World · India Bureau
CAT 2026 to deploy AI facial recognition for exam hall candidate verification
The Common Admission Test will introduce an artificial intelligence-powered facial recognition system to bolster security measures during the 2026 examination cycle. The technology will serve as a supplementary verification layer alongside traditional admit card checks by examination officials.
LSN India ·
India's premier management entrance examination, the CAT, will incorporate AI-based facial recognition technology as part of its candidate verification protocol for the 2026 test cycle. The system aims to strengthen security and authentication procedures at examination centres across the country.
The facial recognition technology will function as an additional verification checkpoint rather than replacing existing protocols. Examination officials will continue to verify candidates using their admit cards, with the AI system operating in tandem to cross-check identities and prevent impersonation.
This move reflects the CAT's ongoing efforts to modernise examination procedures while maintaining robust security standards. The implementation aligns with similar technology adoption trends in competitive entrance examinations worldwide, enhancing the credibility of the assessment process.
The Indian Institutes of Management, which conduct the CAT, have not disclosed specific details regarding the system's deployment timeline or technical specifications. Candidates appearing for the 2026 examination will be informed of the procedural changes through official notifications and admit card instructions.
The auxiliary verification system is expected to expedite the candidate registration process at centres while maintaining the integrity of the examination. Officials emphasise that the technology complements rather than supersedes manual verification, ensuring a multi-layered approach to candidate authentication.