IPMAT vs CAT: What to Choose?
Updated On : January 25, 2024
Overview: Different opinions exist for different exams, especially IPMAT vs CAT. CAT is for aspirants opting for postgraduation, while IPMAT is for aspirants opting for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Whether you should go for CAT or IPMAT, you will find all the required information here. Check out the differences between CAT and IPMAT here in this article.
IPMAT and CAT are different types of exams that are conducted to provide admission to management courses.
The IPMAT exam is for those who want to pursue an integrated management program after class 12, while CAT is a post-graduate level exam that is conducted for graduates. With this exam, students get directly into the IPM Admissions phase.
If you ask if IPMAT and CAT syllabi are the same?, then the answer is a big NO!
Or the question is IPMAT tougher than CAT? Then we can say IPMAT is tough at the board level, but CAT entrance exam is also a tough exam, especially for graduates.
The ultimate goal is to find out the winner of CAT vs IPMAT.
Read through the post that will give you a complete insight into the differences between IPMAT and CAT, which is the better option, and more.
Differences between IPMAT and CAT
There is no actual way to decide the winner for CAT vs IPMAT, as both are at their best from different perspectives. Still, if you want a comparison, here is what the CAT vs IPMAT looks like.
Check out the table below to know the major differences between IPMAT and CAT:
| Parameters | IPMAT Indore Entrance Exam | CAT Entrance Exam |
| Conducting Body | The Indian Institute of Management, Indore (IIM Indore) | The Indian Institutes of Management (IIM) |
| Exam Level | National Level exam | National Level Exam |
| Programs Offered | Foundation Courses in Maths & Statistics, Game Theory, Optimization, Mathematical Modelling, Micro and Macro-economics, Indian Economy, Econometrics, International Trade | Post Graduate Programme (PGP), Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM), Executive MBA (ePGP, PGPEx) |
| Participating Institutes | The Indian Institute of Management, Indore (IIM Indore) | The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). |
| Frequency of Exam | Once a year | Once a year |
| Eligibility |
|
|
| Appearing Candidates (2023) | 13,954 | 2.88 lakhs |
| Subjects in Exam | Quantitative ability (MCQs), Quantitative ability (short answer questions) & Verbal ability | Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude. |
| Question Pattern | Multiple choice questions with one correct answer. | Multiple Choice Questions and non-multiple choice questions |
Check: IPMAT Exam Analysis
Similarities between IPMAT and CAT Exam
| Feature | IPMAT Indore Exam | CAT Exam |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Admission to Integrated Program in Management at IIM Indore | Admission to MBA/PGDM programs in IIMs and other business schools |
| Exam Conducting Body | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore | Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) |
| Frequency | Annually | Annually |
| Mode of Examination | Computer-Based Test (CBT) | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Sections | Generally includes Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability | Usually consists of Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Short Answer Questions | Primarily Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Eligibility Criteria | Higher Secondary Education or equivalent | Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent |
| Level of Difficulty | Moderate to High | High |
| Focus Areas | Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and Language Skills | Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and Language Skills |
| Negative Marking | Present in some sections | Yes, for some questions |
IPMAT Indore Examination
The IPMAT Exam is conducted by the Indian Institute of Management Indore (IIM Indore).
This exam is an entrance exam for the students to get admission to the 5-year Integrated Program in Management at IIM Indore.
This examination is a National level examination, i.e., any student from any corner of India is eligible to give this Aptitude Test for admission to the 5 years Integrated Program of Management.
The Integrated Program in Management Aptitude Test (IPMAT) comprises 2 stages, i.e., a Written Ability Test (WAT) and a Personal Interview (PI).
- The official notification for the Integrated Program in Management Aptitude Test (IPMAT) will be out in the month of March 2024 on the official website, i.e., https://www.iimidr.ac.in.
- The IPMAT Application form will be out in the second week of March 2024.
- The last date to fill out the IPMAT application form is the fourth week of March 2024.
- The IPMAT admit card 2024 will be out in the 2nd week of April 2024.
- The IPMAT exam will be conducted May 23, 2024.
- This examination is a national-level examination, and the students will get only one chance in one year to give this examination.
- The application fee for the Unreserved category (General) students is Rs. 4130/-, and for the Reserved category (SC/ST/PWD) students is Rs. 2065/-.
IPMAT Indore Eligibility Criteria:
- The students who have passed their 10+2 from a recognized board or any equivalent examination in 2023 and 2024 are eligible to apply for this exam
- The student must score a minimum of 60% in their higher senior secondary examination to qualify for this examination.
- The minimum age to apply for this examination is 18 years, and the maximum is 20 years.
Check: IPMAT Eligibility Criteria 2024
CAT Examination
Every year, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) conducts a Common Admission Test (CAT) for the students to get admission to the most prestigious management institute.
