EXAM SYLLABUS

The CAT 2026 syllabus is expected to follow the same pattern as previous years, covering three main sections designed to test aptitude, reasoning, and quantitative skills. Details are given bellow. Details are given bellow.

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC):

1. Reading comprehension passages

2. Verbal reasoning

3. Vocabulary

4. Grammar and usage

5. Para jumbles

6. Sentence completion and correction

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR):

1. Data interpretation (tables, charts, graphs)

2. Logical puzzles

3. Seating arrangements

4. Blood relations

5. Syllogisms

6. Logical sequences and arrangements

Quantitative Ability (QA):

1. Arithmetic (percentages, ratios, averages, profit and loss, time-speed-distance)

2. Algebra

3. Geometry and mensuration

4. Number systems

5. Modern math (sets, probability, permutations and combinations)

6. Trigonometry

The exam tests problem-solving ability, analytical thinking, and time management skills across these topics. There are no fixed textbooks; questions are designed to assess aptitude and reasoning skills.

EXAM SYLLABUS

The CAT 2026 syllabus is expected to follow the same pattern as previous years, covering three main sections designed to test aptitude, reasoning, and quantitative skills. Details are given bellow. Details are given bellow.

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC):

1. Reading comprehension passages

2. Verbal reasoning

3. Vocabulary

4. Grammar and usage

5. Para jumbles

6. Sentence completion and correction

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR):

1. Data interpretation (tables, charts, graphs)

2. Logical puzzles

3. Seating arrangements

4. Blood relations

5. Syllogisms

6. Logical sequences and arrangements

Quantitative Ability (QA):

1. Arithmetic (percentages, ratios, averages, profit and loss, time-speed-distance)

2. Algebra

3. Geometry and mensuration

4. Number systems

5. Modern math (sets, probability, permutations and combinations)

6. Trigonometry

The exam tests problem-solving ability, analytical thinking, and time management skills across these topics. There are no fixed textbooks; questions are designed to assess aptitude and reasoning skills.

EXAM PATTERN

The paper pattern for the CAT exam has changed several times in the past. The CAT Examination shall consist both MCQ's & Non-MCQ based Questions.

The section-wise distribution of Questions and Marks is given below :

Mode Of Examination:

CAT Examination shall be held as a Computer Based Test. Questions will be both MCQ and Non-MCQ's type.

Medium Of Examination:

Questions in CAT Examination shall be available only as in English Language.

Marking Scheme:

Sections of the Test:

1- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)

2- Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

3- Quantitative Ability (QA)

Question from the above-mentioned sections shall be asked in CAT Examination where, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension shall comprise 26 Questions of 3 Marks each, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning shall comprise 24 Questions of 3 Marks each and Quantitative Ability (QA) comprise 26 Questions of 3 Marks, thus summing up to 228 Marks.

Marking Scheme Highlights:

1- 3 marks shall be awarded for every correct response.

2- Negative marking of 1/3rd (-1 mark) for every wrong MCQ response shall prevail.

3- No negative marking shall be there for wrong non-MCQ response.

Percentile Score Calculation:

The Percentile score calculation for each section shall be based on following formula:

Note :-

Percentile score = P

Total number of candidates = N

Rank of Candidate = r

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

To be eligible, candidates must hold a bachelor's degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD), and final-year students can also apply. CAT scores are valid for one year and play a critical role in securing admission to leading management institutes across India. Details are given Bellow according to previous year.

Nationality

A candidate must be either:

1 - A Citizen of India or

2 - A subject of Nepal or

3 - A subject of Bhutan or

4 - A Tibetan Refugee who came over to India before 1st January 1962 to permanently settle in India or

A person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, East African countries of Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania (formerly Tanganyika and Zanzibar), Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, and Vietnam to permanently settle in India.

Age Limit

The minimum age limit to be eligible for CAT Examination is 20 years. There is No Restriction on Maximum Age Limit.

Educational Qualification:

1. The candidate must hold a Bachelor’s Degree, with at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA [45% in the case of candidates belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Persons with Disability (PwD) categories], awarded by any University or educational institution or possess an equivalent qualification recognised by the Ministry of HRD, Government of India.

2. Candidates appearing for the final year of Bachelor’s degree/equivalent Qualification Examination and those who have Completed Degree Requirements and are awaiting Results can also apply.

IMPORTANT DATES

The online application process will remain open from 3 August to 15 September 2026. The CAT 2026 examination is scheduled for 29 November 2026 (Sunday) and will be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode across approximately 170 test cities in three sessions. Admit cards will be available from 4 November 2026, while the CAT 2026 result is expected to be announced in the first week of January 2027.

