CAT Exam Pattern 2026: Exam Duration, Total Marks & Marking Scheme

What Is CAT Exam Pattern 2026?

The majority of students tend to focus on mastering only a few sections while neglecting others. However, all sections carry a certain weightage, and failing to score well across the board can hinder performance in the selection process or cut-off procedures. There is no fixed CAT paper pattern authorized by any conducting authority; however, based on past trends and patterns, we can conclude that there are three sections in the exam, as follows:

• Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) - 24 questions
• Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) - 22 questions
• Quantitative Aptitude (QA) - 22 questions

These sections evaluate a candidate’s aptitude for solving mathematical and reasoning problems. While this may vary depending on the organization conducting the test for CAT 2026, it is expected that the exam pattern will remain largely consistent. If you are planning to attempt the CAT 2026, you should take advantage of starting your preparation as early as possible to allow ample time to thoroughly understand the basics.

Expected CAT 2026 Exam Pattern - Key Highlights

The CAT 2026 exam pattern is expected to be similar to CAT 2025. Thus, it is the perfect time for all the CAT 2026 aspirants to kickstart their CAT preparation if they want to land in their dream B-schools. Some of the major points to keep in mind with regard to the CAT 2026 paper pattern are:

Also Check: CAT Eligibility

CAT Section-Wise Paper Pattern 2026

Below is a table highlighting the number of questions and weightage of each section.

CAT 2026 Test Pattern - Overall & Sectional Exam Duration

CAT Exam Timings 2026

CAT 2026 will be conducted in three separate time slots throughout the day. Each candidate will have a specific time slot assigned to them, which will be indicated on their CAT admit card. Here’s the breakdown of CAT exam slots for your reference:

CAT Marking Scheme 2026

Similar to the previous year's exam pattern, the marking scheme for the MCQ and TITA questions is different. Here is an overview of the marking scheme for CAT 2026:

Section-Wise CAT Marking Scheme 2026

CAT Paper Pattern 2026 – Previous Year Analysis

We have tabulated some of the major changes in the CAT exam pattern over the past few years for your understanding.

CAT Exam Preparation 2026

The CAT exam pattern provides candidates with a brief overview of how to prepare for the exam:

• Each section has roughly equal weightage, which indicates that while studying the basics, equal importance should be given to each section.
• Mock tests play an important role in determining the direction of CAT preparation. They enable candidates to analyze their performance and identify their weaknesses and strengths.
• A mock without an analysis is considered to be a null mock, and is of no use. They help candidates to ensure that their strongest section is not slipping and that there is measurable improvement in the section where they are focusing their efforts.

This milestone-based approach to CAT preparation will allow aspirants to concentrate on the right areas as the exam draws near.

Also Check: CAT preparation for working professionals | CAT preparation for beginners

Conclusion

As you can see, CAT is completely capable of shifting the paradigm of the CAT exam pattern and has done so over the years. In order to counter this, the candidates need to prepare for each topic in the syllabus and hone their test-taking skills. With the help of these two skills in their armory, any curveball thrown by CAT would not be much more than a temporary hesitation on the part of the candidate.

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