CAT Exam Eligibility 2026: Criteria, Age Limit, and Who Can Apply

The first aspect you have to learn about is the CAT exam eligibility in case you want to appear in CAT 2026. Common Admission Test (CAT) is among the most competitive entrance exams in India one that is necessary to gain admission to such esteemed institutions as the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and a host of other leading business schools.

The most common question is among the students which is either, what is CAT exam and goes beyond and asks, who is eligible to CAT exam? As is alluded to in this informative guide in a conversational style, all these questions and more shall be answered. We shall discuss the eligibility criteria of CAT, the eligibility age limit of CAT, relaxation category wise and the misconceptions, and frequently asked questions on the same so that you know everything before applying.

What is CAT Exam and Eligibility?

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a computer-based entrance test conducted once every year by one of the IIMs. It evaluates candidates on three key areas:

  • Quantitative Ability (QA)
  • Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
  • Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

However, before you start preparing, you must meet the eligibility for CAT exam.

Also Read:- CAT Exam Syllabus 2026

Key points about CAT exam eligibility:

  • A candidate must hold a valid bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
  • There is no CAT exam eligibility age limit, which means even working professionals can apply.
  • Certain relaxations in percentage marks apply to reserved categories.
  • Final-year students are also allowed to apply.

In short, the CAT exam eligibility criteria are straightforward and designed to ensure that anyone with a valid academic background can pursue an MBA.

CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria 2026

The official CAT exam eligibility criteria for 2026 are simple but important. If you fail to meet any of these requirements, your application may be rejected.

1. Educational Qualification

To be eligible for the CAT exam, you must hold a bachelor’s degree in any stream (Arts, Science, Commerce, or Engineering) from a recognized university or institution.

  • The degree must be recognized by the Ministry of Education, Government of India.
  • Professional degrees like CA, CS, or ICWA are also accepted if recognized by the relevant authorities.

2. Minimum Marks Requirement

The percentage of marks required depends on your category:

CategoryMinimum Marks Required
General/EWS/OBC50% or equivalent CGPA
SC/ST/PwD45% or equivalent CGPA

This rule ensures fair access to all candidates while maintaining academic standards.

3. Final-Year Students

If you are in the final year of your bachelor’s degree or waiting for your results, you can still apply for CAT 2026. However:

  • You must submit proof of completion (degree/provisional certificate) before the admission deadline.
  • Your eligibility will be considered provisional until you provide the required documents.

This policy allows students to appear for the exam without waiting for graduation results.

4. Accepted Degrees

One of the most common questions is, “Who is eligible for CAT exam if they don’t have a traditional degree?”

Here’s a quick list:

  • Bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university
  • Integrated master’s program (first 3 years equivalent to bachelor’s)
  • Professional courses like CA, CS, ICWA with valid certification

If your degree is not recognized by UGC/AIU/AICTE or an equivalent body, you may not meet the CAT exam eligibility criteria.

5. Number of Attempts

There is no restriction on the number of times you can attempt CAT. You can appear for the exam every year as long as you meet the CAT exam eligibility requirements.

This is especially useful for working professionals who may take multiple attempts to secure a better percentile.

CAT Exam Eligibility Age Limit

A frequent query among aspirants is about CAT exam eligibility age.

Here is the simple answer: There is no age limit for CAT exam eligibility.

Whether you are 21 or 35, if you meet the academic criteria, you can appear for CAT. This is one of the unique aspects of CAT, as it provides opportunities to both fresh graduates and experienced professionals.

Category-Wise Eligibility and Relaxations

The eligibility for CAT exam includes certain relaxations for reserved categories to ensure inclusivity:

CategoryMinimum Percentage RequiredRelaxation Details
General/EWS/OBC50%No relaxation
SC/ST/PwD45%5% relaxation in marks requirement

These relaxations apply only to the academic percentage and do not change the exam pattern or number of attempts.

Common Misconceptions About CAT Exam Eligibility

There are a lot of misinformed candidates about CAT exam eligibility. So, what are the most common myths that we can clear up?

Myth 1: CAT is only applicable to engineers only

Fact: Anyone who has a recognized bachelor degree in any stream is eligible to give CAT. Successful candidates have plenty of knowledge in the fields of commerce, arts and science.

Myth 2. Age limit exists

Fact: Age limit in the CAT exam does not exist. The fresh graduates as well as working professionals can apply to the exam.

Myth 3: You are disqualified in case of backlogs

Fact: You may also apply even when you do have pending backlogs. Nevertheless, you need to eliminate them and bring graduation evidence during the admission process.

Myth 4: There are diploma holders who can apply

Fact: Diploma alone will never be enough to meet the criteria of CAT exam. You are required to have a four year degree.

FAQs on CAT Exam Eligibility 2026

1. How to be eligible for the CAT exam 2026?

You need to possess a bachelor’s degree of bachelor with 50 per cent marks (45 per cent marks in case of SC/ST/PwD) in a recognized university. It is also possible to apply in your final year of study.

2. What happens when one is backlogged and wants to do a CAT exam?

It is possible to apply to you in case you clear your backlog in time before the admission process and you can show the proof of graduation.

3. What is the age limit of the CAT exam?

There is no upper age limit. Examination age is not an issue provided that you are of the caliber.

4. Is a holder of a diploma in a position to apply for the CAT?

No, a diploma is not something that fits the eligibility requirements. Among the requirements, you need to have a bachelor degree.

5. Is it possible to take the CAT more than once?

Yes, there is not limited to the retrial. Most of the candidates appear in the exam more than once to gain a higher percentile.

6. What is the CAT exam and its eligibility to working professionals?

The working individuals can also give CAT, based on the norms that as far as their educational standards are concerned, they are on par with the rest of the candidates.

Quick Checklist for CAT Exam Eligibility 2026

Here’s a simple checklist to confirm if you meet the CAT exam eligibility criteria:

  • Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
  • Minimum 50% (General/EWS/OBC) or 45% (SC/ST/PwD)
  • Final-year students can apply provisionally
  • No age limit restriction
  • Unlimited number of attempts

If you check all these boxes, you are eligible to apply for CAT 2026.

Conclusion

The CAT eligibility 2026 is not complicated and is inclusive. You have to possess a valid bachelors degree, the percentage marks and have to have the confidence to compete. The age limit to take the exam is non-existent, and even those in the final year are also eligible to take the exam which in turn, makes the exam openable to highly diverse candidates.

This is the end. It is time to start your preparation now that you are well aware of who is eligible to appear in CAT exam and of CAT exam eligibility and criteria. Register with the official site of CAT to receive notifications, dates of registration, and the guidelines.

However, in case you are eligible to take CAT exam then start preparation as soon as possible and apply to the B-school of your dreams. It is definitely possible to crack CAT with the right approach.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top