{"id":1706,"date":"2025-09-26T09:30:22","date_gmt":"2025-09-26T09:30:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/?page_id=1706"},"modified":"2026-04-16T08:19:00","modified_gmt":"2026-04-16T08:19:00","slug":"cat","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/","title":{"rendered":"What is CAT Exam? All Details, Purpose, Full Form"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>If you dream of studying at the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) or other top business schools in India, the first step is knowing what is CAT exam and how it shapes your future.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Common Admission Test (CAT) is the most sought-after management entrance exam in the country. Every year, lakhs of aspirants like you appear for CAT examination with the hope of securing admission into prestigious MBA and PGDM programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this guide, we will talk about CAT examination in detail, including its eligibility, important dates, exam pattern, syllabus, registration, selection process, cut-offs, and more.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/free-online-ipmat-coaching\/?utm_source=SEO&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=cat\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"299\" src=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-online-ipmat-coaching-1024x299.webp\" alt=\"free online ipmat coaching\" class=\"wp-image-5371\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-online-ipmat-coaching-1024x299.webp 1024w, https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-online-ipmat-coaching-300x88.webp 300w, https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-online-ipmat-coaching-768x224.webp 768w, https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-online-ipmat-coaching-1536x448.webp 1536w, https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-online-ipmat-coaching.webp 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-palette-color-8-color has-palette-color-1-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-1e44a27aa53cdc2b851ac24e7331c5ea\"><strong>Upcoming CAT Exams:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/2026-details\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT 2026<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/2027-details\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT 2027<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#CAT_Full_Form\" >CAT Full Form<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#All_About_CAT_Exam\" >All About CAT Exam<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#What_is_CAT_Exam\" >What is CAT Exam?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#Advantages_of_CAT_Exam\" >Advantages of CAT Exam<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#CAT_Exam_Important_Dates_2026\" >CAT Exam Important Dates 2026<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#CAT_Eligibility_Criteria\" >CAT Eligibility Criteria<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#CAT_Exam_Pattern\" >CAT Exam Pattern<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#CAT_Exam_Syllabus\" >CAT Exam Syllabus<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#How_to_Apply_for_CAT_Examination\" >How to Apply for CAT Examination?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#List_of_IIMs_for_CAT_Exam_2026\" >List of IIMs for CAT Exam 2026<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#CAT_Selection_Process\" >CAT Selection Process<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#CAT_Exam_Reservation_Policy\" >CAT Exam Reservation Policy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#CAT_Exam_Centres_2026\" >CAT Exam Centres 2026<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#CAT_2026_Admit_Card\" >CAT 2026 Admit Card<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#CAT_Exam_Result_Scorecard\" >CAT Exam Result &amp; Scorecard<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#CAT_Cut_Offs\" >CAT Cut Offs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#Top_10_Colleges_Accepting_CAT_Score_Non-IIMs\" >Top 10 Colleges Accepting CAT Score (Non-IIMs)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#How_to_Prepare_for_CAT_Exam\" >How to Prepare for CAT Exam?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/#FAQs_About_CAT_Exam\" >FAQs About CAT Exam<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Full_Form\"><\/span>CAT Full Form<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The full form of CAT is Common Admission Test. It is India\u2019s most popular management entrance exam for admission into MBA and PGDM programs at IIMs and other top B-schools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"All_About_CAT_Exam\"><\/span>All About CAT Exam<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Find below the details of CAT exam:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Particulars<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Details<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Full Name<\/td><td>Common Admission Test (CAT)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Conducting Body<\/td><td>One of the IIMs (varies each year)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT Exam Date<\/td><td>November 29, 2026 (Sunday)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Mode of Exam<\/td><td>Computer-based test<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sessions<\/td><td>3 sessions in a single day<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Exam Duration<\/td><td>120 minutes (40 minutes per section)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sections<\/td><td>Verbal Ability &amp; Reading Comprehension (VARC)Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning (DILR)Quantitative Ability (QA)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Registration Window<\/td><td>August 2026 \u2013 September 2026<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Admit Card Download<\/td><td>November 2026<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Result Declaration<\/td><td>First week of January 2027 (tentative)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Registration Fees<\/td><td>\u20b92,600 (General\/EWS\/NC-OBC)&nbsp;<br>\u20b91,300 (SC\/ST\/PwD)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Exam Centres<\/td><td>Approx. 170 cities across India<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Official Website<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/iimcat.ac.in\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/iimcat.ac.in<\/strong><\/a><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_CAT_Exam\"><\/span>What is CAT Exam?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Common Admission Test, widely known as CAT exam, is a national-level computer-based entrance test conducted every year by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). For 2026, the exam will be conducted by IIM Kozhikode under the convener Prof. P N Ram Kumar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>CAT examination evaluates your skills in Verbal Ability &amp; Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability over a duration of 120 minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The exam is the primary gateway to MBA\/PGP programs at 21 IIMs, which are India\u2019s premier management institutes known globally for academic excellence, top faculty, high ROI, and outstanding placements. Beyond IIMs, CAT scores are also accepted by hundreds of other leading B-schools across India.