{"id":1712,"date":"2025-09-26T10:46:47","date_gmt":"2025-09-26T10:46:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/?page_id=1712"},"modified":"2026-04-13T11:48:10","modified_gmt":"2026-04-13T11:48:10","slug":"exam-pattern","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-pattern\/","title":{"rendered":"CAT Exam Pattern 2026: Marks, Duration, Paper Pattern"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>If you are serious about cracking CAT 2026, the first step is to understand the CAT exam pattern. Before diving into books, CAT mock tests, or coaching sessions, you must clearly know the pattern-the number of sections, the total marks, the question types, and the marking scheme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you know the CAT paper pattern, you can plan your time, practice smartly, and avoid surprises on exam day. Every year, lakhs of aspirants appear for CAT, but those who master the exam pattern early often have the edge.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Below, we\u2019ll break down the CAT examination pattern in detail, compare it with previous years, and guide you on how to use this knowledge to prepare with confidence.<\/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-exam-pattern\"><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<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\/exam-pattern\/#CAT_Exam_Pattern_Overview\" >CAT Exam Pattern: Overview<\/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\/exam-pattern\/#CAT_Exam_Pattern_2026\" >CAT Exam Pattern 2026<\/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\/exam-pattern\/#Section-Wise_Exam_Pattern_for_CAT_2026\" >Section-Wise Exam Pattern for CAT 2026<\/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\/exam-pattern\/#CAT_Exam_Centers_2026\" >CAT Exam Centers 2026<\/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\/exam-pattern\/#CAT_Exam_Pattern_Number_of_Sessions\" >CAT Exam Pattern: Number of Sessions<\/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\/exam-pattern\/#How_to_Prepare_According_to_CAT_Exam_Pattern\" >How to Prepare According to CAT Exam Pattern?<\/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\/exam-pattern\/#FAQs_About_Exam_Pattern_of_CAT\" >FAQs About Exam Pattern of CAT<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Pattern_Overview\"><\/span>CAT Exam Pattern: Overview<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Find the overview of CAT examination pattern:<\/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>Exam Name<\/td><td>Common Admission Test (CAT)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT Conducting Body<\/td><td>One of the IIMs (to be announced)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Exam Level<\/td><td>National-level entrance test for MBA\/PGDM<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Mode of CAT Exam<\/td><td>Computer-Based Test (CBT)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT Exam Date 2026<\/td><td>29 November 2026 (tentative)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sessions<\/td><td>3 sessions in a single day<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Duration of CAT Exam<\/td><td>120 minutes (2 hours)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sectional Time Limit<\/td><td>40 minutes for each section<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Total Sections in CAT<\/td><td>3 (VARC, DILR, QA)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Total Questions in CAT<\/td><td>Around 66\u201370 (based on past trends)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT Total Marks<\/td><td>198\u2013210 marks (expected, depends on final question count)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Question Types in CAT<\/td><td>MCQs + Non-MCQs (TITA \u2013 Type in the Answer)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT Marking Scheme<\/td><td>+3 marks for correct answers, -1 for wrong MCQs, no negative for TITA<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Language of CAT Paper<\/td><td>English only<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Official Website<\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/iimcat.ac.in\/per\/g06\/pub\/32842\/ASM\/WebPortal\/1\/index.html?32842@@1@@1\">iimcat.ac.in<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Pattern_2026\"><\/span>CAT Exam Pattern 2026<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s discuss in detail about the pattern of CAT exam 2026:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mode of CAT Exam<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The mode of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT exam<\/a><\/strong> is fully computer-based. You will take the test at an assigned exam centre using a computer system. It is not an online-from-home test but is conducted in secure test labs across India.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The interface provides on-screen navigation, a timer, an on-screen calculator, and options to move between questions within the section.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Total Number of Sections in CAT<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>CAT exam is divided into three sections, each designed to test different skills. You cannot switch between sections, and each section has equal time allotted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Focuses on grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and logical flow of language.<br><strong>Key topics:<\/strong> Reading Comprehension (RC) passages, Para Jumbles, Sentence Completion &amp; Correction, Odd Sentence Out, Para Summary, Vocabulary in context.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Tests logical ability and analytical thinking.<br><strong>Key topics:<\/strong> Data tables, Line\/Bar\/Pie charts, Caselets, Venn diagrams, Seating arrangements, Blood relations, Puzzles, Data sufficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Quantitative Ability (QA)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Tests mathematical and numerical skills.<br><strong>Key topics: <\/strong>Arithmetic (Percentages, Averages, Ratio-Proportion, Time-Speed-Distance, Profit &amp; Loss), Algebra (Equations, Logarithms, Functions), Geometry, Mensuration, Number Systems, Probability, Permutations &amp; Combinations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CAT Exam Duration<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The duration of CAT exam is 120 minutes (2 hours). Each section has a fixed 40-minute sectional time limit. Once the time for one section is over, you cannot go back or revise it. This makes time management crucial for success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Section<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Time Allotted<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>VARC<\/td><td>40 minutes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>DILR<\/td><td>40 minutes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>QA<\/td><td>40 minutes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Total<\/td><td>120 minutes<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Effective preparation should include practicing with strict time limits to mirror the duration of CAT exam.