CAT and GMAT overlap considerably in the skills they test, particularly quantitative ability, verbal ability, and reasoning, but their syllabi and formats are different.
For the CAT (Common Admission Test), the major areas are:
- Quantitative Ability (QA) – arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems, mensuration, etc.
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC) – reading comprehension, para-jumbles, sentence/paragraph completion, verbal reasoning, etc.
- Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) – tables, charts, arrangements, puzzles, data sets, and logical reasoning.
For the GMAT format in use in 2019, the major areas are:
- Quantitative – problem solving and data sufficiency, emphasizing arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and quantitative reasoning.
- Verbal – reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction.
- Integrated Reasoning – graphics interpretation, table analysis, multi-source reasoning, and two-part analysis.
- Analytical Writing Assessment – an essay analyzing an argument.
Therefore, there is substantial overlap in math and reading comprehension, but CAT places considerable emphasis on Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, while the GMAT has distinctive question types such as Data Sufficiency and Critical Reasoning, plus Integrated Reasoning and, in the 2019 format, an analytical essay.
Another major difference is the purpose of the exams. CAT is primarily used for admission to Indian management programs, particularly the IIMs, whereas GMAT is used by business schools internationally.
Preparing for one therefore gives you a useful foundation for the other, but it is not sufficient simply to use the exact same preparation. You should learn the exam-specific question formats, timing, and test-taking strategy for whichever examination you intend to take.
