CAT 2026 Registration Opens with Revised Fee Structure
The registration process for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 has officially begun, bringing a revision in application fees for candidates. Conducted this year by IIM Indore, the entrance examination remains the gateway to MBA and management programmes at the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and several other leading business schools across the country.
Under the revised fee structure, candidates in the General, EWS, and NC-OBC categories will pay ₹2,700, while the fee for SC, ST, and PwD candidates has been increased to ₹1,350. The institute has described the increase as a routine revision to support the administration of the examination.
IIM Indore Plans AI-Based Exam Security
Along with the revised fee, IIM Indore has announced plans to introduce AI-powered security measures for CAT 2026. These technologies are expected to assist in candidate verification and strengthen monitoring during different stages of the examination process.
Officials believe that artificial intelligence can help improve the accuracy of identity verification, detect irregularities more efficiently, and make the examination process more secure and transparent. The proposed measures are part of a broader effort to modernise the management of one of India’s largest MBA entrance examinations.
Growing Focus on Technology in Entrance Exams
The adoption of AI reflects a wider trend among examination authorities to use digital technologies for improving fairness and reducing malpractice. Several national-level entrance examinations have already introduced biometric verification, digital surveillance, and automated monitoring systems.
Experts believe that combining AI with existing verification methods could strengthen examination integrity while making administrative processes more efficient. However, they also emphasise the importance of protecting candidate privacy and ensuring transparent implementation.
What Candidates Should Know
CAT 2026 registrations are being conducted online through the official examination portal. Applicants are advised to complete the registration process well before the deadline and carefully verify all personal and academic details before submitting the application.
Candidates should also keep scanned copies of the required documents ready and regularly monitor official announcements regarding admit cards, examination guidelines, and any new AI-enabled verification procedures introduced before the exam.
Looking Ahead
As competition for admission to premier management institutes continues to grow, CAT 2026 is expected to witness a large number of applicants. The introduction of AI-based security measures signals a move towards more technology-driven entrance examinations, while the revised fee structure reflects the evolving administrative requirements of conducting a nationwide test.
MBA aspirants are encouraged to complete their registrations early and stay informed through official updates issued by IIM Indore.