Documents to carry for CAT Entrance Examination 2023

Summary: Learn about the necessary documents to bring, such as your CAT admit card and a valid photo ID. Learn about the dos and don'ts, prohibited items, and unique considerations for candidates with special needs. By following these instructions, you may ensure a smooth examination experience. 

The Common Admission Test (CAT) is an important achievement for aspirants who want to pursue management courses and get into top business schools. The IIMs, India's best management institutes, administer this national-level examination, which is considered moderately difficult.

As the big day approaches, understanding what documents to bring for the CAT entrance exam becomes critical. Let's look at the necessary documents and other important information for CAT 2023. 

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Documents to carry for CAT exam

CAT Admit Card: Your Entry Ticket 

Arguably the most vital document, the CAT admit card is mandatory for entry into the exam center. Aspiring candidates must: 

• Download it from the official CAT website. 
• Print it on an A4 size sheet, ensuring that all essential details such as the candidate's name, application number, registration number, exam date and time, exam center address, and PWD status are clearly visible. 
• Affix the photograph used during the application process. 

Without this admit card, candidates will be denied entrance. 

Check now: CAT Application Form 2023

Government-Issued Photo Identity: Proving Your Candidature 

It's crucial for candidates to carry at least one government-approved photo ID to the exam venue. The acceptable IDs include: 

• Aadhar card 
• Voter ID 
• College ID 
• Employer ID 
• Driving license 
• Passport 
• PAN card 

Remember, this is to verify your identity and avoid malpractices during the exam. 

Read more: CAT 2023 Exam Pattern

What are the important things to carry for CAT exam, and what are the things which are not allowed in CAT exam?

Forbidden Items: What You Should Leave Behind 

Documents to carry for the CAT exam aren't the only considerations. Candidates should also be aware of prohibited items to prevent unnecessary complications. Some of the banned items include: 

• Watches 
• Mobile Phones 
• Calculators 
• Cameras 
• Electronic Gadgets 
• Headphones/Earpiece 

Ensure you do not carry these forbidden items, as they can lead to disqualification. 

Read more: CAT Exam Syllabus 

Special Provisions: Scribe Affidavit, Medical Certificates, and More 

PWD candidates should furnish a valid medical certificate indicating their disability. Those requiring a scribe must carry the prescribed scribe affidavit. It's essential to have these documents verified at the exam center before being allowed entry. 

Moreover, candidates with specific conditions, such as name changes due to marriage or other reasons, should bring the respective legal and government-stamped proofs. 

Lastly, in exceptional situations requiring the carry of certain forbidden items, a special authorization letter approved by MCI (Medical Council of India) should be obtained and presented. 

Check: CAT Coaching Classes

Stationery: Keeping it Simple 

Given that the CAT is an online examination, candidates are advised to carry minimal stationery. While pens, pencils, and scales for rough work are permitted, the examination center will provide rough sheets. 

Read more: CAT Entrance Exam Marking Scheme

Authorization Form 

Candidates are requested not to carry any gadgets, food items, or stationery except the ones needed. In case of any emergency, the candidates can carry the necessary only if approved by the MCI doctor. An authorization letter will be issued in such cases. Then, candidates need to carry them to the examination hall.  

Documents Related to Name Change 

In exceptional cases where the candidates have changed their name or surname on events such as marriage, divorce, or any other purpose, the candidates must carry the legal documents along with them when appearing in the CAT examination. In addition, a government-stamped name change document proof should be carried. 

Read more: CAT Mark vs Percentile

Document Verification 

The candidate’s admit card (affixed with the photograph), original ID proof, will be checked on the desk. The photograph and signature of the candidate should be clearly printed and visible on the ID proof and must match with the name printed on the Admit Card. 

Read more: Why is CAT Exam important?

Biometric Verification 

• Post document verification, candidates will move inside the test lab. 
• They would be asked to proceed with biometric registration- IRIS and photo registration. 
• The candidate’s IRIS will be scanned and a photograph will be captured. 
• Candidates will be required to sign the attendance sheet. 
• It's a standard procedure to ensure that the right candidates are taking the test. 

Read more: How to prepare for CAT in 3 months?

Additional Guidelines and Instructions 

Candidates are advised to: 

• Reach the examination center well in advance. 
• Ensure you have the CAT admit card with you. 
• Review all details on the admit card. 
• Avoid applying Mehendi or similar items that might delay the checking process. 
• Cooperate with examination staff and invigilators throughout. 

Furthermore, candidates with specific needs, like those applying under the PwD quota, will receive added amenities such as extra time, separate rooms, or elevator access, among others. Ensure you have all necessary documents to carry for the CAT exam to utilize these provisions. 

Read more: CAT Preparation Books

On the Day of the CAT Exam: Do's and Don'ts 

Before appearing for the exam, candidates should consider the things that are permissible inside the examination hall and the ones that are banned. Here is the list of do’s and don’ts in the examination hall for a smooth examination experience, consider the following: 

Read more: CAT Exam Day Guidelines

Do's: 

• Carry the CAT 2023 Admit Card printed in an A4 size sheet. 
• Bring the self-declaration form as required. 
• Affix the photograph used during the application form fill-up process to the admit card. 
• Visit the CAT exam centre before the exam is conducted. 
• Use the washroom before the beginning of the exam, if required. 
• Carry the disability certificate if applicable. 
• Cooperate with biometric registration and document verification procedures. 
• Familiarize yourself with the examination centre rules and guidelines. 
• Abide by the instructions of the examination staff. 
• Dress code for the CAT exam, choose comfortable, neat attire without distractions, keeping in mind the weather and exam centre guidelines.

Don'ts: 

• Do not carry electronic devices such as mobile phones, calculators, smartwatches, wristbands, and cameras. 
• Avoid wearing any metallic jewellery. 
• Refrain from carrying stationery items, except for those specifically mentioned. 
• Do not wear footwear beyond the frisking point. 
• Avoid any form of cheating or malpractice during the exam. 
• Do not bring any prohibited items into the examination hall. 
• Avoid any behavior that may disrupt the exam environment. 
• Do not alter or tamper with any documents or certificates. 
• Avoid any form of communication or collaboration with other candidates during the exam. 
• Refrain from any action that may lead to disqualification from the exam. 

Take CAT  Free Mock test Series By Supergrads to Test Your Preparation Level

In conclusion, while preparing for the content of the CAT is crucial, knowing the essential documents to carry for the CAT exam and other guidelines ensures a hassle-free experience. Adhering to these guidelines demonstrates responsibility and serious intent, both qualities of an aspiring manager. Good luck!