2027 Preparation Early
Begin 10–12 months before the exam. Early starters can focus on strong fundamentals and get more time to attempt multiple CAT mock tests.
Follow a Structured Study Plan
Divide your preparation for CAT 2027 week-wise and section-wise. Use a timetable that balances concept learning, practice, and mock analysis. Enrolling in CAT online coaching helps you stay consistent.
Focus on Concept Clarity
Understand the “why” behind formulas and logic. CAT questions test your reasoning ability, not rote memory. Strong concepts are your biggest advantage.
Take Regular CAT Mock Tests
Start with one mock per week, and increase to 2–3 as the exam nears. Analyze every CAT mock test for time usage and question selection patterns.
Learn from Mentors and Peers
Join structured CAT 2027 online coaching programs like LPT to learn from IIM alumni, understand question patterns, and get one-on-one guidance to maximize scores.
Best Books and Study Material for CAT Exam 2027
These are the most recommended CAT preparation books and study material:
| Section | Book / Study Material | Author / Publisher | Why It’s Recommended |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Aptitude (QA) | How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Arun Sharma (McGraw Hill) | Covers all difficulty levels with ample solved examples and CAT-level questions. |
| Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT | Sarvesh K. Verma (Arihant) | Great for concept-building and higher-level problem-solving. | |
| NCERT Maths (Class 8–10) | NCERT | Ideal for clearing basic concepts before moving to advanced topics. | |
| Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) | How to Prepare for Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning for CAT | Arun Sharma (McGraw Hill) | Comprehensive with graded difficulty and multiple caselet types. |
| Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT | Nishit K. Sinha (Pearson) | Focuses on reasoning patterns and smart shortcuts. | |
| Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) | How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT | Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay | Perfect mix of grammar, RC practice, and vocabulary building. |
| Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis | Improves vocabulary and usage skills, useful for RC and para-summary questions. | |
| The Hindu / The Economist / Aeon Essays | — | Best for improving comprehension and reading speed naturally. | |
| Full-Length Practice & Mocks | CAT Mock Tests | LPT Edtech | Scientifically designed modules, topic tests, and AI-powered mock analysis. |
| Previous Year CAT Papers | Official | Helps understand real exam pattern and question trends. |
CAT 2027 Practice Papers
Use the previous year papers of CAT for real practice:
CAT 2027 Admit Card
The CAT 2027 admit card will tentatively be released around 5th November 2027. Candidates can download it from www.iimcat.ac.in using their User ID and Password.
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Admit Card Release Date | 5th November 2027 (Tentative) |
| Mode of Availability | Online only |
| Credentials Required | User ID and Password |
| Details Mentioned | Name, Roll Number, Exam Center, Date & Time, Instructions |
| Documents to Carry | Printed Admit Card + Valid Photo ID (Aadhaar / PAN / Passport / Voter ID / Driving License) |
- Cross-check all details carefully.
- Carry a printed copy to the exam center.
- Report at least 60 minutes early.
- Keep the admit card safe till the end of the admission process.
CAT 2027 Result
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Expected Result Date | 3rd–4th Week of December 2027 |
| Mode of Release | Online only |
| Official Website | www.iimcat.ac.in |
| Credentials Required | User ID and Password |
| Details on Scorecard | Name, Roll Number, Sectional Percentiles, Overall Percentile |
| Score Validity | 1 Year |
| Re-evaluation | Not Allowed |
- CAT percentiles are normalized across sessions.
- The score is valid for admissions in the 2027–28 academic cycle.
- Keep a digital and printed copy for PI/WAT rounds.
CAT 2027 Selection Process
The CAT 2027 selection process for IIMs and other top B-schools involves multiple stages, where your CAT score, academic profile, and interview performance all play a role.
Step 1: Appear for CAT 2027 Exam
Step 2: Check CAT 2027 Result & Percentile
Step 3: Shortlisting for WAT, PI & GD Rounds
After results, IIMs and other colleges release shortlisted candidate lists based on CAT scores, academic history, and work experience.
Shortlisted candidates are invited to participate in the next stages —
- WAT (Written Ability Test)
- PI (Personal Interview)
- GD (Group Discussion) (in some institutes)
Step 4: WAT/PI/GD Rounds
Step 5: Final Composite Score Calculation
Each IIM prepares a final merit list using multiple parameters.
| Component | Weightage (Approx.) |
| CAT 2027 Score | 40–60% |
| Personal Interview (PI) | 25–35% |
| Written Ability Test (WAT) | 10–15% |
| Academic Record | 10–20% |
| Work Experience | 5–10% |
| Diversity Factors | 5–10% |
Weightage may vary slightly for each IIM.
