How Different is GMAT from CAT?

Choosing between the GMAT exam and CAT is a pivotal decision for any Indian student aspiring for an MBA-whether in India or at a top global business school. Both tests are rigorous, but their structure, purpose, and scope are fundamentally different. If you’re an ambitious Indian student aiming for a top business school in India or abroad, understanding the difference between CAT and GMAT is crucial to making an informed decision.

Council for American Education (CAE), with over three decades of experience, empowers students by providing expert guidance and personalized support, helping them navigate such crucial choices on their journey to successful international academic careers. We make you work smarter, not harder.

Purpose and Global Recognition

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) exam is a globally recognized entrance test accepted by over 2,400 business schools worldwide, including top programs in the US, Europe, and Asia. It is the gold standard for international MBA admissions. In contrast, the Common Admission Test (CAT) is India’s premier entrance exam for IIMs and many top Indian B-schools, but its score is not accepted abroad.

Exam Structure and Pattern

The GMAT exam’s computer-adaptive format means the difficulty of questions changes based on your answers, providing a unique test experience. CAT, on the other hand, is strictly linear and does not adapt to your performance.

Syllabus and Question Types

While both exams test quantitative and verbal skills, their focus and question types differ:

Quantitative Ability

CAT: Generally considered more challenging in this section. The syllabus is broad and includes topics like

• Arithmetic: Time, Speed & Distance, Time & Work, Simple & Compound Interest Ratios & Proportions, Percentages, Profit & Loss, Averages, Mixtures & Allegations.
   
• Algebra: Inequalities & Modulus, Functions & Graphs, Linear & Quadratic Equations, Polynomials, Logarithms, Maxima Minima.
   
• Number Systems: LCM & HCF, Divisibility Rules, Remainders, Factorials, Indices & Surds.
   
• Geometry & Mensuration: Circles, Triangles, Polygons, Coordinate Geometry, Trigonometry.
   
• Modern Mathematics: Permutations & Combinations, Probability, Set Theory, Progressions. CAT often emphasizes advanced topics within Algebra and Geometry.

GMAT: This section assesses problem-solving and mathematical reasoning skills. It primarily focuses on

• Arithmetic & Algebra: Topics include number properties (fractions, decimals, exponents), percentages, ratios, averages, linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, and functions. There is no geometry in the GMAT Focus Edition.
   
• Applied Math Concepts: Probability and Set Theory are also covered.The emphasis is more on basic arithmetic and algebra, testing logic and analytical skills rather than advanced mathematical computation.

Verbal Ability

CAT: Emphasizes reading comprehension, para-jumbles, and vocabulary-based questions (like odd-one-out and fill-in-the-blanks). Some question types, such as jumbled paragraphs, are unique to CAT.

GMAT: Tests Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning, and Sentence Correction-requiring precise grammar and inference skills. No vocabulary-based or para-jumble questions.

Data Interpretation & Reasoning

CAT (DILR section): This section combines Data Interpretation with Logical Reasoning and can be quite time-consuming. It often involves:

• Complex problem-solving with data presented in tables, charts (bar, line, pie), and caselets.
   
• A single DI question can involve analyzing 4-5 interlinked charts.
   
• Logical Reasoning questions cover arrangements, puzzles, and deductive reasoning.

GMAT (Data Insights section): This is a newer section that tests the ability to analyze and interpret data from various sources. It integrates skills previously tested in Integrated Reasoning and Data Sufficiency. Key question types include

• Data Sufficiency: Evaluating whether the given data (in two statements) is sufficient to answer a quantitative question.
   
• Multi-Source Reasoning: Analyzing information from multiple sources like text passages, tables, and graphs to answer questions.
   
• Graphics Interpretation: Understanding and drawing conclusions from various charts and diagrams.
   
• Table Analysis: Interpreting and sorting data in spreadsheets or tables.
   
• Two-Part Analysis: Solving problems that have two components for a single answer, often involving simultaneous analysis.

Preparation tip

If you’re strong in advanced math and quick problem-solving, CAT may suit you. If you prefer a more predictable, logic-based test with global reach, the GMAT exam is ideal.

Which is Difficult: GMAT or CAT?

Many students ask, “is GMAT tough?” or “is GMAT easier than CAT?” The answer is subjective and depends on individual strengths, but here’s a comparative analysis

GMAT

• The GMAT exam is often perceived as challenging but more predictable due to its well-defined syllabus. Resources like the GMAT Official Guide provide ample sample questions.
   
• Its computer-adaptive nature means the difficulty of questions adjusts based on your performance. While this can be tricky, it also means the test is tailored to your ability level. For some, if they struggle initially, the adaptive nature might present slightly less difficult questions later, though this also affects scoring potential.
   
• The GMAT Focus Edition has removed the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) and Sentence Correction, which might make it feel more streamlined for some test-takers.
   
• The option to retake the test after just 16 days (up to 5 times a year) provides flexibility and reduces the pressure of a single attempt. Many candidates improve their scores on re-attempts.
   
• While the verbal section can be tough for non-native English speakers, especially Critical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension, the overall structure is generally considered more manageable by many.

CAT

• CAT is often seen as tougher, particularly due to its Quantitative Ability section, which includes advanced topics like geometry and modern math not found in the GMAT.
   
• A significant challenge is the lack of a rigidly defined syllabus, preparation often relies on analyzing previous years' question patterns, making it less predictable.
   
• The competition for CAT is intense, with a large number of aspirants in India vying for limited seats in top IIMs.
   
