What is the Difference Between CAT and GMAT Syllabus?

As an MBA aspirant, deciding between the CAT and GMAT can be a tough choice. Both tests open doors to excellent business schools, but they differ significantly in their syllabus and focus. The CAT, mainly for Indian institutions, tests your Quantitative, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Verbal skills. Meanwhile, GMAT, globally accepted, focuses on Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning and Data Insights. Understanding the difference between the two will help you identify which test aligns better with your strengths and future goals.

Key Highlights:

• The CAT syllabus focuses on Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability, making it specifically tailored for Indian business schools. In contrast, the GMAT syllabus emphasises Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Data Insights, appealing to a global audience.
• The GMAT tests advanced problem-solving in data-driven contexts, while CAT assesses fundamental math skills.
• In Verbal sections, the GMAT focuses on critical reasoning, whereas CAT emphasizes comprehension and grammar. 
• CAT includes logical reasoning through puzzles, while GMAT interprets data from graphs and charts.
• The exam durations differ, with CAT lasting 2 hrs and GMAT extending to 2 hrs 15 mins providing a 10 minute break option for test-takers.

GMAT Vs CAT: Key Differences

CAT and GMAT are two of the common entrance examinations to gain admission to MBA colleges. The key difference between the CAT and GMAT is that the GMAT is a global exam and helps you pursue your master’s abroad (some Indian schools like ISB accept GMAT scores). CAT, on the other hand, is accepted only by business schools in India like IIMs, SP Jain, XLRI, and ISB. The difference between the exam patterns of the GMAT and CAT is mentioned below:

Difference Between GMAT and CAT Syllabus

The main difference between the GMAT and CAT syllabus lies in the focus of the exam. CAT syllabus includes important topics from the three sections - Quantitative Aptitude (QA), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) whereas the GMAT syllabus includes topics from three sections - Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Data Insights. Here’s how they compare:

• Quantitative Aptitude (CAT) vs Quantitative Reasoning (GMAT): Both sections test mathematical skills, but GMAT includes advanced problem-solving techniques within a data-driven context.
• Verbal Ability (CAT) vs Verbal Reasoning (GMAT): GMAT includes a stronger emphasis on critical reasoning, while CAT focuses more on comprehension and grammar.
• Data Interpretation (CAT) vs Data Insights (GMAT): CAT emphasises logical puzzles and number-based data interpretation, while GMAT tests your ability to draw conclusions from various data representations.
• Exam Duration: CAT is 2 hours long, while the GMAT Focus Edition is 2 hours 15 minutes with a break option.
• The CAT score is valid for 1 year, while the GMAT score is valid for 5 years after the test.

Whether you need personalised GMAT guidance, Yocket Prep is your one-stop solution for everything related to study abroad preparation. 

GMAT Syllabus

The GMAT syllabus is structured to check your quantitative, verbal, and data interpretation skills through various sections. Understanding these components will help you identify your strengths and areas for improvement as you prepare for the exam.

Quantitative Reasoning

This section tests your mathematical problem-solving ability through real-world scenarios. It includes questions on number properties, algebra, and data interpretation, requiring strong analytical thinking.

Verbal Reasoning

Verbal reasoning evaluates your ability to understand and analyse written material. It includes sentence correction, critical reasoning, and reading comprehension to assess grammar and logical thought processes.

Data Insights

In this section, you’ll be required to interpret data from tables, graphs, and charts. It focuses on problem-solving using both verbal and quantitative data to draw conclusions from various data sources.

• Analysing data from tables, texts, and graphics
• Making inferences and recognising discrepancies
• Determining the provided data is enough to solve the provided question
• Sorting, analysing, and extracting data from tables or spreadsheets
• Extracting information from scatter plots, bar charts, pie charts, and other graphical representations
• Solving problems involving quantitative and verbal skills, simultaneous equations, and relationships

CAT Syllabus

The CAT syllabus encompasses a wide range of topics. Familiarising yourself with these sections is essential for effective preparation and achieving a high score on the exam.

Quantitative Aptitude

The Quantitative Aptitude section of CAT requires strong mathematical foundations. It assesses your ability to solve problems related to geometry, algebra, and number systems.

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension

This section is designed to test your command over the language. It includes jumbled paragraphs and comprehension passages that assess your reading and verbal reasoning skills.

Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation

Logical reasoning and data interpretation focus on your ability to solve puzzles and understand data presented in various formats. This section evaluates your logical thinking and analytical skills.

From the Desk of Yocket

Choosing between the CAT and GMAT ultimately hinges on understanding their distinct syllabus. While the CAT focuses on Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, the GMAT emphasises Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning along with Data Insights. 

This makes CAT more aligned with the rigorous analytical demands of Indian business schools, while GMAT offers a broader, globally recognised framework. Identifying which syllabus plays to your strengths and career aspirations is crucial. For a stress-free experience, consider Yocket Prep. Book a consultation call with our expert counselors for strategic guidance on the detailed syllabus for both exams.