Region-wise entrance in CAT and GMAT may look similar but once you delve deeper you can see a huge difference in the pattern and level of both the exams (Representational image)
CAT has three sections and GMAT has two. The level of English is slightly higher in GMAT and the level of Quant is slightly lower as compared to CAT
Life is about setting goals, be it short term or long term and when it comes to a management career, one can look at different paths to achieve the same goal. Different routes like GMAT or CAT can have different challenges but if both result in the same way then the job becomes easier.
One can take these entrances which are based on aptitude related to English, Logical Reasoning and Quantitative Ability to get a dream career in Management. Region-wise entrance in CAT and GMAT may look similar but once you delve deeper, you can see huge difference in the pattern and level of both the exams.
CAT tests the skill of paragraph reading and interpretation in the VARC section where question types are based on paragraph formation, paragraph completion, context statement, summary and reading comprehension. Basic words and grammar questions are not asked directly, it is more about the application of these areas in RC. In the GMAT exam, one can see direct questions on grammar and critical reasoning in addition to RC passages.
The types of questions in CAT are not defined and anything from English Aptitude can come in the test, whereas the types of questions in GMAT are exactly known i.e. Critical Reasoning, Sentence Correction and Reading Comprehension. Quant, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning are other areas tested in CAT, while GMAT tests only Quant apart from English.
Broadly speaking, CAT has three sections and GMAT has two. The level of English is slightly higher in GMAT and the level of Quant is slightly lower as compared to CAT. The number of options in GMAT is 5 as against 4 in CAT. Additionally, there are two more sections of the GMAT that are tested separately and are not included in the 800 score of the GMAT. They are Integrated Reasoning and Analytical Writing assessment tests. IR is tested on a scale of 1 to 8 and AWA on a scale of 0 to 6.
CAT is a computer-based test where one can attempt any question in a section in a stipulated time. While GMAT is a computer adaptive test and the candidate cannot go back after attempting a question, also the level of the next question is based on the accuracy of the previous question. The test is adaptive as per attempts, which means if you make a mistake, the next question will be of lower difficulty level and less weightage.
Now, let’s look at the other aspect – the future prospects. Through CAT, one can get admission in IIMs and other top B schools like MDI, FMS, IIT (DOMS), SP Jain, XIM B, IMT, IMI, etc. GMAT is a ticket for admission to MBA program or MIM program abroad. , Masters in Management is for freshers and MBA is for exes working abroad in most of the countries. GMAT scores are accepted by B-schools in Europe, Australia, USA etc. Apart from this, some B-schools in India also accept GMAT score for their MBA programs like MICA, IMT, XLRI, SP Jain etc. Overall the GMAT opens up. Career opportunities in management both in India and abroad.
Based on these details candidates can decide between these two entrances and choose either or both to reach their career goals. Return on investment and overall risk are other two factors to be considered when choosing between these two gateways.
Written by Amit Poddar, Senior Regional Head, TIME
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