CUSAT CAT Examination Guide

For engineering aspirants, the relevant paper is Test Code 101, covering Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry. CUSAT revised the B.Tech CAT pattern for the 2026 cycle, increasing both the number of questions and the marks per correct answer compared to earlier years. Candidates should rely on the most recent official notification, since question count and marking weight have changed in past cycles.

Revised 2026 Pattern - Test Code 101 (B.Tech)

Marking Scheme

Each correct answer is awarded +4 marks (revised upward from the earlier +3 scheme), and each incorrect answer attracts a penalty of -1 mark. Unattempted questions neither gain nor lose marks. Because the negative marking is relatively mild compared to the +4 reward, strategic guessing on questions where at least two options can be eliminated is often statistically favourable, though over-guessing blindly across the full paper is still risky given 225 questions in 180 minutes.

Qualifying Criteria & Tie-Breaking

To be considered for the engineering rank list, a candidate must score at least 10 marks in Mathematics and at least 10 marks combined in Physics and Chemistry. Candidates who fail to meet either threshold are excluded from the merit list regardless of their total score. In the event of a tied overall score between two or more candidates, CUSAT resolves the tie using marks scored in Mathematics first, followed by Physics, and then Chemistry.

Mode, Language & Question Type

• The exam is conducted as a Computer-Based Test (CBT) at designated centres, predominantly within Kerala.
• All questions are Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with four options each and a single correct answer.
• The question paper is set only in English.
• Candidates can navigate freely between questions and sections within the allotted 180 minutes; there is no strict sectional lock-in despite the suggested per-subject time guideline.

Other Test Codes Under the CAT Umbrella

CUSAT CAT is a multi-programme examination, and candidates applying to non-engineering CUSAT programmes attempt a different Test Code with its own subject composition. For instance, Integrated M.Sc. programmes typically test Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology/English combinations depending on the specific course, while MBA and MCA test codes include quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, English comprehension, and (for MCA) computer fundamentals. Engineering aspirants need only concern themselves with Test Code 101.

Comparing CUSAT CAT's Pattern with KEAM and JEE Main