<\/p>\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\/cat-online-coaching\">CAT Online Coaching<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Total Number of Questions in CAT<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The total questions in CAT exam is not fixed and has varied in recent years. Typically, the paper has 66\u201370 questions, but past years show fluctuations depending on the exam format.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Year<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Total Questions<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2024<\/td><td>68<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2023<\/td><td>66<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2022<\/td><td>66<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2021<\/td><td>66<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This makes it clear that candidates should not assume a fixed CAT total questions count. Instead, focus on sectional balance and accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Type of Questions in CAT<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The CAT question paper pattern includes two types of questions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions):<\/strong> Each question has four options, and only one is correct. Wrong answers here attract negative marking.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Non-MCQs (TITA \u2013 Type In The Answer):<\/strong> These are fill-in-the-box style questions where you type the answer directly. There is no negative marking for TITA questions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This combination of MCQs and TITA makes the paper pattern of CAT exam more application-based than rote-learning oriented.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CAT Exam Marking Scheme<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The CAT marking scheme is straightforward and uniform across all three sections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Component<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Details<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Marks for Correct Answer<\/td><td>+3<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Negative Marking (MCQs only)<\/td><td>-1<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Negative Marking (TITA questions)<\/td><td>No negative marking<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Total Questions<\/td><td>About 66\u201370 (varies)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>CAT Total Marks<\/td><td>Around 198\u2013210<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sectional Marks<\/td><td>Each section carries ~66\u201370 marks depending on question count<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Language of CAT Paper<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The language of CAT examination is strictly English. All questions, instructions, and answer choices are in English. No translations or regional language options are provided.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hence, students must practice comprehension and reasoning in English to be comfortable with the actual exam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Calculator Availability in CAT Exam<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A common doubt among aspirants is whether calculators are allowed. CAT provides an on-screen calculator within the test window. You cannot carry a physical calculator into the exam hall.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The on-screen tool has basic arithmetic functions (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) and a few scientific functions (square root, logarithm). While useful, relying heavily on it can waste time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To perform well, candidates should master fast mental calculations and only use the calculator for complex problems in QA or large data sets in DILR. Practicing mock tests using the on-screen calculator option is highly recommended to build familiarity.<\/p>\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-exam-pattern\"><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=\"Section-Wise_Exam_Pattern_for_CAT_2026\"><\/span>Section-Wise Exam Pattern for CAT 2026<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>Section<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Question Types &amp; Style<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Expected Questions*<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Topics &amp; Difficulty Trend<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>VARC (Verbal Ability &amp; Reading Comprehension)<\/td><td>Reading Comprehension passages, inference-based MCQs, para jumbles, odd sentence out, para summary<\/td><td>22\u201324<\/td><td>RC makes up ~70%. Moderate to high difficulty. Focus on comprehension, reasoning, and grammar in context.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>DILR (Data Interpretation &amp; Logical Reasoning)<\/td><td>Caselets with tables, charts, graphs; puzzles, seating arrangement, Venn diagrams, games &amp; conditions<\/td><td>20\u201322<\/td><td>Known as the toughest section. High difficulty. Tests data analysis, logic-building, and accuracy.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>QA (Quantitative Ability)<\/td><td>Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry &amp; Mensuration, Number System, Modern Math (Probability, P&amp;C, Set Theory)<\/td><td>22\u201324<\/td><td>Moderate but tricky. Arithmetic dominates (~40%). Tests speed, accuracy, and application of core math concepts.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/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-a788532e1ad03656997225c6c785f931\"><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\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Exam Syllabus<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/syllabus\/varc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT VARC Syllabus<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/syllabus\/dilr\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT DILR Syllabus<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/syllabus\/quants\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Quant Syllabus<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/answer-key\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Answer Key 2026<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/admit-card\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Admit Card<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/percentile-vs-score\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Score vs Percentile 2026<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-eligibility\/\">CAT Eligibility Criteria<\/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\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Practice Questions<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><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><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\/exam-analysis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Exam Analysis<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/cut-off\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Cut Off<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/results\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Results<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat-toppers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Toppers<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Centers_2026\"><\/span>CAT Exam Centers 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. Candidates can choose up to 5 preferred cities while filling the application form.