Step 6: Final Admission Offer
List of IIMs Accepting CAT 2027 Scores
All Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) accept CAT 2027 scores for admission to their MBA, PGDM, and other management
programs. There are 21 IIMs in India, divided into three generations: old, new, and baby IIMs.
| S.No | IIM Name | Location | Established |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IIM Ahmedabad | Gujarat | 1961 |
| 2 | IIM Bangalore | Karnataka | 1973 |
| 3 | IIM Calcutta | West Bengal | 1961 |
| 4 | IIM Lucknow | Uttar Pradesh | 1984 |
| 5 | IIM Kozhikode | Kerala | 1996 |
| 6 | IIM Indore | Madhya Pradesh | 1996 |
| 7 | IIM Shillong | Meghalaya | 2007 |
| 8 | IIM Rohtak | Haryana | 2010 |
| 9 | IIM Ranchi | Jharkhand | 2010 |
| 10 | IIM Raipur | Chhattisgarh | 2010 |
| 11 | IIM Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) | Tamil Nadu | 2011 |
| 12 | IIM Kashipur | Uttarakhand | 2011 |
| 13 | IIM Udaipur | Rajasthan | 2011 |
| 14 | IIM Mumbai | Mumbai | 1963 |
| 15 | IIM Nagpur | Maharashtra | 2015 |
| 16 | IIM Visakhapatnam | Andhra Pradesh | 2015 |
| 17 | IIM Amritsar | Punjab | 2015 |
| 18 | IIM Bodh Gaya | Bihar | 2015 |
| 19 | IIM Sambalpur | Odisha | 2015 |
| 20 | IIM Jammu | Jammu & Kashmir | 2016 |
| 21 | IIM Sirmaur | Himachal Pradesh | 2015 |
Other Top B-Schools in India Accepting CAT 2027 Scores
| S.No. | Institute Name | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), University of Delhi | Delhi |
| 2 | SP Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) | Mumbai |
| 3 | Management Development Institute (MDI) | Gurgaon |
| 4 | Institute of Management Technology (IMT) | Ghaziabad |
| 5 | Xavier Institute of Management (XIM) | Bhubaneswar |
| 6 | International Management Institute (IMI) | New Delhi |
| 7 | FORE School of Management | New Delhi |
| 8 | Great Lakes Institute of Management | Chennai / Gurgaon |
| 9 | Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA) | Chennai |
| 10 | Department of Management Studies (DoMS), IIT Delhi | Delhi |
| 11 | Department of Management Studies (DoMS), IIT Madras | Chennai |
| 12 | Department of Management Studies (DoMS), IIT Roorkee | Roorkee |
| 13 | Vinod Gupta School of Management (VGSoM), IIT Kharagpur | Kharagpur |
| 14 | Shailesh J. Mehta School of Management (SJMSOM), IIT Bombay | Mumbai |
| 15 | Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) | Delhi / Kolkata / Kakinada |
| 16 | T.A. Pai Management Institute (TAPMI) | Manipal |
| 17 | Institute for Financial Management and Research (IFMR GSB) | Sri City (Chennai) |
| 18 | K.J. Somaiya Institute of Management | Mumbai |
| 19 | NITIE (Now IIM Mumbai) | Mumbai |
| 20 | Goa Institute of Management (GIM) | Goa |
| 21 | Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH) | Greater Noida |
| 22 | Bharathidasan Institute of Management (BIM) | Tiruchirappalli |
| 23 | Institute of Rural Management (IRMA) | Anand |
| 24 | Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management (LBSIM) | New Delhi |
| 25 | MICA (Mudra Institute of Communications) | Ahmedabad |
CAT 2027 Coaching
Why Choose LPT for CAT 2027 Preparation?
- 24+ years of excellence in test prep and mentoring toppers.
- AI-powered learning system for accuracy and rank improvement.
- Personal mentorship from IIM alumni and senior faculty.
- Printed books, eBooks, and national test benchmarking.
CAT Scholarship Test
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Offered | Up to 100% Fee Waiver |
| Applicable On | Online & Offline Programs |
| Mode of Test | Both Online and at LPT Centers |
| Eligibility | Open to all CAT aspirants |
| Basis of Award | Performance in Scholarship Test |
| Registration Fee | Free (No Charges) |