To take CAT 2026 you need a bachelor's degree with the minimum marks fixed by the IIMs. There is no age limit and no limit on attempts, so you can sit the exam as many times as you want.
Final-year students can apply as well, as long as they finish their degree with the required percentage before joining the programme.
CAT 2026 eligibility criteria
A bachelor's degree from a recognised university with at least 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC, ST and PwD candidates). General, EWS and OBC-NCL candidates need the 50% mark. If your university gives CGPA, each IIM converts it to a percentage during admission.
You can apply while in the final year of your degree. You must complete graduation with the required percentage before joining; an offer can be withdrawn if the final result falls short.
There is no upper age limit and no cap on the number of attempts.
CA, CS and ICWA holders with at least 50% (45% for SC, ST and PwD) are also eligible.
Individual IIMs may add their own criteria after the result. Check each IIM's admission notice.
Minimum marks category-wise
| Category | Minimum marks in graduation |
|---|---|
| General / EWS / OBC-NCL | 50% |
| SC / ST / PwD | 45% |
Who can apply
- Graduates from a recognised university with the minimum marks
- Final-year degree students awaiting results
- CA, CS and ICWA qualified candidates with the minimum marks
CAT 2026 Eligibility FAQs
Is there an age limit for CAT 2026?+
No. There is no upper age limit and no limit on the number of attempts.
Can final-year students apply for CAT?+
Yes, but you must complete the degree with the required percentage before joining a programme.
Is work experience compulsory?+
Not for CAT itself. Some IIM programmes may ask for or prefer it, so check each IIM's notice.
More on CAT 2026
Source & Disclaimer
Official source: iimcat.ac.in
Information on this page is compiled from the official CAT notification at iimcat.ac.in and trends from earlier cycles. Dates marked Expected are estimates, not official announcements. Please confirm all details on the official website.