Following CAT result announcements (typically mid-December), IIMs will open registration

Following the CAT 2025 results, Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) are set to begin the shortlisting process for the 2026-28 MBA batch. This comprehensive guide covers the expected timelines for IIM BLACKI and CAP registration. Aspirants can find details on sectional cut-offs, composite score parameters, and mandatory documentation. Stay ahead in the competitive admission cycle by tracking official portal updates and preparing for the upcoming WAT-PI rounds starting in early 2026.

As the CAT 2025 results are typically announced by late December, the focus for management aspirants shifts immediately to the next phase of the selection process. The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) do not have a common interview process for all campuses; instead, they release individual shortlists based on their specific admission policies. For the 2026–28 academic cycle, candidates must be proactive in registering on institutional portals once they meet the qualifying percentiles.

• Result Declaration: CAT 2025 scorecards are expected to be available for download between December 22 and December 31, 2025.
• Institutional Deadlines: Leading IIMs like Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and Calcutta (BLACKI) usually release their interview shortlists within the first two weeks of January.
• Registration Portals: Candidates must log in to the specific IIM websites they applied for during the CAT registration to confirm their interest and update profile details.

Key Stages of the 2026-28 Admission Cycle

The journey from a high CAT percentile to a final admission offer involves multiple checkpoints. Understanding the timeline is crucial for managing documentation and interview preparation.

• Common Admission Process (CAP): The "New" and "Baby" IIMs conduct a joint interview process, which requires a separate registration on the CAP portal.
• Composite Score Factors: Shortlisting isn't based on CAT scores alone; IIMs weigh 10th/12th marks, graduation GPA, work experience, and gender diversity.
• Sectional Cut-offs: Most top-tier IIMs require a minimum of 75-80 percentile in each section (VARC, DILR, QA) to be eligible for the next round.

Mandatory Documentation and Profile Updates

Once shortlisted, aspirants are required to upload a digital dossier of their achievements and academic records. Accuracy at this stage is vital, as any discrepancy can lead to immediate disqualification during the document verification process.

• Academic Transcripts: Scanned copies of mark sheets from Class 10 onwards and provisional graduation certificates for final-year students.
• Work Experience Proof: Appointment letters, relieving letters, and the latest three months' salary slips for those claiming professional experience points.
• Category Certificates: Valid NC-OBC, EWS, SC, ST, or PwD certificates issued as per the government formats specified in the CAT 2025 bulletin.

The 2026-28 admission season is a high-stakes period that demands constant vigilance. Aspirants must regularly monitor the official IIM portals and their registered email IDs for call letters and registration links to ensure no deadlines are missed.

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