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To be precise, if you aim to study management at the most reputed institutions in India and build a strong career in business or leadership, CAT is the exam that opens those doors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Advantages_of_CAT_Exam\"><\/span>Advantages of CAT Exam<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>These are the top reasons why CAT exam matters for aspirants like you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Gateway to IIMs:<\/strong> CAT is the only entrance exam for admission into the 21 Indian Institutes of Management, the most reputed B-schools in the country.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Accepted by Top Non-IIMs:<\/strong> Prestigious institutes like FMS Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, SPJIMR Mumbai, and many others also accept CAT scores.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Global Recognition<\/strong>: IIMs are consistently ranked among the top business schools in Asia and globally, making a CAT-based MBA highly valued.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Career Growth &amp; Placements<\/strong>: IIM graduates secure high-paying jobs across consulting, finance, technology, and global firms with impressive placement records.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strong Alumni Network:<\/strong> CAT paves the way to become part of the powerful IIM alumni network, which includes top CEOs, entrepreneurs, and leaders worldwide.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Versatility of MBA:<\/strong> A CAT-based MBA opens doors across industries, from management consulting to startups, government, and social enterprises.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Important_Dates_2026\"><\/span>CAT Exam Important Dates 2026<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Below are the important dates of CAT examination 2026:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Event<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Date<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT Registration Opens<\/td><td>August 2026<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT Registration Closes<\/td><td>September 2026<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT Admit Card Date<\/td><td>November 2026<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2025 Exam Date<\/td><td>November 29, 2026 (Sunday) \u2013 3 sessions<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2025 Result Declaration<\/td><td>First week of January 2027 (tentative)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT 2025 Score Validity<\/td><td>Till December 31, 2027<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Eligibility_Criteria\"><\/span>CAT Eligibility Criteria<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Check the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-eligibility\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT eligibility criteria<\/a><\/strong> below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Criteria<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Details<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Education Required<\/td><td>Bachelor\u2019s degree from a recognized university or institution<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Minimum Marks (General\/EWS\/NC-OBC)<\/td><td>At least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Minimum Marks (SC\/ST\/PwD)<\/td><td>At least 45% marks or equivalent CGPA<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Final Year Students<\/td><td>Eligible to apply, but must provide a certificate from college confirming completion of degree requirements when asked<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Professional Degrees<\/td><td>Candidates with CA, CS, ICWA (CMA), or FIAI are also eligible<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT Age Limit<\/td><td>No age limit to appear for CAT<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Score Conversion (CGPA to %)<\/td><td>If your university doesn\u2019t specify, CGPA will be converted by dividing it by maximum CGPA and multiplying by 100<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Reservation \u2013 SC<\/td><td>15% of seats<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Reservation \u2013 ST<\/td><td>7.5% of seats<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Reservation \u2013 NC-OBC<\/td><td>27% of seats (Non-Creamy Layer only)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Reservation \u2013 EWS<\/td><td>Up to 10% of seats<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Reservation \u2013 PwD<\/td><td>5% of seats (as per RPwD Act, 2016)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>PwD Categories<\/td><td>Blindness\/low vision, deaf\/hard of hearing, locomotor disability, cerebral palsy, autism, intellectual disability, learning disability, mental illness, multiple disabilities, acid attack victims, etc.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Certificate Requirement<\/td><td>SC\/ST\/NC-OBC\/EWS\/PwD candidates must upload valid certificates during registration and show originals at interview\/admission<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Additional Notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Final year candidates will only get provisional admission until they submit final mark sheets and certificates.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>IIMs may check eligibility at any stage of the process. Meeting the minimum marks does not guarantee a call.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Candidates must use a valid email ID and mobile number throughout the selection process.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/free-ipmat-mock-tests\/?utm_source=SEO&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=cat\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"299\" src=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-ipmat-mock-test-1024x299.webp\" alt=\"free ipmat mock test\" class=\"wp-image-5374\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-ipmat-mock-test-1024x299.webp 1024w, https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-ipmat-mock-test-300x88.webp 300w, https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-ipmat-mock-test-768x224.webp 768w, https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-ipmat-mock-test-1536x448.webp 1536w, https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-ipmat-mock-test.webp 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Pattern\"><\/span>CAT Exam Pattern<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Check the latest <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-pattern\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT exam pattern<\/a><\/strong> for MBA:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Feature<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Details<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Mode of Exam<\/td><td>Computer-Based Test (CBT)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Exam Date<\/td><td>November 29, 2026 (Sunday)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Number of Sessions<\/td><td>3 sessions in a single day<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Total Duration<\/td><td>120 minutes (2 hours)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sectional Duration<\/td><td>40 minutes per section (fixed, no switching)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Language of Exam<\/td><td>English only<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Type of Questions<\/td><td>Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) + Non-MCQs (TITA \u2013 Type in the Answer)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Marking Scheme<\/td><td>+3 marks for each correct answer<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Negative Marking<\/td><td>-1 mark for each wrong answer (only for MCQs)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>No Negative Marking<\/td><td>For non-MCQ (TITA) questions<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Answering Rule<\/td><td>Must attempt questions in a fixed order; cannot go back to previous section once time ends<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Calculator Allowed?