Did you know that a record 3.3 lakh students registered for the CAT 2023? The surging number of applicants denotes the relevance of the test among Indian students aspiring for a business and management degree.
MBA is one of the most competitive degrees in the world, and most business schools ask you to clear an entrance test before joining them.
CAT and GMAT are two of the common entrance examinations into a B-school. While CAT is a domestic test administered within India, GMAT has a wider global appeal.
If you are planning to pursue a career in the business and management field, then it is crucial for you to decide the best entrance examination for your higher studies.
GMAT vs CAT: At a Glance
| Feature | GMAT | CAT |
| Administered By | The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) |
| Test Mode | Offline and Online | Online |
| Duration | 3 hours 7 minutes(Old Version) 2 hours and 15 minutes (New Version) | 2 Hours |
| Application Fee | INR 22,824 ($275) Offline INR 24,899 ($300) Online | INR 2,400 (General) INR 1,200 (Under reservation) |
Here is the complete guide on GMAT and CAT. Let us compare and contrast the tests to figure out which is the best entrance test for a business school.
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What is GMAT?
GMAT, or Graduate Management Admission Test, is one of the most popular admission tests for business schools. 9 out of 10 MBA enrollments are made using a GMAT score.
Over 110 countries across the world accept GMAT. The exam is an entrance requirement for over 2,400 business schools for 7,700+ programs. According to the official website, a GMAT score is used four times more than a GRE score for MBA admissions.
The test is popular because it accurately analyses students’ readiness to join a business school. The test assesses your reasoning and analytical skills.
Let us look at the key components of the test that make it different from other entrance examinations.
Key Highlights of GMAT:
| Feature | Detail |
| Administered By | The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) |
| Duration | 3 hours 7 minutes |
| Number of Sections | 4 |
| Number of Question | 80 questions |
| Score Range | 200 – 800 |
| Test Mode | Online and Offline |
| Validity | 5 Years |
| Exam Fee | INR 22,824 ($275) Offline INR 24,899 ($300) Online |
The test offers two optional 8-minute breaks between tests. Look at the table below to understand how the questions and duration are distributed between the test’s four sections.
Check out the table:
| Section | Number of Questions | Duration | Score Range |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 62 minutes | 31 questions | 6 – 51 |
| Verbal Reasoning | 65 minutes | 36 questions | 6 – 51 |
| Integrated Reasoning | 30 minutes | 12 questions | 1 – 8 |
| Analytical Writing Assessment | 30 minutes | 1 questions | 0 – 6 |
While the exam measures your critical thinking and reasoning skills, submitting a test score also measures your readiness and motivation to join a business school.
Also Read: How Hard is the GMAT in 2024?
Latest Updates on GMAT
As the GMAT is being opted for by more and more students worldwide, the administration is bringing more innovations into the test to make it more appealing and accurate for test-takers. Some of the latest updates on GMAT are given below.
Check out the updates now:
- A new GMAT Focus Edition is replacing the classic GMAT exam.
- GMAT Focus Edition will be available in the test centres beginning November 7th, 2023.
- The classic GMAT will only be available till January 31, 2024.
- Starting from February 1, 2024, only the GMAT Focus Edition will be available for test takers worldwide.
- Registration for GMAT Focus Edition began on August 29, 2023, and continues.
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GMAT vs GMAT Focus Edition
The new GMAT Focus Edition is a shorter, flexible, more convenient and efficient version of the graduate management admission test. The new version adds several new features to test and replaces outdated and less efficient question types to make your exam easier.
Given below are the key additions to the test:
- Bookmark Option: To enhance your test experience, GMAT Focus Edition introduces a bookmark facility. Now, you can bookmark your questions and review them later.
- Review and Edit Options: The newer version provides a review and edit option. Unlike the old version, this allows students to review and edit their answers in all the sections and questions. Now, you can edit your answers thrice.
- Score report: The older version of the test report displays your score range and percentile ranking only. The new version provides a much more detailed report with performance insights.
