CAT 2026 Answer Key: Release Date, Challenge Window & Steps

The provisional answer key is expected in the first week of December 2026, a few days after the exam, on iimcat.ac.in along with the question papers of all three slots. Last year the key came within 4 days and the challenge window stayed open for 4 days; a similar timeline is likely. A final key follows before the result.

1. 1Log in at iimcat.ac.in after the provisional key is published.
2. 2Open the answer key challenge section.
3. 3Pick the question and submit your objection with reasoning or evidence.
4. 4A fee may apply per challenge and is usually not refunded if the objection is rejected.

1. 1Download your question paper and note your recorded responses.
2. 2Mark each answer right or wrong using the key.
3. 3Add 3 marks for every correct answer and subtract 1 for every wrong MCQ.
4. 4Do not deduct anything for TITA questions or unattempted ones.
5. 5Treat the total as an estimate; scores are normalised across slots.

• Challenge only when you can back it with a clear reason or a source.
• Read the question again; most wrong challenges come from misreading.
• Check the fee and the deadline before submitting.
• A successful challenge changes the key for everyone.