CAT Registration 2024: Dates, Eligibility & Form Fees

Author : Akanksha

Updated On : May 13, 2024

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Overview: The provisional CAT exam date for 2024 is November 24, with IIM Calcutta likely to oversee its administration. Registration for the CAT entrance exam 2024 is expected to open in the first week of August by accepting CAT exam fees from applicants.

  • The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most prestigious entrance exams for MBA aspirants in India. 
  • Every year, thousands of candidates attempt this exam to secure a seat in the esteemed Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top B-schools. 
  • As with any competitive examination, there's a exam fee involved. 
  • This article aims to simplify the CAT exam fees 2024 for prospective candidates.

Also Read:

  1. CAT Last Year's Previous Year Question Papers
  2. CAT Exam Shift Timing
  3. CAT Exam 2024 Study Plan

Breakdown of Current CAT Exam Fees 2024

Arming yourself with knowledge about the costs associated with the CAT exam will help you plan your finances and focus on taking the exam and securing a seat in your desired B-school.

  • CAT exam fees: This is a mandatory CAT entrance exam registration fee charged during the initial phase of the application process. It allows candidates to book a slot for the CAT exam and ensures their candidature is registered.
  • Fee Structure: After successful counselling and seat allotment, candidates are required to pay an admission fee. This confirms their seat in the respective B-school and covers the initial administrative and infrastructural costs.
  • Fee Waiver: Understanding that not every candidate might be in a position to afford the exam fees.
  • Counselling Fee: Once a candidate clears the CAT exam and is shortlisted by an IIM or other B-school, there's a counselling fee involved. This fee covers the costs associated with seat allocation, document verification, and other administrative processes.

Check: What to do after the CAT Exam?

CAT Exam Fees 2024: CAT Exam Registration Fees

CAT exam fees for application are different for various categories, which are as follows-

Category CAT Exam Fees for Application
General, EWS and OBC Rs. 2400
SC, ST and PwD Rs. 1200

These are the CAT exam fees; no additional charges are applicable. 

Check: CAT Exam Top Colleges 2024

CAT Exam 2024 Registration Process

What is CAT exam fees for 2024 application?

  • SC, ST, and PwD candidates must pay an application fee of ₹1200. 
  • The general category must pay an application fee of ₹2400. 

Please note that a candidate needs to pay the registration fees only once, irrespective of the number of institutes he/she is applying.

Candidates who are SC, ST, or PwD must upload a copy of their appropriate documentation while registering.

Under no circumstances are CAT exam fees that have already been paid refundable.

Steps to successfully register for the CAT Exam 2024

Step 1: Registration for User ID and Password

Use the following browsers: 

  • Mozilla Firefox (version 85 to 102)
  • Google Chrome (version 80 to 103)
  • Microsoft Edge (version 80 to 103)

The registration form to create your User Profile appears as shown below.

Enter the OPT and Captcha and submit the declaration. 

Also Check: CAT Exam Preparation Books 2024 

Step 2: Log in to CAT Exam Website

You can access the website as a "Registered Candidate" and complete the CAT application using the system-generated User ID and Password you received after completing Step 1 above.

Enter your User ID/Password as shown below: 

Step 3: Fill Application Form 

The CAT Application Form is categorized into the following six sections:

  • Personal Details
  • Academics
  • Work Experience
  • Programs
  • Test City
  • Payment

If you have another professional degree, add the degree and save it. 

Step 4: Pick the required program

Step 5: Pick a Test City

  • The drop-down box allows the applicant to choose any six test cities according to his or her preferences.
  • One of the six preferred test cities will be assigned after the registration deadline, pending availability. 
  • Rarely will a candidate be assigned to a nearby test city if none of the chosen test cities is available.

Step 6: Make the Payment

An SC/ST/PwD candidate would pay Rs. 1200 to take the CAT, compared to Rs. 2400 for General/EWS/NC-OBC candidates. Read the transaction fees in the table below carefully before paying.

Check: CAT Application Form 2024

CAT Entrance Exam 2024 Application Correction Window

The edit window will be made live by the examination authorities; students must log in by using their user ID and password.

Please make use of this period if you wish to edit the following: 

  • Photo
  • Signature
  • Test City preferences

Steps to edit CAT application 2024

  • In order to edit your application form, log in by using your user ID and password. 
  • After login, click on go to application to start the editing process.
  • Please read all the instructions carefully while editing the form.

Check: CAT Exam Centers 2024

CAT Exam Fees 2024: Top IIMs Offering MBA

The admission fees can include various components like Tuition and Academic Fees, Accommodation Fees, mess Charges and Other Miscellaneous Charges.

Here is the list of the top 5 IIMs with their NIRF rankings and the CAT exam fees in India. 

