NEW DELHI, Sept. 10, 2026 — More than half of CAT 2026 aspirants surveyed by Shiksha.com said they primarily rely on free study materials and self-study for exam preparation, according to a recent survey conducted by the education platform.
The survey, which included 1,000 CAT 2026 aspirants, found that 502 respondents, or 50.2%, said free study resources and self-study form their primary preparation method. Another 316 respondents said they had enrolled in a coaching institute, while 182 said they were combining coaching support with online study materials.
The findings indicate that CAT preparation is increasingly extending beyond traditional classroom-based coaching as aspirants gain access to a wider range of digital learning resources.
Free mock tests, video tutorials, practice questions, sample papers and online study communities are among the resources being used by candidates preparing for the Common Admission Test.
According to the survey, video-based learning is particularly popular among aspirants seeking help with concept clarification and problem-solving strategies. Online platforms and student communities also enable candidates to exchange preparation tips, study plans and educational resources.
Changing Approaches to CAT Preparation
CAT is one of India’s major management entrance examinations and is used for admission to the Indian Institutes of Management and several other business schools.
Preparing for the examination has traditionally involved classroom or online coaching programs, structured study material and mock-test series. However, the increasing availability of digital learning resources has provided aspirants with additional preparation options.
The Shiksha.com survey suggests that many candidates are now choosing to build their preparation plans around self-study while using freely available digital resources to supplement their learning.
Among the 1,000 respondents:
The results show that CAT aspirants are adopting a range of preparation methods rather than relying on a single approach.
Digital Resources Expand Preparation Options
Online learning has made exam preparation resources more widely accessible to students across different locations and backgrounds.
Platforms such as YouTube, Reddit, Telegram, WhatsApp and other online communities are commonly used by students to discuss preparation strategies, exchange recommendations and access educational content.
Candidates can also use digital tools to organize study schedules, monitor progress and identify areas that require additional practice.
The survey findings do not indicate that one preparation method is more effective than another. Instead, they reflect the growing range of resources available to CAT aspirants and the increasing role of self-directed learning in entrance-exam preparation.
CAT 2026 registration opened on Aug. 3, 2026, and candidates can submit their applications through the official CAT website until Sept. 15, 2026.
For additional information about the CAT 2026 examination, preparation resources and important dates, visit:
https://www.shiksha.com/mba/cat-exam
About Shiksha.com
Shiksha.com is an education information platform providing students with information on colleges, courses, entrance examinations, admissions and career-related resources. The platform offers exam updates, preparation materials, college information and other educational resources for students pursuing higher education in India and abroad.
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