29th November 2026 is the official date for the CAT exam and recently CAT 2026 admit cards are also out which consists of valuable information relevant to aspirants and exam slots. All the candidates must know about the CAT 2026 Slot Timings apart from doing their last-minute revision and practice. The Common Admission Test 2026 will take place in 3 different slots, i.e, Slot 1, Slot 2 and Slot 3. The reporting time and gate closing time will vary for each Slot at the CAT 2026 exam centre. This blog consists of the timings across all the 3 Slots and other important instructions. Learn how to download your admit card and check your timings in the CAT 2026 Slot.
Join iQuanta’s diversified student community for free and prepare with other 4.1L+ peers. Get access to 24*7 doubt-solving, mentorship, free webinars, etc., all at one single platform.
CAT 2026 Exam Timings: Complete Information
The CAT exam 2026 will have a time duration of 120 minutes with three different sections. Every section will have a 40 minutes of sectional time limit. The first section will be Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension which will be followed by DILR and QA. It’s an online computer-based test which will be held across 170 test cities in India. Check the CAT 2026 exam time here:
| Slot Number | CAT 2026 Exam Timings | Slots in CAT Exam |
| Slot 1 | 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM | Morning |
| Slot 2 | 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM | Afternoon |
| Slot 3 | 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM | Evening |
Check Slot Timings on CAT 2026 Admit Card
On the admit card of the CAT 2026, you can check the CAT 2026 Exam Timings. Depending on your examination time, you will have to appear at the CAT 2026 test centre. Here are the step-by-step instructions to download the CAT 2026 admit card for checking the actual exam timings.
Steps to Download CAT 2026 Admit Card Online
- Step 1: Visit the official website of the CAT exam iiimcat.ac.in.
- Step 2: Tap on the “Download Admit Card” official link.
- Step 3: Third, you have to enter your CAT ID and password to complete the login procedure.
- Step 4: Click to download the admit card for CAT 2026 exam.
- Step 5: Check your admit card carefully to ensure that all the details are correct.
- Step 6: Go through the CAT 2026 exam timings, test centre etc.
- Step 7: Get a copy of your admit card and keep it safely for future references.
- Step 8: Check how far the test centre is from your current location and plan travel accordingly.
CAT 2026 Exam Day Tips: Slot 1, Slot 2 and Slot 3
Every slot will have a different timing which means that rush hours, energy and chaos will be different. Knowing the CAT 2026 exam day timings will definitely help you to arrive timely but a proper understanding about the tips and tricks will also save a lot of your time and energy.
Tips for Slot 1 Candidates of CAT 2026 Exam
- Get proper sleep a day before and avoid last-minute revision.
- Have a normal heartfelt conversation with your family and friends to stay positive.
- Gather your documents in a single file and keep it separately.
- Eat healthy food and stay hydrated to avoid weakness at the exam centre.
- Leave from your home on-time and reach the CAT 2026 exam centre by 7:00 AM.
- Wear a plain t-shirt and jeans with slippers. Don’t wear heavy or fitted jackets.
Tips for Slot 2 Candidates of CAT 2026 Exam
- Slot 2 will start in the afternoon which means it’s better to leave early for timely reporting.
- Calculate the estimated travel time a day before and take one hour extra so that you don’t get stuck in traffic.
- Carry an umbrella with you to avoid heat and bring your own water bottle too.
- Eat something light in your lunch and don’t overload yourself.
- Compile your admit card and other documents together.
- Check the CAT 2026 exam timings, reporting timing and gate closing timeline.
Tips for Slot 3 Candidates of CAT 2026 Exam
- Avoid getting panicked after interacting with the Slot 1 and Slot 2 candidates.
- Stay calm and relaxed so that you appear for the exam with a positive mindset.
- Go through the CAT 2026 exam day guidelines and check your timings too.
- Wear appropriate clothes as per the dress code and carry the vital documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the exam time for Slot 1 of CAT 2026 exam?
The Slot 1 exam time will be 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM. You must report at the examination centre by 7:00 AM. Candidates will have the chance to enter the gate prior to 8:15 AM as it’s the gate closing timeline.
Will there be any restrictions on the CAT 2026 exam day?
Candidates will not be permitted to enter the examination hall after the gate closure time. You must reach prior to the CAT 2026 Exam Timings and complete the necessary security check and document check for witnessing a smooth exam experience.
What time should I reach the CAT 2026 exam centre?
It’s recommended to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before the CAT exam. If the centre is far from your current location then reach on time to avoid tiredness. By reaching at an appropriate time, you will get equivalent time to rest and go through the exam related instructions.
What documents should I carry for the 2026 CAT exam?
Carry your CAT 2026 admit card, a passport size photograph, a valid identification proof, a category certificate (if applicable), a PwD certificate (if applicable) with you. Also, take along a printed copy of your identity proof with you.
What is the reporting time for CAT 2026 Slot 3 Exam?
The slot 3 will have reporting time from 4:30-6:30 PM. If you’re appearing in this slot then make sure that you reach at least 30-60 minutes in advance to the examination centre. Leave early to avoid unwanted traffic as there will be massive traffic throughout the exam route on the actual day.
