CAT Exam Fees 2026: New Fee Structure for General, SC/ST & PwD Categories & How to Apply

Overview: The CAT exam 2026 will be conducted on the last Sunday of November 2026 across various CAT exam centres. The CAT exam fees for different categories will be different. Read on to get the complete details about it! 

Key Takeaways

• The CAT 2026 exam fees for the General, EWS and NC-OBC categories are INR 2600/- (Expected)
• The CAT 2026 exam fees for the Reserved category SC, ST, PwD, is - INR 1300/-(Expected)
• The candidate can pay the CAT exam fees for 2026 in different ways, like credit card, debit card or net banking.

Note*- The CAT exam fees is non-refundable and should be paid only through online medium.

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Continue reading here to learn the complete details about the CAT exam fees 2026!

CAT Exam Fees 2026 - Overview 

Here are the fees that the candidates need to pay for the CAT 2026 application process:

Category	CAT 2026 Exam Fees for Application
CAT exam fees for OBC and General	Rs. 2600/- (Expected)
CAT 2026 exam fee for SC, ST and PwD	Rs. 1300-(Expected)

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

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Check Out: Are you eligible for CAT 2026? Check the Criteria Here!

What are the Different Modes of Payment for the CAT Exam Fees 2026?

Here are the different modes of payment for CAT 2026 exam fees:

CAT Fees Payment Method	How does it work?	Things to Keep in Mind
Debit Card	Use your ATM card to make direct payments from your bank account online.	Ensure your card is valid for online transactions and has a sufficient balance. Some banks charge a small fee for transactions.
Credit Card	Use your credit card to make the payment. The amount will be billed to you later.	Ensure your credit card is active for online payments and has enough credit limit. Credit card companies might levy a transaction fee.
Net Banking	Pay directly from your bank account using your online banking credentials.	You need to have an active net banking facility with your bank. Some banks may charge a small fee per transaction.
UPI (e.g., BHIM, Paytm, Google Pay)	Use your UPI ID to make the payment through a mobile payment app.	Ensure your UPI ID is active and linked to your bank account. There are generally no extra charges for UPI payments.
Mobile Wallets	Load money into your mobile wallet and use that balance to pay.	Ensure you have a sufficient balance in your wallet. Some wallets might have transaction charges.

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Are there any Late Fees or Extra Charges for the CAT Exam 2026? 

Well, there is no provision for late fees or additional charges for the CAT exam application.

The Common Admission Test (CAT) has a specific registration window; applications must be submitted and the fee paid within that period.

Applications submitted after the deadline are typically not accepted.

Important points that every CAT aspirant should consider

• Strict Deadlines: The CAT organising body (usually an IIMs) announces specific start and end dates for the registration process. It is crucial to adhere to these dates.
• No Late Submissions: Generally, there is no option to pay a late fee to submit your application after the deadline has passed.
• Official Notifications: Always refer to the official CAT website (iimcat.ac.in) for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the application process and important dates.
• Early Registration Advised: It is always advisable to register and pay the fee well before the closing date to avoid any last-minute technical issues or oversights.

Therefore, to appear for the CAT exam, you must ensure that you complete the registration process, including fee payment, within the stipulated timeframe announced in the official notification. Missing the deadline will mean you will not be able to take the exam in that particular year.

Refer to | CAT Preparation Books 2026

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Any Additional Costs Associated with Form Corrections for CAT Application Form 2026?

Well, there are no additional costs associated with making corrections to the CAT exam application form during the designated correction window.

The CAT organising body typically provides a short window after the registration closes for candidates to make limited corrections to their application form free of charge.

Generally, during the correction window, you can edit the following without any extra fee:

• Your Photograph
• Your Signature
• Test City Preferences 

Note: You cannot typically edit other crucial details like your name, date of birth, email ID, mobile number, academic information, or work experience through the correction window.

• One-Time Facility: The correction window is usually a one-time opportunity. Once you save your changes and submit, you might not be able to edit the form again.
• No Fee for Corrections: The CAT exam organising authority generally do not charge an additional fee for making these allowed corrections within the specified window.
• Contact Helpdesk for Other Errors: If you have made mistakes in non-editable fields, you will usually need to contact the CAT helpdesk via email to inquire about possible solutions. In some cases, they may advise you to complete a new application and pay a new fee.

What is the Refund and Cancellation Policy of the CAT Application form 2026?

The fee paid for the CAT exam application is non-refundable under any circumstances. The fee cannot be transferred to another candidate or adjusted for future exams.

• Careful Payment: Candidates must ensure payment is successful and confirmed, as refunds will not be provided.
• Double Payment (Possible Exception): In rare cases where a candidate makes multiple payments due to technical errors, they might be able to request a refund for the extra payment(s). This is subject to verification and approval by the CAT authorities. You would typically need to contact the CAT helpdesk with proof of the double transaction.
• Failed Transaction: If your payment fails but the amount is still deducted, contact the CAT helpdesk immediately. If the failure is verified, a refund to your original payment method might be initiated.

