CAT Exam 2026: Complete Syllabus, Pattern, Eligibility & Key Dates

Introduction

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of India’s most competitive management entrance exams, conducted annually by one of the IIMs. Performance in CAT opens doors to premier B-schools like the IIMs, FMS, SPJIMR, MDI, and many more.

If you are planning to appear in CAT 2026, building clarity about the exam pattern, syllabus, eligibility, and tentative schedule is essential right from the start. In this blog, we cover what candidates can expect — and how ExamEdge Academy can help you prepare strategically.

1. CAT 2026: What to Expect (Overview)

• Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)

• Duration: 120 minutes (2 hours)

• Sections:
   1. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
   2. Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
   3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

• Total Questions (Expected): 68 questions

• Marking Scheme: +3 marks for each correct MCQ, –1 for incorrect MCQ, and no negative marking for TITA (Type-In-The-Answer) questions

Section-wise Time Allocation (Expected): 40 minutes per section

2. CAT 2026: Detailed Pattern & Syllabus

Sectional Structure (Expected)

Syllabus Highlights (Expected / Based on Trends):

• VARC: Reading Comprehension (multiple long/short passages), para jumbles, para summary, odd one out, grammar & vocabulary

• DILR: Data sets (tables, graphs, charts), caselets, puzzles, logical reasoning, comparisons

• QA: Arithmetic (percentages, profit & loss, averages, ratio), Algebra (equations, inequalities, functions), Geometry & Mensuration, Number Theory, Permutation & Combination, Probability, etc.

• Expect a mix of MCQs and TITA questions.

While the syllabus topics remain broadly similar to past years, the difficulty level, mix of question types, and distribution may see slight shifts.

3. CAT 2026: Eligibility Criteria (Expected / Based on Past Norms)

• You must hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized university/institution, typically with 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD) — based on past years’ norms

• Final-year undergraduates are usually eligible, subject to fulfilling the aggregate requirement later

• There is no age limit to appear for CAT

• It’s expected these eligibility norms will remain unchanged from previous years

4. CAT 2026 Tentative Dates & Schedule

Since IIMs haven’t officially released the 2026 notification yet, these are expected timelines based on prior years and expert predictions:

• Expected official notification release: ~July 26, 2026

• Registration starts: First week of August 2026

• Registration closing: Third week of September 2026

• Exam date: Likely last Sunday of November 2026 (tentatively Nov 29, 2026)

• Admit card release: 10–15 days before the exam

• Result declaration: January 2027 (by mid / late January)

Important caveat: These are tentative dates and subject to change once the official notification is out.

5. Preparation Implications: What Changes & What Stays Same

• Since the pattern is expected to remain stable (68 questions, 2 hours, 3 sections) , your preparation strategy doesn’t need a radical revamp — but must evolve with newer trends

• Increased number of TITA / non-MCQ questions is being speculated in some sources meaning precision and conceptual clarity will matter more

• Maintain balanced practice across all three sections; don’t overemphasize one at the cost of others

• Early start is key — with these dates, you’ll have about 7–8 months from August to November for serious prep

• Take sectional mocks, analyze your performance, and iterate your plan periodically

6. Why Begin CAT 2026 Prep with ExamEdge Academy

At ExamEdge Academy, Navi Mumbai, we blend trusted pedagogy with forward-looking test strategies. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Updated curriculum & mocks aligned with likely 2026 trends

• Sectional diagnostics, customized improvement plans

• Frequent mock tests with detailed analysis

• Hybrid coaching model — both offline & live online lectures

• One-on-one mentorship, doubt clearing, and performance tracking

Start your CAT 2026 journey with us — we’ll help you build a strong foundation and navigate evolving exam dynamics.

Conclusion

While CAT 2026’s official details are still awaited, aspirants can confidently base their preparation on prior trends and evolving expectations. Focus on mastering fundamentals, refining speed & accuracy, and staying adaptable to format tweaks.

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