GATE vs CAT : Which one is Tougher? PDF Download

In today's highly competitive world, securing a well-paying job is a crucial requirement for every aspiring student. To this end, many students attempt to appear for some of the toughest entrance exams in India, including the GATE and CAT exams, which provide access to lucrative professional careers. Both exams are aimed at graduate students seeking admission to post-graduate courses. However, there are significant differences between these two exams, and students often have questions about their distinctions.
This EduRev article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of the GATE and CAT exams, helping students clear their doubts and make informed decisions about their academic futures.

What is GATE Exam?

• GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) is a national-level entrance exam in India for admission to postgraduate programs in engineering and science.
• The exam is conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc).
• GATE scores are also used for recruitment purposes by various public sector undertakings (PSUs).
• The exam is conducted once a year and is a computer-based test.

What is CAT Exam?

• CAT (Common Admission Test) is a national-level entrance exam in India for admission to postgraduate management programs.
• The exam is conducted by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs).
• CAT scores are accepted by various management institutes across India, including the IIMs and other top management schools.
• The exam is conducted once a year and is a computer-based test.

GATE vs CAT: Key differences

The table explains the main differences between GATE and CAT:

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GATE vs CAT : Syllabus

GATE Syllabus

• The GATE syllabus is different for each of the 29 papers offered.
• The exam tests a candidate's subject knowledge in their undergraduate specialization, which can be in the fields of engineering, technology, mathematics, or architecture.
• The GATE syllabus includes topics specific to the chosen paper, such as mechanics, electrical circuits, programming, thermodynamics, etc.
• The syllabus also includes general aptitude, which tests a candidate's comprehension, verbal and numerical ability, and reasoning.
• Engineering mathematics is another important section that includes topics like linear algebra, calculus, probability, and statistics.

Check the GATE syllabus here

• Syllabus - GATE Mechanical Engineering 
• Syllabus - GATE Civil Engineering
• Syllabus - GATE Computer Science and Information Technology
• Syllabus - GATE Electrical Engineering
• Syllabus - GATE Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE)

CAT Syllabus

• The syllabus of CAT is divided into three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude.
• The Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension section includes topics such as reading comprehension, para-jumbles, sentence completion, and critical reasoning.
• The Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning section includes topics such as tables, charts, graphs, data sufficiency, and logical reasoning.
• The Quantitative Aptitude section includes topics such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and number system.
• The syllabus of CAT mainly focuses on testing a candidate's basic knowledge, aptitude, and logical thinking ability.
• The CAT syllabus is designed to test a candidate's ability to comprehend and analyze information, apply reasoning skills, and solve complex problems.

GATE vs CAT: Difficulty level

GATE and CAT are two of the most popular competitive exams in India, and both are known for their high difficulty level. Here is a detailed explanation of the difficulty level of both exams:

GATE Difficulty Level

• The GATE exam is known for its high level of difficulty.
• It tests a candidate's subject knowledge in their undergraduate specialization.
• The exam covers a wide range of topics and the questions are often complex.
• Candidates need to have a strong understanding of fundamental concepts to do well in the exam.
• GATE is conducted in 29 different papers, each with a specific syllabus and exam pattern.
• The difficulty level of GATE can vary depending on the candidate's undergraduate specialization.
• Candidates from core engineering fields such as mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering may find the exam more challenging than candidates from other fields.
• To crack GATE, candidates need to have an ability to apply concepts to real-world problems.
• They also need to have excellent time management skills as the exam has a limited time duration.

CAT Difficulty Level

• The CAT exam is known for its high level of difficulty.
• It tests a candidate's basic knowledge, aptitude, and logical thinking.
• The questions are often complex and require a strong understanding of the underlying concepts.
• The exam is divided into three sections: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude.
• The difficulty level of the CAT exam can vary depending on the candidate's level of preparation and their grasp of basic concepts.
• The exam is highly competitive, and the number of candidates far exceeds the number of seats available in the top management institutes.
• Candidates need to perform exceptionally well to secure admission to the top institutes.
• To crack CAT, candidates need to have a strong grasp of basic concepts and an ability to think logically and apply the concepts to solve complex problems.
• They also need to have excellent time management skills as the exam has a limited time duration.