IIM Ahmedabad MBA Fees

The CAT exam fees for the general category are as follows -

NIRF Ranking - 1

The table below has the fee structure for IIM Ahmedabad:

Entrance fee for CAT exam - Payment mode 1
Phase Married Student Hostel (MSH)* Single Accommodation*
First Commitment Fee INR 2,00,000 INR 2,00,000
Second Commitment Fee INR 12,00,000 INR 12,00,000
Balance Programme Fee INR 18,00,000 INR 16,00,000
Caution Money (refundable) INR 70,000 INR 35,000
CAT Exam Course Fee - Payment mode 2
Phase Married Student Hostel (MSH)* Single Accommodation*
First Commitment Fee INR 2,00,000 INR 2,00,000
Balance Fee: 1st Installment INR 14,40,000 INR 12,40,000
Balance Fee: 2nd Installment INR 10,66,000 INR 10,66,000
Balance Fee: 3rd Installment INR 5,33,000 INR 5,33,000
Caution Money (refundable) INR 70,000 INR 35,000

Check: Why CAT Exam is Important?

IIM Bangalore MBA Fees

NIRF Ranking - 2

The table below has the fee structure for IIM Bangalore:

Components Fees
IIMB Fees for 2 years Rs. 24,50,000
Caution Deposit (General) Rs 15,000
Caution Deposit (Hostel) Rs 5,000

IIM Kozhikode MBA Fees

NIRF Ranking - 3

The table below has the fee structure for IIM Kozhikode: 

Term First Year IIM Kozhikode Fee Second Year IIM Kozhikode Fee
Term I/ IV 4,25,000 4,25,000
Term II/ V 3,00,000 3,00,000
Term III/ VI 3,00,000 3,00,000
Total 10,25, 2000 10,25, 2000

Check: How to Prepare for the CAT Exam at Home?

IIM Calcutta MBA Fees

NIRF Ranking - 4

The table below has the fee structure for IIM Calcutta:

Components Fees
Commitment fee Rs 2,00,000
Second instalment Rs 10,00,000
Third instalment Rs 10,00,000
Fourth instalment Rs 9,00,000

IIM Delhi MBA Fees

NIRF Ranking - 5

The table below has the fee structure for IIM Delhi:

Fee Components Installment (INR) Total (INR)
I II III IV V VI
Tuition Fee 2,83,400 2,83,400 2,83,400 3,22,400 3,22,400 3,22,400 18,17,400
Text/Reading Material 14,300 14,300 14,300 15,450 15,450 15,450 89,250
Student Activities/welfare (incl. mediclaim) 4,410 4,410 4,410 4,750 4,750 4,750 27,480
Library Fee 8,820 8,820 8,820 9,490 9,490 9,490 54,930
Alumni - Life Membership 2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 15,000
Security Deposit* 15,000 - - - - - 15,000
Total 3,28,430 3,13,430 3,13,430 3,54,590 3,54,590 3,54,590 20,19,060

Check: Difference between CAT and MAT Exam

CAT Exam Fees 2024: Fee Waivers

A small number of qualified candidates will receive a waiver of the tuition fee portion of the academic costs from IMI New Delhi in accordance with AICTE standards. According to AICTE regulations, candidates must have a total household income of less than INR 8 lacs per year in the financial year that ended right before the year of admission, as attested by a government official. 

The eligible students in the admitted class will be chosen for the remission of tuition fees within a month of the start of the first term of school.

Candidates must present their CAT exam admit card during the admission process.

Selection will be based on merit in the IMI New Delhi admissions process for the small pool of qualified students for whom the tuition fee waiver may be available. 

IMI New Delhi shall have the sole power to determine which students will get tuition price waivers; this decision will be final and binding on all parties, and the Institute will not accept any representations in this matter.

Check: CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria 2024

CAT Exam Fees 2024: Counselling Fees

  • While the term "CAT Counselling Fees" is not commonly used in the context of IIM admissions, candidates must be aware of the various fees and deposits they will encounter once shortlisted after their CAT results. 
  • Planning and being well-informed will ensure a smooth transition from the selection stages to securing a seat in a desired B-school. 
  • Always refer to the official websites of the IIMs or concerned B-schools for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Check: CAT Exam Cut Off Trends

Conclusion

The CAT exam is a gateway to some of the best MBA programs in India. While the fees associated might seem hefty, it's essential to view them as an investment in your future. With options for fee waivers and financial aid, the governing bodies ensure that every deserving candidate gets a fair shot at their dream.

Check: CAT Exam Maths Syllabus 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the registration fee refundable if I choose not to take the exam?

Can I pay the CAT exam fees in installments?

What payment methods are accepted for CAT exam fees?

Is there a discount for repeat test-takers?

If I qualify for a fee waiver, do I need to pay any amount upfront?

