Who should choose CAT (Common Admission Test)?

Targeting IIMs and top Indian B-schools. Planning to work in India post-MBA. Cost-conscious (CAT is much cheaper). Strong in quantitative aptitude.

Who should choose GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)?

Targeting international MBA programs. Planning ISB or schools accepting GMAT. Want flexibility to apply globally. Prefer computer-adaptive format.

CAT is the gateway to IIMs and top Indian B-schools, while GMAT opens doors to international MBA programs. Many Indian students take both.

IIMs

GMAC

IIMs

Provider

GMAC

~$25 (INR 2300)

Cost

$275

Very Hard

Difficulty

Hard

~1% get IIM calls

Pass Rate

N/A (score-based)

Annual exam

Validity

5 years

MBA admission to IIMs

Salary Impact

MBA admission

The Verdict

Choose CAT if targeting IIMs and Indian B-schools. Choose GMAT if planning international MBA or want ISB/top Indian schools that accept GMAT.

Choose CAT (Common Admission Test) if you:

Choose GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) if you:

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