When it comes to business school admissions, two exams battle it out: the CAT (Common Admission Test) vs the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test). Both are designed to assess your readiness for a challenging MBA program, but they differ significantly in structure, content, and purpose. Understanding these differences can help you plan your preparation smartly and efficiently and decide between the two!
Exam Purpose and Acceptance
GMAT: Your Gateway to Global B-Schools
The GMAT is accepted by over 2,300 business schools worldwide, including top institutions in the U.S., UK, Europe, Singapore, and Canada. In India, more than 140 schools, including the prestigious IIMs, also accept GMAT scores for select programs but not for the Flagship 2year – PGP programs that need CAT! In India, ISB uses GMAT scores for admission to it’s flagship 1 year program!
CAT: The Key to India’s Premier B-Schools
The CAT primarily caters to students aiming for top Indian business schools. Around 200 institutions, including all 20 IIMs, consider CAT scores for admissions. However, its acceptance outside India is limited. It’s primarily an India centric exam!
Exam Structure and Content
GMAT Focus Edition: Structured and Adaptive
The GMAT includes four sections:
- Quantitative Reasoning: 21 questions
- Verbal Reasoning: 23 questions
- Data Insights: 23 Questions
The test runs for approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. A standout feature? It’s computer-adaptive, meaning the difficulty of questions adjusts based on your performance. It penalises missing questions heavily so exam takers are
CAT: Time-Bound and Unpredictable
The CAT consists of three sections:
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC): 24 questions
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR): 20 questions
- Quantitative Aptitude (QA): 22 questions
This exam lasts 2 hours, with each section timed at 40 minutes. Unlike the GMAT, the CAT doesn’t adapt to your performance but does penalise incorrect answers with negative marking.
A quick summary of GMAT vs CAT debate is below!
Scoring and Validity
GMAT: Flexible and Long-Lasting
GMAT scores range from 200 to 800, based on performance in the Quantitative and Verbal sections. The IR and AWA sections are scored separately. Importantly, GMAT scores remain valid for five years, giving you flexibility in your application timeline.
CAT: Short Validity, High Stakes
For the CAT, each correct answer earns three points, while an incorrect answer costs one point. The score reflects your total across all sections and is valid for only one year, requiring quick application decisions.
Test Availability and Frequency
GMAT: Schedule on Your Terms
The GMAT offers maximum flexibility, being available multiple times throughout the year. You can attempt it up to five times in a rolling 12-month period (with a lifetime limit of eight attempts).
CAT: One Shot Each Year
The CAT is held once annually on a specific date. This means you get one opportunity per year, making thorough preparation crucial.
Preparation Time and Strategy
GMAT: Consistency is Key
Typically, GMAT preparation takes three to six months. Thanks to its predictable structure and question patterns, a focused study plan emphasizing practice tests and time management can yield great results.
CAT: Comprehensive and Adaptive Approach
Since the CAT covers a broader syllabus with unpredictable patterns, many candidates prepare for up to a year. A successful strategy involves building conceptual clarity, practicing diverse question types, and developing adaptive test-taking skills.
Final Thoughts: Which Exam Should You Choose?
Your choice between the GMAT and CAT boils down to your career goals and target institutions:
- If you’re aiming for global programs and want flexibility in scheduling, the GMAT is the right fit.
- If your goal is to study at top Indian business schools, especially the IIMs then CAT is your go-to option.
Regardless of your choice, the key lies in strategic preparation—understanding your strengths, addressing your weaknesses, and maintaining a consistent study routine tailored to your exam.