Key Takeaways

  • CAT 2026 registration fee has increased to Rs 2,700 for General, EWS and NC-OBC candidates.
  • IIM Indore plans to introduce AI-based monitoring measures to strengthen exam security and ensure fairness.
  • The CAT 2026 registration window is open until September 15.

Quick Facts

  • Fee revised for 2026 exam.
  • AI monitoring measures planned.
  • Registration open until September 15.
  • Exam scheduled on November 29.

The registration fee for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 has been increased to Rs 2,700 for General, EWS and NC-OBC candidates, while candidates from SC, ST and PwD categories will now pay Rs 1,350. The revised fee structure comes as the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), with IIM Indore as the conducting institute, prepare to introduce artificial intelligence (AI)-based measures to strengthen the examination process.

Speaking about the upcoming examination, IIM Indore Director Professor Himanshu Rai said AI-enabled mechanisms are being planned to improve the security and fairness of the CAT examination. The institute is exploring the use of advanced technologies to detect irregularities and enhance monitoring throughout the test process.

The CAT 2026 registration window opened on August 3 and will remain available until September 15 through the official portal. The examination is scheduled to be held on November 29 in three sessions across approximately 170 cities in India. The entrance test is the gateway for admission to postgraduate management programmes at 21 IIMs and hundreds of other leading business schools.

Despite the increase in the application fee, there are no major changes to the examination pattern or syllabus. Candidates will continue to face three sections—Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude (QA)—within a total duration of 120 minutes.

The authorities have advised aspirants to complete their applications well before the deadline and rely only on official announcements for updates related to the examination.