- Sending Test Reports: GMAT allows you to send your test scores to your preferred schools. In the older version of GMAT, this option was offered before the test began. Once you have made the school selection at the beginning of the test, they cannot be changed. However, the new version allows you to choose the schools after you receive your scores.
- Sections: The Integrated Reasoning (IR) and Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) parts have been replaced with a Data Insights section. So, you no longer have an essay question in the new GMAT Focus Edition.
- Duration: Unlike the earlier version, all the sections now have the same duration and remain 45 minutes.
In addition to the above changes, there are other improvements made to the test to make it more flexible and insightful.
Both versions differ from each other in terms of structure and content. Let us look at the key differences between the old GMAT and the new GMAT Focus Edition.
GMAT vs GMAT Focus Edition:
| Features | GMAT | GMAT Focus Edition |
| Duration | 3 hours and 7 minutes | 2 hours and 15 minutes |
| Break | Two optional 8-minute breaks | One optional 10 min break |
| Number of Questions | 80 Questions | 64 Questions |
| Score Range | 200-800 | 205-805 |
| Number of Sections | 4 | 3 |
| Sections | – Quantitative Reasoning (QR) – Verbal Reasoning (VR) – Integrated Reasoning (IR) – Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) | – Quantitative Reasoning (QR) – Verbal Reasoning (VR) – Data Insights |
International Institutions Accepting GMAT Score
GMAT is one of the most opted entrance examinations into a business school. Most prestigious universities in the world ask for a GMAT test score to measure their applicant’s aptitude and skills to join a graduate degree.
Given below are the top universities in the world accepting the GMAT test scores
Check out the universities below:
| University | Country | Average GMAT Score |
| Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania | USA | 733 |
| Stanford Graduate School of Business | USA | 733 |
| Harvard Business School | USA | 732 |
| Judge Business School, University of Cambridge | UK | 690 |
| Desautels Faculty of Management, McGill University | Canada | 675 |
| Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto | Canada | 670 |
| Saïd Business School, University of Oxford | UK | 650 |
The GMAT score for each university can vary depending on your program. The scores given above are average. You can check out the individual GMAT scores from the respective department websites.
Also Read: GMAT Scholarships
What is CAT?
CAT, or the Common Admission Test, is one of India’s most prominent entrance exams for admission into graduate management programs. The test is administered by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIM). Most top universities in India prefer CAT as an entrance requirement for their MBA programs.
CAT is a complete computer-based test. CAT is an entry requirement for various master’s and fellow/doctorate programmes in the 21 IIMs of India. The test is usually conducted at around 300 test centres across 155 different cities in India.
Key Highlights of CAT:
| Features | Details |
| Administered By | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) |
| Duration | 2 Hours |
| Number of Sections | 3 |
| Number of Questions | 66 |
| Total Score | 198 |
| Test Mode | Online |
| Validity | 1 Year |
| Exam Fee | INR 2,400 (General) INR 1,200 (Under reservation) |
The CAT exam consists of three different sections. A breakdown of the test is given below.
The CAT Exam Sections are:
| Section | Number of Questions | Duration |
| Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension | 24 | 40 Minutes |
| Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning | 20 | 40 Minutes |
| Quantitative Ability | 22 | 40 Minutes |
CAT Test Date: The CAT is conducted once every year. CAT 2024 test dates are yet to be announced. The test usually occurs in November.
The CAT 2023 test date was 26 November 2023. The CAT 2023 results are supposed to be announced in the second week of January 2024.
CAT Eligibility: A bachelor’s degree is the minimum eligibility to appear for the CAT. Applying for the CAT requires a minimum of 50% marks or an equivalent CGPA. The minimum score for the SC, ST and PwD categories is 45%.
Final-year bachelor’s degree students can also appear for the CAT exam. However, their candidature will be cancelled if they fail to submit a degree completion certificate after the course.
