CAT 2026 Application Fee Hike: IIM Indore Cites Higher Operational Expenses

In CAT 2026, the registration fee for general category students has increased by Rs 100, to become Rs 2,700 from Rs 2,600 last year.

The reasons behind this include the inflation, increased operational costs and infrastructure required for the safe conduct of the test, according to IIM Indore Director Prof Himanshu Rai.

"Registration fee of CAT increased from Rs 1,600 in 2015 to Rs 2,700 in 2026. However, although the registration fee has been increased by approximately 5% annually, percentage increase is becoming smaller every year," Rai said.

This year's increase amounts to 3.85%, which is less than that of 6.25% witnessed last year. "Candidates belonging to SC, ST and PwD categories will continue to pay half of the fee as compared to others," Rai added.

As many as 3 lakh candidates are expected to apply for CAT 2026. However, the exact number can differ based on certain aspects, according to Rai.

The number of test cities and examination centers might also differ slightly. All will depend on the number of applicants and the test cities selected by them.

Rai added that in terms of exam security, CAT is governed by an impressive combination of technological, administrative and security aspects. The CAT Committee evaluates the security and risk management processes during all the stages of preparation and conduct of the exam.

Its responsibilities include ensuring security, fairness and validity of the exam. For CAT 2026, there are plans for introducing new technology, which includes AI-based monitoring and candidate verification systems, according to Rai.

The pattern of the exam remains the same. There will be 40 minutes per section. About 70 percent of the questions will be of multiple choice (MCQ) type, and about 30 percent – Type-In-The-Answer (TITA).

Negative marking of one mark will apply to each incorrect MCQ answer. Incorrect TITA answers will not carry any negative marking.

The admit card for CAT 2026 will be available online from November 4, 2026. The exam is expected to be held on November 29, 2026.

--------

CAT Study Material