CAT Syllabus 2026 serves as the foundation for MBA aspirants targeting admission to the prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top business schools in India. The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 is a 120-minute computer-based test (CBT) consisting of 68 questions, with a marking scheme of +3 for each correct answer and –1 for each incorrect response. The exam evaluates candidates across three core sections: Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Aptitude.
A thorough understanding of the latest CAT Syllabus 2026 and exam pattern is essential for building a focused and effective preparation strategy. To secure a high percentile in CAT 2026, candidates must develop strong skills in reading comprehension, arithmetic, algebra, data interpretation, and logical reasoning while maintaining the right balance between speed and accuracy. Familiarity with the updated syllabus helps aspirants prioritize important topics, manage time efficiently, and approach the CAT exam with confidence.
CAT Syllabus 2026 Overview
The CAT Syllabus 2026 is expected to remain largely in line with the exam pattern followed in recent years. The CAT exam follows a three-section format with strict sectional time limits, designed to test a candidate’s verbal, logical, and quantitative abilities. The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) do not release an official topic-wise syllabus for CAT. Instead, only the exam sections are defined.
Based on previous year trends and analysis, the following table provides a clear overview of the CAT Exam Syllabus 2026, exam structure, and marking scheme.
CAT Syllabus 2026 – Basic Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Common Admission Test (CAT 2026) |
| Key Sections | VARC, DILR, Quantitative Aptitude |
| Core Skill Areas | Reading Comprehension, Logical Reasoning, Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry |
| Difficulty Level | Class 8–10 fundamentals with advanced application |
| Sectional Time Limit | 40 Minutes per section (Non-switchable) |
| Question Types | MCQs & TITA (Type In The Answer) |
| Marking Scheme | +3 for correct, -1 for incorrect MCQs, 0 for TITA |
| Official Syllabus | No detailed syllabus released by IIMs |
Also Read – SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 for Tier 1 and Tier 2 Exams PDF Download
CAT Syllabus PDF Download – Section Wise Topics
The CAT conducting authority does not publish an official CAT Syllabus PDF. However, it clearly defines the three major sections of the exam:
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
- Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
Most aspirants rely on previous year CAT question papers and expert-curated resources to understand the complete syllabus. A well-structured CAT Syllabus PDF helps candidates track important topics and streamline preparation.
Download CAT Syllabus 2026 PDF (Section-Wise Topics)
Section Wise CAT Exam Syllabus 2026
The CAT syllabus 2026 section wise is structured to assess multiple cognitive skills such as comprehension, analytical thinking, logical accuracy, and numerical ability.
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
The VARC section evaluates a candidate’s reading ability, vocabulary, and logical understanding of written content.
VARC Syllabus 2026
| Section | Topics (Indicative) |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension (RC) | 4 passages (500–600 words) from Business, Science, Philosophy, Literature & Social Issues |
| Verbal Ability (VA) | Para-jumbles (TITA), Para-summary, Odd Sentence Out, Para-completion |
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
The DILR section is considered the most challenging due to its unpredictable nature and complex problem sets.
DILR Syllabus 2026
| Section | Topics (Indicative) |
|---|---|
| Data Interpretation (DI) | Bar Graphs, Pie Charts, Line Graphs, Tables, Caselets, Mixed Data Sets |
| Logical Reasoning (LR) | Seating Arrangements, Venn Diagrams, Blood Relations, Syllogisms, Games & Tournaments, Binary Logic |
Also Read – NDA Exam Syllabus 2026 – Subject Wise PDF, Marks & Exam Pattern
Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
The CAT syllabus 2026 for Quantitative Aptitude is primarily based on high-school mathematics, with a strong focus on Arithmetic and Algebra.
Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2026
| Topic | Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Arithmetic | Percentages, Profit & Loss, SI & CI, Averages, Ratio & Proportion, TSD, Time & Work |
| Algebra | Linear & Quadratic Equations, Inequalities, Logarithms, Functions, Sequences & Series |
| Geometry & Mensuration | Triangles, Circles, Polygons, Coordinate Geometry, 3D Mensuration |
| Number System | HCF & LCM, Divisibility, Remainders, Factors, Base System |
| Modern Math | Permutations & Combinations, Probability, Set Theory, Binomial Theorem |
CAT 2026 Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
Understanding the CAT 2026 exam pattern is essential because candidates cannot move between sections once a sectional timer starts.