This common admission test (CAT) is conducted to get admission to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) course in one of the world’s best management institutes.
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national-level examination, i.e., any student from any corner of the world can apply for this admission test to get admission to the MBA course offered by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM).
The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Common Admission Test (CAT) comprises one multiple-choice question and non-multiple choice questions.
- The official notification for the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Common Admission Test (CAT) will be out in the last week of July 2024 on the official website, i.e., https://iimcat.ac.in.
- The CAT Application form will be out in the first week of August 2024.
- The last date to fill out the CAT application form is the last week of August 2024.
- The CAT admit card 2024 will be issued in the 2nd week of November 2024.
- The CAT exam 2024 will be conducted on 20th November 2024.
- The CAT exam 2024 results will be out in the first week of January 2025.
- This examination is a national-level examination, and the students will get only one chance in one year to give this examination.
- The application fee for the Unreserved category (General) students is Rs. 2,200/-, and for the Reserved category (SC/ST/PWD) students is Rs. 1,100/-.
CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria:
- The students who have passed their 10 + 2 from a recognized board and completed their graduation or any equivalent examination in 2022 and 2023 are eligible to apply for this exam.
- To qualify for this examination, the student must score a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in their bachelor’s degree.
- The minimum age to apply for this examination is 21 years, and the maximum is 24 years.
Read more: CAT Eligibility Criteria 2024
In this article, you will get to know every detailed difference between IPMAT and CAT.
IPMAT vs CAT Nature of Exams
IPMAT and CAT are some of the strongest entrance examinations in India. Both exams are highly respected and hold equal importance. However, there are major differences that the two hold and exam pattern is one of them.
To increase your preparation level, you should opt for IPMAT Online Coaching and CAT Online Coaching.
The table below shows the CAT vs IPMAT exam pattern:
IPMAT Indore Exam Pattern
Check out the table below to learn the detailed IPMAT Exam Pattern.
| Specifications | IPMAT Indore 2024 Exam Pattern |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Subjects | Quantitative ability (MCQs), Quantitative ability (short answer questions) & Verbal ability |
| Type of Questions | Quantitative Ability - 25 multiple choice questions, Quantitative ability - 25 short answer questions, and Verbal Ability - 50 questions |
| Medium of Exam | English and Hindi |
| Duration of Exam | 2 hours (120 minutes - 40 minutes for each section) |
| Total Marks | 400 Marks |
| Marking Scheme | For MCQs: +4 for each correct response; -1 for each incorrect response; Unattempted questions will not be marked. |
Learn more: How To Prepare For IPMAT 2024?
CAT Exam Pattern
Check out the table below to learn the detailed CAT exam pattern:
| Particulars | CAT 2024 Exam Pattern |
| Mode of Examination | Online |
| Medium of Examination | English and Hindi |
| Duration of the Exam | 2 hours (120 minutes - 40 minutes for each section) |
| Subjects | Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude. |
| Number of Questions | 66 Questions |
| Type of questions | Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension - 24 multiple-choice questions, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning - 20 multiple-choice questions, Quantitative Aptitude - 22 multiple-choice questions. |
| Total Marks | 198 Marks |
| Marking Scheme | For MCQs: +3 for each correct response; -1 for each incorrect response; Unattempted questions will not be marked. |
Check: IPMAT Preparation Strategy from Class 11
Fianl Verdict: IPMAT vs CAT?
- CAT is better for graduates or final-year undergraduates aiming for a traditional 2-year MBA at various top business schools, including IIMs. It's highly competitive, with about 2.88 lakh candidates in 2023.
- IPMAT Indore is suitable for students who have completed 12th grade and wish to join a 5-year integrated BBA+MBA program directly. It's less competitive compared to CAT, with around 13,954 candidates in 2023.
Choose CAT for a postgraduate MBA after gaining work experience or an undergraduate degree, and IPMAT Indore for an integrated management program right after school.
Conclusion
IPMAT vs CAT is the optimal topic if you are confused about whether to go for a regular master's degree or an integrated program. Both exams have different outcomes; some favour one's needs while others don't. So do plan your future for these exams wisely.
SuperGrads is a pioneer in management coaching and mentorship. Having top-class faculty on board, we help students crack their dream exams and get into their dream colleges. If you are willing and dedicated enough, join us today and get to experience the best amenities for yourselves.
Prepare with: IPMAT Mock Test 2024
Download Free IPMAT Study Material
Fill your details
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IPMAT better than CAT?
Which is the best college for the MBA?
Can I join IIM without IPMAT and CAT?
Is the IPMAT exam easier than the CAT?
Which management course is best after class 12th?
What are the basic eligibility criteria for IPMAT and CAT?
Can a class 12 student appear for both IPMAT and CAT?
What are the best preparation strategies for IPMAT and CAT?
