LIVECAT 2026 Live Updates: Mock Test, Exam Day Guidelines, Slot Timings, Calculator Usage Guidelines

The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 will be conducted on November 29, 2026, by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore. The national-level MBA entrance examination will be held in computer-based mode across three shifts. Candidates preparing for admission to IIMs and other participating management institutes can now access the CAT 2026 official mock test, which was made available on the official website from November 6.

The official CAT 2026 examination mock test helps candidates become familiar with the computer-based examination interface, question navigation and the on-screen calculator. With the CAT exam approaching, candidates should practise the official mock, check their admit card and understand the examination-day instructions before reporting to their allotted centres here.

CAT Examination 2026 Latest Update: IIM Indore to Introduce AI-Based Facial Recognition at Exam Centres

IIM Indore, the conducting institute for CAT 2026, will introduce an AI-based facial recognition system at examination centres for the first time. The technology will be used on an experimental basis during the November 29 examination to provide an additional layer of candidate identity verification. The system will compare candidates' faces with the photographs submitted during the CAT 2026 registration process.

The key details of the new CAT 2026 exam-day verification process are given below:

• Experimental AI Verification: The facial recognition technology will be tested during CAT 2026 to assess its accuracy and feasibility before considering wider implementation.
• Manual Verification Continues: Candidates must still undergo physical identity verification by examination officials using their CAT 2026 admit card.
• No Entry Restrictions Due to AI Failure: Candidates will not be stopped from entering the examination hall solely because the AI system fails to match or recognise their faces.
• Candidate Photograph Matching: The system will compare the candidate's face with the photograph already submitted in the CAT application form. IIM Indore has stated that no new candidate data will be captured for this matching process.
• Post-Exam Evaluation: The institute will assess the AI system's performance after the examination by comparing its results with manual verification.

CAT 2026 Official Mock Test Link

IIM Indore has activated the CAT 2026 official mock test on the examination website. Candidates can use the mock test to understand how questions appear on the computer screen, navigate between questions and use the available examination tools. The CAT 2026 Official mock test has been released in the official cat website for three different category which is as follows

CAT 2026 Exam Date and Slot Timings

IIM Indore is scheduled to conduct CAT 2026 on November 29, 2026. The examination will take place in three sessions, with candidates assigned a specific slot and test centre.

The scheduled examination timings are provided below.

CAT 2026 On-Screen Calculator: Is It Allowed in the Exam?

Candidates appearing for CAT exam 2026 will have access to an on-screen calculator during the computer-based examination. Students can use CAT 2026 Calculator Guidelines usage for basic mathematical calculations while solving Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation questions.

Candidates should note the following points:

• A calculator will be available on the computer screen.
• Candidates should practise using the calculator before the examination.
• The on-screen calculator is intended for calculations during the test.
• Personal physical calculators are not permitted in the examination hall.
• Candidates should follow the calculator instructions and examination rules displayed in the test interface.

CAT 2026 Exam Day Instructions for Candidates

Candidates should read the instructions mentioned on their CAT admit cards before visiting the examination centre. They should pay attention to the reporting time, permitted documents and security procedures.

Important points to remember include:

• Carry a printed copy of the CAT 2026 admit card.
• Carry a valid original photo identity proof as specified in the examination instructions.
• Reach the examination centre within the reporting time mentioned on the hall ticket.
• Do not carry a personal calculator or other prohibited electronic devices.
• Follow the instructions given by examination staff.
• Check the test centre location in advance to avoid last-minute delays.

IIMs have also announced additional security arrangements for CAT 2026, including face matching and mobile jammers at selected examination centres.

CAT Exam 2026 FAQs