Things to Carry for the CAT Exam | Complete Checklist — Percentilers

CAT Exam Guide · · 6 min read
Things to Carry for the CAT Exam | Complete Checklist — Percentilers

Quick Answer: CAT preparation checklist: Things to Carry for the CAT Exam, including documents, ID, dress code, and crucial dos and don'ts for exam day.

Things to Carry for the CAT Exam | Complete Checklist

Written by Pranshul Verma

February 5, 2026

Going for the CAT Exam, remember Things to Carry for the CAT Exam. However, sometimes candidates might forget basic exam day behaviors due to nervousness and stress. The CAT exam is highly sought after, and all aspirants diligently prepare for each aspect of the CAT syllabus. So, they should also remember these things. Enrolling in CAT Preparation Online Classes can help reduce anxiety by providing comprehensive strategies and preparation tips, ensuring you’re well-prepared for both the exam content and the exam day itself. Here are some guidelines to help you navigate your high-stress exam day with more ease:

Things to Carry to the CAT Exam Center:

1. Admit Card:

It is mandatory to carry your admit card to the exam centre. Ensure you have two printouts of your admit card beforehand for easy access on the morning of the exam.

2. Government ID Card:

Carry a government-issued ID card such as a PAN card, Aadhar card, or Voter ID card for identity verification.

3. Calculator:

Note that physical calculators are not allowed in the CAT exam. An on-screen calculator will be provided for basic calculations during the exam.

4. Do not carry a writing pad or water bottle; it will be provided at the centre.

5. Candidates must confirm the following information on their admit card beforehand:

  •    Name of the candidate
  •    PwD Status
  •    Date and Day of Test
  •    Registration Number
  •    Reporting/ Entry time at Centre
  •    Gate Closing Time of Centre
  •    Test Center address
  •    Test City
  •    Time and Session of CAT 2026

Dress Code Guidelines:

1. Footwear:

Avoid wearing footwear with thick soles as they may not be allowed in the exam centre. Prefer wearing something light and airy for optimal comfort.

2. Jewelry and Watch:

Do not wear any jewelry or a watch as these are generally not permitted during the exam.

3. Clothing:

Choose comfortable and appropriate clothing that allows you to sit comfortably for the duration of the exam. Avoid wearing any uncomfortable or distracting clothing.

4. Makeup:

Heavy makeup is not recommended for the exam day. Keep it simple and natural.

CAT 2026 DOS AND DON’TS-

  • Do check the distance from your place of stay to the exam centre considering the time it will take for you to get there. The traffic you might encounter along the way that can increase your commute time must also be considered. Plan your travel using a Daily Study Planner to ensure you allocate sufficient time for travel and pre-exam routines.
  • Make sure you do not sign the admit card beforehand; the admit card needs to be signed before the invigilator.
  • Take a good night’s sleep a day before the exam. The preparation process can be very tiring; many times students indulge themselves in late-night studying before the exam, which can result in sleepiness during the exam affecting their performance negatively. For optimum performance, enough sleep is non-negotiable.
  • Use the washroom before the exam as you won’t be permitted to do so during it. Additionally, you must keep quiet and observe social distance during the following procedures: entering the testing facility, being frisked, having your documents and biometrics verified, and leaving the facility after the test.
  • Don’t apply henna. You won’t be allowed to take the test if, for example, putting Mehndi, henna, or any cosmetic colours, prevents your fingerprints from being digitally scanned. Therefore, until the day of the CAT exam, it is highly advised that you refrain from applying mehndi on your hands (palm side).
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Q: Can I carry a digital watch or smart band to the CAT exam center?

A: No, digital watches, smart bands, and any other electronic gadgets are strictly prohibited inside the CAT exam center. Only simple analog watches are sometimes permitted, but it's best to avoid wearing any watch to prevent issues. The exam hall will have a clock for timekeeping.

Q: What if my admit card photo is not clear or doesn't match my appearance?

A: If your admit card photo is unclear or doesn't resemble your current appearance, you should carry two passport-sized photographs (matching the one uploaded during registration) to the exam center. You may be asked to paste one on the admit card and submit the other for verification.

Q: What items are strictly prohibited inside the CAT exam hall?

A: Besides electronic gadgets like mobile phones, smartwatches, and calculators, prohibited items include any paper, books, notes, bags, wallets, food items, and metallic objects. Ensure you leave all these items outside the exam hall to avoid disqualification.

Q: Is there a specific time I need to arrive at the CAT exam center?

A: Yes, candidates must adhere to the reporting/entry time mentioned on their admit card, usually 90-120 minutes before the exam starts. This allows ample time for verification, frisking, and biometric procedures. Latecomers will not be permitted inside the exam center.

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