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CAT Vs XAT: Analyze Differences And Similarities Between CAT and XAT

CAT and XAT are two different MBA entrance exams, yet they are considered to be similar in many ways. However, both exams have unique factors. Learn about the differences and similarities between CAT and XAT.

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Published on 10th September 2024, 3:50 PM

CAT and XAT are two different MBA entrance exams, yet they are considered to be alike in a lot of ways. However, both exams have unique factors. Candidates gearing up to take CAT 2024 and XAT 2025 are urged to learn the differences and similarities so that they can prepare effectively for both exams, as the CAT and XAT held their exams just a month apart.

Difference Between CAT and XAT

This is a common question that every MBA aspirant asks in order to prepare themselves for admission. We all know that CAT and XAT are high-level MBA entrance examinations and are popular picks among management students. However, there is no actual response to this question, whether it’s a yes or a no even though both the management examinations are identical in numerous aspects, the CAT and XAT maintain unique characteristics.

For instance, the CAT examination has a sectional time frame, and its Reading Comprehension (RC) passages are known for being lengthy and intense. When it comes to XAT 2025, it does have a sectional time frame, but one can still split time between English, Quantitative Ability (QA), and Decision Making (DM) according to your preparation.

On the contrary, the CAT examination does not contain sections like Essay Writing, DM, and GK which need additional preparation. Both the examinations are held only a month apart.

CAT Vs XAT: Exam Dates

Particulars

CAT 2024

XAT 2025

Exam Date (2024-25)

24th November 2024

5th January 2025

CAT takers will find XAT much easier to manage as most of the topics have been already covered in the CAT preparation. Additional preparation is particularly needed for sections like DM and Essay Writing. Nevertheless, you need not prepare for the essay writing as it has been excluded as per the latest XAT 2025 official news. 

CAT Vs XAT: Exam Pattern 

Let’s take a look at the differences between CAT vs XAT Exam Pattern in the tables below: 

Particulars

CAT

XAT

Number of questions

66

95

Total Mark

198

95

Marking Scheme

Yes (3 marks for each right response and -1 mark for each wrong response. There is no negative marking for MCQs)

Yes (1 mark for right response and -0.25 mark for wrong response plus a 0.5 mark will be subtracted for leaving over 8 unanswered questions. There will be no negative marking in the General Knowledge Section)

Total of Sections

3

4

Number of Choices in Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

4

5

Sectional Time Duration

Yes (40 minutes for each section)

Yes (180 minutes for VA, QA, and DM- part 1 and 10 minutes for GK – part 2)

Also Check: CAT Exam Pattern | XAT Exam Pattern

CAT Vs XAT: Syllabus

Although there isn’t any specific or fixed syllabus for either of these entrance exams released by any supreme authority, the topics covered in both exams are different. Let’s take a look at the differences between the syllabi of CAT vs XAT in the tables below:

Particulars

CAT

XAT

Exam Sections 

> Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)  

> Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)

> Quantitative Ability (QA) 

 

> Decision Making

> Verbal and Logical Ability 

> Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation 

> General Knowledge 

Also Check: CAT Syllabus | XAT Syllabus

Similarities Between CAT and XAT

CAT and XAT are both considered to be the top management entrance exams that pave the way for tier 1 B-schools. Both exams are equally tough and are taken by the majority of MBA aspirants. Let’s take a look at the similarities these two exams have:

Particulars

CAT

XAT

Registration Mode

Online

Online

Mode of Exam

Computer Based Test

Computer Based Test

Level of Difficulty

Moderate to Tough

Moderate to Tough

Syllabus 

Yes

Yes

Speed- based Test

Yes

Yes

Sectional Time Duration

Yes 

Yes 

Both of these entrances pave the way to top B-schools in India with an excellent reputation. Although CAT is the option for the majority of aspirants, it is advisable for all CAT takers also to take XAT to keep their options open.

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Best of Luck!!

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