What is CAT Exam? The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national-level management entrance exam conducted annually by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for admission into their MBA and PGDM programs. It is one of the most competitive exams in India, & with thousands of aspirants appearing each year to secure a place in top business schools. Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA).
Comparison of CAT with Other MBA Entrance Exams
1. CAT vs. XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test)
Difficulty Level:
- XAT is considered slightly more challenging due to its additional sections like Decision Making and General Knowledge.
Conducting Body:
- XAT is conducted by XLRI, Jamshedpur, while CAT is conducted by the IIMs.
Acceptance:
- CAT scores are accepted by IIMs and over 1,000 other B-schools, whereas XAT is primarily accepted by XLRI and a few other institutes.
2. CAT vs. GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
Exam Pattern:
- GMAT is a computer-adaptive test, whereas CAT follows a fixed pattern.
Global vs. National:
- GMAT is accepted worldwide, while CAT is mainly for Indian business schools.
Flexibility:
- GMAT can be taken multiple times a year, but CAT is conducted only once a year.
3. CAT vs. MAT (Management Aptitude Test)
Difficulty Level:
- MAT is easier compared to CAT and is conducted multiple times a year. Knowing about What is CAT Exam is very important.
Acceptance:
- MAT scores are accepted by many private B-schools, while CAT is required for top-tier institutions.
4. CAT vs. NMAT (Narsee Monjee Aptitude Test)
- Exam Pattern: NMAT allows multiple attempts, and candidates can choose their best score, unlike CAT.
- Level of Competition: CAT has a higher level of competition due to limited seats in IIMs.
Why is CAT Preferred Over Other Exams?
IIM Admissions:
- Only CAT scores can secure admission into the prestigious IIMs.
High Recognition:
- CAT scores are widely accepted across India.
Challenging Format:
- The exam structure ensures the selection of candidates with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Conclusion
While other MBA entrance exams have their own advantages, the CAT remains the gold standard due to its rigorous testing format, credibility, and widespread acceptance. For aspirants aiming for top-tier management education in India, What is CAT Exam? It is the gateway to the best business schools and a promising career in management.