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>State \/ UT<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Test 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, Tirupati, 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 \u2013 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>Bengaluru, Belagavi (Belgaum), Dharwad, Gulbarga, Hubli, Mangaluru, Mysuru, Udupi<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Kerala<\/td><td>Ernakulam, Kasaragod, Kollam, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Thrissur, Thiruvananthapuram<\/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 (Prayagraj), 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<p class=\"has-palette-color-8-color has-palette-color-1-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-79d535df4a4d5d4e143537424c47cdd0\"><strong>Explore additional free 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\/test-series\/cat\/dilr\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT DILR Mock Test<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/test-series\/cat\/varc-mock\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT VARC Mock Test<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/test-series\/cat\/quant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Quant Mock Test<\/a><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/study-material\/cat\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT Study Material<\/a><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CAT_Exam_Pattern_Number_of_Sessions\"><\/span>CAT Exam Pattern: Number of Sessions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>CAT 2026 will be held in three sessions on the same day. Each session has the same exam duration (120 minutes) and follows the same CAT exam pattern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Candidates are randomly assigned to one of the three slots.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The question paper in each session is different but designed to maintain the same difficulty level.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Does CAT Have Multiple Sessions?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Large Number of Test-Takers<\/strong>: Over 2.5\u20133 lakh candidates appear every year, so one slot isn\u2019t enough.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Better Management<\/strong>: Dividing into three sessions helps avoid overcrowding at test centres.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fairness<\/strong>: With multiple slots, question papers are rotated to prevent any leakage or unfair advantage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Important Points for You<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You cannot choose your session; it is auto-allotted with the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/admit-card\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT admit card<\/a><\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>All sessions are considered equal after score scaling.<\/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-722793afcc031f79709a191e01f494e1\"><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=\"How_to_Prepare_According_to_CAT_Exam_Pattern\"><\/span>How to Prepare According to CAT Exam Pattern?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Master the Structure of CAT Exam<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Before starting preparation, understand the CAT exam pattern thoroughly \u2014 mode of test, number of sections, duration, and marking scheme. Knowing the structure of CAT exam helps you plan smarter and avoid surprises on exam day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Balance All Sections Equally<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The pattern of CAT examination has three sections (VARC, DILR, QA) with 40 minutes each. Since switching isn\u2019t allowed, practice in timed blocks. Strengthen weaker areas but keep revising your stronger ones for better balance and consistency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Focus on Accuracy with Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>CAT has negative marking, so random guessing reduces percentile. Instead, practice solving within time while keeping accuracy above 80%. This approach ensures maximum advantage from the cat exam marking scheme while avoiding unnecessary penalties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Practice TITA Questions Smartly<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>CAT includes MCQs and TITA questions. Since there is no negative marking in TITA, attempt them carefully. Use elimination techniques in MCQs and practice typing short answers to improve speed and comfort with this cat question paper pattern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Use Mock Tests Strategically<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Simulate the real cat examination pattern by taking full-length <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/test-series\/cat\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAT mock tests<\/a><\/strong> under strict time limits. Analyze each test, track your performance in sections, and adjust your strategy for time management, accuracy, and handling exam pressure.<\/p>\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-exam-pattern\"><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=\"FAQs_About_Exam_Pattern_of_CAT\"><\/span>FAQs About Exam Pattern of CAT<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-1758881685345\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the total number of questions in CAT exam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The total questions in CAT vary each year. In 2024, there were 68 questions; in 2023, 66; and in 2020, 76. For 2026, around 66\u201370 questions are expected.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758882800356\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the CAT total marks?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The CAT total marks depend on the number of questions. Usually, it ranges from 198 to 210 marks, as each correct answer carries 3 marks.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758882820823\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the duration of CAT exam 2026?