CHECKOUT IMPORTANT DATES
The IIFT 2026 (Indian Institute of Foreign Trade) is a national level entrance examination which stands as a prominent gateway for students aspiring to pursue an MBA in International Business. Recognized for its rigorous selection process, the IIFT exam evaluates candidates across a spectrum of competencies, including quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, verbal ability, data interpretation, and general awareness. The exam is designed to test not only academic proficiency but also the analytical and decision-making skills essential for future business leaders. However, since 2019 the authorities of IIFT have decided to take admission of its students based on the CAT scores.
The said exam was conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of IIFT. With a comprehensive syllabus that covers topics such as current affairs, business, economics, and language skills, the exam aims to identify well-rounded individuals ready to excel in the global business environment. The two-hour computer-based test challenges its applicants with 120-130 questions, ensuring that only the most prepared and versatile candidates secure admission to this prestigious institution.
IIFT 2026 Important Dates:
Event
Tentative Dates for 2026
Online registration starts
3rd week of October 2025
Deadline for online registration
1st week of December 2025
Last date of payment
The IIFT 2026 exam pattern will follow the CAT exam pattern which has been listed below.
Following is the exam structure listed below in a tabular form.
Section
Number of Questions
Marks per Question
Negative Marking
Total Marks
Quantitative Analysis
25
3
-1 per incorrect answer
75
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
35
105
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
30
90
General Awareness (GA)
20
1.5
-0.5 per incorrect answer
Total
110
—
300
IIFT 2026 Application Form:
Requirements:
Online Mode:
Category
Fee
General / OBC Candidates
Rs.3000 /-
SC/ST/PH Candidates
Rs.1500 /-
Foreign National / NRI / Children of NRI Candidates
USD $ 200 (Rs.1600/-)
The IIFT 2026 syllabus for the MBA entrance exam is structured into four main sections, each assessing different skill sets relevant for management studies. However, the syllabus is same as that of CAT as IIFT has stopped conducting its own exam since 2024-25 academic session and accepts CAT scores.
Following is the list of the topics that are usually covered in the syllabus for the exam.
Additional areas: Permutation & Combination, Logarithms, Probability, Mixtures & Allegations, Simple & Compound Interest, Percentages, Pipes & Cisterns3.
New Scholarship Scheme (NSS):
Eligibility:
Special Category Topper: Topper among SC/ST students receives a scholarship equivalent to the first-year tuition fee, capped at INR 3.5 lakh.
OPJEMS Scholarship: For MBA(IB) students (Delhi campus), selected through an online test and interview.
Central Sector Scholarship Scheme for SC/ST:
Need-Based Scholarship (for students admitted before AY 2023):
The merit list/shortlisted candidates’ name will be announced by the Andhra Pradesh State Council of Higher Education (APSCHE) in the 2nd week of February 2026. The IIFT conducts its admission procedures based on CAT exam which will be conducted in the 4th week of November 2025.
Candidates will then have to appear for the second round of selection which includes – writing assessments, interviews, group discussions, etc. This will be conducted during the 1st week of March 2026.