GMAT vs CAT: A Deep Dive into Syllabus Overlaps and Smart Prep Strategies
- Goalisb
- Jul 11
- 3 min read
If you're preparing for the CAT but also considering the GMAT Exam —or vice versa—you're not alone. Thousands of aspirants today are keeping their options open, eyeing both Indian B-schools and global MBA programs. But here’s the big question: Can you actually prepare for both at the same time?
The answer lies in understanding the differences and overlaps in the syllabus—and leveraging them to your advantage. With the arrival of the GMAT Focus Edition, this conversation becomes even more relevant. This blog breaks down the similarities, contrasts, and strategic opportunities that dual-prep aspirants should know.
GMAT Focus Edition vs CAT: Format and Structure
Feature | GMAT Focus Edition | CAT |
Test Duration | 2 hours 15 minutes | 2 hours |
Total Sections | 3 | 3 |
Sections | Quant, Verbal, Data Insights | Quant, VARC, LRDI |
Number of Questions | 64 (21+23+20) | 66 (22+24+20) |
Test Frequency | Multiple times/year | Once/year |
Adaptive Format | Yes (section-adaptive) | No |
The new GMAT Focus Edition has aligned more closely with CAT in terms of section count and duration, making it easier than ever for CAT test-takers to transition to GMAT prep.
Section-Wise Breakdown: What’s Similar, What’s Not
1. Verbal Section (GMAT Verbal vs CAT VARC)
Overlaps:
Both tests assess reading comprehension, inference, and critical reasoning.
CAT and GMAT passages test logical flow, author’s intent, and tone.
Differences:
GMAT Verbal = Reading Comprehension (RC) + Critical Reasoning (CR)
No Sentence Correction anymore in GMAT Focus — a huge relief!
CAT VARC = RC + Para Summary, Para Jumbles, Odd Sentence Out
CAT focuses more on verbal puzzles; GMAT focuses on argument logic.
Takeaway:RC prep for CAT gives a strong foundation for GMAT RC. But GMAT CR topics like “Strengthen/Weaken,” “Flaw,” and “Boldface” are unique and require focused prep.
2. Quantitative Reasoning (GMAT Quant vs CAT QA)
Overlaps:
Arithmetic: Percentages, Ratios, TSD, Work & Time, Profit & Loss
Algebra: Equations, Inequalities, Indices, Functions
Number Systems, Statistics, Modern Math (P&C, Probability)
Key Differences:
CAT Quant is more unpredictable — question patterns change frequently.
GMAT Quant is more standardized, conceptual, and application-based.
Geometry is a major component in CAT but largely removed in GMAT Focus.
Data Sufficiency has been shifted from GMAT Quant to the new Data Insights section.
Takeaway:If you’ve mastered arithmetic and algebra for CAT, you’re already 70% ready for GMAT Quant. Just adapt to GMAT’s question style with targeted practice.
3. Data Insights vs CAT LRDI
This is where the exams truly diverge.
GMAT Data Insights Includes:
Multi-source reasoning
Table analysis
Graphical interpretation
Two-part analysis
Data sufficiency (non-math focused, more managerial)
CAT LRDI Includes:
Logical puzzles (arrangements, networks, Venns)
DI sets (tables, charts, calculations)
Pure logic + number crunching under time pressure
Takeaway: GMAT’s Data Insights leans toward business context, decision-making, and integrated reasoning. CAT LRDI is more raw logic + computation. Prep for one will not completely prepare you for the other.
Which Is Harder: GMAT or CAT?
Let’s not label one “harder” than the other—it depends on your profile.
If you’re strong in quantitative puzzles and okay with uncertainty, CAT may feel intuitive.
If you’re better at structured logic and want to control your test date, GMAT suits you better.
Non-native English speakers may find GMAT Verbal slightly more demanding because of the precision in critical reasoning.
Read more about GMAT vs GRE.
Final Thoughts: Can You Prepare for Both?
Absolutely. If you're starting early, here’s a smart plan:
Start with shared foundations: Arithmetic, Algebra, Reading Comprehension
Branch out based on your target schools:
Indian B-schools → Focus on VARC puzzles and geometry
Global B-schools → Practice CR, DI question types, and verbal logic
Think of it this way: 70–80% of your prep can be common. It's the final 20–30% that defines whether you’re GMAT-ready, CAT-ready—or both.
What’s Next?
We’ll be diving deeper into:
GMAT concepts and strategies
If you’re serious about getting into top B-schools in India or abroad, this is the time to plan your path strategically.
Got questions about CAT vs GMAT preparation?
Drop them in the comments below or reach out for personalized guidance to GOALisB.
Stay tuned for more insights, strategy breakdowns, and expert resources on cracking MBA entrance exams.