<\/td><td>Yes, an on-screen calculator will be provided<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Syllabus\"><\/span>CAT Exam Syllabus<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Find the overview of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/syllabus\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT syllabus<\/a><\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Section<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Syllabus &amp; Topics<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Verbal Ability &amp; Reading Comprehension (VARC)<\/td><td>\u2022 Reading Comprehension (RC) passages<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Para jumbles (Jumbled Paragraphs)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Sentence completion &amp; correction<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Para Summary<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Odd sentence out<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Vocabulary in context<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Inference-based questions<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning (DILR)<\/td><td>\u2022 Data tables and charts (bar graph, line graph, pie chart)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Caselets (data-driven problem sets)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Data sufficiency<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Venn diagrams<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Seating arrangement<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Blood relations<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Puzzles and games-based reasoning<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Syllogisms &amp; logical connectives<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Quantitative Ability (QA)<\/td><td>\u2022 Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratio &amp; Proportion, Averages, Time &amp; Work, Time-Speed-Distance, Simple &amp; Compound Interest, Profit &amp; Loss, Mixtures &amp; Alligations)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Algebra (Equations, Inequalities, Progressions, Functions, Logarithms)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Geometry &amp; Mensuration (Triangles, Circles, Polygons, Coordinate Geometry, Solid Geometry)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Number System (Divisibility, Factors, LCM &amp; HCF, Remainders, Base System)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>\u2022 Modern Math (Permutations &amp; Combinations, Probability, Set Theory)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong><em>Must Check: <a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/study-material\/cat\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Study Material<\/a> for better preparation<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Apply_for_CAT_Examination\"><\/span>How to Apply for CAT Examination?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Check eligibility<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You need a bachelor\u2019s degree with the required minimum marks. Final-year students can apply with a provisional certificate later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Keep things ready<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Active email ID and mobile number (you\u2019ll get OTPs and all updates here)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scanned photo (recent, plain background) and signature<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Category\/PwD certificate (if applicable)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Class 10, 12, and graduation details (marks\/CGPA, year)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Work-experience details, if any (full-time, after graduation)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Go to the official site<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Open <strong>iimcat.ac.in<\/strong> and click Register (New Candidate Registration).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create your login (OTP based)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enter name, DOB, email, mobile \u2192 Generate OTP \u2192 verify \u2192 you\u2019ll receive User ID &amp; Password.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Log in<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Use the received credentials and click Go to Application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Fill Personal Details: <\/strong>Your name\/DOB auto-fill from registration. Add address, emergency contact, category, and PwD details (and scribe need, if any).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Upload documents: <\/strong>Upload the photo and signature (as per size\/type asked on the form). Upload valid category\/PwD certificates if you\u2019re claiming reservation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Enter Academics: <\/strong>Fill 10th, 12th, and graduation info. If your college uses CGPA and no conversion rule exists, the form guides you on converting CGPA to percentage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Add Work Experience (if any): <\/strong>Enter only full-time post-graduation experience (in days). Internships\/part-time don\u2019t count.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Choose Programmes &amp; Interview City<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Tick the IIM programmes you want and select an interview city for each (as asked on the form).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Pick Test Cities (5 choices)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Select five different preferred test cities in order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Preview everything<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Use Preview to check each detail and document. Fix errors now. After payment, most fields lock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Pay the fee online<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Pay the registration fee (as shown on the form). Save the transaction number.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After successful payment, submit the form. Download\/print the Application Summary. You\u2019ll also get a confirmation email\/SMS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After registrations close, a short edit window usually opens for photo, signature, and test-city preferences only. Use it if needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use a modern browser (latest Chrome\/Firefox\/Edge).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep the same photo handy for the CAT admit card and exam day.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use the official Help Desk (email\/phone listed on iimcat.ac.in) for registration or payment issues.