EXAM ANALYSIS

The CAT 2025 examination was conducted by IIM Kozhikode on 30 November 2025 (Sunday) in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode. The examination was held in three shifts, with a total duration of 120 minutes, and each section was allotted 40 minutes.

CAT 2025 Shift Timings

Shift 1: 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM

Shift 2: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM

Shift 3: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM

Overall Difficulty Level

The overall difficulty level of CAT 2025 was Moderate to Difficult. While the VARC section was relatively easier, the DILR section was the most challenging, and the QA section ranged from moderate to difficult across all three shifts.

VARC Analysis

The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) section was rated Easy to Moderate. Reading Comprehension passages were lengthy but manageable, while the Verbal Ability questions were straightforward. Candidates with strong reading speed and comprehension were able to score well in this section.

DILR Analysis

The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) section was considered the toughest section of the exam. Most sets were calculation-intensive and time-consuming, making careful question selection essential. Candidates who attempted only the easier sets generally achieved better scores.

QA Analysis

The Quantitative Ability (QA) section was rated Moderate to Difficult. Arithmetic and Algebra carried the highest weightage, followed by Geometry, Number System, and Modern Mathematics. Slot 3 was considered the most difficult among all three shifts.

Expected Percentile vs Score

99 Percentile: 95–105 Marks

95 Percentile: 75–85 Marks

90 Percentile: 60–70 Marks

80 Percentile: 45–55 Marks

These are expected score ranges based on CAT 2025 analysis and may vary after score normalization.

CAT 2026 Expectations

Based on CAT 2025 trends, the CAT 2026 examination is expected to follow a similar pattern. The exam is likely to be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode across three shifts, with approximately 68 questions and a duration of 120 minutes. The overall difficulty level is expected to remain Moderate to Difficult, with DILR likely to be the most challenging section. Arithmetic and Algebra are expected to dominate the Quantitative Ability section, while Reading Comprehension is likely to continue carrying the highest weightage in VARC. Candidates should focus on conceptual clarity, regular mock tests, time management, and effective question selection to maximize their performance.

STUDY TIPS

Consistent practice through mock tests and previous years’ papers helps develop accuracy, speed, and effective time management, as each section has a strict 40-minute limit. After every test, analyzing mistakes and identifying weak areas allows targeted improvement. Maintaining accuracy is crucial since wrong MCQs carry negative marks. Candidates should create a balanced daily study schedule, setting sectional goals, practicing time-bound sets, and monitoring performance trends. Additionally, staying healthy, managing stress, and ensuring adequate sleep are vital, as mental clarity significantly impacts performance. 

TIPS & TRICKS

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension:

1- Read lots of books to improve reading and understanding skills.

2- Focus on vocabulary. The very basic pillar of the VA section is vocabulary and owing to the difficulty level of the exam.

3- Read newspapers and magazines to improve your reading habits. Learn at least 10 new English words and meanings daily.

4- Don’t forget grammar. Grammar mostly becomes the cause of your success.

5- Whether it be the unseen paragraphs, editing sentences, jumbled up sentences fill in the blanks or omitted sentences, practice will help you gain power over every aspect.

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning:

1- DI is the heart and soul of this section. Familiarise yourself with caselets and other types of Di's. Look into the mock tests and understand the concepts of Di's.

2- DI questions are usually calculation-intensive and what decides if you are in the game or not is the speed of these calculations. It is important that you time yourself to evaluate the performance.

3- Apart from excelling in the previous year’s papers and mock papers, try solving riddles and puzzles to sharpen your logical reasoning skills. Also play mental games and games like crossword puzzles, Sudoku, blood relations and family tree riddles etc. This will help make learning a fun process.

Quantitative Ability:

1- Start from the basics of each topic first.

2- Basic mathematical operations like Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division, Squares & Square Roots, Cubes & Cube Roots, Tables etc. should be on finger tips.

3- Practice the harder sections again and again.

4- Practice shortcuts & tricks.

5- Always start by solving examples.

6- Never try to memorise the solution instead go through the logic.

7- Try to apply certain topics to real life world to get better understanding.

STUDY PLANS

CAT exam is a highly competitive exam so it is crucial for the aspiring candidates to be well prepared for the exam to get into their preferred B-school. The only deciding factor for the selection or rejection of a candidate is the Strategy & Planning which is used by them for their preparation for the CAT Examination. A good and result-oriented Strategy & Planning for the examination will definitely allow the candidates to make their way through CAT Examination.

