The Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC) opened registration for the Computerized Common Admission Test (C-CAT 2026) on November 27 . This exam is a prerequisite for admission to CDAC’s postgraduate certificate programs in advanced computing. Prospective students must apply online atcdac.inby the deadline of December 29 . The C-CAT 2026 entrance exams are scheduled for January 10 and January 11, 2026 .
CDAC C-CAT 2026 Key Dates
Below is the schedule for the C-CAT 2026 application and examination process:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Start Date | November 27 |
| Registration End Date | December 29 |
| Admit Card Release | January 6 – January 10, 2026 |
| C-CAT Exam Dates | January 10 & January 11, 2026 |
| C-CAT Rank Announcement | January 22, 2026 |
| PG Diploma Batch Commencement | February 25, 2026 |
Application Fees
Applicants must pay a non-refundable application fee to complete their registration. The fee varies based on the chosen course category:
| Course Category | Required Papers | Application Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Category II | Papers A+B | Rs 1,550 |
| Category III | Papers A+B+C | Rs 1,750 |
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet specific academic requirements to qualify for C-CAT 2026:
- A graduate degree in engineering or technology is required.
- Eligible specializations include IT, Computer Science, Electronics, Telecommunications, Electrical, or Instrumentation.
- Applicants must have secured a minimum of 55% marks in their qualifying degree.
- There is no upper age limit for applying to CDAC’s postgraduate certificate programs.
How to Apply for C-CAT 2026
Follow these steps to complete the CDAC C-CAT 2026 application:
- Visit the official CDAC website:cdac.in.
- Register by entering basic details to create login credentials.
- Fill out the application form with personal and academic information.
- Upload all required documents and a recent photograph.
- Pay the applicable application fee online.
- Select your preferred exam date after successful payment.
CDAC C-CAT Exam Structure
The C-CAT 2026 exam consists of three distinct sections. Each paper within the C-CAT 2026 exam lasts one hour.
Section A: General Aptitude & Fundamentals
This section covers English language proficiency, quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, computer fundamentals, and basic programming concepts.
Section B: Advanced Programming & Systems
Section B includes C programming, data structures, object-oriented programming (using C++), operating systems, networking, and foundational concepts of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence.
Section C: Computer Hardware & Architecture
Topics in Section C comprise computer architecture, digital electronics, and microprocessors.
CDAC Postgraduate Programs
CDAC’s postgraduate certificate programs are full-time, 24-week courses . These programs comprise 1,200 hours of study, including 300 hours dedicated to self-study. The curriculum aims to equip students with specialized skills in advanced computing. The new batch for these PG diploma programs will begin on February 25, 2026 .
Candidates seeking detailed information on program specifics, syllabus breakdown, and examination guidelines should refer directly to the official CDAC website and the comprehensive C-CAT 2026 information booklet.