The Common Admission Test, or CAT, is one of India’s most coveted entrance exams for MBA and PGDM courses. Organized each year by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), the CAT test leads to admissions not just in IIMs but also in more than 1,200 other top-rated B-schools in the country. If you’re going to take CAT 2026, it’s important to check if you’re eligible. This guide will make you aware of who is eligible, what are the requirements, and other important information about the exam.
Why Take CAT?
- Gateway to 21 IIMs and 1,200+ other B-schools.
- High ROI programs with packages between ₹15–35 LPA at best institutions.
- Chance to join profiles such as consulting, finance, analytics, and operations.
- Known worldwide by most premier institutions for management education.
CAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible to apply for CAT 2026, candidates must satisfy the following academic, age, and reservation-based eligibility criteria:
Educational Qualification:
| Requirement | Details |
| Minimum Qualification | Bachelor’s Degree (any stream) |
| Minimum Marks | General: 50% (or equivalent CGPA) SC/ST/PwD: 45% |
| University Recognition | Degree must be from a recognized university by UGC/AICTE or an equivalent authority |
Note: Final-year students are also eligible to apply, subject to completion of degree requirements by June 202
Age Limit
| Category | Age Limit |
| All Categories | No upper or lower age limit to appear for CAT |
Nationality:
- Should be an Indian citizen.
- NRIs and foreign nationals are eligible to apply but need to verify specific IIMs for eligibility criteria and other test options (GMAT, GRE).
Who is Eligible to Apply for CAT 2026? (Quick Table)
| Candidate Type | Notes |
| Final Year UG Student (2025–26) | Must submit proof of degree completion later |
| Working Professional with Bachelor’s | No specific work experience required |
| Distance Learning Graduate | Degree must be recognized |
| Diploma Holder (Without Bachelor’s) | Bachelor’s degree is mandatory |
| Foreign Graduate (Indian Citizen) | Must ensure Indian equivalency recognized by AIU |
Reservation Criteria (As per Government Norms)
| Category | Reservation |
| SC | 15% |
| ST | 7.50% |
| OBC-NCL | 27% |
| EWS | 10% |
| PwD | 5% (across categories) |
Documents Required During CAT Registration:
- Scanned passport size photograph and signature
- Category certificate (if required)
- PwD certificate (if required)
- Final year certificate (for appearing candidates)
CAT 2026Important Dates (Tentative)
EventDate
| Event | Date |
| Notification Release | July 2025 |
| Registration Starts | August 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | September 2025 |
| Admit Card Download | October 2025 |
| CAT Exam Date | November 2025 |
| Result Declaration | January 2026 |
My Career Mantra
Have faith in yourself and prepare wisely. Eligibility is just the beginning — a well-knitted preparation plan, clear concepts, and regular practice can lead you to crack CAT. Be dedicated and don’t get discouraged by doubts.
FAQs about CAT 2026 Eligibility
Q1. Can a final-year student apply for CAT 2026?
A: Yes, final-year students can apply, but they must complete their degree before the academic session of 2026 begins.
Q2. Is there an age limit for CAT 2026?
A: No, there is no age limit for appearing in CAT.
Q3. Is work experience mandatory to appear for CAT?
A: No, work experience is not required, but it may help during interviews.
Q4. Can diploma holders apply for CAT?
A: No, a diploma is not comparable to a bachelor’s degree for CAT eligibility.
Q5. Can foreign nationals apply?
A: Foreign nationals cannot appear for CAT, but they can apply to IIMs on GMAT or GRE, as the case may be.
Conclusion
Knowing CAT 2026 eligibility criteria is the initial big step towards your MBA. If you are eligible according to the academic criteria and serious about seeking management education, prepare early. CAT is competitive, but with the right attitude, guidance, and effort, top B-schools are within reach.
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