IIMs Extend CAT 2026 Application Window Till September 22

MBA aspirants across India can breathe a little easier. The Indian Institutes of Management have extended the registration deadline for CAT 2026 to September 22, giving candidates until 5 pm that day to complete their applications. The registration process began on August 3. The earlier closing date was September 15. IIM Indore, which is conducting this year’s exam, confirmed the new deadline and made it clear that no further extension will be granted. Candidates still need to apply through the official website, iimcat.ac.in. CAT 2026 will be held on Sunday, November 29, in three sessions across roughly 170 cities. The computer-based test lasts 120 minutes and covers the usual three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability. After the registration window closes, candidates who have successfully registered and paid the fee will get a short edit window. During that period they can update only their photograph, signature and test city preferences. Other details cannot be changed later, so accuracy while filling the form remains important. Many students leave the application for the last few days. Technical glitches, payment delays or incomplete documents often create unnecessary stress. The extra week offers a chance to double-check academic records, select preferred cities carefully and ensure photographs and signatures meet the required specifications. Parents and mentors can also use this time to help candidates review eligibility and gather supporting documents. Those who have already applied need not take any further action unless they want to use the later edit window for photo, signature or city changes. The organising institute has advised applicants not to wait until the final hours. Completing the process early reduces the risk of last-minute issues and allows more focus on preparation in the weeks leading up to the exam. Candidates should keep checking iimcat.ac.in for any updates on the admit card release, which is expected in early November, and for the exact schedule of the form correction window once registration ends. With the revised deadline now in place, thousands of aspirants still have an opportunity to register for one of India’s most competitive management entrance exams. Using the additional days wisely can make the application process smoother and free up energy for focused study.