Admissions Enquiry open for the Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) Program for the Academic Year 2023 - 2024.
Ever found yourself stuck between two options, unsure which to choose? It happens to everyone, right? But what if this decision is more significant—like a life or career choice? The key is to weigh the pros and cons carefully. The same logic applies when deciding between two major entrance exams for your PGDM journey.
Choosing between the CAT and GMAT is one of the most critical decisions for aspiring PGDM students. Both exams are highly respected by top business schools, but they differ significantly in terms of structure, scope, and eligibility criteria. If you’re feeling torn between the two, don’t worry. In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences to help you make the best decision based on your PGDM aspirations.
| 1. Exam Overview | 2. Eligibility Criteria | 3. Exam Format and Duration |
| CAT (Common Admission Test) | CAT | CAT |
| Primarily for Indian institutes, especially IIMs. One of India’s most competitive exams, held annually. | Open to Indian citizens with a recognized bachelor’s degree (typically 50% or more, depending on category). No age or work experience limit, though work experience may be considered by some institutes. | Contains three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), Quantitative Ability (QA). Duration: 2 hours. |
| GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) | GMAT | GMAT |
| Accepted worldwide, particularly in Canada, Australia, UK, and some top institutions in India. Conducted globally by over 2,300 business schools. | Open to candidates worldwide with a bachelor’s degree. No mandatory percentage requirements. Work experience is typically preferred for top international schools. | Includes four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Integrated Reasoning (IR), Quantitative Reasoning (QR), Verbal Reasoning (VR). Duration: 3 hours 7 minutes. |
| 4. Scoring & Result | 5. Appraisal and Frequency | 6. International and Indian Focus |
| CAT | CAT | CAT |
| Scores range from 0 to 100 percentile, with IIMs and other institutes setting score cutoffs. Results typically available within weeks of the exam. | Generally cheaper for Indian nationals, with fees around â‚ą2500 for the general category. Held annually, typically in November. | Primarily accepted by Indian institutes, particularly IIMs and select top institutes. Limited acceptance by foreign schools. |
| GMAT | GMAT | GMAT |
| Scores range from 200 to 800, with separate scores for AWA and IR sections. Valid for five years, and candidates can retake the exam multiple times. Results available in 24-48 hours. | Higher cost, around â‚ą23,091 for paper-based testing, and â‚ą25,190 for online registration. Can be retaken up to five times per year. | Globally accepted by over 2,300 business schools, including top institutions in India and abroad. |
| 7. Preparation Approach | 8. The Best Exam for You |
| CAT | Choose CAT if |
| Preparation requires time management, critical reasoning, and quantitative aptitude. It’s highly competitive and demands months of preparation. | You want to target Indian business schools, especially IIMs. You prefer a test that doesn’t require essay writing. You’re comfortable with tough quantitative and logical reasoning |
| GMAT | Choose GMAT if |
| Preparation focuses on quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and integrated reasoning. Given its computer-adaptive nature, a logical approach is key. | You’re targeting international business schools or Indian schools that accept GMAT scores. You’re open to retaking the test for a better score. Your chosen schools value work experience in the admission process. |
Takeaway:
Both CAT and GMAT are excellent exams. Your choice should depend on your career goals, target schools, and test preferences.
CAT is ideal for those aiming for top Indian institutes like IIMs. GMAT, on the other hand, is better suited for those targeting international business schools or a mix of domestic and international applications. Both require hard work, strategic planning, and determination to succeed.
Conclusion:
The decision between CAT and GMAT ultimately depends on your aspirations, preferred study destinations, and the type of academic experience you seek. Prepare with focus, and let your career vision guide you towards the right choice.