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-palette-color-8-color has-palette-color-1-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-9a74518a9ff292995e5ca6705bc40399\"><strong>More important resources for CAT exam:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/syllabus\/varc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT VARC Syllabus<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/syllabus\/dilr\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT DILR Syllabus<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/syllabus\/quants\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Quant Syllabus<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/practice-questions\/quant\/\">CAT Quant <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/practice-questions\/quant\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Q<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/practice-questions\/quant\/\">uestions<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-analysis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Exam Analysis<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/answer-key\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Answer Key<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat-toppers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Toppers<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/practice-questions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Practice Questions<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/books\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Best books for CAT<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/practice-questions\/varc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT VARC Questions<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/practice-questions\/varc\/reading-comprehension\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Reading Comprehension Questions<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/practice-questions\/varc\/verbal-ability\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Verbal Ability Questions<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/practice-questions\/quant\/\">CAT Quant Practice Questions<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"List_of_IIMs_for_CAT_Exam_2026\"><\/span>List of IIMs for CAT Exam 2026<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The following are the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/iims\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">IIMs<\/a><\/strong> accepting CAT exam for MBA and other management exams:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>S. No.<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>IIM<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Year of Establishment<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>State<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>1<\/td><td>IIM Ahmedabad<\/td><td>1961<\/td><td>Gujarat<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2<\/td><td>IIM Calcutta<\/td><td>1961<\/td><td>West Bengal<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3<\/td><td>IIM Bangalore<\/td><td>1973<\/td><td>Karnataka<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>4<\/td><td>IIM Lucknow<\/td><td>1984<\/td><td>Uttar Pradesh<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>5<\/td><td>IIM Indore<\/td><td>1996<\/td><td>Madhya Pradesh<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>6<\/td><td>IIM Kozhikode<\/td><td>1996<\/td><td>Kerala<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>7<\/td><td>IIM Shillong<\/td><td>2007<\/td><td>Meghalaya<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>8<\/td><td>IIM Raipur<\/td><td>2010<\/td><td>Chhattisgarh<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>9<\/td><td>IIM Ranchi<\/td><td>2010<\/td><td>Jharkhand<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>10<\/td><td>IIM Rohtak<\/td><td>2010<\/td><td>Haryana<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>11<\/td><td>IIM Kashipur<\/td><td>2011<\/td><td>Uttarakhand<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>12<\/td><td>IIM Tiruchirappalli<\/td><td>2011<\/td><td>Tamil Nadu<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>13<\/td><td>IIM Udaipur<\/td><td>2011<\/td><td>Rajasthan<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>14<\/td><td>IIM Amritsar<\/td><td>2015<\/td><td>Punjab<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>15<\/td><td>IIM Bodh Gaya<\/td><td>2015<\/td><td>Bihar<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>16<\/td><td>IIM Nagpur<\/td><td>2015<\/td><td>Maharashtra<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>17<\/td><td>IIM Sambalpur<\/td><td>2015<\/td><td>Odisha<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>18<\/td><td>IIM Sirmaur<\/td><td>2015<\/td><td>Himachal Pradesh<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>19<\/td><td>IIM Visakhapatnam<\/td><td>2015<\/td><td>Andhra Pradesh<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>20<\/td><td>IIM Jammu<\/td><td>2016<\/td><td>Jammu &amp; Kashmir<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>21<\/td><td>IIM Mumbai<\/td><td>2023<\/td><td>Maharashtra<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/free-ipmat-notes-bundle\/?utm_source=SEO&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=cat\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"299\" src=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-ipmat-notes-bundle-1024x299.webp\" alt=\"free ipmat notes bundle\" class=\"wp-image-5373\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-ipmat-notes-bundle-1024x299.webp 1024w, https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-ipmat-notes-bundle-300x88.webp 300w, https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-ipmat-notes-bundle-768x224.webp 768w, https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-ipmat-notes-bundle-1536x448.webp 1536w, https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/free-ipmat-notes-bundle.webp 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Selection_Process\"><\/span>CAT Selection Process<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The selection process after the CAT exam is not the same for every IIM. Each IIM follows its own admission policy, but the broad stages are usually similar.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Stage<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>What Happens<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>1. CAT Exam<\/td><td>You appear for the CAT test on 29 November 2026. Your score becomes the first filter for admission.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2. Shortlisting by IIMs<\/td><td>Each IIM releases its own shortlist of candidates based on CAT scores. The cut-offs, academic requirements, and weights differ across IIMs.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3. WAT\/GD\/PI<\/td><td>Shortlisted candidates are called for Writing Ability Test (WAT), Group Discussion (GD), and\/or Personal Interview (PI). Some IIMs may skip GD and only conduct WAT + PI.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>4. Other Factors Considered<\/td><td>Apart from CAT score, IIMs also look at:Past academic performanceWork experienceGender diversityAcademic background diversity<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>5. Final Merit List<\/td><td>Each IIM prepares a weighted score combining CAT performance, WAT\/GD\/PI scores, academics, work experience, and diversity factors.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>6. Admission Offer<\/td><td>Candidates who make it to the merit list receive admission offers from IIMs. You can accept and join the program by paying the admission fee.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Important Notes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Varies by IIM:<\/strong> There is no single selection rule. Each IIM decides its own process, cut-offs, and weights.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Verification:<\/strong> If shortlisted, you must show all mark sheets, certificates, and valid category\/PwD documents at the interview.