CAT 2026 Exam Pattern (Expected)
| Section | Questions | MCQs | TITA | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VARC | 24 | 21–22 | 2–3 | 72 | 40 mins |
| DILR | 22 | 14–16 | 6–8 | 66 | 40 mins |
| QA | 22 | 14–15 | 7–8 | 66 | 40 mins |
| Total | 68 | 49–53 | 15–19 | 204 | 120 mins |
CAT 2026 Marking Scheme
- Correct Answer (MCQ/TITA): +3 Mark
- Incorrect MCQ: –1 Mark
- Incorrect TITA: No Negative Marking
- Unattempted Question: 0 Marks
CAT 2026 Preparation Strategy
To crack the CAT exam and score a high percentile, candidates must follow a well-planned preparation strategy aligned with the CAT syllabus for MBA 2026.
Effective CAT Preparation Tips
- Build Strong Fundamentals: Start with NCERT Maths (Class 8–10) and develop daily reading habits.
- Focus on High-Weightage Areas: Arithmetic & Algebra contribute nearly 70% of QA, while RC dominates VARC.
- Practice TITA Questions: No negative marking makes TITA questions scoring opportunities.
- Attempt Mock Tests: Regular CAT mock tests improve speed, accuracy, and sectional time management.
- Analyze Previous Papers: Helps identify repeated patterns and actual difficulty levels.
Best Books for CAT Preparation 2026
DILR Books – Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning
- CAT Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning – Gautam Puri
- Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation – Nishit K Sinha
- Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency – Ananta Ashisha
- How to Prepare for DILR – Arun Sharma
VARC Books – Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension
- How to Prepare for CAT VARC – Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay
- 30 Days to a Stronger Vocabulary – Norman Lewis
- Wren & Martin High School Grammar
Quantitative Aptitude Books
- NCERT Maths (Class 9 & 10)
- Quantitative Aptitude for CAT – Arun Sharma
- Quantum CAT – Sarvesh Sharma
- Quantitative Aptitude – Nishit K Sinha
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FAQs – CAT Syllabus 2026
What is the TITA question format in CAT 2026?
TITA (Type In The Answer) questions require candidates to type the answer directly without any options. These questions do not carry negative marking, making them scoring opportunities.
Does the CAT 2026 syllabus change every year?
The core structure of the CAT syllabus remains the same every year. However, the difficulty level, topic weightage, and question patterns may vary depending on the exam paper.
Is there a sectional time limit in CAT 2026?
Yes, CAT 2026 follows a strict sectional time limit of 40 minutes per section. Candidates cannot switch sections once the timer starts.
Which section is considered the toughest in the CAT exam?
Most candidates find Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) to be the most challenging section due to its unpredictable nature and complex problem sets.
Is there negative marking for all questions in CAT 2026?
Negative marking applies only to MCQs, where one mark is deducted for every incorrect answer. TITA questions do not have negative marking.
Is the CAT exam tough for an average student?
The CAT exam is moderately to highly challenging, but it is not impossible for an average student. The exam tests aptitude, logical thinking, and time management rather than rote learning. With a clear understanding of the CAT syllabus, regular practice, and consistent mock test analysis, average students can score a high percentile in CAT.
What factors should be kept in mind to cover the CAT syllabus on time?
To complete the CAT syllabus 2026 effectively, candidates should focus on the following points:
1. Create a realistic study plan with daily and weekly targets
2. Prioritize high-weightage topics such as Arithmetic, Algebra, and Reading Comprehension
3. Allocate section-wise preparation time for VARC, DILR, and QA
4. Practice mock tests and sectional tests regularly
5. Analyze mistakes and revise weak areas consistently
Proper planning and discipline are key to timely syllabus completion.
How many vocabulary questions are asked in the CAT exam?
CAT does not ask direct vocabulary-based questions. Vocabulary is tested indirectly through Reading Comprehension passages and Verbal Ability questions such as para-jumbles and sentence completion. A strong reading habit and contextual vocabulary understanding are sufficient for this section.