International Institutions Accepting CAT Scores
Although CAT is a domestic exam, CAT scores are accepted by some international business schools as well. Especially in Asia, the exam is considered a good parameter to assess the readiness of applicants to join a graduate program.
Some of the international colleges that accept a CAT score are mentioned below.
International Institutions Accepting CAT Scores:
| Institution | Course | Country |
| EMLyon Business School | MSC in Management | France |
| ESCP European Business School | Masters in Management | Germany |
| Sp Jain School Of Global Management | Masters Of Global Business | Australia/UAE/Singapore |
| Singapore Management University | Masters in Management | Singapore |
| Asian Institute of Management | Masters in Business Administration | Philippines |
The above universities accept CAT test scores instead of GMAT or GRE scores. In addition, there can be other eligibility requirements too.
GMAT vs CAT: Key Differences
To make a well-informed decision, you must understand all the factors concerning the tests. The test format, structure, content, expense, reach and several other factors are relevant when you decide to take a test.
Given below are the key differences between the GMAT and CAT. You can go through all the differences before making your final decision.
GMAT vs CAT: Major Differences
| Features | GMAT | CAT |
| Administered By | The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) |
| Test Mode | Offline and Online | Online |
| Duration | 3 hours 7 minutes(Old Version) 2 hours and 15 minutes (New Version) | 2 Hours |
| Number of Sections | 4 (Old) 3 (New) | 3 |
| Sections | Sections for GMAT: – Quantitative Reasoning (QR) – Verbal Reasoning (VR) – Integrated Reasoning (IR) – Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) Sections for GMAT Focus Edition: – Quantitative Reasoning (QR) – Verbal Reasoning (VR) – Data Insights | Sections for CAT: – Verbal Ability and Reading comprehension – Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning – Quantitative Ability |
| Number of Questions | 80 (Old) 64 (New) | 66 |
| Validity | 5 Years | 1 Year |
| Acceptance | Global level | National level |
| Score Scale | 200-800 | 198 |
| Minimum Score | 200 | 90+ percentile for top institutions |
| Application Fee | INR 22,824 ($275) Offline INR 24,899 ($300) Online | INR 2,400 (General) INR 1,200 (Under reservation) |
| Average Preparation Time | 2-3 months | 4-5 months |
| Annual Test Takers in 2023 | 2 lakh+ | 3.3 lakh |
Also Read: Top 10 Toughest Exams in the World 2024
GMAT or CAT: The Ultimate Decision
The final answer to the question of whether to take a GMAT or CAT depends on your requirements. If you want to apply to a foreign university, then GMAT is your best choice. CAT is a domestic exam, whereas GMAT applies to a wider global scale.
GMAT opens up more possibilities for studying abroad or even in India. Owing to its larger appeal, GMAT is a better choice to make. However, if you intend to join an IIM or any other top university in India, clearing a CAT can be a good addition to your academic profile.
The marking scheme also differs between both the GMAT and CAT tests. While the GMAT reports both absolute and percentile scores, the CAT solely depends on percentile scores. So, the score you receive is relative to other test takers, and there is no fixed cut-off to clear.
The validity of the CAT test is only one year. If you are not planning to take admission in the upcoming year, you do not need a CAT test. On the other hand, the GMAT is a greater choice for candidates who have yet to figure out their further study plans. Since it offers a larger 5-year validity period, this will allow you more time to find your institution and the best program.
Compared to GMAT, CAT has a higher number of test-takers annually. In 2023, a record rate of 3.3 lakh students attempted the CAT. The average number of students who attend the GMAT annually is above 2 lakhs. In this regard, CAT is a highly competitive test.
GMAT test dates are highly flexible. You can attempt the test at various points of the year. CAT, on the other hand, is available only once a year.
If you cannot clear your GMAT, you can retake the test after 16 days. You can attempt the GMAT five times a year. Since CAT is only offered once a year, you cannot attempt the test more than once a year.
