Verified 2026 guide

    CAT Exam Pattern 2026

    CAT paper structure, sections, mode, duration and marking. Verified against The current convening Indian Institute of Management sources on 23 September 2026.

    Last checked 23 September 2026CAT official website

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    Paper structure and marking

    CAT is scored on percentiles, so improving your weakest section usually raises your overall percentile more than improving your strongest one.

    SectionQuestion typeMarksNotes
    VARCReading comprehension plus verbal reasoning+3 / −1RC dominates the section
    DILRSet-based data interpretation and logical reasoning+3 / −1Set selection is the entire skill
    QAObjective quantitative questions+3 / −1Arithmetic carries the largest share
    Mode
    Computer-based test with sectional timing
    Practice duration
    MockPrep test: 25 questions, exam-paced timer
    Marking
    +3 for a correct answer, −1 for an incorrect answer, 0 if left unattempted (non-MCQ questions carry no penalty in the actual exam)

    Source and interpretation note

    The convening IIM and test details can change annually; individual IIM admission criteria remain the authority for shortlisting.

    Official authority: The current convening Indian Institute of Management. Last verified: 23 September 2026.

    Turn the guide into practice

    Use a timed CAT test, then review the section and topic breakdown.