• CAT allows only one attempt per year, meaning a subpar performance requires waiting an entire year for another chance. This significantly increases the pressure.
   
• Time management in CAT can be stringent due to sectional time limits, where you cannot carry over time from one section to another.
   
• The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) section in CAT is often found to be complex and time-consuming.

In summary:

While both exams are demanding, many find the GMAT exam to be strategically more manageable due to its defined syllabus, adaptive nature, and multiple retake opportunities. The perception that CAT is tougher often stems from its unpredictable nature, broader Quant syllabus, and the high-stakes single attempt format. Ultimately, the perceived difficulty depends on an individual's aptitude for specific question types and test formats.

Eligibility

GMAT eligibility: Generally open to anyone who has completed a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. There is no official minimum percentage required for the undergraduate degree. Candidates must typically be at least 18 years old.

CAT eligibility: Requires a bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA (45% for Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Persons with Disability (PwD) categories).

GMAT Exam Fees in India

• GMAT exam fees in India: The standard fee for the GMAT exam is approximately $275 USD, which translates to roughly ₹22,800 (this can fluctuate with exchange rates). Additional fees may apply for rescheduling or sending extra score reports.
• CAT Exam Fees: The CAT registration fee is significantly lower, typically around ₹2,400 for general category candidates (fees can vary slightly each year). While the GMAT exam fees in India are higher, the global acceptance of the score and the five-year validity often justify this investment for students aiming for international programs or seeking greater flexibility.

Preparation: GMAT Classes vs. CAT Coaching

GMAT classes: Effective GMAT classes focus on mastering the unique question types (like Data Sufficiency and Critical Reasoning) and the computer-adaptive testing strategy. They emphasize analytical skills, logical reasoning, and efficient time management tailored to the GMAT format.

CAT coaching: CAT preparation typically involves covering a broader syllabus, especially in Quantitative Ability (including geometry and modern math) and practicing complex Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning sets. Emphasis is also placed on speed and accuracy for the fixed-format test.

Which Exam Should You Choose?

• Choose CAT if your primary goal is to secure admission to IIMs or other top-tier MBA colleges exclusively within India.
   
• Choose the GMAT exam if you are aiming for MBA programs globally (including many top Indian B-schools that now accept GMAT scores), value the flexibility of multiple attempts throughout the year, and prefer a test with a more defined syllabus and a five-year score validity.

Consider your career aspirations, preferred study destinations, strengths in various test sections, and the level of flexibility you require.

How CAE Empowers Your GMAT Journey

At the Council for American Education (CAE), we’ve spent over 34 years guiding ambitious Indian students to global success. CAE mission is to empower you with expert guidance, personalized attention, and proven strategies-so you can achieve your dream MBA, whether in India or abroad.

Why trust CAE for your GMAT preparation?

• Expert-led GMAT classes tailored to your strengths and goals
• Comprehensive support for test prep to university selection, applications, and visa counseling
• Documented success of 25,000+ students placed at Harvard, MIT, Princeton, and more
• $100M+ in scholarships secured, 99% visa success rate

Still have questions about the difference between CAT and GMAT, GMAT eligibility, or which test fits your goals?

Contact us on
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Key Takeaways

→ GMAT exam is globally recognized, offers flexible scheduling, and scores are valid for 5 years, while CAT is India-focused, held once a year, and scores are valid for 1 year.

→ The GMAT exam is computer-adaptive, focuses on reasoning and application, and allows multiple attempts per year; CAT has a fixed pattern, is more unpredictable, and offers only one attempt annually.

→ GMAT eligibility is open to all graduates, with no minimum marks required, while CAT requires at least 50% in graduation (45% for reserved categories).

→ GMAT exam fees in India are higher (about ₹22,800) compared to CAT (about ₹2,400), but GMAT’s global acceptance and flexibility often justify the investment.

→ Is GMAT tough? It is challenging but more standardized and predictable than CAT; many find GMAT easier than CAT due to its focused syllabus and retake options, though both require dedicated preparation.

→ Choose GMAT for international MBA aspirations and flexibility; choose CAT for IIMs and top Indian B-schools-align your choice with your career goals and preferred study destinations.

FAQ

What's the biggest difference if I'm choosing between GMAT and CAT?

The GMAT exam gets you into MBA programs worldwide, including many in India. You can take it multiple times a year and the score lasts five years. CAT is mainly for IIMs and other top B-schools only in India. You get one shot a year and that score is good for one year.

Which exam is harder, GMAT or CAT?

Many students find CAT's math section tougher because it covers more advanced topics like geometry. GMAT's math focuses on arithmetic and algebra. GMAT also has a more predictable syllabus. CAT can be less predictable and has very high competition in India.

How do the Verbal sections compare?

CAT's verbal part includes things like jumbled paragraphs and vocabulary questions. GMAT focuses on reading comprehension and critical reasoning, checking how well you understand arguments and grammar. The GMAT Focus Edition no longer has sentence correction questions.

Are the eligibility rules very different?

For GMAT, you just need a bachelor's degree; there's no minimum percentage. For CAT, you need a bachelor's degree with at least 50% marks if you're in the general category. The requirement is 45% for SC, ST, and PwD candidates.

Is there a big difference in cost?

Yes, the GMAT exam costs around $275 USD, which is about ₹22,800. CAT registration is much lower, around ₹2,400. People often see the GMAT fee as an investment for global opportunities and its longer score validity.