The 2016–17 season was Carlisle United's 112th season in their history and their third consecutive season in League Two. The season covered the period from 1 July 2016 to 30 June 2017, with competitive matches played between August and May. Along with League Two, the club also participated in the FA Cup, League Cup and League Trophy. Carlisle finished sixth, thus qualifying for the play-offs, where they were beaten in the semi-finals by Exeter City, 6–5 on aggregate.