How is XAT Difficulty Level Compared to CAT?

Most candidates tend to find the XAT difficulty level to be slightly tougher than the CAT. Although both tests assess MBA aptitude, the XAT has several additional components to consider, including Decision Making and an optional Essay. Decision-making is only provided on XAT. Furthermore, XAT has a Verbal section that has more difficult and time-consuming questions when compared to CAT.

It is also important to note that CAT focuses heavily on Quant and LRDI-type questions, whereas XAT requires abilities in multiple areas. Overall, XAT is going to be a more difficult exam since it involves considerably more section variability and employs unpredictable elements.

Also Read: XAT vs CAT: Differences, Marking Scheme, Eligibility

CAT vs XAT: Section-wise comparison

Listed below is the section-wise comparison of both exams.

1. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension

Both exams assess the candidate's proficiency in the English language, but they do this differently:

• CAT: The [RCs] that appear in CAT are typically much harder than other [RCs] since CAT uses vagueness in its test, and different types of genres.
• XAT: Compared to CAT, the [RCs] in XAT tend to be easier, at least easier to read. There are no TITA questions in XAT either, which is better for everybody. 

2. Quantitative Ability

The quantitative section of both exams requires solid basic mathematics; the only issue is that the difficulty level is relative due to the following differences between the assessing exams:

• CAT: The CAT syllabus is very standard, which allows you to cover all the topics relatively easily, which is beneficial for preparing for the CAT. Moreover, there was a general pattern to the type of questions that were recurrently asked from previous papers, and therefore, it was not overly challenging regarding the questions asked.
• XAT: In the case of XAT, the QA questions cover a similar type of questions as CAT, with a few extra layers of difficulty, where overall the questions took longer and involved more calculations.

3. Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation 

DILR can be a tricky section for a lot of candidates, making it a make-or-break section for many. 

• CAT: CAT's DILR section is tough and equally unpredictable. The sets are often elaborate and last many steps, asking multiple parameters to get to the final correct answer. The sets are often elaborate or surprising, many times; however, one set always seems to be on the easier side.
• XAT: In XAT, LR is with the VA section, i.e. VALR and DI is with QA, thus making it QADI. What is unique to XAT is its Decision Making section. The DM section is often called a deal breaker or deal maker because of its unpredictable nature. 

4. General Knowledge 

One of the biggest differences between CAT and XAT is the inclusion of the GK section in XAT. CAT does not have a GK section, thus simplifying its overall structure. At the same time, XAT's GK section could require extra studying.

Also Read: Which IIM is best for CAT 2025 Aspirants?

Previous Year Difficulty Analysis of CAT vs XAT

You can check the previous year's difficulty analysis for both exams in the table below.

Conclusion

The answer to this question is "none" and yet "both". The difficulty of exams is a perceived feeling that we constantly try to establish in [examinations]. Students are guided not to think about these things, and of course, want students to consider their preparation. At the end, both exams give you the chance to secure a seat in top B-schools in India and will raise your career trajectory.