CAT Registration 2024: Dates, Eligibility & Form Fees

Author : Akanksha

May 13, 2024

SHARE

Overview: The provisional CAT exam date for 2024 is November 24, with IIM Calcutta likely to oversee its administration. Registration for the CAT entrance exam 2024 is expected to open in the first week of August by accepting CAT exam fees from applicants.

  • The Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most prestigious entrance exams for MBA aspirants in India. 
  • Every year, thousands of candidates attempt this exam to secure a seat in the esteemed Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top B-schools. 
  • As with any competitive examination, there's a exam fee involved. 
  • This article aims to simplify the CAT exam fees 2024 for prospective candidates.

Also Read:

  1. CAT Last Year's Previous Year Question Papers
  2. CAT Exam Shift Timing
  3. CAT Exam 2024 Study Plan

Breakdown of Current CAT Exam Fees 2024

Arming yourself with knowledge about the costs associated with the CAT exam will help you plan your finances and focus on taking the exam and securing a seat in your desired B-school.

  • CAT exam fees: This is a mandatory CAT entrance exam registration fee charged during the initial phase of the application process. It allows candidates to book a slot for the CAT exam and ensures their candidature is registered.
  • Fee Structure: After successful counselling and seat allotment, candidates are required to pay an admission fee. This confirms their seat in the respective B-school and covers the initial administrative and infrastructural costs.
  • Fee Waiver: Understanding that not every candidate might be in a position to afford the exam fees.
  • Counselling Fee: Once a candidate clears the CAT exam and is shortlisted by an IIM or other B-school, there's a counselling fee involved. This fee covers the costs associated with seat allocation, document verification, and other administrative processes.

Check: What to do after the CAT Exam?

CAT Exam Fees 2024: CAT Exam Registration Fees

CAT exam fees for application are different for various categories, which are as follows-

Category CAT Exam Fees for Application
General, EWS and OBC Rs. 2400
SC, ST and PwD Rs. 1200

These are the CAT exam fees; no additional charges are applicable. 

Check: CAT Exam Top Colleges 2024

CAT Exam 2024 Registration Process

What is CAT exam fees for 2024 application?

  • SC, ST, and PwD candidates must pay an application fee of ₹1200. 
  • The general category must pay an application fee of ₹2400. 

Please note that a candidate needs to pay the registration fees only once, irrespective of the number of institutes he/she is applying.

Candidates who are SC, ST, or PwD must upload a copy of their appropriate documentation while registering.

Under no circumstances are CAT exam fees that have already been paid refundable.

Steps to successfully register for the CAT Exam 2024

Step 1: Registration for User ID and Password

Use the following browsers: 

  • Mozilla Firefox (version 85 to 102)
  • Google Chrome (version 80 to 103)
  • Microsoft Edge (version 80 to 103)

The registration form to create your User Profile appears as shown below.

Enter the OPT and Captcha and submit the declaration. 

Also Check: CAT Exam Preparation Books 2024 

Step 2: Log in to CAT Exam Website

You can access the website as a "Registered Candidate" and complete the CAT application using the system-generated User ID and Password you received after completing Step 1 above.

Enter your User ID/Password as shown below: 

Step 3: Fill Application Form 

The CAT Application Form is categorized into the following six sections:

  • Personal Details
  • Academics
  • Work Experience
  • Programs
  • Test City
  • Payment

If you have another professional degree, add the degree and save it. 

Step 4: Pick the required program

Step 5: Pick a Test City

  • The drop-down box allows the applicant to choose any six test cities according to his or her preferences.
  • One of the six preferred test cities will be assigned after the registration deadline, pending availability. 
  • Rarely will a candidate be assigned to a nearby test city if none of the chosen test cities is available.

Step 6: Make the Payment

An SC/ST/PwD candidate would pay Rs. 1200 to take the CAT, compared to Rs. 2400 for General/EWS/NC-OBC candidates. Read the transaction fees in the table below carefully before paying.

Check: CAT Application Form 2024

CAT Entrance Exam 2024 Application Correction Window

The edit window will be made live by the examination authorities; students must log in by using their user ID and password.

Please make use of this period if you wish to edit the following: 

  • Photo
  • Signature
  • Test City preferences

Steps to edit CAT application 2024

  • In order to edit your application form, log in by using your user ID and password. 
  • After login, click on go to application to start the editing process.
  • Please read all the instructions carefully while editing the form.

Check: CAT Exam Centers 2024

CAT Exam Fees 2024: Top IIMs Offering MBA

The admission fees can include various components like Tuition and Academic Fees, Accommodation Fees, mess Charges and Other Miscellaneous Charges.

Here is the list of the top 5 IIMs with their NIRF rankings and the CAT exam fees in India. 