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The duration of CAT exam is 120 minutes (2 hours). Each section gets exactly 40 minutes, and you cannot switch between sections.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758882836973\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is there negative marking in CAT?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, CAT has negative marking. For every wrong MCQ answer, 1 mark is deducted. There is no negative marking for non-MCQ (TITA) questions.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758882852872\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the marking scheme of CAT exam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The CAT exam marking scheme is: +3 for correct answers, -1 for wrong MCQs, and 0 for unattempted or TITA questions.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758882870273\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the difficulty level of CAT exam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The pattern of CAT exam is designed to be moderately tough. VARC is reading-heavy, DILR is considered the toughest, and QA tests speed and accuracy.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758882892973\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I skip a section in CAT exam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No, you cannot skip or switch sections. Each section has a fixed 40-minute limit and auto-locks after the time ends.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758882909372\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Are calculators allowed in CAT exam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, but only an on-screen calculator is allowed. Physical calculators are not permitted.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758882927905\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What does TITA mean in CAT exam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">TITA means Type in the Answer. You must enter the answer directly in a box. There is no negative marking for TITA questions.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758882949825\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is the CAT exam pattern the same every year?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The exam pattern of CAT has been stable since 2021 with 3 sections and 120 minutes. However, the number of questions may change slightly.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758882968705\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the paper pattern of CAT?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The paper pattern of CAT is a computer-based test with MCQs and TITA questions, 3 sections, 120 minutes duration, and negative marking for MCQs.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758882987771\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is CAT a descriptive exam?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No, CAT is not descriptive. The CAT question paper pattern has only MCQs and TITA-type objective questions.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758883008038\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How many times is CAT exam held in a year?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">CAT is conducted only once a year, usually on the last Sunday of November.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1758883023505\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Which section in CAT is toughest?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Based on past years, DILR is considered the toughest due to complex data sets and puzzles.<\/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-79dab33a80375fe67f4b09fc628cea86\"><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-5b281c54c0a9ecf19dff6c5bf277349f\"><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 are serious about cracking CAT 2026, the first step is to understand the CAT exam pattern. Before diving into books, CAT mock tests, or coaching sessions, you must clearly know the pattern-the number of sections, the total marks, the question types, and the marking scheme. Once you know the CAT paper pattern, you [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1853,"parent":1706,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1712","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>CAT Exam Pattern 2026: Marks, Duration, Paper Pattern<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Explore CAT Exam Pattern 2026 \u2013 duration, total questions, marking scheme, section-wise details, centers, and FAQs to boost your exam prep.\" \/>\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\/exam-pattern\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"CAT Exam Pattern 2026: Marks, Duration, Paper Pattern\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Explore CAT Exam Pattern 2026 \u2013 duration, total questions, marking scheme, section-wise details, centers, and FAQs to boost your exam prep.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-pattern\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"LPT Blog for IPMAT, CAT, CUET Exams (Latest Info)\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-04-13T11:48:10+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/CAT-Exam-Pattern.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 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Usually, it ranges from 198 to 210 marks, as each correct answer carries 3 marks.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-pattern\/#faq-question-1758882820823","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-pattern\/#faq-question-1758882820823","name":"What is the duration of CAT exam 2026?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The duration of CAT exam is 120 minutes (2 hours). Each section gets exactly 40 minutes, and you cannot switch between sections.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-pattern\/#faq-question-1758882836973","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-pattern\/#faq-question-1758882836973","name":"Is there negative marking in CAT?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, CAT has negative marking. For every wrong MCQ answer, 1 mark is deducted. 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VARC is reading-heavy, DILR is considered the toughest, and QA tests speed and accuracy.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-pattern\/#faq-question-1758882892973","position":7,"url":"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-pattern\/#faq-question-1758882892973","name":"Can I skip a section in CAT exam?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"No, you cannot skip or switch sections. Each section has a fixed 40-minute limit and auto-locks after the time ends.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-pattern\/#faq-question-1758882909372","position":8,"url":"https:\/\/lptedtech.com\/blog\/cat\/exam-pattern\/#faq-question-1758882909372","name":"Are calculators allowed in CAT exam?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, but only an on-screen calculator is allowed. 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