Preparing for MBA entrance exams like XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test) and CAT (Common Admission Test) can be challenging, but understanding the similarities and differences between their syllabi can help streamline your preparation. Here’s a detailed comparison, along with answers to the most common questions: Are they both tough? and Can you prepare for both exams together?

CAT (Common Admission Test) and XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test) are two of the most prominent MBA entrance exams in India, attracting lakhs of aspirants each year. While CAT serves as the gateway to the prestigious IIMs and over 1,300 other B-schools, XAT offers admission to XLRI, Jamshedpur, and more than 800 top management institutes across the country. As MBA aspirants prepare for both exams, which are conducted approximately a month apart, it is important to understand the similarities and differences between their syllabi.

Both CAT and XAT are aptitude-based tests designed to assess candidates’ analytical ability, logical reasoning, and verbal communication skills. The exam patterns are broadly similar in terms of testing key competencies, and the level

of preparation required for both exams is comparable. However, a crucial distinction lies in the approach to preparation. While the core syllabus may overlap, the nature of questions in CAT and XAT can differ significantly, demanding tailored strategies for each exam. CAT generally emphasizes quantitative and data interpretation, while XAT tends to incorporate additional sections like Decision Making and a higher level of difficulty in verbal and general knowledge sections.

It is, therefore, essential for aspirants to plan separate timelines and strategies for CAT and XAT to maximize their performance. Preparing for both exams simultaneously without recognizing these differences could lead to suboptimal outcomes.

CAT vs XAT

Parameter	CAT	xat
Eligibility Criteria	Graduate with minimum 50% aggregate (45% for Reserved category candidates) from a recognized university	Graduate in any stream from a recognized university
Exam Mode	Online	Online
Difficulty Level	Moderate to Difficult	Moderate to Difficult
Exam Fee	INR 2,500 (INR 1,250 for Reserved category students)	INR 2,200
Registration Process	Online	Online

Both CAT and XAT are speed-based tests in which candidates have to solve a certain number of calculation intensive as well as inference based questions in a limited time period. Key subjects to prepare for these exams are Reasoning, Mathematics and English. CAT and XAT are similar as well as different in many aspects including syllabus, exam pattern, difficulty level, and types of questions.

Difference Between CAT and XAT Syllabus

The syllabus for CAT and XAT largely overlaps, as both tests assess candidates on their verbal, quantitative, and reasoning abilities. However, there are some distinct sections and variations in difficulty level and focus areas. Below is a detailed comparison of the syllabus differences between CAT and XAT:

Details	CAT	XAT
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) / Verbal and Logical Ability (VLA)	Reading Comprehension Grammar Para Jumbles Critical Reasoning	Reading Comprehension Critical Reasoning Vocabulary
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR) / Decision Making (DM)	Graphs, Tables Puzzles Seating Arrangements	– Decision Making: Ethical and Analytical Situations
Quantitative Ability (QA)	Arithmetic Algebra Geometry Number Systems Probability	Arithmetic Algebra Geometry Advanced Probability
General Knowledge (GK)	Not Applicable	Current Affairs Static GK (History, Economy, Politics)

CAT and XAT Overview

• Significance :
  • CAT : Entrance for IIMs and 1,300+ B-schools in India.
  • XAT: Admission to XLRI and 800+ B-schools.
• Structure:
  • CAT : 3 sections (VARC, DILR, QA), 2 hours, 66 questions.
  • XAT: 4 sections (VLA, DM, QA & DI, GK), 3 hours, 100 questions.
• Preparation
  • Use a structured study plan and practice mock tests.
  • Recommended books:
    • CAT: Quantitative Aptitude by Arun Sharma, Data Interpretation by Nishit Sinha.
    • XAT: XAT Preparation Book by Career Launcher.

Exam Pattern: CAT vs XAT

Details	CAT	XAT
Number of questions	66	95
Total marks	198	95
Marking scheme	Yes. +3 marks for correct answer -1 mark for incorrect answer	Yes. +1 mark for correct answer – 0.25 mark for incorrect answer. 0.10 marks will be deducted for more than 8 un- attempted questions No negative marking in GK section
Type of questions	MCQs and non-MCQs	MCQs
Sectional time-limit	Yes	Yes
Time required for preparation	6-9 months	6-9 months

Basically, there is not much difference in the syllabus of CAT and CAT however, the Decision Making and GK sections in the latter makes it necessary for candidates to prepare for both the exams separately. If you need to ace these exams, practice a lot of mock test and solve sample papers.

FAQ’s

What are CAT and XAT?

CAT (Common Admission Test) is an entrance exam for admission to various management programs in Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other B-schools. XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test) is conducted for admission to XLRI Jamshedpur and over 800 other B-schools in India.

How should I prepare for CAT and XAT?

Candidates should focus on understanding the exam patterns, practicing mock tests, solving sample papers, and studying the syllabus thoroughly. Time management and regular revision are crucial.

Should I prepare separately for CAT and XAT?

Yes, due to the unique sections in XAT (Decision Making and General Knowledge), candidates should develop distinct preparation strategies for each exam.

Are there any online resources or e-books available?

Yes, several online platforms offer e-books, video lectures, and test series for CAT and XAT preparation. Websites like Unacademy, BYJU’S, and Testbook are great resources

Have anything to add? Share with us in the comments!
If you have any questions or doubts, share them with us on help@coachdekho.in