CAT 2026 Exam pattern 2026
Exam pattern
CAT 2026 Exam Pattern
The CAT 2026 examination will be conducted in computer-based mode. The test evaluates candidates on three major areas: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability.
CAT 2026 Exam Pattern Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test |
| Total Sections | 3 |
| Total Duration | 120 minutes |
| Duration per Section | 40 minutes |
| Question Types | MCQ and TITA |
| Marking for Correct Answer | +3 marks |
| Negative Marking for Incorrect MCQ | -1 mark |
| Negative Marking for TITA | No negative marking |
| Sectional Time Limit | Yes |
CAT 2026 Sections
| Section | Full Form | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Section 1 | Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) | 40 minutes |
| Section 2 | Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) | 40 minutes |
| Section 3 | Quantitative Ability (QA) | 40 minutes |
| Total | 3 Sections | 120 minutes |
Important Exam Pattern Details
Candidates must complete each section within its allotted 40 minutes.
Candidates cannot move freely between sections once the sectional timer starts.
The paper includes multiple-choice questions and non-MCQ questions, also known as Type In The Answer (TITA).
Correct answers generally carry three marks.
Incorrect MCQ answers attract a negative marking of one mark.
TITA questions do not have negative marking.
The exact number of questions and section-wise distribution should be checked in the official CAT 2026 instructions.
CAT tests a candidate's reading, reasoning, problem-solving and mathematical skills. Good time management and accuracy are important for achieving a high percentile.