Understanding the CAT 2026 Exam Pattern: What's New This Year?

TL;DR

• The CAT exam is likely to take place in November 2026, with registration opening in August 2026.
• The examination has a total duration of 120 minutes, with 40 minutes for every section.
• There is no age limit available for this entrance examination. 
• The CAT syllabus consists of VARC, DILR and QA.

Before you start preparing for the CAT exam, it’s important to understand how the test is structured and what it expects from you. This includes knowing the overall format, key sections, and the type of questions you are likely to face, along with a general idea of the syllabus. Having this clarity early on helps you plan your preparation in a more focused and practical way.

Each year, around 2 to 3 Lakh candidates appear for CAT with the goal of securing admission to India’s leading management institutes, including the IIMs. This blog brings together all the essential details, such as the CAT exam pattern 2026, important dates, syllabus overview, and eligibility criteria, to help you prepare with confidence.

Understanding the CAT 2026 Exam Pattern

The CAT exam pattern is structured to assess candidates across three core sections:

Apart from understanding the exam pattern, it is also important to keep track of the expected CAT exam date 2026. The table below provides an overview of the tentative schedule for this entrance test, based on previous years’ timelines.

Below are some additional key points of the expected CAT 2026:

You can start preparing for the exam by referring to the CAT exam's previous year question paper.

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CAT 2026 Changes and CAT Exam Updates

It is important to rely on official sources for the most accurate and current information. As of now, there has been no official notification regarding any changes in the pattern of the CAT exam for 2026. Also, no new updates have been released regarding the exam that could influence candidates’ preparation strategies. 

However, to help stay informed, here are some tips:

1. Official Notifications

Regularly checking the official CAT website for the latest updates regarding registration, exam dates, and announcements is essential. The IIMs typically release comprehensive guidelines and FAQs to assist candidates in their preparation. Relying on these official sources ensures that candidates have the most accurate and up-to-date information.

2. Mock Tests and Practice Papers

While there may not be new updates at the moment, utilising the available online resources and mock tests is important. These tools can help candidates familiarise themselves with the existing exam format and question types. Regularly taking mock tests is vital for gauging the CAT exam preparation 2026 levels and adjusting study plans accordingly to maximise readiness for the exam.

3. Feedback and Adaptation

Although no new updates are currently available, former candidates often share their experiences and insights about the exam format and the release of the admit card for the CAT exam​ on various online platforms. Engaging in these discussions can provide the new candidates with valuable tips and strategies. However, it is important to cross-reference this information with official sources to ensure its relevance to the current exam cycle.

Also Read:- How to Crack CAT 2025 on the First Attempt?

CAT 2026 Syllabus

Understanding the CAT exam syllabus for 2026 is essential for effective exam preparation. While the syllabus has remained mostly consistent over the previous years, candidates should be prepared for more detailed questions.

Below are some tips on how to prepare for each section of the CAT 2026 exam syllabus:

1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

Some topics in the VARC section include:

• Reading Comprehension: Practice with various passages, including literature, business articles, and essays.
• Verbal Reasoning: Focus on grammar, vocabulary, and sentence correction exercises.
• Critical Reasoning: Develop skills in evaluating arguments and understanding assumptions.

2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

The main topics in the DILR section are:

• Data Interpretation: Work with tables, graphs, and charts to decipher complex data sets.
• Logical Reasoning: Engage in puzzles, seating arrangements, and blood relations to sharpen logical thinking.
  
   

3. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

Some important topics in the QA section are:

• Number Systems: Cover classification, surds, and indices.
• Algebra: Focus on polynomials, equations, and inequalities.
• Geometry & Mensuration: Understand the properties of mathematical shapes and their calculations.

Candidates should integrate the new CAT exam question paper​ types and formats into their preparation to be well-equipped for the CAT 2026.

Will there be a New CAT Exam Format?

As of now, the new CAT exam format has not been officially announced. It may remain the same as the previous year or be revised if the IIM committee deems it necessary. However, here are some pointers candidates should keep in mind:

1. Time Management

The total duration of the exam is likely to remain at 120 minutes, but if there are changes, the committee could impose stricter sectional time limits. If this occurs, candidates will need to develop efficient time management strategies for each section.

2. Increased Complexity

While the specifics of the new format are still pending, there is a possibility that candidates might encounter more complex questions that require multiple steps to solve, particularly in the QA and DILR sections. This potential change would necessitate a stronger focus on candidates’ foundational concepts and problem-solving skills.

3. Preparation Resources

Regardless of the changes to the exam format, utilising updated preparation resources will be crucial. Amity University’s courses include expert-led sessions, practice tests, and personalised feedback, ensuring candidates are well-prepared for the exam. Engaging with these resources, online classes, workshops, and study groups can improve candidates’ experience and provide different perspectives on challenging topics.

Conclusion

By understanding the CAT 2026 exam pattern, checking the CAT exam eligibility and preparing with the CAT syllabus, candidates can position themselves for success. As candidates gear up for the exam, they must stay informed about CAT exam updates and familiarise themselves with the CAT exam format.

Top institutes like Amity University Online make world-class education readily accessible, helping you advance your career in management.

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