With the recent changes in the GMAT exam structure, known as the GMAT Focus Edition (GFE), it's crucial to understand how the GMAT compares to the CAT. The GMAT is a globally recognised test, accepted by over 2,400 business schools and 7,700 MBA programs worldwide. In contrast, the CAT is a national-level entrance exam, primarily for Indian business schools. However, the differences between the two exams extend beyond their geographical scope. This article delves into the distinctions between the GMAT and CAT in terms of eligibility, syllabus, exam fees, difficulty level, and score validity. This comparison will help you determine which exam aligns better with your academic and career goals.

What is the GMAT exam?

The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a standardised exam administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC). It is widely recognised and accepted by top institutions globally, including leading MBA colleges in India, as a key component in the admissions process for various management and business programs. The exam evaluates a candidate's analytical writing, quantitative, verbal, and integrated reasoning skills, providing a comprehensive assessment of their readiness for advanced business studies. The GMAT is often considered essential for applicants aiming to pursue an MBA and other graduate management programs.

What is the Difference between CAT and GMAT?

GMAT vs CAT: A Comparison of Sections, Question Numbers, and Types

CAT

Quantitative Ability (QA)

• Number of Questions: 22-26 (varies annually)

• Question Types: MCQs and Non-MCQs

• Topics Covered: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number Systems, Modern Math

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)

• Number of Questions: 20-24 (varies annually)

• Question Types: MCQs and Non-MCQs

• Topics Covered: Tables, Graphs, Charts, Puzzles, Arrangements

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

• Number of Questions: 24-26 (varies annually)

• Question Types: MCQs and Non-MCQs

• Topics Covered: Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Sentence Correction, Para Jumbles, Summary

GMAT Focus Edition

Quantitative Reasoning

• Number of Questions: 21

• Question Types: MCQs

• Topics Covered: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Word Problems, Data Sufficiency

Data Insights

• Number of Questions: 20

• Question Types: MCQs

• Topics Covered: Data Interpretation, Multi-Source Reasoning, Graphical Analysis, Data Sufficiency

Verbal Reasoning

• Number of Questions: 23

• Question Types: MCQs

• Topics Covered: Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning, Sentence Correction

GMAT vs CAT: Eligibility Criteria

CAT

• Nationality: Indian citizens only.

• Educational Qualification: Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD candidates) from a recognised university.

• Final Year Students: Candidates in the final year of their bachelor’s degree can also apply.

• Age Limit: No age limit.

GMAT

• Nationality: Open to all nationalities.

• Educational Qualification: Typically requires a bachelor's degree from a recognised institution.

• Age Limit: No age limit.

• Work Experience: Not mandatory, but some programs may prefer candidates with work experience.

GMAT vs CAT: Syllabus & Marking Scheme

CAT Section-wise Exam Pattern:

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC):

• Total Questions: 24-26

• Comprises Reading Comprehension passages, para jumbles, sentence completion, and sentence correction.

• Marks per Question: +3 for correct answers; -1 for incorrect answers (negative marking).

• Non-MCQs have no negative markings.

Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR):

• Total Questions: 20-24

• Includes data interpretation sets (tables, graphs, charts) and logical reasoning problems (arrangements, puzzles, etc.).

• Marks per Question: +3 for correct answers; -1 for incorrect answers (negative marking).

• Non-MCQs have no negative markings.

Quantitative Ability (QA):

• Total Questions: 22-26

• Covers topics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number systems.

• Marks per Question: +3 for correct answers; -1 for incorrect answers (negative marking).

• Non-MCQs have no negative markings.

GMAT Focus Edition Section-wise Exam Pattern:

Quantitative Reasoning:

• Total Questions: 21

• Tests geometry, arithmetic, algebra, and data analysis skills.

• Marks per Question: Adaptive scoring based on question difficulty.

Verbal Reasoning:

• Total Questions: 23

• Comprises Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning, and Sentence Correction.