1 Month Study Plan

A one-month study plan is ideal for candidates who already have basic preparation and want to improve their speed, accuracy, and mock test performance.

Week 1: Build Strong Fundamentals

Study Quantitative Aptitude (Arithmetic and Algebra).

Cover Reading Comprehension basics and practice 3–4 passages daily.

Learn Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation fundamentals.

Solve 30–40 questions from each section every day.

Take one sectional mock test at the end of the week.

Week 2: Topic-wise Practice

Complete Geometry, Modern Math, and Number System.

Practice advanced LRDI sets.

Improve Vocabulary and Verbal Ability (Para Jumbles, Odd One Out, Para Summary).

Solve previous years' CAT questions.

Attempt two sectional mock tests.

Week 3: Full-Length Mock Tests

Attempt 3–4 full-length CAT mock tests.

Analyse every mock thoroughly.

Identify weak topics and revise them.

Improve time management and question selection strategy.

Week 4: Final Revision

Revise all formulas, shortcuts, and important concepts.

Solve previous CAT papers and selected practice questions.

Attempt 2–3 final mock tests.

Focus on accuracy rather than attempting more questions.

Maintain a regular sleep schedule before the exam.

3 Month Study Plan

A three-month study plan is suitable for beginners and candidates looking for comprehensive preparation.

Month 1: Learn Concepts

Build fundamentals of Quantitative Aptitude, VARC, and LRDI.

Study Arithmetic, Algebra, Number System, Geometry, and Modern Math.

Practice Reading Comprehension daily.

Solve basic and intermediate-level questions.

Take one sectional mock test every week.

Month 2: Intensive Practice

Solve advanced-level questions from all sections.

Practice previous years' CAT papers.

Strengthen weak areas through topic-wise tests.

Attempt 1–2 full-length mock tests every week.

Analyse mistakes and improve speed and accuracy.

Month 3: Mock Tests and Revision

Attempt 8–10 full-length CAT mock tests.

Analyse every mock in detail.

Revise formulas, concepts, and short notes regularly.

Focus on exam strategy, time management, and question selection.

Avoid learning new topics during the last week and concentrate on revision and confidence building.

STUDY TIPS

Consistent practice through mock tests and previous years’ papers helps develop accuracy, speed, and effective time management, as each section has a strict 40-minute limit. After every test, analyzing mistakes and identifying weak areas allows targeted improvement. Maintaining accuracy is crucial since wrong MCQs carry negative marks. Candidates should create a balanced daily study schedule, setting sectional goals, practicing time-bound sets, and monitoring performance trends. Additionally, staying healthy, managing stress, and ensuring adequate sleep are vital, as mental clarity significantly impacts performance. 

TIPS & TRICKS

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension:

1- Read lots of books to improve reading and understanding skills.

2- Focus on vocabulary. The very basic pillar of the VA section is vocabulary and owing to the difficulty level of the exam.

3- Read newspapers and magazines to improve your reading habits. Learn at least 10 new English words and meanings daily.

4- Don’t forget grammar. Grammar mostly becomes the cause of your success.

5- Whether it be the unseen paragraphs, editing sentences, jumbled up sentences fill in the blanks or omitted sentences, practice will help you gain power over every aspect.

Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning:

1- DI is the heart and soul of this section. Familiarise yourself with caselets and other types of Di's. Look into the mock tests and understand the concepts of Di's.

2- DI questions are usually calculation-intensive and what decides if you are in the game or not is the speed of these calculations. It is important that you time yourself to evaluate the performance.

3- Apart from excelling in the previous year’s papers and mock papers, try solving riddles and puzzles to sharpen your logical reasoning skills. Also play mental games and games like crossword puzzles, Sudoku, blood relations and family tree riddles etc. This will help make learning a fun process.

Quantitative Ability:

1- Start from the basics of each topic first.

2- Basic mathematical operations like Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division, Squares & Square Roots, Cubes & Cube Roots, Tables etc. should be on finger tips.

3- Practice the harder sections again and again.

4- Practice shortcuts & tricks.

5- Always start by solving examples.

6- Never try to memorise the solution instead go through the logic.

7- Try to apply certain topics to real life world to get better understanding.

STUDY PLANS

CAT exam is a highly competitive exam so it is crucial for the aspiring candidates to be well prepared for the exam to get into their preferred B-school. The only deciding factor for the selection or rejection of a candidate is the Strategy & Planning which is used by them for their preparation for the CAT Examination. A good and result-oriented Strategy & Planning for the examination will definitely allow the candidates to make their way through CAT Examination.