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Final Year Students:<\/strong> Admission is provisional until you submit your final degree certificate by the deadline (December 31, 2027 for CAT 2026)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-palette-color-8-color has-palette-color-1-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-a0817048a992898d90f3e69d3183879d\"><strong>Practice with CAT PYQs:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/previous-year-papers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Previous Year Papers<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/previous-year-papers\/2025-pdf\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT 2025 Question Paper<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/previous-year-papers\/2024-pdf\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT 2024 Question Paper<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/previous-year-papers\/2023-pdf\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT 2023 Question Paper<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/previous-year-papers\/2022-pdf\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT 2022 Question Paper<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/previous-year-papers\/2021-pdf\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT 2021 Question Paper<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/previous-year-papers\/2020-pdf\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT 2020 Question Paper<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/previous-year-papers\/2019-pdf\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT 2019 Question Paper<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Reservation_Policy\"><\/span>CAT Exam Reservation Policy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Admission to the IIMs through CAT follows the reservation rules of the Government of India. Seats are reserved for different categories as shown below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Category<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Percentage of Seats Reserved<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Scheduled Caste (SC)<\/td><td>15%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Scheduled Tribe (ST)<\/td><td>7.5%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Other Backward Classes (OBC \u2013 Non-Creamy Layer)<\/td><td>27%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Economically Weaker Section (EWS)<\/td><td>Up to 10%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwD)<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Points You Should Know:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The PwD category includes candidates with at least 40% disability such as blindness\/low vision, hearing impairment, locomotor disability, cerebral palsy, autism, intellectual disability, learning disability, mental illness, and multiple disabilities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Certificates for SC\/ST\/OBC\/EWS\/PwD must be in the Government of India\u2013approved format and uploaded during CAT registration. Originals will be verified at the time of interview and admission.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>NC-OBC certificates must be issued on or after April 1, 2026, and EWS certificates must be valid for the year 2026\u201327.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Failing to provide valid certificates during admission will shift you to the General category or make you ineligible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>While IIMs aim to admit students in these proportions, all candidates must still meet the minimum eligibility and performance standards.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Centres_2026\"><\/span>CAT Exam Centres 2026<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>CAT 2026 will be conducted across approximately 170 cities in India.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>State\/UT<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Exam Cities<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Andaman &amp; Nicobar Islands<\/td><td>Port Blair<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Andhra Pradesh<\/td><td>Guntur, Kakinada, Kurnool, Nellore, Rajahmundry, Tirupathi, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Arunachal Pradesh<\/td><td>Itanagar<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Assam<\/td><td>Dibrugarh, Guwahati, Silchar<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Bihar<\/td><td>Aurangabad, Muzaffarpur, Patna, Purnea<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Chandigarh<\/td><td>Chandigarh<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Chhattisgarh<\/td><td>Bhilai, Raipur<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Delhi-NCR<\/td><td>Delhi, New Delhi, Faridabad, Gurugram, Noida, Panipat, Ghaziabad, Greater Noida<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Goa<\/td><td>Madgaon, Panaji<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Gujarat<\/td><td>Ahmedabad, Anand, Gandhinagar, Rajkot, Surat, Vadodara<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Haryana<\/td><td>Ambala, Bahadurgarh, Hisar, Palwal, Rohtak, Sonipat<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Himachal Pradesh<\/td><td>Shimla, Waknaghat<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Jammu &amp; Kashmir<\/td><td>Jammu, Samba, Kashmir<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Jharkhand<\/td><td>Bokaro, Dhanbad, Jamshedpur, Ranchi<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Karnataka<\/td><td>Bangalore, Belagavi (Belgaum), Dharwad, Gulbarga, Hubli, Mangalore, Mysore, Udupi<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Kerala<\/td><td>Ernakulam, Kasaragod, Kollam, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Thrissur, Trivandrum<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Madhya Pradesh<\/td><td>Bhopal, Gwalior, Indore, Jabalpur, Sagar<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Maharashtra<\/td><td>Ahmednagar, Amravati, Aurangabad, Jalgaon, Kolhapur, Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Nagpur, Nanded, Nashik, Pune, Raigad, Satara, Solapur, Thane, Ulhasnagar<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Meghalaya<\/td><td>Shillong<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Manipur<\/td><td>Imphal<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Mizoram<\/td><td>Aizawl<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Nagaland<\/td><td>Kohima<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Ladakh<\/td><td>Leh<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Dadra &amp; Nagar Haveli, Daman &amp; Diu<\/td><td>Silvassa<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Odisha<\/td><td>Balasore, Berhampur, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Dhenkanal, Sambalpur, Rourkela<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Puducherry<\/td><td>Puducherry<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Punjab<\/td><td>Bhatinda, Chandigarh, Fatehgarh Sahib, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Mohali, Pathankot, Patiala, Ropar, Sangrur<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Rajasthan<\/td><td>Ajmer, Alwar, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, Sikar, Udaipur<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Tamil Nadu<\/td><td>Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Namakkal, Thanjavur, Tiruchirappalli, Tirunelveli<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Telangana<\/td><td>Hyderabad, Karimnagar, Warangal<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Tripura<\/td><td>Agartala<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Uttar Pradesh<\/td><td>Agra, Allahabad, Barabanki, Bareilly, Ghaziabad, Gorakhpur, Greater Noida, Kanpur, Lucknow, Mathura, Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Noida, Varanasi<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Uttarakhand<\/td><td>Dehradun, Roorkee<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>West Bengal<\/td><td>Asansol, Bankura, Burdwan, Durgapur, Hooghly, Howrah, Kalyani, Kolkata, Siliguri<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_2026_Admit_Card\"><\/span>CAT 2026 Admit Card<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/admit-card\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Admit Card<\/a><\/strong> is your entry pass to the exam hall. Without it, you won\u2019t be allowed to take the test.