List of Essential Documents Required for CAT 2026 Registration

Here is the complete, combined master table containing all technical specifications, document upload guidelines, and data requirements for your CAT 2026 registration.

Master Document Upload Specifications for CAT 2026

Document Type	Who Must Upload	File Format	Dimensions / Formatting Rules
Passport-size Photograph	All Candidates	JPG / JPEG 80 KB max	1200 x 1200 pixels max
Scanned Signature	All Candidates	JPG / JPEG 80 KB max	80mm x 35mm
Category Certificate	SC, ST, NC-OBC, and EWS candidates	PDF 1 MB max	Standard Central Govt. Format
Workex Documents	Working Students	PDF 1 MB max	Institution Letterhead
Academic Marksheets	SSC/10th/Equivalent Details HSC/12th/Equivalent/Diploma Course Details First Bachelor’s Degree Details Second Bachelor’s Degree Details Master’s Degree Details Professional Degree Details	PDF 1 MB max	Clean Digital Scan
Official Photo ID Proof	All Candidates	PDF / JPEG	Clear Identification Copy

Registering for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2026 requires careful preparation, especially when it comes to uploading the correct documentation. The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) follow a strict verification protocol, and any discrepancy in your uploaded files can lead to the immediate rejection of your application. Before the registration portal opens in August 2026, ensuring you have the correct files ready will save you from last-minute stress.

The primary document you need is a valid government-issued photo identity proof. An Aadhaar card is highly recommended, though a PAN card, passport, voter ID, or driving license is also fully acceptable. Make sure the name on your identity card exactly matches the name printed on your Class 10 marksheet.

For academic records, you must keep scanned, legible copies of your Class 10 and Class 12 marksheets. You also need your graduation transcripts or degree certificates. If you are currently in the final year of your bachelor degree program, you must obtain a valid bonafide certificate from your college principal or head of the department to verify your status.

The photograph and signature upload specifications are where most errors occur. Your passport-size photograph must be recent, not older than six months, and taken against a plain white background. The dimension should be 1200 x 1200 pixels in JPG or JPEG format, with a file size under 80 KB. For the digital signature, sign with a black or blue ink pen on plain white paper, crop it to 80mm x 35mm, and keep the file size under 80 KB in JPEG format.

Lastly, candidates applying under reserved categories like SC, ST, NC-OBC, or EWS, or under the PwD category, must upload self-attested certificates in PDF format under 200 KB, ensuring the certificates are valid for the current financial year. Double-check all inputs before final payment to secure your registration successfully.