CAT and GRE Differences Distinguished

CAT quantitative section is difficult as compared to GRE quantitative section. GRE includes class 9–10 knowledge for quantitative section, however, CAT is a bit tricky. Verbal section of both the exams are at equal level. Also, GRE score is valid for 5 years and CAT is valid for 1 year

Comparing GRE with CAT is like comparing apples with oranges. Both caters exactly opposite needs and skills. For MS/PhD in top tier universities you need publication in top tier conferences not in some shit paid open source journals along with your Test scores, LORS, projects ,research experience, GPA, etc. which are unnecessary for CAT aspirants. Majority of CAT aspirants have to grasp their undergraduate degree especially B. Tech. holders so they try to switch. So decide yourself what you want? Want to go for research if so I'll highly recommend you for GRE if not CAT if you're interested in business. You can't simultaneously pursue MS in US with MBA in India. Both are mutually exclusive!

Rahul Singh, GRE Expert Harvard Scholar (SPNM)

Nothing comes easy in life. Let me tell you what skills both GRE and CAT measures and you can decide on your own about which will be more competitive for you or which is more suitable for you.

 In Graduate Record Examination (GRE)

·         The Verbal Reasoning section measures your ability to analyze and draw conclusions from discourse, understand multiple levels of meaning, select important points and understand the meanings of sentences and entire texts.

·         The Quantitative Reasoning section measures your ability to interpret and analyze quantitative information and use mathematical skills such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, probability and statistics to solve problems.

·         The Analytical Writing section measures your ability to sustain a well-focused, coherent discussion, articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively, support your ideas with relevant examples and examine claims and accompanying evidence.

Whereas  in CAT,

·         Quantitative Ability part is separated into four modules: Arithmetic, Modern math, Algebra, Geometry. Each of these has a strong reflection of managerial quotient. Arithmetic is heavy on the numbers where the questions are best attempted by understanding the underlying symmetry and patterns, thus stressing on this skill as a potent managerial strength; Algebra is based on equations, which measure the candidate's ability to understand variables and correlate them into meaningful relationships, thus emphasizing upon a candidate's ability to extend this skill to similar situations in management; Geometry is based on understanding space which is analogous to conceptualizing the market space and handling challenges like product positioning; Modern Math explores multiple possibilities implicit in a situation thus testing a candidate on lateral thinking - one of the most powerful tools for innovation and idea generation in the business world.

·         Data Interpretation checks the data processing and comprehension abilities of a candidate. Questions are based on bar graphs, line graphs, data tables, pie charts and other related statistical tools. The management angle is manifested in the fact that managers analyze huge chunks of data on a regular, daily basis and base their decisions on these data bytes.

·         Logical Reasoning questions in the CAT measure the application of logic in different situations like arrangements, coding -decoding etc. Proficiency in handling these questions is indicative of a higher logical quotient which is a huge facilitator in successful handling of management challenges.

·         Verbal Ability comprises of questions on areas like Usage & Grammar, Verbal Reasoning and Reading Comprehension. Usage & Grammar includes questions on antonyms, synonyms, analogies, fill in the blanks, etc. - each testing a certain managerial skill. For example, questions on fill in the blanks measure a candidate's contextual competence, which is a preferred managerial trait.

 I could say that CAT is tougher than GRE.

Let’s list out  the differences :

1.       As stated the Quantitative Ability, Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation sections of CAT carry a higher level of difficulty than GRE.

2.      For Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, I would say that, if you have prepared for VARC as for CAT, GRE won’t pose much challenge.

3.      Nature of Examination - GRE
# Could be taken at a time when you feel you are prepared to take it
# Can be taken multiple times in the same year
# The score is valid for three years
# You have a variety of universities to apply for as per your preference
# The selection process is all in the hands of the universities you apply for
# 2 months preparation is enough
# Only one page SOP is enough for them to weigh your candidature

4.      Nature of Examination - CAT
# The entire nation (and abroad) takes it at the same time of the year
# Huge competition for scoring and in number of seats offered
# Caste Based Reservation System applicable
# The score is valid only for the academic year to follow
# The goal is to be set very clearly, given your academic profile, work ex, caste, financial conditions you know how much to score in CAT
# Require well planned and dedicted preparation
# 99 percentile is just the start of the game; then there is WAT, GD and PI to judge your suitability for the course

5.      Thus CAT becomes tougher not only because the type of questions asked, but also inherently by its nature; when compared to GRE.

“comfortably give GRE and fly to foreign universities, if you have a lot of money; else give more than your best, prove yourself and bell the CAT with golden jingle.”