The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 registration fee has been revised to ₹2,700, according to the latest announcement by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore, the organising institute for this year's examination. Alongside the fee revision, the institute has revealed plans to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based measures to enhance examination management, improve security, and streamline candidate services. 

CAT remains India's premier entrance examination for admission to MBA and postgraduate management programmes offered by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and hundreds of leading business schools across the country. The updated registration fee will apply to candidates submitting fresh applications during the CAT 2026 registration window.

According to IIM Indore, the proposed AI-driven initiatives are intended to strengthen various aspects of the examination ecosystem, including administrative efficiency and candidate support. While detailed implementation guidelines are expected to be shared separately, the move reflects the growing use of emerging technologies in conducting large-scale national entrance examinations.

Candidates planning to appear for CAT 2026 should carefully review the revised fee structure, eligibility criteria, and official instructions before completing the online application process.

What's New in CAT 2026?

The latest announcement includes:

• Registration fee revised to ₹2,700.
• AI-powered measures planned to improve examination management.
• Continued online registration through the official CAT portal.
• Focus on enhancing transparency, security, and operational efficiency.

Additional examination-related updates will be notified through official CAT communications.

Who Can Apply?

CAT 2026 is open to candidates seeking admission to:

• MBA programmes.
• Postgraduate management courses.
• Business administration programmes offered by participating institutes.
• Other management programmes accepting CAT scores.

Applicants should ensure they fulfil the eligibility criteria specified in the official CAT notification.

Why This Update Matters

The revision in the application fee is an important consideration for management aspirants planning to register for CAT 2026. At the same time, the proposed adoption of AI-based technologies signals a broader shift towards more secure and efficient entrance examination processes.

Candidates should complete their registrations well before the deadline and regularly monitor official announcements for updates related to the examination schedule, admit cards, and other important notifications.

Key Highlights

• CAT 2026 registration fee has been revised to ₹2,700.
• IIM Indore plans to introduce AI-based measures to strengthen the examination process.
• CAT scores are accepted by IIMs and numerous leading management institutes across India.
• The AI initiatives aim to improve examination security, administration, and candidate experience.
• Applicants should complete the registration process within the prescribed timeline and follow official updates for further announcements.