Anisha has done MBA in Marketing from NMIMS And Executive Management(PMNO) from Harvard Business School. She has been instrumental in growing CATKing Digital with her experience with Marico and Henkel in the past.
CAT 2025 vs NMAT 2025: Which Exam Is Easier to Crack?
Every year, MBA aspirants gear up for two major entrance exams: CAT and NMAT. While both are popular options, many candidates wonder which one is easier to crack. In this article, we will compare CAT 2025 and NMAT 2025 in detail, providing you with all the essential information you need to decide which exam is best suited for you.
Exam Pattern of CAT 2025 vs NMAT 2025
CAT 2025 Exam Pattern:
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Total Questions: 66
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Total Duration: 120 minutes
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Sections:
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Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC): 40 minutes
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Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR): 40 minutes
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Quantitative Ability (QA): 40 minutes
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Sectional Breakdown:
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VARC: 24 questions (Moderate-Difficult)
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DILR: 20 questions (Moderate-Difficult)
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QA: 22 questions (Easy-Moderate)
Marking Scheme:
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+3 for each correct answer
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-1 for each wrong answer (except for TITA questions)
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No marks deducted for unanswered questions
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NMAT 2025 Exam Pattern:
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Total Questions: 108
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Total Duration: 120 minutes
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Sections:
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Language Skills: 28 minutes
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Quantitative Skills: 52 minutes
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Logical Reasoning: 40 minutes
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Sectional Breakdown:
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Language Skills: 36 questions (Easy-Moderate)
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Quantitative Skills: 36 questions (Easy-Moderate)
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Logical Reasoning: 36 questions (Easy)
Marking Scheme:
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+3 for each correct answer
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No negative marking
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Key Differences Between CAT and NMAT
1. Difficulty Levels:
The key difference between CAT and NMAT lies in their difficulty. While CAT is generally more challenging, NMAT is considered relatively easier, focusing on speed rather than complexity. CAT requires a deep understanding of concepts and critical thinking, while NMAT emphasizes quick problem-solving and accuracy.
2. Types of Questions:
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CAT: A mix of MCQs and TITA (Type in the Answer) questions.
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TITA questions do not have negative marking, but they require precise answers, encouraging critical thinking.
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NMAT: All questions are MCQs.
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Negative marking is not implemented, allowing candidates to attempt more questions.
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3. Exam Strategy:
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CAT: Given its complexity, a thoughtful strategy is necessary. Focus on accuracy and time management, as wrong answers result in penalties.
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NMAT: Speed is the key. Although accuracy is still important, you should focus on solving questions quickly. Regular practice in quick calculations and shortcuts will benefit you.
4. Marking Scheme:
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CAT: The negative marking system (-1 for each wrong answer) forces candidates to be cautious when selecting answers.
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NMAT: No negative marking allows candidates to attempt as many questions as possible, boosting the overall chances of a higher score.
5. Sectional Time Allocation:
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CAT: Each section (VARC, DILR, QA) has a time limit of 40 minutes.
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NMAT: The time allocation varies for each section:
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Language Skills: 28 minutes
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Quantitative Skills: 52 minutes
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Logical Reasoning: 40 minutes
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Which Exam Is Easier: CAT 2025 or NMAT 2025?
The answer depends on your strengths, preparation strategy, and time management. If you are well-prepared for CAT, you may find NMAT to be relatively easy due to the simpler difficulty level and the absence of negative marking. However, the fast-paced nature of NMAT requires a different approach—speed, practice, and accuracy are key. CAT, on the other hand, demands deep conceptual knowledge and analytical skills, which makes it a more challenging exam overall.
Both exams are competitive, but with the right preparation and strategy, cracking either one is achievable.
Tips for Cracking CAT 2025 and NMAT 2025:
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Regular mock tests to improve your speed and accuracy.
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Focus on your strengths, but work on weaker areas as well.
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Learn shortcuts and tricks to save time, especially for NMAT.
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Understand the exam pattern and prepare accordingly, as CAT demands more intellectual effort while NMAT emphasizes time management.
CAT - 2025 Aspirants! CATKing’s New Batch Starts This Monday — Book Your Seat!
NMAT - 2025 Aspirants! CATKing’s New Batch Starts This Monday — Book Your Seat!
Conclusion: Which Exam Should You Choose?
If you're looking for a faster-paced exam with a higher emphasis on speed, NMAT might be the better option for you. However, if you are comfortable with solving more complex problems and can manage time effectively under pressure, CAT is a great choice.
In conclusion, both exams have their own unique challenges and strategies. It is essential to understand their patterns and differences before making a decision. If you are preparing for both, practice consistently and adapt your strategies for each exam.
