Read the article below to know the difference between CAT and MAT exams in detail. CAT vs MAT exam will provide a comparative study and help the candidates to decide which one to choose. Both of these are national-level MBA exams and provide the candidates to get admission to the top MBA colleges in India.
The difference between the MAT and CAT is: the first one is the only way to get into IIMs in India, however, the MAT is accepted in business schools including Amity University, Alliance University, Christ University, Taxila Business Schools, and many others.
The largest conundrum facing MBA candidates is whether to take the CAT, the MAT, or both. The applicants must be aware of the variations between the MAT and CAT tests if they desire to prepare for both of these tests. Here, our experts have provided a thorough comparison of the CAT vs MAT to aid candidates in a successful preparation process.
Similarities Between CAT and MAT
Note the table below to get some basic differences between CAT vs MAT. The candidates must be aware of these similarities to remove their confusion.
Components |
Details |
Course |
MBA / PGDM |
Exam Level |
National |
Question Paper Medium |
English |
Negative Marking |
Yes |
Differences Between MAT and CAT
These two MBA exams differ in a number of ways. However, there are significant differences between these two exams in terms of frequency, format, length, eligibility, scoring system, syllabus, and organising body.
One of the greatest distinctions between the CAT Exam and the MAT Exam is that the former allows you to increase your score through numerous attempts, whilst the latter does not.
The top highlights between CAT vs MAT are tabulated below:
Components |
CAT Exam |
MAT Exam |
Full Form |
Common Admission Test |
Management Aptitude Test |
Conducting Authority |
IIMs in India |
AIMA |
Exam Mode |
Online CBT |
PBT, CBT, IBT |
Difficulty Level |
Moderate to Difficult |
Easy to Moderate |
Let’s compare MAT vs CAT in terms of several criteria, including eligibility, the exam’s syllabus, fees, the scoring system, the exam format, and more.
CAT vs MAT – Eligibility
Exam Name |
Eligibility Details |
The candidates must be graduated from a reputed institute with atleast 50% in aggregate (45% for reserved category candidates) |
|
MAT Eligibility |
The candidates must be graduates but there is no mention of the minimum percentage of marks |
MAT vs CAT – Exam Pattern
The overall amount of questions, exam sections, total time, and sectional time restriction are all different for the MAT and CAT exams. Take note of the table below to get a sense of how the MAT and CAT exam patterns differ.
Particulars |
CAT |
MAT |
Exam Sections |
3 Sections:
|
5 sections
|
Sectional Time |
40 Minutes |
NA |
Total Questions |
66 |
100 |
Question Types |
MCQs + TITA |
Only MCQs |
CAT vs MAT – Frequency
These two exams have very different exam frequencies. While there are several opportunities to pass MAT in a single year, there is only one chance for applicants to pass CAT each year.
- CAT is only conducted once a year (in the month of November). There are three slots available on a single exam day, and candidates must show up at the testing location at the times specified on their admit card.
- MAT is given in three different formats, including CBT (Computer-Based Test), PBT (Paper-Based Test), and IBT (Internet-Based Test), at various points during the year, including February, May, September, and December.
CAT vs MAT – Duration
The exam duration of CAT and MAT is different.
- The total duration of the CAT exam is 120 minutes. It is further divided into 40 minutes for each section. It means that CAT has a sectional time limit.
- The total duration of the MAT exam is 2.5 hours. There is n sectional time limit for this exam.
MAT vs CAT – Marking Scheme
Because both of these tests have negative marking policies, candidates must focus on correctness during the preparation period. To compare the MAT and CAT exams’ marking schemes, take note of the table below.
Components |
CAT |
MAT |
Total Marks |
198 |
200 |
Marks / Questions |
+3 |
+1 |
Negative Marking |
-1 (For MCQs Only) |
-0.25 |
Blank Question |
No Marks |
No Marks |
CAT vs MAT – Syllabus
The applicants must be aware of the chapters covered in both the CAT and MAT exams if they plan to take both of them. The MAT and the CAT syllabus are very dissimilar. To acquire suggestions for the subjects for MAT vs. CAT, take note of the following reference table.
CAT |
MAT |
The CAT syllabus covers the following chapters
|
While MAT syllabus covers the below chapters:
|
CAT vs MAT – Exam Fees
The fees for MAT and CAT registration are also different. As per the latest updates CAT application form fees are 2300 for general category candidates and 1150 for reserved category candidates. But in the case of MAT, there are no differences in exam fees in MAT as per the candidates’ category. But it is different as per the exam modes.
- Single Paper (IBT, CBT, PBT) – 1950/-
- For Double Remote Proctored Internet-Based Test (IBT) or Double Paper Based Test (PBT) or PBT+IBT or PBT+CBT or CBT+IBT – 3100/-
Depending on your abilities, preferred colleges, and hobbies, you can choose between the CAT and MAT exams as reliable MBA entrance exams. While CAT, which can get you into the IIMs, is far more competitive, MAT is comparably simpler.
Hope that this essay has helped you understand the difference between CAT and MAT exams.
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Frequently Asked Questions on Differences Between CAT and MAT
Is MAT tougher than CAT?
The MAT exam is easier than CAT. If you check the last years’ CAT Analysis you will get an idea of the exam difficulty level and topics covered.
Which one is better? CAT vs MAT?
Both of these exams are the best. CAT is the key to enter in IIMs to study MBA. But if you appear for MAT then you will also get a chance to study MBA in top colleges, apart from IIMs, SIU and XLRI.
I have a good MAT score. Can I get a call from IIMs?
No, IIMs only accepts CAT score. To study MBA in IIMs you have to clear the required CAT Cut Off.
Is the MAT exam for MBA study?
One of the most popular MBA tests in India is MAT, which is recognised by over 600 MBA colleges. Additionally, MAT-accepting MBA schools provide a number of well-known, new, and specialised specialisations.