• Marks per Question: Adaptive scoring based on question difficulty.

Data Insights:

• Total Questions: 20

• Combines data interpretation and logical reasoning skills.

• Marks per Question: Adaptive scoring based on question difficulty.

Integrated Reasoning (IR):

• Now included within the Data Insights section, testing the ability to evaluate information from multiple sources.

• Marks per Question: Adaptive scoring based on question difficulty.

No Essay Section: The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) is removed from the GMAT Focus Edition.

GMAT vs CAT: Fee Structure

The fee structure for the CAT and GMAT exams differs in a few key ways:

CAT Exam Fees: 

The CAT exam costs 2,000 INR for general category students and 1,000 INR for students in reserved categories. Once paid, this fee is non-refundable, and there is no option to reschedule the exam.

GMAT Exam Fees: 

The GMAT fees vary depending on the country you take the test in. Besides the exam fee, there are additional costs for services like rescheduling, cancellations, and sending your scores to schools. These extra services can increase the overall cost of taking the GMAT.

GMAT vs CAT: Competition & Level of Difficulty

When comparing the competition and level of difficulty between the GMAT and CAT exams, it's important to understand the differences in their testing environments and the number of candidates. The CAT is considered tougher mainly because of the intense competition among Indian students. Every year, over 200,000 candidates take the CAT, all vying for top percentile scores to secure admission to prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top business schools in India. This high competition makes it extremely challenging to stand out.

On the other hand, the GMAT is taken by around 250,000 candidates worldwide. While the GMAT is also a challenging exam, the global pool of test-takers and the different scoring systems can sometimes make it slightly easier to achieve a competitive score compared to the CAT. The CAT's difficulty is amplified by the sheer number of candidates competing for limited seats, making it one of the toughest exams in India.

Is GMAT tougher than CAT?

When comparing the GMAT and CAT exams, many students find that the CAT is tougher, but it depends on what you're good at.

1. Syllabus and Preparation Time:

• GMAT has a well-defined syllabus, which means you know exactly what topics to study. This makes it easier to prepare for because you can focus on specific areas.

• CAT, on the other hand, has a more extensive and unpredictable syllabus. It covers a wider range of topics, so it requires more preparation time.

2. Quantitative Section:

• The CAT has a tougher quantitative section (math). The questions are more challenging, and you need to have a deep understanding of the concepts.

• The GMAT has a quantitative section that is considered easier in comparison, as the questions are more straightforward.

3. Verbal Section:

• For non-native English speakers, the GMAT's verbal section is harder. It tests complex grammar rules, reading comprehension, and critical reasoning skills, which can be challenging.

• The CAT's verbal section, while still challenging, is generally considered easier than the GMAT's for those who are not strong in English.

In summary, if you're strong in math but less confident in English, you might find the CAT harder. If you're comfortable with English but not as strong in math, the GMAT might be the tougher exam for you.

GMAT vs CAT- The Final Verdict

When choosing between the GMAT and CAT for MBA admissions, the decision largely depends on your career goals and where you want to study.

GMAT:

This exam is recognised by business schools worldwide, making it the ideal choice if you're aiming to pursue an MBA from an international program. It opens doors to top global institutions in countries like the US, UK, and Europe.

CAT:

On the other hand, CAT is specifically designed for Indian business schools, especially the prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). If your goal is to stay in India and join a well-known Indian institute, CAT is the exam for you.

Key Points to Consider:

Location:

If you wish to study abroad, the GMAT is your go-to exam. For those looking to stay within India, the CAT is more relevant.

Costs:

The GMAT can be more expensive, both in terms of exam fees and application costs for international schools. CAT is relatively more affordable.

Career Goals:

Think about where you want to build your career. If you aim to work in global markets, the GMAT might align better with your ambitions. If you see your future in India, CAT is a solid choice.

Ultimately, choose the exam that aligns with your long-term career plans and where you see yourself studying and working in the future.