Is it impossible to prepare for CAT 2026 with self-study? – The answer is a resounding NO.
Preparing for CAT 2026 can be challenging, especially if you’re attempting it without paid coaching. However, with the right free resources, aspirants can build a strong foundation, practice extensively, and improve their performance strategically.
In this blog, we will guide you through the best free resources for CAT 2026 preparation and explain how to use them effectively to boost your percentile. Whether you’re just starting your preparation or are already deep into the process, these resources will provide the structure, insight, and practice aligned with the latest CAT syllabus and trends.
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Why Use Free Resources for CAT Preparation?
If you’re preparing for CAT 2026, free resources are a great way to begin your preparation without spending on coaching. With the right resources, you can:
- Build a strong understanding of basic concepts.
- Get plenty of practice through mock tests and sectional tests.
- Track your progress and spot weak areas early.
- Improve your time management and develop a clear exam strategy.
The most effective preparation integrates concept clarity, regular practice, and simulated exams- and the right mix of free resources can help you cover these areas.
List of Free CAT Preparation Resources
There are many platforms that provide concept videos, mock tests, PDFs, question banks, sectional practice sets, and past-year papers at no cost. Let’s break down the most valuable free aid you can use, section by section.
Free CAT Concept Videos
Understanding the basic concepts is important, especially for Quant and DILR. Free video lessons allow you to learn topics at your own pace and revisit tough areas as needed. These concept videos help you:
- Learn topic fundamentals from scratch.
- See step-by-step explanations for typical CAT problems.
- With the help of experts, refine your strategy with tips on solving difficult patterns.
There are several online channels and platforms that provide structured concept video content tailored for CAT preparation, perfect for establishing a solid knowledge foundation at the beginning of your journey.
Free CAT Mock Tests & Sectional Tests
Free CAT Mock tests are arguably the most critical part of CAT prep because they allow you to:
- Experience a simulated CAT exam environment.
- Understand how each section functions under time pressure.
- Assess strengths and weaknesses.
- Increase speed, improve accuracy, and decision-making.
Many preparation platforms offer free full-length CAT mock tests, sectional tests, along with CAT previous year question papers. These help you evaluate your performance and fine-tune your strategy.
How to use them effectively:
- Start with 1 mock per week in the early months. Increase to 2-3 mocks weekly, closer to the exam, depending on your comfort level and analysis capacity.
- After each test, spend time reviewing mistakes thoroughly.
Regularly taking mock tests will help you build confidence and improve your problem-solving ability under real exam pressure.
Free CAT Study PDFs & Practice Sheets
Downloaded notes help you quickly revise formulas and important concepts whenever you want, even without the internet.
The most common free PDF resources are as follows:
- Quantitative Ability formula sheets
- Topic-wise practice sets
- Verbal & Reading Comprehension practice packs
- Logical Reasoning challenge worksheets
- Sectional revision planners
PDFs are valuable not just for learning but also for revision when juggling multiple topics.
Previous Year CAT Question Papers
Solving previous year CAT questions is one of the best ways to prepare for CAT 2026. Attempting these as mock tests will help you:
- Understand the real exam pattern and question types.
- Identify high-yield areas that recur across years.
- Learn how questions evolve over time.
By practising past CAT papers consistently, you become familiar with the style and expectations of the exam.
Free CAT Daily Practice Tests
Consistency is the secret to cracking CAT. Daily practice keeps you sharp and prevents gaps in preparation.
You can create or follow daily practice routines that include:
- Small daily problem sets covering all three sections
- Mini-quizzes for Quant, LRDI, and VARC
- Time-bound drills to refine speed and accuracy
Daily targets help in creating momentum and maintaining a rhythm in the months leading up to the exam.
CAT Preparation Communities & Discussion Groups
Learning with peers can yield significant motivation. Complimentary online communities, discussion groups, and forums provide:
- Peer learning
- Concept clarification from other aspirants
- Exam taking strategies with toppers
- Time management tips and stress management
Engaging in these groups fosters commitment, discipline, and motivation during your preparation period. Career Launcher’s WhatsApp community provides regular updates regarding CAT and other entrance exam preparation and help find like-minded aspirants.
Free External Study Sources For CAT
In addition to structured preparation tools, there are other free resources you can use to boost your skills:
- YouTube channels focused on CAT topics
- Blogs offering section-wise preparation tips
- Public PDFs and study packs for extra revision
- General aptitude practice sites
These enhance your primary preparation and provide different perspectives that could assist you in grasping challenging concepts.
Open CAT – Free Resources For CAT Preparation
Career Launcher always strives for the best for its students. It understands that finding the best free resources for CAT preparation can be challenging. Thus, we have introduced Open CAT, a free CAT resource portal designed for aspiring takers, providing you with the opportunity to learn at your own pace.
Here you can gain access to:
- Video lectures curated exclusively by our top CAT mentors
- Finest study material & formula booklets
- Full-length mocks and previous year papers
- Basic and advanced level tests for each topic covering all three sections
- Knowledge and mentorship sessions by experts
All these in one place, empowering you with a comprehensive suite of resources to ace the exam, without spending a penny!
Conclusion
There’s absolutely no need to invest a hefty amount in order to prepare for CAT. By utilising a well-curated selection of free resources for CAT preparation, you can create an effective study plan that encompasses the essentials, practice, revision, and exam strategies, all without any financial investment. By combining free mock exams, concept videos, downloadable PDFs, and daily practice goals with your personal discipline, you can improve your chances of performing well on exam day.
Free resources make CAT preparation accessible to everyone; it is up to you to use them wisely, consistently, and continuously improve until you reach your target percentile. All the best for CAT 2026!
Also Check: CAT 2026 Preparation Tips | Common Mistakes to Avoid in MBA Prep
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it possible to crack CAT using only free study material?
A: Of course, with disciplined study, regular practice, and consistent mock test analysis, many aspirants have achieved top scores using free CAT preparation tools.
Q: What types of resources should I prioritise?
A: Focus on concept clarity lessons, mock tests with solutions, previous year papers, and structured practice PDFs – they provide the best return on your preparation effort.
Q: How can I effectively utilise free resources for CAT preparation?
A: To rank in the 99%ile, you must be consistent in your practice. Start by solidifying your foundation and attempting topic-specific questions every day. Take at least one mock test per week to evaluate errors and improve your strategy.
