IIM Indore Introduces AI Face Recognition at CAT 2026 Test Centres; Exam on November 29

IIM Indore will use AI-based facial recognition at CAT test centres along with admit card verification. CAT 2026 will be held on November 29.

IIM Indore Introduces AI Face Recognition at CAT 2026 Exam Centres

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore is conducting CAT 2026 exam on November 29. The conducting body has announced the introduction of AI-based facial recognition at test venues for the first-time. The new technology is deployed as an additional layer of identity verification to supplement the existing manual checking protocols. However, there is no mention of AI-based verification in the CAT admit card.

How will AI face Recognition work at CAT 2026 Exam Centres?

Under the updated verification system at CAT exam centres, the facial recognition tool operates alongside typical entry checks. Candidates appearing for the CAT 2026 exam will continue to undergo manual identity validation against their official CAT 2026 admit card and valid photo identification documents. IIM Indore has clarified that the software will function purely on an experimental basis this year, while the specific technical specifications and backend software providers remain undisclosed.

A primary concern among aspirants regarding biometric verification is potential technical error that could lead to exam-day hassles. Addressing this, IIM Indore Director Himanshu Rai assured that no candidate will face entry restrictions solely because the AI system fails to scan or match their facial features. Manual verification by exam officials remains the primary determining factor for entry clearance, ensuring that software glitches do not affect participation.

CAT 2026 AI Face Recognition to Happen on Experiment

After the test window, IIM Indore will review the performance and operational efficacy of the technology. Decisions regarding permanent adoption of the facility for future testing cycles depend entirely on the success of the technology. Officials have emphasised that long-term implementation is not a finalised policy at this stage.

CAT 2026 Exam Date

The CAT 2026 exam is scheduled to be conducted on November 29, 2026. This year, the national-level entrance test has recorded 2,89,961 registrations, marking a slight drop compared to the approximately 2.95 lakh applications registered during the previous exam cycle. Candidates will have to carry hard copy of their CAT admit card, along with a valid photo ID proof as mentioned in the exam day guidelines at the test centre.