1 Month Study Plan

A one-month study plan is ideal for candidates who already have basic preparation and want to improve their speed, accuracy, and mock test performance.

Week 1: Build Strong Fundamentals

Study Quantitative Aptitude (Arithmetic and Algebra).

Cover Reading Comprehension basics and practice 3–4 passages daily.

Learn Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation fundamentals.

Solve 30–40 questions from each section every day.

Take one sectional mock test at the end of the week.

Week 2: Topic-wise Practice

Complete Geometry, Modern Math, and Number System.

Practice advanced LRDI sets.

Improve Vocabulary and Verbal Ability (Para Jumbles, Odd One Out, Para Summary).

Solve previous years' CAT questions.

Attempt two sectional mock tests.

Week 3: Full-Length Mock Tests

Attempt 3–4 full-length CAT mock tests.

Analyse every mock thoroughly.

Identify weak topics and revise them.

Improve time management and question selection strategy.

Week 4: Final Revision

Revise all formulas, shortcuts, and important concepts.

Solve previous CAT papers and selected practice questions.

Attempt 2–3 final mock tests.

Focus on accuracy rather than attempting more questions.

Maintain a regular sleep schedule before the exam.

3 Month Study Plan

A three-month study plan is suitable for beginners and candidates looking for comprehensive preparation.

Month 1: Learn Concepts

Build fundamentals of Quantitative Aptitude, VARC, and LRDI.

Study Arithmetic, Algebra, Number System, Geometry, and Modern Math.

Practice Reading Comprehension daily.

Solve basic and intermediate-level questions.

Take one sectional mock test every week.

Month 2: Intensive Practice

Solve advanced-level questions from all sections.

Practice previous years' CAT papers.

Strengthen weak areas through topic-wise tests.

Attempt 1–2 full-length mock tests every week.

Analyse mistakes and improve speed and accuracy.

Month 3: Mock Tests and Revision

Attempt 8–10 full-length CAT mock tests.

Analyse every mock in detail.

Revise formulas, concepts, and short notes regularly.

Focus on exam strategy, time management, and question selection.

Avoid learning new topics during the last week and concentrate on revision and confidence building.

6 Month Study Plan

A six-month study plan for CAT 2026 is designed to build strong fundamentals, gradually improve speed and accuracy, and systematically master all three sections—VARC, DILR, and QA.

First two months, candidates should focus on understanding the syllabus, revising basic concepts in mathematics, grammar, and logical reasoning, and practicing simple reading comprehension passages and easy DILR sets to strengthen foundational skills.

Third and fourth months should emphasize intensive practice, with daily sectional exercises, solving moderate to difficult questions, and taking 1–2 full-length mock tests every two weeks to develop time management and exam strategy.

 Fifth month, the focus should shift to advanced problem-solving, tackling challenging DILR puzzles, long RC passages, and tricky QA questions, while analyzing mock tests thoroughly to identify and work on weak areas.

 Sixth month should be dedicated to revision, quick formula and shortcut review, regular full-length mocks under timed conditions, and fine-tuning exam strategy, including deciding question selection order, pacing, and stress management. Following this structured approach over six months ensures conceptual clarity, consistent practice, and readiness to maximize percentile in CAT 2026.

OVERVIEW

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national-level entrance exam conducted in India for admission to MBA and other postgraduate management programs, primarily at the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and over 1,200 other top business schools. Held annually by one of the IIMs on a rotational basis, the CAT exam assesses candidates' aptitude in Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, and Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning. It is a computer-based test with a duration of two hours, conducted in three shifts on a single day. To be eligible, candidates must hold a bachelor's degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD), and final-year students can also apply. CAT scores are valid for one year and play a critical role in securing admission to leading management institutes across India.

SELECTION PROCESS

The selection process for admission through the CAT exam typically involves these steps:

CAT Exam: Candidates appear for the CAT computer-based test, which assesses their skills in VARC, DILR, and QA sections.

Shortlisting: Based on CAT scores, participating institutes shortlist candidates for the next rounds. Each institute sets its own cutoff and criteria.

Written Ability Test (WAT) / Essay Writing: Some institutes require candidates to write an essay or WAT to evaluate communication skills.

Group Discussion (GD): Shortlisted candidates may participate in group discussions to assess teamwork, communication, and leadership qualities.

Personal Interview (PI): Candidates attend personal interviews to evaluate their personality, motivation, and suitability for management programs.

Final Selection: Institutes prepare a final merit list based on CAT scores, WAT/GD, PI performance, academic records, work experience, and diversity factors.

The exact process and weightage of components vary across IIMs and other B-schools.