GATE vs CAT : Which One is Better?

It's common for candidates to ask whether CAT or GATE is better, but it's important to note that the answer to this question depends on the candidate's career aspirations and skill set. Here's a breakdown of the factors that can help candidates choose between CAT and GATE:

• CAT typically has more verbal, logical reasoning, and quantitative questions, while GATE is more focused on the candidate's subject knowledge and technical expertise.
• Both exams are challenging and require dedicated preparation, so candidates should choose the exam that aligns with their strengths and interests.
• For candidates interested in pursuing management courses, CAT is the better option, while candidates interested in pursuing a career in engineering or science should opt for GATE.
• GATE scores can help candidates secure a job in PSUs, while CAT scores are primarily used for MBA/PGDM admissions.
• Candidates should consider their undergraduate specialization and the field they wish to pursue before deciding which exam to take.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) related to GATE vs CAT

Is CAT tougher than GATE exam?

Both the CAT and GATE exams are challenging in their own ways, but it's difficult to compare them directly as they have different objectives and test different skill sets. The GATE exam tests a candidate's subject knowledge and technical expertise in engineering and science fields, while the CAT exam tests basic knowledge, aptitude, and logical thinking for MBA/PGDM courses. So, it's not accurate to say that CAT is tougher than GATE or vice versa as it depends on the candidate's background and skill set.

Which is better GATE or CAT exam?

There is no clear answer to whether GATE or CAT is better as it depends on the candidate's career aspirations, interests, and skill set. GATE is more suited for candidates interested in pursuing a career in engineering or science and can help them secure jobs in PSUs, while CAT is better for candidates interested in pursuing management courses. Candidates should choose the exam that aligns with their strengths and career goals.

Can I give both GATE and CAT?

Yes, you can give both GATE and CAT exams, provided you meet the eligibility criteria for both exams. GATE is primarily for candidates interested in pursuing a career in engineering or science, while CAT is for candidates interested in pursuing management courses. If you are interested in both fields, you can prepare and appear for both exams to keep your options open for further studies or job opportunities. However, keep in mind that both exams require extensive preparation, and you will need to manage your time and study plan accordingly.

Can I do MBA with GATE score?

While GATE is primarily for candidates interested in pursuing a career in engineering or science, some institutes do offer MBA courses through GATE scores. However, the number of institutes offering MBA through GATE is limited, and the competition for seats is often high. Additionally, most management institutes prefer candidates with a CAT score for their MBA courses. So, if you are specifically interested in pursuing an MBA, it's better to appear for the CAT exam rather than relying on GATE scores.

Is GATE and CAT syllabus same?

No, the GATE and CAT syllabus is not the same. The GATE syllabus is designed to test a candidate's subject knowledge in their undergraduate specialization in engineering, science, or technology, while the CAT syllabus is designed to test a candidate's basic knowledge, aptitude, and logical thinking in areas such as English language skills, quantitative ability, and data interpretation.
The GATE syllabus covers a wide range of topics related to a candidate's undergraduate specialization, while the CAT syllabus covers topics such as reading comprehension, verbal ability, quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, and data interpretation. The exam patterns and question types also differ between GATE and CAT.

Is GATE valid for IIM?

No, a GATE score is not valid for admission to the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). GATE scores are primarily used for admission to postgraduate engineering programs and public sector jobs, while the IIMs use the Common Admission Test (CAT) scores as the primary criteria for admission to their postgraduate management programs. However, some IIMs may accept GATE scores for admission to their management programs, but this is not a common practice. It's best to check with the specific IIMs for their admission requirements and criteria.