GMAT vs CAT: Which is Better and Easier?

GMAT vs CAT, the GMAT is a global exam, and all top colleges accept scores around the globe. On the other hand, CAT is a national-level examination, and all the leading colleges accept the qualifying scores. Additionally, it is a gateway for the ones seeking admission into the top business schools.

While comparing GMAT vs CAT, CAT stands for Common Admission Test, conducted by a branch of the Indian Institute of Management (IIM). In contrast, GMAT stands for Graduate Management Admission Test conducted for admission to business schools across the globe by Graduate Management Admissions Council. You can find the GMAT vs CAT difficulty level in the sections below.

GMAT vs CAT Key Difference

Both the entrance exams are tough to crack, and you must choose the exam you want to write based on your career aspirations. Suppose you are going to study in an international business school, in that case, you should consider taking the GMAT, and if you want to study in India, you can choose to write the CAT exam.

However, there are similarities with testing your skills based on language, reasoning, and quantitative ability; therefore, here is a GMAT vs CAT comparative analysis.

Difference Between GMAT vs CAT 

GMAT and CAT are somewhat similar examinations, though it is easy to get confused between the two. Many of you frequently stumble around the question, is GMAT easier than CAT? Therefore, you can read through this article to understand the differences and get an insight into how you can answer the exam to the best of your abilities. Let us discuss the differences between GMAT and CAT based on the various conditions. After going though all these features you can reach the conclusion if GMAT vs CAT which is easy, or GMAT vs CAT which is difficult?

1. GMAT vs CAT Exam Format

While both CAT and GMAT are computer-based tests, the formats differ for each exam. The duration for GMAT vs CAT is variant. CAT is conducted for 120 minutes or 2 hours. In comparison, the duration of the GMAT is 187 minutes or 3 hours and 7 minutes, due to the GMAT exam having 4 sections.

In contrast, the CAT exam pattern has 3 sections. CAT includes verbal reasoning & reading comprehension, data interpretation & logical reasoning, and quantitative ability. On the other hand, the GMAT includes verbal reasoning, integrated reasoning, quantitative aptitude, and analytical test.

When it comes to the CAT exam, you have to write the exam in chronological order. In contrast, the GMAT allows you to decide the order of the sections you want to attempt as per your preparation.

2. GMAT vs CAT Marking Scheme

The marking scheme is pretty straightforward with CAT, where most questions in the exam are objective or multiple-choice queries (MCQs). Each correct answer fetches a +3 mark, while an incorrect answer costs a deduction of -1 mark. However, there is no marking for unattended/ unanswered questions.

With GMAT, you are awarded marks in a range set for each section. The Analytical Writing Ability section has a range of marks between 0 and 6, and the Integrated Reasoning section's range is between 1 and 8. In contrast, the Quantitative Aptitude and Verbal Reasoning sections have a marks range of between 0 and 60 each. The total combined score for the GMAT exam is between 200 and 800.

3. GMAT vs CAT Exam Duration

By understanding the exam duration, you can plan your preparation better. The GMAT vs CAT examinations are similar in that they are both online, computer-based tests. However, the duration of the GMAT exam is 3 hours and 7 minutes; on the other hand, for the CAT exam, the period is 2 hours, where one hour is allotted to each section.

4. GMAT vs CAT Eligibility Criteria

To write your GMAT exam, the only factor that is considered is the age factor. If you are 18 and above, you are eligible to write the exam. If you are under 18, you can take the exam with parental permission. You also need two years of working experience to apply for colleges abroad.

As per the CAT exam eligibility, you should have completed your undergraduate degree or be in the final year of your undergraduate degree from a recognised University.

5. GMAT vs CAT Syllabus for Exam

In the case of the GMAT exam, the syllabus comprises three portions: Integrated Reasoning, Quantitive Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning. All three sections must be attended at the scheduled time, but examinees are free to switch between sections. You can choose which section to attempt first and your answering order.

For the CAT exam, things are a bit different. CAT syllabus also has three sections, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Quantitive Aptitude. However, a chronology is followed, and students can not switch between sections. Only after completing one section you are allowed to move on to the next section.

6. GMAT vs CAT Entrance Test Fee

The fees for GMAT vs CAT is variant. For GMAT, the fees are standardized regardless of your category. There are separate fees for the cancellation and rescheduling of the GMAT exam. The particulars of the GMAT exam fees are mentioned below:

The fees of CAT is separate for different categories. The category-wise fees for CAT are given below:

7. GMAT vs CAT Number of Attempts

You can attempt the GMAT exam five times a year. The maximum limit to take the GMAT exam is eight times. There should be a maximum gap of at least 16 days before the candidate writes GMAT again. We advise you to prepare well and try to crack the examination on the first attempt. You can find question papers, PDFs and other GMAT or CAT-related articles on the GetMyUni website. 

The CAT exam is conducted annually. You can write the exam 'n' number of times as there is no restriction on the number of attempts taken.

8. GMAT vs CAT Acceptance of Score

According to the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), which regulates the GMAT exam, the score is accepted by more than 2300 business schools for more than 7000 programmes worldwide. For the CAT exam, the score is accepted only in India. Apart from the IIMs (Indian Institute of Management), the CAT score is accepted in more than 100 business schools in India.

9. GMAT vs CAT the Validity of the Score

The validity of a GMAT score is for five years from the date of the exam. Though, the score being accepted depends on the University you apply for. Ensure the business school you apply for accepts the GMAT score for that particular year. The CAT score is valid only for a year. So if you write your exam in November 2025, the score would apply to the colleges you want to attend for the following year.

10. GMAT vs CAT Post Exam Procedure

Besides the GMAT score, you should focus on essay writing, letters of recommendation, and interviews for admissions into business schools. A candidate with a CAT score should prepare for a written ability test, group discussion and personal interview, which is the standard procedure of selection to get into a business school in India.

Is GMAT easier than CAT in this context, it is important to mention that the admission process is more stringent for CAT compared to GMAT, as you have to prepare not just for the exam but for group discussion and interviews, as only limited students are selected for the programme, the competition is higher. With a GMAT score, you do not have to worry if you are confident with speaking and are fluent in speaking English.

Also Read: How Much Weightage is Given to CAT Exam Score in IIMs?

Factors Considered for Choosing GMAT and CAT

Another question that loiters in your mind while assessing GMAT vs CAT which is better? Although both CAT and GMAT have their fair share of advantages and disadvantages, choosing the entrance exam entirely depends on your goals and finances. You can write the CAT exam if you want to pursue an MBA right after graduating. However, on the other hand, the GMAT exam will be a better option if you have the financial resources to apply to business schools abroad.

YOU should analyse all the GMAT vs CAT factors, decide which option is the best for you and work hard towards achieving your goals.

Also Read: Steps to Crack CAT Interview

GMAT vs CAT Study Cost

The cost of writing your CAT exam, attending coaching centres and buying books is comparatively cheaper than GMAT. Also, the MBA fee for business schools is less expensive than that of international business schools. Although, if you do choose to graduate from a well-established international school, the return on investment will be higher in the coming years. Graduating from an international business school means a higher salary and a better position.

After going through all these details you can easily crack if GMAT vs CAT which is harder? Definetely, CAT is a bit harder than GMAT. However, the GMAT vs CAT quant section is challenging for both.