Cancellation Policy:

• No Cancellation Option: Once the application form is submitted and the fee is paid, there is no option to cancel your registration and receive a refund.
• Non-Appearance: If you decide not to appear for the exam after registering, your fee will still not be refunded.

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Common Mistakes while Paying CAT Exam Fees 2026

Here are some common mistakes to avoid while paying your CAT exam fees, in short points:

• Incorrect Payment Method: Selecting a method you don't have access to or are unfamiliar with.
• Entering Wrong Details: Typographical errors in card number, expiry date, CVV, UPI ID, or net banking credentials.
• Poor Internet Connection: Interruptions during payment can lead to failure or double deduction.
• Insufficient Funds: Not having enough balance in your account or credit limit on your card.
• Multiple Attempts: Repeated attempts to pay after an initial failure can result in various debits.
• Ignoring Confirmation: Not checking for payment confirmation (SMS, email, transaction page).
• Exceeding Transaction Limits: Your bank might have daily transaction limits that your fee exceeds.
• Using Expired Card: Trying to pay with a debit or credit card that has expired.
• Not Following Instructions: Skipping necessary steps or failing to read the payment guidelines carefully.
• Waiting Till Last Minute: Rushing the payment process increases the chances of errors.

Know More | Subjects to be Covered in CAT 2026

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CAT 2026 Exam Fees, Payment Failures, and Troubleshooting Process

What are the reasons for payment failure of the CAT exam fees, and what is the troubleshooting process? Well, here are the possible reasons that the candidate might face a payment failure issue: 

• Your internet connection dropped during payment.
• Your bank's server is down or has problems.
• You entered your card information or UPI ID incorrectly.
• Your account or card doesn't have enough money.
• Your bank may limit the amount you can pay online at once.
• The CAT website itself may be experiencing a temporary issue.

CAT Exam Fees 2026: Troubleshooting Process

• Wait and Check: Give it a little time (say, 30 mins) and check your bank account or card statement to see if the money has been deducted.
• Try Again Carefully: If no money is taken, try paying again. Double-check all your details (card number, UPI ID, etc.) this time.
• Use a Different Method: If it keeps failing, try a different payment option, such as using a debit card instead of UPI, or vice versa.
• Check Internet: Make sure you have a stable and good internet connection before trying again.
• Contact Your Bank: If money was deducted but you didn't get a payment confirmation, call your bank to check the transaction status.
• Contact CAT Helpdesk: If your bank confirms the payment went through but the CAT website still shows failure, reach out to the CAT helpdesk immediately with proof of payment (screenshot, bank statement). They can help you sort it out.
• Don't Panic and Keep Proof: Take screenshots of any error messages and your payment details. This will be helpful when contacting support.
• Avoid Multiple Attempts Immediately: Don't keep trying to pay repeatedly after a failure, as this can lead to multiple deductions. Wait and check first.

Read More: Basic requirements for the CAT exam

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What Happens in the Case of Double Payment?

Sometimes, due to technical glitches or multiple attempts after a failed notification, you might end up paying the CAT exam fee more than once. This can be concerning, but there's usually a process to address it.

How to Try and Get a Refund for Double Payment?

• Don't Panic: The first thing is to stay calm. The CAT organising authorities usually have a system to handle such situations.
• Note Down Transaction Details: Immediately make a note of the transaction IDs, dates, and times for both the successful payments. Also, take screenshots of your bank statements or payment confirmations showing the double debit. This will serve as crucial proof.
• Contact the CAT Helpdesk Immediately: The most important step is to contact the official CAT helpdesk as soon as you realise a double payment. You can usually find their contact details (email ID and sometimes a phone number) on the official CAT website. 

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How to Avoid Last-Minute Technical Issues while Paying CAT Fees 2026?

Here are short pointers on how to avoid last-minute technical issues while paying your CAT exam fees:

• Pay well before the closing date.
• Ensure your device and browser meet the official guidelines.
• Avoid paying for unstable Wi-Fi or mobile data.
• Double-check all information before submitting.
• Ensure your account or credit limit is sufficient.
• Be familiar with your chosen payment method.
• Try paying during non-peak internet usage times.
• Regularly clear your browser's cache and cookies.
• Opt for a well-functioning computer or laptop, if possible, over a mobile device.
• Capture payment confirmation details for your records.

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Conclusion

The CAT exam is a gateway to some of the best MBA programs in India. While the CAT 2026 registration fees can seem hefty, viewing them as an investment in your future is essential.

With options for fee waivers and financial aid, the governing bodies ensure that every deserving candidate has an equal opportunity to pursue their dream.

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