CDAC C-CAT 2026 Exam Day Updates: Slot Timings, Reporting & Rules

The Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC) conducted the C-CAT 2026 examination on January 10 and 11, 2026, at designated test centres across India. The computer-based test is a key step for candidates seeking admission to the February 2026 PG certificate programmes at CDAC. The exam was held in multiple sections (A, B, and C) during two shifts each day, with fixed timings to assess candidates on various subject modules. Candidates were required to arrive well before the reporting time mentioned on their admit cards and follow all examination day protocols.

CDAC C-CAT 2026 Exam Slot Timings and Section Schedule

Below is the detailed breakdown of section-wise timings for the CDAC C-CAT 2026 exam, indicating both morning and afternoon shift schedules used across test centres: The table below outlines the timings for each section in the two daily shifts during the January 10–11, 2026 exam window.

This structure ensured uniformity in test delivery across centres, maintaining fairness for all candidates.

CDAC C-CAT 2026 Reporting Rules and Exam Day Instructions

Candidates appearing for CDAC C-CAT 2026 were reminded of the following important instructions to ensure smooth conduct of the examination: Before heading to the exam centre, candidates must be familiar with key reporting and documentation requirements. Candidates were advised to reach their allotted CDAC test centres at least 30 minutes before the reporting time specified on their admit cards. Late entry was strictly prohibited under all circumstances. Essential items for exam day included a printed copy of the C-CAT 2026 admit card and a valid original photo ID such as Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN Card, Passport, or Driving License. Electronic gadgets, mobile phones, and other prohibited items were not allowed inside the examination hall. During the test, short breaks were provided between sections to facilitate system resets and ensure candidate readiness. However, candidates were not permitted to leave their seats during these intervals.

CDAC C-CAT 2026 Exam Context and Broader Timeline

The CDAC C-CAT 2026 exam forms the basis for admissions into various postgraduate certificate programmes at the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing. The application window for the February 2026 batch was open late November – December 2025, and the admit cards were issued in early January 2026. Following the examination, the results for C-CAT 2026 are tentatively expected to be declared around January 22, 2026, with subsequent counselling and choice filling rounds scheduled late January and seat allotments across multiple phases thereafter. Classes for the February 2026 batch will likely commence in late February 2026.

Candidate Tips: Post Exam Checklist

As the C-CAT 2026 exam period concluded, candidates were advised to:

• Ensure they retain their admit cards and section-wise scorecards for future reference and counselling rounds.
• Stay updated with official CDAC announcements regarding results, counselling dates, and seat allotments.
• Prepare the requisite documents for the counselling phase once the results are declared.

The CDAC C-CAT continues to be a pivotal national-level computer-based entrance test that opens pathways to advanced computing and specialised IT programmes, enhancing academic and career trajectories for engineering, IT, and related graduates nationwide.