CAT Exam Centres 2026: List, Selection Process & Guidelines

CAT Exam Centres 2026: Complete State and City-wise List

The CAT Exam Centres 2026 will be available across approximately 170 cities and 370 exam centres, with the examination expected on November 29, 2026. Candidates can select five preferred cities during registration, which commences on August 1 when the official list of CAT Exam Centres 2026 is released.

The table above provides an expected list of CAT Exam Centres 2026, detailing various states and their respective test cities. Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh are anticipated to have the maximum number of centres.

How to Select Your Preferred CAT Test Centres 2026

Selecting your preferred CAT Exam Centres 2026 is a crucial step in the application process, with registration opening on August 1, 2026. Candidates can choose five preferred test cities, and the final list of CAT 2026 exam cities will also be released on August 1. Careful consideration ensures convenience and reduces stress.

• Registration Opening: August 1, 2026
• Exam Cities List: Final list released August 1.
• Preferred Cities: Choose five (5) options.
• Allotment Process: CAT Centre aims for preferred options; a nearby centre may be allotted due to high demand.
• Change Not Permitted: No change allowed once a centre is allotted.
• Selection Recommendation: Choose nearby CAT exam centers for convenience and to reduce stress.

To optimize your choice of CAT Exam Centres 2026, consider a strategic approach when selecting your five preferred cities. This smart strategy helps ensure a smooth exam day experience.

This strategic selection of CAT exam centers helps candidates prioritize convenience, familiarity, and availability, minimizing potential travel and logistical challenges on exam day.

CAT Exam Centre Allotment Process 2026: Key Factors and Rules

The allotment of CAT exam centres 2026 is a crucial step for candidates, primarily managed by the IIMs. This process considers candidate preferences and seat availability, aiming to provide accessible test venues. Understanding the rules and timelines for CAT exam centre allotment is essential for a smooth registration.

• Allotment Basis: IIMs allot centres based on preferences and seat availability.
• Preferred Cities: Candidates can choose up to six preferred CAT exam cities.
• Centre Change Rule: Once allotted, no change to the centre is permitted.
• Final Details: Exact address and slot are on the CAT 2026 admit card.
• City vs. Centre: City is chosen, while the specific exam centre is assigned.
• List Release: Official CAT 2026 exam cities list released August 1.

While candidates express preferences, the CAT Centre makes significant efforts to ensure convenient allotments, though final discretion rests with them, especially in high-demand areas. The extensive network of test centres ensures broad accessibility across India.

This table highlights the scale of the CAT examination infrastructure and the efforts made to accommodate candidates, while also clarifying specific details like centre codes and regional distribution.

CAT 2026 Admit Card: Exam Centre Details and Google Map Link

The CAT 2026 Admit Card is a mandatory document for the examination, containing crucial details about your assigned CAT Exam Centres 2026. Candidates must note that once the admit card is released, the allotted exam centre details are final and cannot be changed under any circumstances.

• Exam Centre Details: Exact address, building name, and test centre specifics.
• Centre Change Policy: No changes permitted after admit card release.
• Allotted Centre Finality: Details on admit card are final; no change requests.
• Mandatory Document: The CAT Admit Card is essential for the exam.
• Admit Card Format: Hard copy with photo affixed required at CAT exam center.
• Pre-Exam Visit: Recommended to visit test centre a day before the exam.

Beyond the exam centre specifics, the admit card also provides essential information regarding the examination schedule and candidate identification. Adhering to download timelines and carrying all necessary documents is crucial for a smooth exam day experience.

These details highlight the critical importance of timely admit card download and preparation, ensuring candidates are fully equipped and informed for their CAT 2026 examination day.

CAT Exam Centres 2026 List Release Date and Application Form Link

The CAT Exam Centres 2026 list will be released on August 1, 2026, coinciding with the start of the application process. This section details the key dates, official website, and a comprehensive list of CAT Exam Centres across various states and cities for 2026.

The table above provides a comprehensive list of expected CAT Exam Centres for 2026, categorized by state, offering candidates a clear overview of available test cities.

• CAT 2026 Exam Centres List Release Date: August 1, 2026
• CAT 2026 Registration Start Date: August 01, 2026 (10:00 am)
• CAT 2026 Registration Last Date: September 20, 2026 (5:00 pm)
• Official Website for CAT 2026 Application Form: iimcat.ac.in
• CAT 2026 Notification Release Date: July 26, 2026
• Number of Preferred Cities Candidates Can Choose: five

Candidates will find approximately 170 exam cities and 370 exam centres available for CAT 2026, allowing for broad geographical coverage.

CAT Exam Centres 2026: Detailed Overview

CAT Exam Centres 2026 are expected to be available in approximately 170 cities with around 370 to 400+ test labs, reflecting an increasing trend in centre availability. This section provides a detailed overview of the expected numbers and candidate selection options for CAT Exam Centres 2026.

The historical data indicates a general increase in the number of CAT test cities, with CAT Exam Centres 2026 projected to maintain or exceed the 170 cities and 370+ centres seen in previous years, aligning with the rising candidate numbers.

Important Guidelines for CAT 2026 Test Day at Exam Centres

Candidates appearing for CAT 2026 on 30th November, 2026, must strictly adhere to important guidelines for a smooth test day experience. Understanding these rules, especially regarding prohibited items and entry procedures at CAT Exam Centres 2026, is crucial for all aspirants to avoid any last-minute issues.

This list highlights critical items candidates must avoid bringing into the CAT Exam Centres 2026, ensuring a fair and secure testing environment for all.

The CAT 2026 exam will be conducted for a duration of 2 hours (120 minutes) across 3 shifts on the scheduled date.

• Late Entry: Strictly prohibited under any circumstances.
• Gate Closure: 15 minutes before the test begins.
• Reporting Time: At least 90 minutes before your exam.

A mandatory security check process involves frisking at the gate, followed by biometric verification before entering the exam lab. Personal belongings must be left outside in a designated area or not brought at all.

• General Dress Code: Light, comfortable clothes, no metallic elements, extra pockets, or layers.
• Prohibited Attire: Full-sleeve garments, hoodies, jackets, shoes (slippers/sandals allowed).
• Religious Attire: Allowed, but report earlier for checks.
• Winter Wear: Plain, light sweater allowed; jackets, mufflers, gloves, shawls prohibited.

Candidates will be provided with an on-screen calculator during the examination.

• Admit Card: Color printout on A4, visible details and photographs.
• Photo ID: Original, non-expired (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, Passport, DL).
• Passport Photo: Same as application, 1–2 extra copies.
• Medical Certificates: For special needs or chronic conditions, if applicable.
• COVID Self-Declaration: Only if specified on admit card or website.

The CAT 2026 exam will be held in three distinct slots: Morning (8:30 AM – 10:30 AM), Afternoon (12:30 PM – 2:30 PM), and Evening (4:30 PM – 6:30 PM). Candidates should note their specific reporting and gate closure times for their assigned slot.

• Male Dress Code: Half-sleeve T-shirt/plain shirt, trousers/track pants (no pockets), slippers/sandals.
• Female Dress Code: Plain top/t-shirt with leggings/salwar, simple footwear (slippers/sandals).
• Prohibited for All: Full-sleeve shirts, cargo pants, jeans with pockets, shoes, high heels, jewellery, metallic accessories.

Frequently Asked Questions