CAT and GMAT – Examination Format Comparison

Like different roads converging towards the same destination, CAT and GMAT have some stunning similarities and major differences as well.

While GMAT uses Analytical Writing Assessment, Integrated Reasoning Section, Quantitative Section and Verbal Section in its format, CAT proceeds by testing you on the basis of Quantitative Aptitude (QA), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DI-LR), and Verbal and Reading Comprehension (VRC). So, let us explore more of the subtle similarities and differences between the two most sought after test formats for Management aspirants.

Sections in CAT and GMAT:

CAT consists of two sections:

1. Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation
2. Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning.

GMAT consists of four sections:

1. Analytical Writing
2. Integrated Reasoning
3. Quantitative Ability
4. Verbal Ability

Duration allotted for the tests:

While CAT gives you two hours and fifty minutes to complete the paper, there are no specific timings for the sections. GMAT on the other hand, gives three hours and thirty minutes for the entire test with specific time allocations for certain sections.

Section 1 and 2 are allowed thirty (30) minutes each.

Section 3 and 4 are allotted seventy five (75) minutes each.

Navigation at a go:

While CAT is a linear Computer Based Adaptive Test, GMAT is a Computer Adaptive Test. The pattern of CAT allows you to navigate the questions within the paper and also within sections.

GMAT is more of a closed off pattern. Once you answer a question, there is no going back. No navigation. Not within the paper, not within segments. This can be difficult at times. For ones who like to do things first, easy and quick, save yourself the sweat by attempting questions diligently.

Number of questions in store for you:

CAT has equally distributed questions in its two segments.

1. 50 in Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation
2. 50 in Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning.

GMAT has a distribution pattern of :

1. Section 1: One – Analysis of an Argument (A detailed comprehensive essay)
2. Section 2: 12 questions in Integrated Reasoning
3. Section 3: 37 questions in Quantitative Ability
4. Section 4: 41 questions in Verbal Ability

Weightage attached to questions?

CAT awards 3 points for every correct answer and deducts one for every wrong answer. Maximum score can go as high as 300. GMAT gives a higher weightage to tougher questions and lower weightage to easier questions. A candidates score can range between 200 and 800 points. That is a broad range indeed!

Which examination between CAT and GMAT tests writing skills in depth?

CAT does not test candidates on the basis of their writing skill whereas GMAT requires a candidate to pen down a full fledged essay that reflects his/her ability to present thoughts, reason an argument, critique, support with examples and use correct grammar. So ones with a flair for words, you definitely got an extra edge while attempting your GMAT.

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