IIM Ahmedabad MBA Fees

The CAT exam fees for the general category are as follows -

NIRF Ranking - 1

The table below has the fee structure for IIM Ahmedabad:

Entrance fee for CAT exam - Payment mode 1
Phase Married Student Hostel (MSH)* Single Accommodation*
First Commitment Fee INR 2,00,000 INR 2,00,000
Second Commitment Fee INR 12,00,000 INR 12,00,000
Balance Programme Fee INR 18,00,000 INR 16,00,000
Caution Money (refundable) INR 70,000 INR 35,000
CAT Exam Course Fee - Payment mode 2
Phase Married Student Hostel (MSH)* Single Accommodation*
First Commitment Fee INR 2,00,000 INR 2,00,000
Balance Fee: 1st Installment INR 14,40,000 INR 12,40,000
Balance Fee: 2nd Installment INR 10,66,000 INR 10,66,000
Balance Fee: 3rd Installment INR 5,33,000 INR 5,33,000
Caution Money (refundable) INR 70,000 INR 35,000

Check: Why CAT Exam is Important?

IIM Bangalore MBA Fees

NIRF Ranking - 2

The table below has the fee structure for IIM Bangalore:

Components Fees
IIMB Fees for 2 years Rs. 24,50,000
Caution Deposit (General) Rs 15,000
Caution Deposit (Hostel) Rs 5,000

IIM Kozhikode MBA Fees

NIRF Ranking - 3

The table below has the fee structure for IIM Kozhikode: 

Term First Year IIM Kozhikode Fee Second Year IIM Kozhikode Fee
Term I/ IV 4,25,000 4,25,000
Term II/ V 3,00,000 3,00,000
Term III/ VI 3,00,000 3,00,000
Total 10,25, 2000 10,25, 2000

Check: How to Prepare for the CAT Exam at Home?

IIM Calcutta MBA Fees

NIRF Ranking - 4

The table below has the fee structure for IIM Calcutta:

Components Fees
Commitment fee Rs 2,00,000
Second instalment Rs 10,00,000
Third instalment Rs 10,00,000
Fourth instalment Rs 9,00,000

IIM Delhi MBA Fees

NIRF Ranking - 5

The table below has the fee structure for IIM Delhi:

Fee Components Installment (INR) Total (INR)
I II III IV V VI
Tuition Fee 2,83,400 2,83,400 2,83,400 3,22,400 3,22,400 3,22,400 18,17,400
Text/Reading Material 14,300 14,300 14,300 15,450 15,450 15,450 89,250
Student Activities/welfare (incl. mediclaim) 4,410 4,410 4,410 4,750 4,750 4,750 27,480
Library Fee 8,820 8,820 8,820 9,490 9,490 9,490 54,930
Alumni - Life Membership 2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 15,000
Security Deposit* 15,000 - - - - - 15,000
Total 3,28,430 3,13,430 3,13,430 3,54,590 3,54,590 3,54,590 20,19,060

Check: Difference between CAT and MAT Exam

CAT Exam Fees 2024: Fee Waivers

A small number of qualified candidates will receive a waiver of the tuition fee portion of the academic costs from IMI New Delhi in accordance with AICTE standards. According to AICTE regulations, candidates must have a total household income of less than INR 8 lacs per year in the financial year that ended right before the year of admission, as attested by a government official. 

The eligible students in the admitted class will be chosen for the remission of tuition fees within a month of the start of the first term of school.

Candidates must present their CAT exam admit card during the admission process.

Selection will be based on merit in the IMI New Delhi admissions process for the small pool of qualified students for whom the tuition fee waiver may be available. 

IMI New Delhi shall have the sole power to determine which students will get tuition price waivers; this decision will be final and binding on all parties, and the Institute will not accept any representations in this matter.

Check: CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria 2024

CAT Exam Fees 2024: Counselling Fees

  • While the term "CAT Counselling Fees" is not commonly used in the context of IIM admissions, candidates must be aware of the various fees and deposits they will encounter once shortlisted after their CAT results. 
  • Planning and being well-informed will ensure a smooth transition from the selection stages to securing a seat in a desired B-school. 
  • Always refer to the official websites of the IIMs or concerned B-schools for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Check: CAT Exam Cut Off Trends

Conclusion

The CAT exam is a gateway to some of the best MBA programs in India. While the fees associated might seem hefty, it's essential to view them as an investment in your future. With options for fee waivers and financial aid, the governing bodies ensure that every deserving candidate gets a fair shot at their dream.

Check: CAT Exam Maths Syllabus 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the registration fee refundable if I choose not to take the exam?

Can I pay the CAT exam fees in installments?

What payment methods are accepted for CAT exam fees?

Is there a discount for repeat test-takers?

If I qualify for a fee waiver, do I need to pay any amount upfront?

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