CAT 2026 Registration Is Live: Avoid These Common Application Mistakes and Myths Before You Apply

The official Common Admission Test (CAT) notification for 2026 is finally live. Registration starts on August 3. The exam is scheduled for Sunday, November 29. This brings much-needed clarity to lakhs of MBA aspirants. However, many students worry about complex registration rules. Knowing the truth helps you avoid costly errors during the application process.

Many aspirants believe age or old marks limit their career chances. The official notification confirms there is no upper age cap. Final-year students or those with backlogs can also apply. This flexibility allows diverse working professionals to pursue management studies. You just need to follow specific eligibility conditions mentioned in the official document.

CAT 2026 Registration: Avoid These Mistakes

CAT 2026 registration and eligibility myths

A common mistake among applicants is creating multiple registrations. You must use only one valid email and phone number. Duplicate forms lead to immediate cancellation of your application. Ensure your Other Backward Classes-Non Creamy Layer (OBC-NCL) certificates are current. Outdated category proofs will likely face rejection during the final verification process.

MythReality
Manual calculators are allowedOnly on-screen calculators provided
Experience is strictly mandatoryNo work experience required
Score lasts two yearsValid for one cycle only

Students often panic about performing manual calculations during the exam sessions. Instead, the test provides an on-screen calculator for all candidates. Sectional time limits also apply strictly to every section. Never round off your Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) scores without proof. Such errors can trigger application defects or lead to rejection.

CAT 2026 score validity and normalisation facts

Aspirants often misunderstand how scores are calculated across different shifts. The marking process uses normalisation to equate percentiles for all students. Your raw scores are not compared directly across different test sessions. Your CAT 2026 score remains valid for the 2027 admissions cycle only. Success depends on following the gate-close and dress-code rules.

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