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Feature<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Details<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Release Date<\/td><td>November 2026<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Last Date to Download<\/td><td>November 29, 2026 (Exam Day)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Where to Download<\/td><td>Only from the official website iimcat.ac.in<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Details Mentioned<\/td><td>Candidate\u2019s name, roll number, photograph, signature, exam date, session, reporting time, test city, and test centre address<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Documents Needed on Exam Day<\/td><td>&#8211; Printed Admit Card (with the same photo as uploaded)- Valid Photo ID (Aadhar\/Passport\/PAN\/Voter ID\/Driving License)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Steps to Download CAT 2026 Admit Card:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Visit <strong>iimcat.ac.in<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Click on \u201cLogin\u201d under Registered Candidate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enter your User ID and Password.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Go to the \u201cAdmit Card\u201d section.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Download the PDF and take multiple printouts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Important Instructions for CAT Exam Day:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Carry two printouts of the admit card (in case one is misplaced).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Paste the same passport photo on the admit card that was uploaded during registration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Arrive at the exam centre at least 90 minutes before reporting time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Follow all instructions mentioned on the admit card carefully.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-palette-color-8-color has-palette-color-1-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-653a6d6d332702e7961d392de333f0b7\"><strong>Explore the detailed CLAT Exam analysis here:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-analysis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Exam Analysis<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-analysis\/slot-1\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Slot 1 Exam Analysis<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-analysis\/slot-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Slot 2 Exam Analysis<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-analysis\/slot-3\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Slot 3 Exam Analysis<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Result_Scorecard\"><\/span>CAT Exam Result &amp; Scorecard<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/results\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT 2026 result<\/a><\/strong> will be declared in the first week of January 2027 (tentative). Candidates can check their scores online and download the official scorecard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Feature<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Details<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Result Date<\/td><td>First week of January 2027 (tentative)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Where to Check<\/td><td>On the official website<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Login Details Required<\/td><td>User ID and Password<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Format of Result<\/td><td>Online only (no hard copy sent by post)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Scorecard Validity<\/td><td>Till December 31, 2027<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Cut_Offs\"><\/span>CAT Cut Offs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Below is the expected <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/cut-off\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT cut-off<\/a><\/strong> 2026:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>IIM<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>General<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>EWS<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>OBC<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>SC<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>ST<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>PwD<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Ahmedabad<\/td><td>95+<\/td><td>80+<\/td><td>75+<\/td><td>70+<\/td><td>60+<\/td><td>70+<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Bangalore<\/td><td>85+<\/td><td>75+<\/td><td>75+<\/td><td>70+<\/td><td>65+<\/td><td>60+<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Calcutta<\/td><td>75+<\/td><td>65+<\/td><td>65+<\/td><td>60+<\/td><td>55+<\/td><td>45+<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Lucknow<\/td><td>90+<\/td><td>82+<\/td><td>82+<\/td><td>65+<\/td><td>60+<\/td><td>60+<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Mumbai<\/td><td>85+<\/td><td>75+<\/td><td>75+<\/td><td>70+<\/td><td>65+<\/td><td>55+<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Indore<\/td><td>90+<\/td><td>90+<\/td><td>80+<\/td><td>60+<\/td><td>45+<\/td><td>45+<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Kozhikode<\/td><td>85+<\/td><td>75+<\/td><td>75+<\/td><td>65+<\/td><td>55+<\/td><td>55+<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Shillong*<\/td><td>\u2013<\/td><td>\u2013<\/td><td>\u2013<\/td><td>\u2013<\/td><td>\u2013<\/td><td>\u2013<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Udaipur<\/td><td>95<\/td><td>81<\/td><td>81<\/td><td>66<\/td><td>42<\/td><td>42<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Trichy<\/td><td>95<\/td><td>81<\/td><td>81<\/td><td>66<\/td><td>42<\/td><td>42<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Ranchi<\/td><td>95<\/td><td>81<\/td><td>81<\/td><td>66<\/td><td>42<\/td><td>42<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Rohtak<\/td><td>97+<\/td><td>93+<\/td><td>83+<\/td><td>60+<\/td><td>50+<\/td><td>\u2013<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Raipur<\/td><td>90<\/td><td>80<\/td><td>80<\/td><td>65<\/td><td>55<\/td><td>45<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Kashipur<\/td><td>95<\/td><td>81<\/td><td>81<\/td><td>66<\/td><td>42<\/td><td>42<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Nagpur<\/td><td>95<\/td><td>81<\/td><td>81<\/td><td>66<\/td><td>42<\/td><td>42<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Bodh Gaya<\/td><td>95<\/td><td>81<\/td><td>81<\/td><td>66<\/td><td>42<\/td><td>42<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Sirmaur<\/td><td>95<\/td><td>81<\/td><td>81<\/td><td>66<\/td><td>42<\/td><td>42<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Amritsar<\/td><td>90+<\/td><td>90+<\/td><td>80+<\/td><td>55+<\/td><td>40+<\/td><td>40+<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Sambalpur<\/td><td>90+<\/td><td>80+<\/td><td>75+<\/td><td>55+<\/td><td>40+<\/td><td>40+<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Visakhapatnam<\/td><td>80+<\/td><td>72+<\/td><td>72+<\/td><td>45+<\/td><td>30+<\/td><td>30+<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IIM Jammu<\/td><td>95<\/td><td>81<\/td><td>81<\/td><td>66<\/td><td>42<\/td><td>42<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>These are expected cut-offs for CAT 2026 based on trends and insights.