IIMs have released the dates for the Common Admission Test (CAT). The exam will be conducted online during a 20-day testing window between the dates October 22nd, 2011 and November 18th, 2011.

This year, the CAT exams will include three additional cities: Dehradun, Jammu, and Bhilai. This brings the count up to a total of 36 cities in which the CAT exam is available.

There will also be some test pattern changes this year, making the CAT 2011 with only two sections, instead of three. The first section will focus on Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation, while the second section will be on Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning. Each section will have 30 questions and a 70 minute time allotment.

A 15-minute guide will preface the examination. Including this guide, the total duration of the exam will be 2 hours and 35 minutes.

Candidates can purchase CAT vouchers from 201 Axis Bank branches.