NMAT v/s CAT

1. Exam Overview

• CAT (Common Admission Test): Conducted by IIMs, it's the gateway to top B-schools in India, including all IIMs.

• NMAT (Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies Management Aptitude Test): Conducted by GMAC, it's primarily for admission to NMIMS and other participating institutes.

 2. Syllabus Comparison

• VARC (CAT) vs. Language Skills (NMAT): Both assess reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary. However, NMAT places a stronger emphasis on vocabulary and grammar.

• LRDI (CAT) vs. Logical Reasoning (NMAT): While both test logical reasoning abilities, CAT's LRDI section is known for its higher difficulty level, featuring complex puzzles and data interpretation sets.

• QA (CAT) vs. Quantitative Skills (NMAT): CAT's QA section includes both MCQs and TITA (Type in the Answer) questions, with a focus on higher difficulty levels. In contrast, NMAT's Quantitative Skills section consists solely of MCQs with moderate difficulty.

 3. Difficulty Level

• CAT: Generally considered more challenging due to its complex question patterns and higher competition.

• NMAT: Moderate difficulty level, with a focus on speed and accuracy.

 4. Exam Pattern

• CAT: 120 minutes duration with three sections: VARC, LRDI, and QA. The exam includes both MCQs and TITA questions.

• NMAT: 120 minutes duration with three sections: Language Skills, Quantitative Skills, and Logical Reasoning. The exam consists only of MCQs.

 5. Eligibility Criteria

• CAT: Open to all graduates with a minimum percentage as specified by the conducting IIM.

• NMAT: Open to all graduates with a minimum aggregate of 50% marks.

6. Marking Scheme

• CAT: 1 mark for each correct answer; negative marking of 1/3 for incorrect answers.

• NMAT: 1 mark for each correct answer; no negative marking.

7. Preparation Tips

• For CAT:

• Focus on understanding concepts and practicing a variety of question types.

• Regularly take mock tests to build speed and accuracy.

• Work on time management skills, especially for LRDI and QA sections.

• For NMAT:

• Emphasize building a strong vocabulary and grammar foundation.

• Practice speed-based mock tests to improve time management.

• Focus on accuracy, as there's no negative marking.

 8. Top Colleges Accepting Scores

• CAT: Accepted by all IIMs, FMS Delhi, XLRI Jamshedpur, SPJIMR Mumbai, and other top B-schools.

• NMAT: Accepted by NMIMS Mumbai, ISB Hyderabad (AMPI), SPJIMR (PGMPW), Xavier University, and select international B-schools.

9. Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Which exam is easier, CAT or NMAT?
  A: NMAT is generally considered easier due to its moderate difficulty level and no negative marking. However, CAT offers admission to a wider range of top B-schools.

• Q: Can I appear for both exams?
  A: Yes, many aspirants choose to appear for both exams to maximize their chances of admission.

• Q: Which exam should I choose?
  A: If you aim for top IIMs and are confident in handling a challenging exam, CAT is the choice. If you're targeting NMIMS or prefer a moderate difficulty level with multiple attempts, NMAT is suitable.