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>IIM Shillong does not have an overall cut-off; it follows sectional cut-offs, which vary each year.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Actual cut-offs depend on factors like exam difficulty, number of applicants, and IIM-specific admission policies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Top_10_Colleges_Accepting_CAT_Score_Non-IIMs\"><\/span>Top 10 Colleges Accepting CAT Score (Non-IIMs)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>College<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Location<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Key Programmes<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), Delhi University<\/td><td>New Delhi<\/td><td>MBA, Executive MBA<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>SP Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR)<\/td><td>Mumbai<\/td><td>PGDM, Global Management Programmes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Management Development Institute (MDI)<\/td><td>Gurgaon<\/td><td>PGDM, Executive PGDM<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Institute of Management Technology (IMT)<\/td><td>Ghaziabad<\/td><td>PGDM (Full-time, Executive, Part-time)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Xavier Institute of Management (XIM University)<\/td><td>Bhubaneswar<\/td><td>MBA (Business Management, HRM, RM, etc.)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Department of Management Studies (DMS), IIT Delhi<\/td><td>New Delhi<\/td><td>MBA (Full-time, Executive)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Shailesh J. Mehta School of Management (SJMSOM), IIT Bombay<\/td><td>Mumbai<\/td><td>MBA, Executive Programs<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Vinod Gupta School of Management (VGSoM), IIT Kharagpur<\/td><td>Kharagpur<\/td><td>MBA, Executive Programs<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Great Lakes Institute of Management<\/td><td>Chennai, Gurgaon<\/td><td>PGDM, PGPM<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>International Management Institute (IMI)<\/td><td>New Delhi<\/td><td>PGDM, Executive PGDM<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why Consider Non-IIMs?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Many of these institutes are ranked among the <strong>top 20 B-schools in India<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Offer excellent placements comparable to some IIMs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strong industry connections, global exposure, and alumni network.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Specialized programs (Finance, Analytics, Global Business, HR) for diverse career goals.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Prepare_for_CAT_Exam\"><\/span>How to Prepare for CAT Exam?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Use these expert-curated tips for CAT preparation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Understand Exam Pattern and Syllabus<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>CAT has 3 sections: Verbal Ability &amp; Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You get 40 minutes per section with no option to switch.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Start by going through the detailed CAT syllabus and note your strong and weak areas.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Make a Study Plan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Dedicate at least 3\u20134 hours daily if you are a student, or 2\u20133 hours daily if you are working.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Split your time across all three sections.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep weekends for CAT mock tests and analysis.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Build Section-wise Strategy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>VARC<\/strong>: Read newspapers, editorials, and practice comprehension daily.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>DILR:<\/strong> Practice sets from past year CAT papers; focus on puzzles and data caselets.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>QA:<\/strong> Strengthen basics in arithmetic, algebra, and geometry; practice speed calculations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Practice with Mock Tests<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Take full-length <a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/test-series\/cat\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>CAT mock tests<\/strong><\/a> regularly. After every mock, spend double the time analyzing mistakes. Track accuracy and speed improvements over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Use the Right Study Material<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>NCERT books (Class 9\u201310) for basics in Maths.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Join the best <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/cat-online-coaching\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">online CAT coaching<\/a><\/strong> or <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/our-centers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">offline CAT classes<\/a><\/strong> for solid preparation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Standard CAT preparation books for QA, VARC, and DILR.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Online practice platforms for daily quizzes and timed tests.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Focus on Time Management<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Practice solving questions under time limits. Learn when to skip tough questions and move ahead. Build a balance between speed and accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Keep Revising<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maintain short notes and formulas for quick revision. Revise weekly to avoid forgetting concepts. Focus on weak areas but don\u2019t ignore your strengths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Stay Consistent &amp; Motivated<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>CAT exam preparation is a 6\u201312 month journey, so stay regular. Track your progress in a notebook or app. Stay calm and confident; CAT rewards clarity and persistence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs_About_CAT_Exam\"><\/span>FAQs About CAT Exam<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758877796661\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Who conducts CAT exam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">CAT is conducted every year by one of the IIMs on a rotational basis. In 2026, it will be conducted by IIM Kozhikode.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878035677\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the CAT exam date in 2026?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">CAT 2026 will be held on November 29, 2026 (Sunday) in three sessions.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878054493\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the full form of CAT exam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The full form of CAT is Common Admission Test.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878199826\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is there any age limit for CAT exam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No, there is no age limit to appear for CAT.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878221959\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How many times can I take CAT exam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">There is no restriction. You can take CAT as many times as you want every year.