IPMAT Vs CAT : What Makes Them Different?

IPMAT and CAT are both management entrance examinations in India that are widely sought after by individuals interested in pursuing a career in management. While the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) administer the IPMAT for admission to their five-year integrated management programme, the IIMs administer the CAT for admission to their two-year postgraduate management programme. In this article, we will compare IPMAT vs CAT in terms of exam structure, difficulty level, competitiveness, score acceptance and many other criteria.

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IPMAT Vs CAT : Major Exam Highlights

IPMAT Vs. CAT Key Differences

There is no way to choose a winner in IPMAT vs CAT because both are at their best from distinct angles. Still, if you are looking for a comparison, here is how the CAT compares to the IPMAT.

Check out the chart below to learn about the key differences between IPMAT and CAT :

CAT vs IPMAT Exam Characteristics

IPMAT and CAT are highly regarded and equally important. However, there are significant distinctions between the two, and one of them is the test pattern.

The following table gives the IPMAT vs CAT as per their exam pattern:

IPMAT Exam Pattern

CAT Exam Pattern

Syllabus of IPMAT vs CAT

The table below displays the brief syllabus similarities of the IPMAT and CAT exams. Candidates can learn more about each test by visiting the relevant pages.

CAT vs IPMAT : Comparison

1. Exam Structure

The IPMAT is divided into three sections: quantitative aptitude, verbal ability, and logical reasoning. The examination lasts two hours and is computer-based. There are 40 questions in the quantitative aptitude segment, 40 questions in the verbal ability section, and 40 questions in the logical reasoning part. Each correct answer is worth four marks, while each incorrect response leads to deduction of one mark.

The CAT is divided into three parts: verbal ability and reading comprehension, data interpretation and reasoning, and quantitative ability. The examination lasts two hours and is computer-based. The section on verbal ability and reading comprehension has 24 questions, the section on data interpretation and logical thinking has 20 questions, and the section on quantitative ability has 22 questions. Each right answer is worth three points, while each incorrect response leads to deduction of one mark.

2. Difficulty Level

In general, the CAT exam is more demanding than the IPMAT. The CAT test syllabus has many more parts and subjects than the IPMAT exam syllabus. Furthermore, more individuals take the CAT test than the IPMAT. The circumstances have resulted in revisions to the CAT exam pattern over the last few years. However, the difficulty level remains constant. Candidates who are well acquainted with the subject can only pass the CAT exam on their first attempt.

The IPMAT is regarded to be of intermediate difficulty. It is designed for undergraduate students who have little experience with competitive exams. The questions are intended to measure candidates’ fundamental understanding of quantitative aptitude, verbal ability, and reasoning.

CAT, on the other hand, is regarded as one of India’s most difficult management entrance tests. It is a postgraduate level test that needs much more preparation and practice. The questions are intended to measure candidates’ analytical, logical, and problem-solving abilities.

3. Weightage & Time

Each exam is two hours long. The time given for the two tests is the same (2 hours). However, the partitioning of each portion into sections and the weighting of each section vary greatly. Candidates must concentrate on content that is important and pay special attention to regulations controlling negative marking. Each wrong answer on either exam results in a failing mark.

4. Important Topics

The topics included in the CAT syllabus are comprehensive, and the syllabus is extensive. In contrast, the IPMAT is a composite test. The content of each of these test syllabi is very similar. Because it is designed for undergraduate admissions rather than postgraduate admissions, the IPMAT exam is often easier than the CAT.

5. Question Structure

The question format of the IPMAT versus CAT changes due to the two different levels of the tests. However, in order to get admitted, you must sufficiently study for both tests. Candidates are urged to review the marking scheme before sitting the separate tests.

6. Competition Level

Despite differences in how the two tests are delivered, there is still a lot of competitiveness. Both tests are administered at various levels, and a huge number of people apply each year. This gives validity to the idea that each exam requires a certain level of concentration and attention. Because the IPMAT is a newer exam, the competition is lesser than for the CAT. The IIMs administer the IPMAT for admission to their five-year integrated management programme. Because the number of available seats is restricted, the competition is moderate.

The CAT, on the other hand, is a highly competitive exam with much more applications than the IPMAT. The number of available seats has also increased dramatically, but competition remains strong because the CAT is accepted by several other elite management schools in addition to the IIMs.

Conclusion : IPMAT Vs CAT

Finally, while IPMAT and CAT are important Indian management entrance exams, their marks are recognised by different colleges. The CAT is the winner since it is accepted by all Indian IIMs and several other top management schools. Which test to take should be determined by the student’s educational background, aspirations, and professional goals, although both need extensive study and practice.