CAT 2026 will be conducted on November 29, 2026, in three sessions. The official examination announcement specifies a 120-minute computer-based test divided into three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Candidates will receive exactly 40 minutes for each section and cannot switch between sections while a section is in progress.
This guide explains the confirmed CAT 2026 exam structure, sectional time limit, the question formats candidates should be familiar with, and how to plan the final revision. The exact question count and section-wise distribution should not be treated as guaranteed unless the examination authority confirms them in its instructions or on the test day.
CAT 2026 Exam Pattern: Highlights
| Particulars | CAT 2026 details |
|---|---|
| Exam date | November 29, 2026 |
| Conducting IIM | IIM Indore |
| Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Number of sections | Three |
| Sections | VARC, DILR and QA |
| Total duration | 120 minutes |
| Sectional duration | 40 minutes per section |
| Section switching | Not permitted while a section is in progress |
| Sessions | Three sessions |
CAT 2026 Section-Wise Exam Structure
1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)
VARC assesses reading comprehension and verbal reasoning. Preparation generally includes reading passages carefully, identifying the author’s central argument, understanding tone and inference, and practising verbal ability question types such as para jumbles, para summaries and sentence placement. Candidates should practise eliminating options that are unsupported by the passage rather than relying on outside knowledge.
2. Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)
DILR tests the ability to interpret data and solve structured reasoning problems. Common preparation areas include tables, charts, arrangements, grouping, games and tournaments, routes, scheduling and set-based puzzles. A useful strategy is to scan all sets briefly, identify the most approachable one and avoid spending too long on a set that is not progressing.
3. Quantitative Ability (QA)
QA tests mathematical problem-solving. Important preparation areas commonly include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems and modern mathematics. Focus on concept clarity, calculation accuracy and recognising the shortest valid method. Do not assume that every question from a familiar topic will be easy or that every topic will receive a fixed number of questions.
CAT 2026 Sectional Timing
| Section | Time available |
|---|---|
| VARC | 40 minutes |
| DILR | 40 minutes |
| QA | 40 minutes |
| Total | 120 minutes |
The sectional timer is important: candidates cannot use unused time from one section to extend another. Practise each section within its own 40-minute limit. The official announcement also states that candidates cannot switch to another section while answering questions in the current section. Candidates eligible for approved accommodations should check the official instructions applicable to them.
How Many Questions Will CAT 2026 Have?
Several preparation resources use the recent 68-question structure as a planning reference, often showing 24 questions in VARC, 22 in DILR and 22 in QA. However, candidates should treat this as an indicative pattern based on recent CAT papers, not a fixed guarantee for CAT 2026. The examination authority may determine the final question count and distribution for the paper.
For the same reason, do not build your attempt strategy around an assumed number of questions in a particular topic or set. Prepare to manage the fixed sectional time even if the paper’s question distribution differs from recent years.
CAT 2026 Question Types and Marking: What to Prepare For
Recent CAT papers have included multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and non-MCQ questions, commonly called Type In The Answer (TITA). In an MCQ, candidates select one option. In a TITA question, candidates enter the answer in the response field. The exact number of each type can vary.
Recent CAT marking conventions have generally awarded three marks for a correct answer, deducted one mark for an incorrect MCQ response and awarded no negative marks for an incorrect TITA response. Unattempted questions receive zero. Candidates must verify the marking instructions displayed for CAT 2026 before beginning the test; the on-screen instructions and official notice take precedence over any previous-year pattern.
CAT 2026 Slot Timings and Exam Date
CAT 2026 is scheduled for November 29, 2026, in three sessions. The examination is planned for 8:30 AM–10:30 AM, 12:30 PM–2:30 PM and 4:30 PM–6:30 PM. Your personal reporting time, gate-closing time and allotted session must be checked on your admit card. Do not rely on another candidate’s slot details.
Download your hall ticket from the CAT Admit Card 2026 page and read the separate CAT exam-day guidelines before travelling to the centre.
How to Prepare for the Final Weeks Before CAT 2026
- Practise within sectional limits: Attempt VARC, DILR and QA practice sets using a 40-minute timer.
- Prioritise accuracy: Review why an answer was wrong and whether the error came from concept gaps, calculation or rushed reading.
- Build a DILR selection habit: Scan the sets before committing and choose based on clarity and solvability.
- Revise core QA concepts: Consolidate arithmetic, algebra, geometry and other topics you have already studied.
- Read consistently: Use reading practice to improve comprehension, inference and concentration.
- Use the official mock test: Familiarise yourself with the computer-based interface and question navigation.
- Protect exam-day readiness: Download the admit card, verify the centre and plan your route in advance.
CAT 2026 Exam Pattern: FAQs
1. What is the duration of CAT 2026?
The official CAT 2026 announcement specifies a total test duration of 120 minutes.
2. How many sections are there in CAT 2026?
There are three sections: VARC, DILR and QA.
3. How much time is given to each CAT section?
Candidates are allotted exactly 40 minutes for each section, according to the official CAT 2026 announcement.
4. Can candidates switch between CAT sections?
No. Candidates cannot switch to another section while answering questions in the current section.
5. Will CAT 2026 have 68 questions?
The recent CAT structure has had 68 questions, but candidates should treat this as an indicative reference rather than a confirmed fixed count for CAT 2026 unless the official examination authority confirms it.
6. What is the CAT 2026 exam date?
CAT 2026 is scheduled to be conducted on November 29, 2026.
Official source: CAT 2026 website. Check the official portal and your admit card for the final instructions applicable to your session.