IPMAT vs CAT: What to Choose?
January 25, 2024
Overview: Different opinions exist for different exams, especially IPMAT vs CAT. CAT is for aspirants opting for postgraduation, while IPMAT is for aspirants opting for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Whether you should go for CAT or IPMAT, you will find all the required information here. Check out the differences between CAT and IPMAT here in this article.
IPMAT and CAT are different types of exams that are conducted to provide admission to management courses.
The IPMAT exam is for those who want to pursue an integrated management program after class 12, while CAT is a post-graduate level exam that is conducted for graduates. With this exam, students get directly into the IPM Admissions phase.
If you ask if IPMAT and CAT syllabi are the same?, then the answer is a big NO!
Or the question is IPMAT tougher than CAT? Then we can say IPMAT is tough at the board level, but CAT entrance exam is also a tough exam, especially for graduates.
The ultimate goal is to find out the winner of CAT vs IPMAT.
Read through the post that will give you a complete insight into the differences between IPMAT and CAT, which is the better option, and more.
Differences between IPMAT and CAT
There is no actual way to decide the winner for CAT vs IPMAT, as both are at their best from different perspectives. Still, if you want a comparison, here is what the CAT vs IPMAT looks like.
Check out the table below to know the major differences between IPMAT and CAT:
| Parameters | IPMAT Indore Entrance Exam | CAT Entrance Exam |
| Conducting Body | The Indian Institute of Management, Indore (IIM Indore) | The Indian Institutes of Management (IIM) |
| Exam Level | National Level exam | National Level Exam |
| Programs Offered | Foundation Courses in Maths & Statistics, Game Theory, Optimization, Mathematical Modelling, Micro and Macro-economics, Indian Economy, Econometrics, International Trade | Post Graduate Programme (PGP), Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM), Executive MBA (ePGP, PGPEx) |
| Participating Institutes | The Indian Institute of Management, Indore (IIM Indore) | The Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). |
| Frequency of Exam | Once a year | Once a year |
| Eligibility |
|
|
| Appearing Candidates (2023) | 13,954 | 2.88 lakhs |
| Subjects in Exam | Quantitative ability (MCQs), Quantitative ability (short answer questions) & Verbal ability | Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude. |
| Question Pattern | Multiple choice questions with one correct answer. | Multiple Choice Questions and non-multiple choice questions |
Check: IPMAT Exam Analysis
Similarities between IPMAT and CAT Exam
| Feature | IPMAT Indore Exam | CAT Exam |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Admission to Integrated Program in Management at IIM Indore | Admission to MBA/PGDM programs in IIMs and other business schools |
| Exam Conducting Body | Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore | Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) |
| Frequency | Annually | Annually |
| Mode of Examination | Computer-Based Test (CBT) | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Sections | Generally includes Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability | Usually consists of Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Short Answer Questions | Primarily Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Eligibility Criteria | Higher Secondary Education or equivalent | Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent |
| Level of Difficulty | Moderate to High | High |
| Focus Areas | Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and Language Skills | Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and Language Skills |
| Negative Marking | Present in some sections | Yes, for some questions |
IPMAT Indore Examination
The IPMAT Exam is conducted by the Indian Institute of Management Indore (IIM Indore).
This exam is an entrance exam for the students to get admission to the 5-year Integrated Program in Management at IIM Indore.
This examination is a National level examination, i.e., any student from any corner of India is eligible to give this Aptitude Test for admission to the 5 years Integrated Program of Management.
The Integrated Program in Management Aptitude Test (IPMAT) comprises 2 stages, i.e., a Written Ability Test (WAT) and a Personal Interview (PI).
- The official notification for the Integrated Program in Management Aptitude Test (IPMAT) will be out in the month of March 2024 on the official website, i.e., https://www.iimidr.ac.in.
- The IPMAT Application form will be out in the second week of March 2024.
- The last date to fill out the IPMAT application form is the fourth week of March 2024.
- The IPMAT admit card 2024 will be out in the 2nd week of April 2024.
- The IPMAT exam will be conducted May 23, 2024.
- This examination is a national-level examination, and the students will get only one chance in one year to give this examination.
- The application fee for the Unreserved category (General) students is Rs. 4130/-, and for the Reserved category (SC/ST/PWD) students is Rs. 2065/-.
IPMAT Indore Eligibility Criteria:
- The students who have passed their 10+2 from a recognized board or any equivalent examination in 2023 and 2024 are eligible to apply for this exam
- The student must score a minimum of 60% in their higher senior secondary examination to qualify for this examination.
- The minimum age to apply for this examination is 18 years, and the maximum is 20 years.
Check: IPMAT Eligibility Criteria 2024
CAT Examination
Every year, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) conducts a Common Admission Test (CAT) for the students to get admission to the most prestigious management institute.
