Is GMAT Tougher than CAT Exam: Check Key Differences & Similarities

Overview: "Is GMAT tougher than CAT exam? The two most prominent entrance exams are the CAT and GMAT. Both exams open doors to top B-schools but differ in some respects. Scroll down to learn the differences between the CAT and GMAT exams!

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• The Common Admission Test (CAT) and the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) are highly respected and competitive exams that open doors to prestigious business schools. 
• While CAT is a national-level entrance exam, universities worldwide accept GMAT scores.
• Factors such as exam pattern, marking scheme, syllabus, and more should be considered to determine whether the GMAT or CAT is tougher.

Is GMAT tougher than CAT? Continue reading to know more!

Is GMAT tougher than CAT​: GMAT vs CAT 2026

GMAT 2026

• The GMAT is a test primarily used for admissions to MBA programs worldwide, particularly in countries outside India, such as the United States and Europe.
• This entrance test assesses analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and integrated reasoning skills.

CAT 2026

• The CAT entrance exam is for MBA programs in India, especially for the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top B-schools.
• The exam evaluates a candidate's quantitative aptitude, verbal ability, reading comprehension, data interpretation, and logical reasoning abilities.

Find Out | Is CAT and GMAT Preparation the Same

Is GMAT Tougher than CAT 2026: Exam Conducting Body

The Common Admission Test is conducted by one of the Indian Institutes of Management, while the Graduate Management Admission Council conducts the GMAT.  Here are the details to look for:

Parameter	CAT Exam	GMAT Exam
Conducting Body	Indian Institute of Management	Graduate Management Aptitude Test

Also check: CAT Logical Reasoning Syllabus

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Is GMAT Tougher than CAT 2026: Difficulty Level Analysis

Both exams are for pursuing an MBA in prestigious institutions, but there is a key difference in their difficulty level. Here is the section-wise difference between the difficulty level of GMAT vs CAT:

Basis	CAT Exam	GMAT Exam
Difficulty Level in Maths Section	The CAT QA section is known for its wide range of difficulty. It includes questions ranging from arithmetic to higher-level algebra and geometry. The unpredictability of the difficulty level is a significant challenge for many candidates.	The GMAT's Maths section focuses on problem-solving and data sufficiency. While the math level could be more advanced, the questions are designed to test logical reasoning and ability.
Difficulty Level in the English Section	The CAT VARC is also challenging but focuses more on reading comprehension and basic grammar. It needs sentence correction to the same extent as the GMAT.	The English in GMAT is relatively challenging, especially for non-native English speakers. It includes sentence correction, critical reasoning, and reading comprehension.
Difficulty Level in Reasoning Section	The CAT DILR section is often considered one of the most challenging parts of the exam. The questions are tricky and time-consuming, requiring quick thinking and sharp analytical skills.	The GMAT includes a Reasoning section that tests the ability to analyse data presented in various formats and requires logical reasoning to solve complex problems.

Know More: How to Download the CAT Admit Card?

Is GMAT Tougher than CAT 2026: Exam Format Comparison

GMAT or CAT which is easy? The exam pattern is a major factor that decides the exam's difficulty. Here is the exam format of the GMAT and the CAT exam that you should be aware of:

Particulars	CAT Exam	GMAT Exam
Exam Pattern	It has three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (40 minutes) Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (40 minutes) Quantitative Ability (40 minutes)	It has four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment (30 minutes) Integrated Reasoning (30 minutes) Quantitative Reasoning (62 minutes) Verbal Reasoning (62 minutes)
Exam Duration	The total duration is 2 hours.	The total duration is 3 hours and 7 minutes, including breaks.

Read More: CAT 2026 Maths Syllabus

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Is GMAT Tougher than CAT 2026: Marking Scheme Differences

The significant difference between the two is that the GMAT is tougher than the CAT.

Particulars	CAT Exam	GMAT Exam
Total Applicants	In 2024, over 3.29 lakh applicants appeared for the entrance.	Around 1,15,286 candidates take the GMAT each year.
Marking Scheme	+3 marks are given for every correct answer  -1 marks are deducted for wrong answers	No negative marking. There are various increment ranges for each question group.

Also Check: WAT Topics for CAT

Is GMAT Tougher than CAT: Final Comparison and Key Takeaways

The difficulty of sections in both exams can be subjective and depends on individual competencies.

The Quantitative section in CAT is often considered trickier, emphasising advanced topics like Geometry and Algebra. GMAT Quant, on the other hand, focuses more on basic Arithmetic and Algebra, understanding that logic and analytical skills are essential in this exam.

The Verbal section in CAT focuses on Reading Comprehension and Verbal Ability, with a noticeable emphasis on vocabulary. In contrast, the GMAT's Verbal section primarily focuses on Sentence Correction, Critical Reasoning, and Reading Comprehension, requiring a solid understanding of grammatical rules and logical reasoning.

CAT's Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning section involves complex problem-solving and can be more time-consuming. GMAT's Integrated Reasoning tests the ability to interpret and analyse data from multiple sources, which is challenging but often considered less tricky than CAT DILR.

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Time Management in CAT vs GMAT

Time management can be a determining factor in assessing the difficulty of these exams. The CAT exam pattern 2025, with sectional time limits, can seem stringent to some, while the GMAT's 3.5-hour format with flexible time allotments per section might offer some relief to others.

Check | How important is GK for MBA entrance exams?

Conclusion

So, is GMAT tougher than CAT? There's no definitive answer. It's more about where your strengths lie and which exam aligns better with your career ambitions.

Understand both exams' structure, format, and requirements, analyse your skills, and choose the one that matches your strengths.

Consistent preparation, rigorous practice, and sound time management are indispensable for success regardless of the choice.

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