The best test for your graduate studies depends on your entry requirements, aptitudes and other personal choices. Conduct thorough research and find which test suits the best for your higher education. Consider all your requirements and decide the best entrance examination for your further studies.
Also Read: Top 10 Exams to Study Abroad
To Sum Up
The confusion of whether to attempt a GMAT or a CAT is common for most students who wish to pursue a career in business and management fields. Before making your final decision, understand your needs and requirements.
Finalise your plan for higher studies, and make the choice that suits you the best. Understanding your choices is the first step to making the right choice. Learn the basic differences between the tests and choose the one that best suits your career plan.
If you plan to study abroad and explore global opportunities for an MBA student, determine the best test requirements for your preferred universities. We agree that figuring this out alone can be tricky. Leap’s study-abroad consultants are a call away to guide you through.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What is the basic difference between GMAT and CAT?
A. The basic difference between the GMAT and CAT is that the GMAT is administered by the Graduate Management Aptitude Council (GMAC), and the Indian Institutes of Management (IIM) administers CAT. GMAT is open to candidates across the world. CAT is basically for admission into IIMS and other top business schools in India.
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Q. Is GMAT easier than CAT?
A. In general, GMAT has a lower rate of annual test takers than the CAT. This could be a good reason to opt for the GMAT. The GMAT and CAT assess your readiness to join a business and management school. It assesses your reasoning, analytical and critical thinking capabilities.
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Q. How many attempts are allowed for CAT?
A. There is no limit or maximum attempts for the CAT exam. You can attempt the CAT as many times as you want. However, the test is only available once a year. So, if you do not clear the test, you can retake it only next year.
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Q. Can I retake the GMAT?
A. Yes, you can retake GMAT. You can attempt GMAT five times a year. However, 5 attempts were allocated five times under a rolling period of 12 months. However, there has to be a minimum of 16 days interval between each attempt. Before retaking your GMAT, take the proper time to prepare for the test.
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Q. How many times can I attempt GMAT in a year?
A. You can retake the GMAT five times over a continuous period of 12 months. However, a minimum interval of 16 days is necessary between each attempt. Although this is allowed, we recommend that you take a minimum preparation period of 2-3 months between your tests to ensure that you get proper preparation time.
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Q. Can I attempt both GMAT and CAT?
A. Yes, you can attend both GMAT and CAT in a single year. Since two different bodies administer both tests, you do not have to choose between taking the tests. However, it is better to understand your required entrance test before appearing for both.
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Q. Is GMAT longer than CAT?
A. Yes, the GMAT is longer than the CAT. The duration of the GMAT exam is 3 hours 7 minutes. The new GMAT Focus Test will last 2 hours and 15 minutes. On the other hand, the duration of the CAT is 2 hours.
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Q. Which exam has the longer validity, GMAT or CAT?
A. GMAT has a longer validity period than the CAT. The validity period of a GMAT test is five years. The validity of the CAT test is only one year. If you clear the CAT 2023, it is only valid till CAT 2024. So, taking the test only if you plan to join a business school in the upcoming year is better.
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Q. Which test requires a longer preparation time, GMAT or CAT?
A. On average, the preparation time required for the GMAT is two to three months. The average preparation time for CAT is three to four months. This can vary according to each individual.
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Q. How many times can I attempt a CAT in a year?
A. You can only attempt the CAT once a year. The CAT, or common admission test, is administered by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIM) and is offered only once a year. The exam is usually conducted in November. So, you can only attend CAT once a year.
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Q. Is GMAT more expensive than CAT?
A. Yes, the GMAT is more expensive than CAT. The application fee for GMAT is INR 22,824 ($275) for the offline mode and INR 24,899 ($300) for the online mode. The application fee for CAT is INR 2,400 for general candidates and INR 1,200 for reserved candidates.
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Q. Why do I need to take a GMAT or CAT?
A. The GMAT and CAT are the common entrance examinations for business and management schools. While GMAT is administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC)and accepted across the world’s top universities, CAT is administered by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM).