This common admission test (CAT) is conducted to get admission to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) course in one of the world’s best management institutes.
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a national-level examination, i.e., any student from any corner of the world can apply for this admission test to get admission to the MBA course offered by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM).
The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Common Admission Test (CAT) comprises one multiple-choice question and non-multiple choice questions.
- The official notification for the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Common Admission Test (CAT) will be out in the last week of July 2024 on the official website, i.e., https://iimcat.ac.in.
- The CAT Application form will be out in the first week of August 2024.
- The last date to fill out the CAT application form is the last week of August 2024.
- The CAT admit card 2024 will be issued in the 2nd week of November 2024.
- The CAT exam 2024 will be conducted on 20th November 2024.
- The CAT exam 2024 results will be out in the first week of January 2025.
- This examination is a national-level examination, and the students will get only one chance in one year to give this examination.
- The application fee for the Unreserved category (General) students is Rs. 2,200/-, and for the Reserved category (SC/ST/PWD) students is Rs. 1,100/-.
CAT Exam Eligibility Criteria:
- The students who have passed their 10 + 2 from a recognized board and completed their graduation or any equivalent examination in 2022 and 2023 are eligible to apply for this exam.
- To qualify for this examination, the student must score a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in their bachelor’s degree.
- The minimum age to apply for this examination is 21 years, and the maximum is 24 years.
Read more: CAT Eligibility Criteria 2024
In this article, you will get to know every detailed difference between IPMAT and CAT.
IPMAT vs CAT Nature of Exams
IPMAT and CAT are some of the strongest entrance examinations in India. Both exams are highly respected and hold equal importance. However, there are major differences that the two hold and exam pattern is one of them.
To increase your preparation level, you should opt for IPMAT Online Coaching and CAT Online Coaching.
The table below shows the CAT vs IPMAT exam pattern:
IPMAT Indore Exam Pattern
Check out the table below to learn the detailed IPMAT Exam Pattern.
| Specifications | IPMAT Indore 2024 Exam Pattern |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Subjects | Quantitative ability (MCQs), Quantitative ability (short answer questions) & Verbal ability |
| Type of Questions | Quantitative Ability - 25 multiple choice questions, Quantitative ability - 25 short answer questions, and Verbal Ability - 50 questions |
| Medium of Exam | English and Hindi |
| Duration of Exam | 2 hours (120 minutes - 40 minutes for each section) |
| Total Marks | 400 Marks |
| Marking Scheme | For MCQs: +4 for each correct response; -1 for each incorrect response; Unattempted questions will not be marked. |
Learn more: How To Prepare For IPMAT 2024?
CAT Exam Pattern
Check out the table below to learn the detailed CAT exam pattern:
| Particulars | CAT 2024 Exam Pattern |
| Mode of Examination | Online |
| Medium of Examination | English and Hindi |
| Duration of the Exam | 2 hours (120 minutes - 40 minutes for each section) |
| Subjects | Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude. |
| Number of Questions | 66 Questions |
| Type of questions | Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension - 24 multiple-choice questions, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning - 20 multiple-choice questions, Quantitative Aptitude - 22 multiple-choice questions. |
| Total Marks | 198 Marks |
| Marking Scheme | For MCQs: +3 for each correct response; -1 for each incorrect response; Unattempted questions will not be marked. |
Check: IPMAT Preparation Strategy from Class 11
Fianl Verdict: IPMAT vs CAT?
- CAT is better for graduates or final-year undergraduates aiming for a traditional 2-year MBA at various top business schools, including IIMs. It's highly competitive, with about 2.88 lakh candidates in 2023.
- IPMAT Indore is suitable for students who have completed 12th grade and wish to join a 5-year integrated BBA+MBA program directly. It's less competitive compared to CAT, with around 13,954 candidates in 2023.
Choose CAT for a postgraduate MBA after gaining work experience or an undergraduate degree, and IPMAT Indore for an integrated management program right after school.
Conclusion
IPMAT vs CAT is the optimal topic if you are confused about whether to go for a regular master's degree or an integrated program. Both exams have different outcomes; some favour one's needs while others don't. So do plan your future for these exams wisely.
SuperGrads is a pioneer in management coaching and mentorship. Having top-class faculty on board, we help students crack their dream exams and get into their dream colleges. If you are willing and dedicated enough, join us today and get to experience the best amenities for yourselves.
Prepare with: IPMAT Mock Test 2024
Download Free IPMAT Study Material
Fill your details
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IPMAT better than CAT?
Which is the best college for the MBA?
Can I join IIM without IPMAT and CAT?
Is the IPMAT exam easier than the CAT?
Which management course is best after class 12th?
What are the basic eligibility criteria for IPMAT and CAT?
Can a class 12 student appear for both IPMAT and CAT?
What are the best preparation strategies for IPMAT and CAT?
