CUSAT CAT Eligibility Criteria 2026: Everything You Need to Know Before Applying

CUSAT CAT Eligibility Criteria 2026 varies based on the course. Cochin University of Science and Technology specifies its eligibility criteria for students who want to appear for the CUSAT CAT 2026 exam. It is essential for students to review the eligibility criteria before applying for the CUSAT CAT 2026 exam, as the eligibility requirements vary by course. This year, the CUSAT CAT 2026 Exam will take place on May 9, 10, and 11, 2026. The eligible candidates will be permitted to take the exam.

CUSAT CAT Eligibility Criteria 2026: Overview

Here is the eligibility criteria for the CUSAT CAT 2026 Exam:

Given below are the basic requirements for the CUSAT CAT exam eligibility:

• To apply to BTech courses, candidates should have passed Class 12 from a recognised board.
• Candidates should have had Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics as main subjects at the 10+2 level.
• Candidates in diploma or vocational courses are not eligible to apply for the CUSAT CAT 2026 exam.
• Both Indian and foreign citizens are required to share the necessary documents during the application process.
• In the case of a candidate applying based on a state quota, a domicile certificate must be produced during the final stage of the interviews.

Check: CUSAT CAT 2026 Admit Card

CUSAT CAT Eligibility Criteria 2026

The CUSAT CAT eligibility criteria consist of academic qualification, minimum marks required, age limit, and nationality. The CUSAT CAT exam eligibility is listed below:

Academic Background: The eligibility criteria for undergraduate programs, such as BTech, are listed below:

• Applicants must have finished their 10+2 education from a reputable board.
• Students must score at least 50% in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.
• With Regard to Postgraduate Programs:
  • According to the University Grants Commission, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from an accredited university, with mathematics, physics, and chemistry as required courses.
  • Age Limit: There is no upper age limit for applicants taking the CUSAT CAT 2026.

Nationality of the Candidate: The candidates' nationality must meet the following requirements:

• Indian citizens are eligible to apply.
• Candidates seeking admission under the Kerala state quota must provide proof of domicile to qualify under this category.
• Foreign nationals and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) can apply under the NRI category by submitting the required documents.
• Candidates should ensure they fulfil the given criteria before filling out the exam forms.

Read: CUSAT CAT 2026 Application Process

CUSAT CAT Eligibility Criteria 2026: Reservation Policy

The CUSAT CAT reservation policy is listed below:

• State Merit Seats (SM): candidates hailing from Kerala gain from the large number of seats allotted under the State Merit category. To be eligible for this reservation, other applicants must possess and present proper proof of residency in the state of Kerala.
• The All India Merit Seats: This (AIM) program ensures a diverse student body by reserving specific seats for applicants from all over the India. The race for these seats is open to all Indian nationals.
• Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Seats: Children of NRIs are eligible to apply for these seats. Relevant NRI documentation must be provided by applicants during the application procedure.
• Candidates from Kerala's Scheduled Tribes (KST) and Scheduled Castes (KSC) are given preference: With a minimum passing score in the qualifying exam, candidates from Kerala’s KSC and KST communities are eligible to apply.
• Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC) from Kerala: SEBC candidates from Kerala’s non-creamy layer receive a 5% relaxation in the minimum qualifying marks, provided they have passed the qualifying examination.
• Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC) from Kerala: SEBC candidates from Kerala’s non-creamy layer receive a 5% relaxation in the minimum qualifying marks, provided they have passed the qualifying examination.
• Economically Weaker Section (EWS): For students falling under this category, a certain percentage of seats is reserved for the candidates. Applicants must produce valid EWS certificates to avail of the benefits present under this reservation criteria.
• Differently Abled Candidates (DAC): A specific number of seats is reserved for differently-abled candidates. Applicants need to provide a valid disability certificate issued by the authorities recognised under the Union of India.
• Children of Indian Workers in Gulf Countries (CGW): Seats are reserved as well for children of Indian workers residing in Gulf countries. Substantial documents proving the parent’s employment and residence in the Gulf countries are to be presented during the application process.
• Sports Quota (SPQ): Talented athletes can also avail of reservations under the sports quota by simply providing certificates of their sports achievements at state levels, national levels or international levels.
• Children of CUSAT Staff (CHD): A certain number of seats are reserved for children of CUSAT employees. Applicants should submit relevant proof of their parents & their employment at CUSAT.

Read: CUSAT CAT 2026 Exam Pattern

CUSAT CAT Eligibility Criteria FAQs