CAT 2024 Exam Day Essentials: Preparing for the CAT 2024 exam can be challenging, and ensuring you have everything you need on exam day is critical. This comprehensive checklist will cover essential items you must bring, items strictly prohibited, recommended dress code, and helpful tips for a stress-free experience.
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Essential Items You Must Bring for CAT 2024 Exam Day
When preparing for exam day, keeping a list of required documents and items can prevent last-minute stress. These essentials are not just recommendations but mandatory for admission to the test center.
- CAT 2024 Admit Card: Print your admit card on A4-sized paper. Ensure your photo and signature are clearly visible. You can download the admit card from the official website (iimcat.ac.in).
- Valid Photo Identification Proof: Any one of the following photo IDs is required:
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID
- Passport
- Driving License
- PAN Card
- Employer ID
- College ID
- The name on your ID should match the name on your admit card exactly.
- Passport-Sized Photograph: Carry two recent passport-sized photographs that match the one uploaded during your application.

Common Issues and Solutions for Accessing Your CAT Admit Card
To ensure smooth access to your admit card, it’s helpful to know the steps and potential issues. Here are some common problems candidates encounter and tips to resolve them.
Common Issues | Solution |
Forgot Password | Use the “Forgot Password” option on the official CAT website to reset your password. |
Technical Glitches | Clear your browser cache, refresh the page, or try a different browser if issues persist. |
Mismatched Details | Contact CAT helpline immediately if the details on your admit card don’t match your ID. |
CAT 2024 Exam Day Essentials Detailed Guidelines for CAT Exam Day Checklist
Bringing the correct items and avoiding prohibited ones can significantly enhance your exam experience. Below are detailed instructions on what to bring, what to avoid, and tips for a seamless day.

Must-Have Items on CAT Exam Day
- Transparent Ballpoint Pen: Though writing instruments are usually provided, having a transparent ballpoint pen as a backup can be useful.
- Personal Hand Sanitizer and Face Mask: For health and safety, carry a small hand sanitizer (up to 50 ml) and wear a face mask.
- Transparent Water Bottle: A transparent water bottle is allowed, which helps you stay hydrated without violating exam regulations.
Items Strictly Prohibited in the Exam Center
To ensure a smooth entry, avoid bringing any restricted items as listed below:
- Electronic Devices: Mobile phones, calculators, smartwatches, or any electronic gadgets are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall.
- Jewelry and Accessories: Avoid wearing jewelry or metallic accessories, as they might delay you at the security check.
- Bags and Stationery: Only a transparent pen is allowed; any other stationery or bags are not permitted.
- Clothing with Pockets or Large Buttons: Stick to simple clothing without extra pockets or buttons to speed up the security process.

Dress Code Recommendations for CAT 2024
Choosing comfortable and simple attire can make your exam experience smoother. Here’s what you should consider when planning your outfit:
Dress Code Recommendation | Details |
Footwear | Opt for sandals or slippers. Avoid shoes with thick soles or metal parts. |
Clothing | Wear light and comfortable clothing without multiple pockets or metallic buttons. |
Jewelry | Minimize wearing jewelry to avoid additional security checks. |
Essential Tips for Exam Center Navigation and Timing
Finding the test center and arriving on time are crucial for a stress-free experience. Here’s a checklist for handling this part of the day:
- Visit the Center in Advance: If possible, locate your exam center a day before the exam to avoid confusion.
- Arrive Early: Reach the center at least 30 minutes before the reporting time mentioned on your admit card to complete security and verification processes smoothly.
CAT 2024 Exam Day Timeline and Checklist
Use the following timeline to plan and ensure you cover every essential step:
Task | Time |
Departure from Home | Leave at least an hour before the expected travel time to avoid traffic or delays. |
Arrival at Test Center | Arrive 30 minutes early for stress-free entry and verification. |
Security Check Completion | Complete all security checks and document verification at least 15 minutes before the exam. |
Special Considerations for Candidates with Unique Needs
If you have any specific needs or circumstances, be sure to prepare accordingly:
- Medical Implants: If you have a pacemaker or any medical implant, bring a doctor’s note to make the security process easier.
- Disability Accommodations: If you have a disability and require a scribe, you’ll need authorization and verification from the exam authorities.
Post-Exam Considerations: What to Do After CAT 2024
Once you finish the exam, there are a few steps to complete and prepare for the next phase:
- Return Materials: Hand in any materials provided by the exam center.
- Check the Result Timeline: Results are generally announced a few weeks after the exam. Keep checking iimcat.ac.in for updates.
CAT Exam Day Checklist – Quick Summary
- Mandatory Documents: Admit card, valid photo ID, and two recent passport-sized photographs.
- Additional Items: Transparent ballpoint pen, personal hand sanitizer, face mask, and transparent water bottle.
- Prohibited Items: Electronic devices, jewelry, bags, extra stationery, and clothing with excessive pockets or buttons.
- Dress Code: Comfortable clothing and simple footwear.
- Arrive Early: Reach at least 30 minutes before reporting time for a smooth entry.
By following this checklist, you can approach the CAT 2024 exam with confidence and focus entirely on achieving your best score.
FAQ Related To CAT 2024 Exam Day Essentials
No, mobile phones, along with other electronic devices like calculators and smartwatches, are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall. You must leave them outside the center.
If you forget your admit card, you will not be allowed to enter the exam hall. Ensure you print and double-check that you have your admit card with you before leaving home.
Yes, avoid clothing with large pockets, metallic buttons, or thick-soled shoes, as these might lead to additional security checks. Choose simple, comfortable clothing for an efficient screening process.