Last Call to MICA: MICAT 2026 Phase 2 Registration Now Open

The Mudra Institute of Communications, Ahmedabad (MICA), has opened the registration window for MICAT 2 2026. This is the final opportunity for aspirants seeking admission to the prestigious PGDM and PGDM-C programs for the 2026-2028 batch. The deadline to apply is strictly January 29, 2026. Prospective students must hold a valid score from CAT 2025, XAT 2026, or GMAT (2024 onwards) to be eligible. Learn about the selection process, exam pattern, and key dates in this essential guide.

The coveted Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) and Post Graduate Diploma in Management-Communications (PGDM-C) programs at the Mudra Institute of Communications, Ahmedabad (MICA), represent a unique blend of management acumen and creative communication expertise. For thousands of MBA aspirants, a seat at MICA is a gateway to a career in top-tier marketing, advertising, media, and consumer tech roles. The institute has now announced the final window for the academic session 2026-2028, commencing the MICAT 2 2026 registration process. With the registration set to close on January 29, 2026, this final phase is absolutely critical for those who missed the earlier MICAT-I opportunity or are aiming to improve their scores.

MICA's admission process is distinctly holistic, moving beyond standard aptitude tests to evaluate a candidate's creative, psychometric, and communication potential, making the MICAT exam an essential filter. Successfully navigating this second phase is the last chance to enter the MICA admission funnel for this cycle. The institute, renowned for its excellent placements—including a highest CTC of ₹40.91 LPA and an average CTC of ₹19.22 LPA in 2025—is once again poised to welcome a diverse and talented batch of future industry leaders. Aspirants must act swiftly and strategically to secure their application by the deadline.

 Key Dates and Application Essentials for MICAT 2

This final application window holds immense importance for aspirants, as MICA considers the better of the two MICAT scores (MICAT-I and MICAT-II). This gives candidates a significant advantage if they have already appeared for the first phase or are applying for the first time. The application process is entirely online, and all candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria before proceeding.

• Registration Deadline: The application window for MICAT-II closes on January 29, 2026, at 11:50 PM. Missing this date means forfeiting admission opportunities for the 2026-2028 batch.
• MICAT-II Examination Date: The second phase of the Computer-Based Test (CBT) is scheduled for February 13, 2026. This leaves ample time for focused preparation on the unique MICAT exam components.
• Admit Card Release: Aspirants will be able to download their MICAT-II admit cards from February 10, 2026.
• Fee Structure: The application fee for MICAT 2026 is generally ₹2,500. Candidates must check the official MICA website for any changes or additional fees related to selecting multiple programs.

 Understanding the MICAT Exam Pattern and Selection Criteria

The MICA selection process is a three-stage filter designed to identify candidates who possess the right mix of academic aptitude and a flair for communication. A valid score in CAT 2025, XAT 2026, or GMAT (2024 onwards) is a prerequisite for all applicants. The MICAT exam itself is a core component, and its structure is unique in the MBA domain.

The Three Sections of MICAT

1. Section A: Psychometric Test: This is a mandatory qualifier with 150 objective questions and no negative marking. Its primary goal is to assess the candidate's personality and suitability for a career in marketing communications.
2. Section B: Descriptive Test: This subjective section, comprising 4 questions worth 70 marks, evaluates writing skills and creative expression. Topics often revolve around socio-economic, business, or creative themes. There is no negative marking in this section.
3. Section C: Aptitude Test: This section tests the candidate's analytical skills through four sub-sections.
   • Verbal Ability (VA)
   • Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation (QA & DI)
   • General Awareness (GA), focusing on media, advertising, and current affairs.
   • Divergent and Convergent Thinking (DCR), which includes visual reasoning and word association.
   • Note: This section has negative marking ($0.25$ marks deducted for every incorrect answer).

Final Selection Weightage

The final merit list is based on a composite score that strategically weighs performance across all stages. This multi-faceted approach ensures MICA selects well-rounded candidates.

• CAT/XAT/GMAT Score: 35%
• MICAT Score: 25%
• Group Exercise (GE): 10%
• Personal Interview (PI): 20%
• Academic Performance (10th, 12th, Graduation): 5%
• Extra-Curricular Activities & Diversity: 5%

 Strategy for Maximizing Your Final MICA Opportunity

With the CAT 2025 results and XAT 2026 around the corner, aspirants must refine their preparation for the uniquely challenging MICAT-II. The month-long window before the exam should be focused on the non-conventional sections that differentiate MICA's test from other management entrance examinations.

• Master the Psychometric Section: Since this is a qualifier, practicing previous year's psychometric questions and maintaining consistency in responses is paramount. A candidate's performance in this section determines whether the rest of their paper will even be evaluated.
• Focus on Creative Communication: Dedicate significant time to the Descriptive Test. Practice creative writing, essay structuring, and formulating arguments on contemporary issues. Read editorials and articles from leading business and communication publications to broaden your general awareness.
• Strengthen Non-Quantitative Reasoning: The Divergent and Convergent Reasoning section demands lateral thinking. Practice puzzles, visual logic, and word association to enhance your creative problem-solving skills, which is a key trait MICA seeks.
• Prepare for GE & PI: While the exam is the immediate hurdle, starting early preparation for the Group Exercise (GE) and Personal Interview (PI) is highly advisable. Research MICA's unique culture, the latest trends in media and communication, and articulate your passion for the domain clearly.

Conclusion

The opening of the MICAT 2 2026 registration window marks the decisive last stage for ambitious aspirants to join MICA. It is a golden chance to leverage the 'better of two scores' policy or to make a strong entry if the first attempt was missed. The institute’s focus on the intersection of strategic management and creative communication offers a career path distinct from other conventional MBA programs. With its sterling placement record and globally recognized curriculum, securing an admission offer from MICA is a transformative step for any aspiring business leader. Ensure your application is submitted well before the January 29, 2026, deadline and intensify your preparation to convert this final opportunity into an admission offer.

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