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878240926\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the duration of CAT exam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The exam is 2 hours (120 minutes). Each of the 3 sections has 40 minutes.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878260312\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How many questions are there in CAT exam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The exact number varies each year, but usually 66\u201370 questions are asked in total across three sections.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878276942\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What type of questions come in CAT?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Both MCQs (multiple-choice questions) and non-MCQs (TITA \u2013 Type in the Answer) are asked.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878293959\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is there negative marking in CAT?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes. Each wrong MCQ answer deducts 1 mark. There is no negative marking for non-MCQ questions.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878312025\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">In which language is CAT conducted?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">CAT is conducted only in English.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878336825\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I choose my exam city for CAT?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, while applying, you can select up to 5 preferred cities.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878356109\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How many times is CAT conducted in a year?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">CAT is conducted once every year, usually in November.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878374577\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is CAT tougher than other MBA exams?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, CAT is considered the toughest MBA entrance in India because of its high competition and tricky DILR section.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878395025\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is a good score in CAT?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Generally, a score of 99 percentile+ is needed for old IIMs (A, B, C). Around 95 percentile may be enough for newer IIMs.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878411792\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How is CAT percentile calculated?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Percentile is based on your performance compared to other test-takers. It reflects the percentage of candidates scoring lower than you.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878434241\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How long is CAT score valid?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">CAT 2026 score will be valid until December 31, 2027.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878458708\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can a final-year student apply for CAT?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes. Final-year bachelor\u2019s degree students can apply. Admission will be provisional until they submit final mark sheets.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758878476708\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Do foreign candidates also take CAT?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, but some IIMs also accept GMAT for international candidates.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-palette-color-8-color has-palette-color-1-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-5c143d350fe4e0124cd974b2c0a368b2\"><strong>India\u2019s Top CAT\/MBA Prep Programs:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/xat-online-coaching\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Online XAT Coaching<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/snap-online-coaching\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Online SNAP Coaching<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/omet-online-coaching\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Online OMET Coaching<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-palette-color-8-color has-palette-color-1-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-78c272bcaa78304e2c161119e372e950\"><strong>Best Offline Coaching Programs for CAT:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/jaipur\/cat-coaching\">CAT Coaching in Jaipur<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/nagpur\/cat-coaching\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Coaching in Nagpur<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/mumbai\/cat-coaching\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Coaching in Mumbai<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/bhopal\/cat-coaching\">CAT Coaching in Bhopal<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/jodhpur\/cat-coaching\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Coaching in Jodhpur<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/gwalior\/cat-coaching\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Coaching in Gwalior<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you dream of studying at the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) or other top business schools in India, the first step is knowing what is CAT exam and how it shapes your future.&nbsp; The Common Admission Test (CAT) is the most sought-after management entrance exam in the country. Every year, lakhs of aspirants like [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1851,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1706","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"blocksy_meta":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>What is CAT Exam? All Details, Purpose, Full Form<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Discover what is CAT Exam. Its full form, purpose, syllabus, pattern, eligibility, dates, application process, IIMs &amp; FAQs.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"What is CAT Exam? All Details, Purpose, Full Form\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Discover what is CAT Exam. Its full form, purpose, syllabus, pattern, eligibility, dates, application process, IIMs &amp; FAQs.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"LPT Blog for IPMAT, CAT, CUET Exams (Latest Info)\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-04-16T08:19:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/What-is-CAT-Exam.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1280\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"720\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"17 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":[\"WebPage\",\"FAQPage\"],\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/lptedtech.com\\\/blog\\\/cat\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/lptedtech.com\\\/blog\\\/cat\\\/\",\"name\":\"What is CAT Exam? 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You can take CAT as many times as you want every year.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/lptedtech.com\\\/blog\\\/cat\\\/#faq-question-1758878240926\",\"position\":6,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/lptedtech.com\\\/blog\\\/cat\\\/#faq-question-1758878240926\",\"name\":\"What is the duration of CAT exam?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The exam is 2 hours (120 minutes). 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