CAT 2026 Admit Card: Download Process, Dates & Important Instructions

After months of preparation, your CAT admit card is the document that determines whether you can enter the examination centre and attempt the exam. Without it, you will not be allowed into the exam hall – regardless of how well prepared you are.

Here is everything you need to know about the CAT admit card, including how to download it and what you need to carry and do on exam day.

Although registered candidates may receive an email or SMS alert, do not rely solely on notifications. Check the official CAT website yourself and download multiple copies well before exam day.

How to Download Your CAT 2026 Admit Card?

• Visit the official CAT website: iimcat.ac.in.
• Click on the Login or Registered Candidate Login option.
• Enter your CAT registration ID and password—the same credentials you created during registration.
• Go to the Admit Card section on your candidate dashboard.
• Click Download Admit Card and save the PDF to your device.
• Check all details carefully, including your name, photograph, test centre, reporting time, and exam slot.

If you've forgotten your login credentials:

1. Click on the “Forgot User ID/Password” link on the login page
2. Enter the email ID that you have used as registered and finish the captcha.
3. Your credentials will be emailed to your registered email.

What's Printed on the Admit Card

Your admit card carries the details that determine your entire exam-day logistics, so review every field carefully:

• Candidate name, photograph, and signature
• CAT registration ID & roll number
• Exam date, reporting time and session (morning/evening)
• Test centre name, address and reference number (to find your specific door/wings/lab)
• Instructions for the day of the exam and prohibited items

In case you find any mistake: wrong name, unclear photograph, wrong centre or mismatch in any other detail, do not delay and reach out to the CAT helpdesk via email or call. Corrections close to the exam date are far harder to process, so flag discrepancies the moment you notice them.

Before You Print: Checklist

• Only print on A4 size papers No printing smaller than that. No folded printing!
• Print a minimum of two copies (some centres require you to hand in one copy to the invigilator).
• Paste a high passport size photo as the uploaded one during registration.
• Refrain from signing the admit card beforehand; it needs to be signed only in the exam hall before the invigilator.
• Have a copy both in digital format and a printed one just in case you need to make reprints on the fly.

 The test centre does not accept a digital copy on your phone; only the physical printout is valid for entry.

What to Carry to the Exam Centre

Carry only the required documents and follow the instructions printed on your CAT 2026 admit card. The final authority is the official CAT instruction document issued with the admit card.

• Printed CAT 2026 admit card: Carry at least two clear A4-size printouts. Affix a recent passport-size photograph if the admit-card instructions require it.

• One original valid photo ID: The name should match the name on your admit card. Commonly accepted IDs include Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, driving licence, voter ID, and, where permitted, a college or employer ID. Do not rely on a photocopy or a scanned image of the ID.
• Passport-size photographs: Carry two recent photographs that match the one uploaded during registration, in case the test-centre staff ask for them.
• PwD-related documents, if applicable: Candidates using approved disability-related accommodations or a scribe should carry the relevant medical/disability certificate and the required scribe affidavit or authorisation documents.
• Blue or black ballpoint pen: Carry one only if the admit card specifically asks you to do so. Many CAT centres provide a writing pad and pen for rough work inside the examination hall.

The examination centre generally provides a writing pad and pen for rough work. Write your name and CAT registration number on the rough-work sheet if instructed by the invigilator. Return the writing pad and pen before leaving the test centre. Do not take any rough sheets or centre-provided stationery outside the examination hall.

What Not to Carry

Avoid carrying prohibited items to the CAT examination centre. Security checks may be strict, and many centres do not provide a storage facility for personal belongings.

• Mobile phones, calculators, smartwatches, earphones, fitness bands, Bluetooth devices, or any other electronic gadget.
• Books, notes, printed material, written material, or study aids.
• Bags, backpacks, luggage, or large personal belongings.
• Metal jewellery and unnecessary accessories.
• Jackets, hoodies, coats, cardigans, or other clothing with multiple pockets.
• Caps, hats, or head coverings, except those worn for religious reasons and permitted under the exam-centre instructions.

If you have a medical implant, such as a pacemaker, or any metal implant inside your body, carry an appropriate medical certificate. This can help prevent unnecessary delays during the security screening.

Dress Code

There is usually no formal dress code for CAT. However, test centres may impose clothing and accessory restrictions for security purposes.

• Wear simple, comfortable clothing with minimal or no pockets.
• Avoid jackets, hoodies, heavy outerwear, or clothing with multiple pockets.
• Choose simple footwear; avoid thick-soled shoes, heavy heels, or footwear with metal components.
• Avoid metal jewellery, watches, belts, and unnecessary accessories, as these may cause delays during security screening.

The objective is to move through security quickly and smoothly. Wear something practical so that frisking and verification do not eat into the time available before reporting.

ALSO READ: CAT 2026 EXAM DATE & COMPLETE SCHEDULE

Exam-Day Instructions to Follow

• Reach the test centre well before your reporting time. Late entry is generally not allowed, even if you are delayed by only a few minutes. The entry gates usually close before the examination begins.
• Use the reference details on your admit card to locate your assigned test centre, lab, and reporting location.
• Cooperate fully during identity verification, document checks, frisking, biometric capture, and seating allocation.
• Avoid speaking to other candidates inside the examination centre unless instructed by staff.
• Do not engage in malpractice or attempt to use unauthorised material. CAT centres are monitored, and misconduct may result in disqualification and other action under the official examination rules.
• Submit the invigilator’s copy of your admit card, if instructed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. When will the CAT 2026 admit card be released?

Based on the timelines followed in previous years, the CAT 2026 admit card will be released on 4th November 2026, around two to three weeks before the examination. The exact date will be announced on the official CAT website, iimcat.ac.in.

Q2. Can I show a digital copy of the admit card at the exam centre?

No. Candidates are required to carry a printed colour copy of the admit card on A4-size paper. A screenshot, PDF, or digital copy on your phone will not be accepted at the examination centre.

Q3. Which ID proof should I carry with my CAT admit card?

You must carry an original and valid government-issued photo ID. Accepted documents include a Passport, Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Driving Licence. Make sure the document is in good condition and that your name matches the details mentioned on the admit card.

Q4. What should I do if there is an error on my admit card?

If you notice any discrepancy, contact the CAT helpdesk by phone or email as soon as possible. It is better to get the issue clarified before the examination rather than waiting until exam day.

Q5. Is there a dress code for CAT 2026?

There is no specific uniform or formal dress code. However, candidates should avoid jackets, hoodies, caps, heavy jewellery, and clothing with large pockets, as these may create issues during security checks. Comfortable and simple clothing is advisable.

Q6. Can I carry a calculator or mobile phone into the examination hall?

No. Mobile phones, calculators, smartwatches, and other electronic devices are not permitted inside the examination hall. Candidates should avoid carrying prohibited items to the test centre.