Scoring well in CAT 2026 isn't enough... Know about these changes in IIM admissions..
CAT 2026: The online application process for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 began on August 3, 2026. IIM Indore is conducting CAT 2026 this year. The exam is scheduled for November 29, 2026, at various centers across the country. While a CAT score offers the opportunity to pursue an MBA at prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top business schools, the score alone is not sufficient for admission to IIMs. Many IIMs have altered their methods for shortlisting and selecting candidates, implementing various changes.
Let us look at five key changes made regarding IIM admissions—specifically, how admission processes differ across various IIMs.
**CAP No Longer Common for All IIMs**
A significant change in IIM admissions involves the Common Admission Process (CAP). The CAP is no longer a unified process for all IIMs; for instance, while IIM Bodh Gaya, IIM Jammu, and IIM Sirmaur participated in CAP 2026, other IIMs opted for distinct admission processes. Notably, IIM Udaipur has devised its own selection process, which comprises CAT performance, a written test, and a personal interview.
**Four IIMs Launched a Joint Admission Process**
Meanwhile, four IIMs—IIM Kashipur, IIM Raipur, IIM Ranchi, and IIM Tiruchirappalli—have initiated a Joint Admission Process (JAP) for admissions. However, each of these institutes maintains its own final merit list and specific selection criteria.
**IIM Indore Revised Its Selection Formula**
IIM Indore has modified its admission criteria for the 2026-28 academic session. The institute has assigned greater weightage to the CAT score for MBA admissions. Work experience has also been incorporated into the new criteria. At the same time, the weightage given to Class 10 marks has been reduced.
Why a good CAT score alone isn't enough
A high CAT score is not sufficient on its own for admission to an IIM; it does not guarantee a seat. IIMs also consider factors such as academic performance, sectional scores, and work experience. For instance, each IIM has its own set of rules, and these rules are subject to change every year.
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