CAT 2026 Registrations Cross 3.02 Lakh: How Many Students Actually Apply, Register and Appear for CAT?

As of September 19, 2026, CAT 2026 registrations have crossed 3.02 lakh, with the extended deadline now set for September 22, 2026 at 5:00 PM. The registration window opened August 3 and was originally set to close September 15, but IIM Indore extended it by one week to accommodate last-minute applicants.

The final application count is expected to hover around 3 lakh — notably lower than the 3.29 lakh who registered in 2024, signaling a measurable contraction in CAT applications.

CAT 2026 Registration Timeline & Key Dates

CAT 2026 Registration Fee: What's New

Registration fees have increased across both categories for 2026:

The CAT 2026 Registration Pattern - Why It Is Declining Every Year

Average (2022–2025)

• Average registration-to-appearance drop: 12.16%

• Average appearance rate: 87.84%

If CAT 2026 Follows Historical Trends

If 3.00 lakh paid registrations for CAT 2026:

Based on CAT attendance trends over the last four years, around 2.64 lakh candidates are expected to appear for CAT 2026 out of approximately 3 lakh registrations, implying an absentee rate of roughly 12%. Historically, CAT attendance has ranged between 87% and 89% of registered candidates.

What This Decline Means

After peaking at 3.29 lakh in 2024, registrations contracted sharply in 2025, dropping to 2.95 lakh.

This 9% contraction in email registrations signals that fewer people are even starting the CAT application process, which indicates a fundamental shift in the MBA program appeal.

Why Are CAT Registrations Declining?

1. Market Correction After Surge

The 29% spike in 2023 (jumping from 2.55 lakh to 3.28 lakh) was abnormal. Experts attribute the subsequent decline to natural market correction — not all those "surge" registrations converted to serious candidates.

2. ROI Questions Among MBA Aspirants

• Rising MBA fees at top-tier institutions (₹20 - 30 lakh for IIM programs)

• Slower salary growth post-MBA in certain domains

• Tech sector offering competitive salaries without an MBA requirement

• Increasing online executive MBA options from global universities

3. Eligibility Filtering

The multi-step registration process filters out casual applicants:

• Email registration does not guarantee completed application

• Many start the process but don't finish

• Eligibility verification and document uploads create dropoff points

Who Are the CAT 2026 Candidates? Demographic Insights

Registration Composition

Based on historical patterns and recent trends:

Work Experience Profile

Geographic Distribution (Top States by CAT Takers)

CAT is increasingly attracting a mix of fresh graduates and working professionals, with nearly 60–65% of applicants having some work experience. The largest concentration of test-takers continues to come from major urban and employment hubs such as Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad.

How to Register for CAT 2026: Quick 3-Step Process

Step 1: Create Your User ID (Takes ~15 Minutes)

Visit iimcat.ac.in and click "Register" under New Candidate Registration:

• Enter your name (as it appears in Class 10 certificate)

• Date of birth (use calendar picker for accuracy)

• Valid, unique email address (not shared)

• 10-digit Indian mobile OR country code + number (for overseas candidates)

• Generate OTP, verify mobile, submit registration form

• Receive User ID and temporary password via email/SMS

Critical: Entries on this form cannot be changed once submitted. Triple-check before hitting submit.

Step 2: Login & Fill the Application Form

Step 3: Pay Registration Fee (Instant)

• UPI: Recommended (zero transaction charges)

• Net Banking: Carries charges (typically ₹10–30)

• Credit/Debit Card: Also carries charges

You'll receive a Payment Transaction Number and confirmation email. Save both for records.

Registration Complete: Your CAT 2026 application is now locked. The only edits allowed are in the correction window (photograph, signature, test city preferences).

CAT 2026 Registration FAQs

Is there really an extension till September 22?

Yes, confirmed. Originally September 15, but extended to September 22 at 5:00 PM IST. Historically, IIM often extends by 7 days.

Can I change my category or academic marks after registration?

No. Category and academic qualifications cannot be changed post-registration. Only photograph, signature, and test city preferences can be corrected in the brief correction window (late September).

What's the difference between email registration and completed application?

Email registration = initiating the process (3.42 lakh in 2025). Completed application = after full form filling and payment (typically 2.95–3.29 lakh). Not all email registrations convert to completed applications.

Is early registration better?

Marginally, yes. Registering early improves your chances of getting a preferred test city (allotment is based on availability). But it has zero impact on your percentile or IIM shortlisting.

Can a final-year student register?

Yes. Final-year graduates are eligible. You'll need to submit a certificate from your Principal/HoD at the time of registration or later during document verification.

Is there a registration fee for the correction window?

No. Corrections (photo, signature, test city) are free and must be made during the brief correction window.

What if I miss the September 22 deadline?

Registration window closes permanently at 5:00 PM on September 22. No further registrations accepted. Check historical patterns: IIM strictly adheres to final deadlines.