IPMAT vs CUET 2025: Which Is Better?
Compare IPMAT vs CUET to find out which exam is better for your career goals. Learn about their differences in exam pattern, eligibility, difficulty level, & the courses to make the best choice for your future.
Shivani Kumari14 Nov, 2024
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IPMAT vs CUET 2025: IPMAT and CUET are two popular entrance exams for BBA admissions. These exams help students enter top management colleges in India. Both exams have a few similarities. Every year, many students take BBA entrance exams to join the best BBA colleges in India.
Around seven colleges accept IPMAT scores, including IIM Indore , IIM Ranchi, Nirma University, and IIFT. On the other hand, over 15 central universities and 249 universities in India accept CUET UG scores. The difficulty of IPMAT and CUET UG depends on a student’s strengths and preparation. Though the syllabus is similar, these exams differ in pattern, marking scheme, and level of difficulty.IPMAT vs CUET 2025: Highlights
IPMAT and CUET are two important entrance exams for undergraduate programs in India, especially for students aiming for management studies. IPMAT is organized by IIM Indore for its five-year integrated MBA program, while CUET, conducted by the National Testing Agency, is used for admissions to many undergraduate courses across different universities. Both exams test similar subjects, like logical reasoning and quantitative aptitude, but their formats and difficulty levels vary. IPMAT is fully computer-based with multiple-choice and short-answer questions. CUET, however, uses a hybrid model that includes both online and offline testing methods.| IPMAT vs CUET: Highlights | ||
| IPMAT vs CUET | IPMAT | CUET |
| Exam conducting body | Indian Institute of Management Indore (IIM Indore) | National Test Agency (NTA) |
| Exam Level | Undergraduate | Undergraduate |
| Duration of the course | 5 years | 3 years |
| Mode of the examination | Computer-based test mode | Hybrid Mode |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate | Moderate to Tough |
| Frequency | Annually | Annually |
| Courses offered | Integrated MBA (BBA+MBA) | Various undergraduate courses |
| Type of questions | MCQs and Short-answer type | MCQs |
| Medium of the exam | English | English, Hindi, Bengali, Assamese, Odia, Punjabi, Marathi, Gujarati, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Urdu |
| Official website | https://www.iimidr.ac.in/ | https://nta.ac.in/ |
IPMAT vs CUET 2025: Eligibility Criteria
For IPMAT eligibility, students must have passed Class 12 from a recognized board, with at least 60% in both Class 10 and 12. Eligible years for passing include 2022, 2023, or 2025, and students must be under 20 by July 30, 2025. CUET requires students to pass Class 12 in a relevant stream, with no age limit, though specific universities may have age requirements. CUET also allows candidates from Nepal, Bhutan, Tibetan refugees who arrived before 1962, and certain other nationalities permanently settled in India.Eligibility Criteria for IPMAT 2025
The Integrated Program in Management Aptitude Test (IPMAT) is a crucial examination for candidates seeking admission into the five-year Integrated Program in Management at IIM Indore and IIM Rohtak. The eligibility criteria for IPMAT 2025 are as follows:Educational Qualifications
- General and NC-OBC Candidates : A minimum aggregate score of 60% in both Class 10 and Class 12 (or equivalent CGPA).
- SC/ST/PwD Candidates : A minimum aggregate score of 55% in both Class 10 and Class 12 (or equivalent CGPA).
- Candidates must have completed their qualifying examinations in 2023, 2024 , or be appearing in 2025 . Those in the final year of Class 12 or awaiting results can apply provisionally.
Age Limit
- General and NC-OBC Candidates : Must be a maximum of 20 years old as of June 30, 2025.
- SC/ST/PwD Candidates : Must be a maximum of 22 years old as of June 30, 2025. This includes candidates born on or after August 1, 2003, with a five-year relaxation for SC/ST/PwD candidates.
Additional Requirements
- Candidates who have passed their Class 10 examination should have completed it in the year 2021 or later .
- Candidates from international schools must also meet the equivalent percentage requirements.
Eligibility Criteria for CUET 2025
The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) is conducted for admission to various undergraduate programs across central universities in India. The eligibility criteria for CUET are generally less rigid than those for IPMAT but can vary by university and program.Educational Qualifications
- Candidates typically need to have completed their Class 12 or equivalent examination from a recognized board.
- Specific percentage requirements may vary by university; however, many institutions require a minimum of 50% to 60% aggregate marks depending on the program.
Age Limit
- There is usually no strict age limit for CUET, making it more accessible to a broader range of candidates compared to IPMAT.
Application Process
- Candidates must register online and select the universities and programs they wish to apply to. The CUET score will then be considered alongside other admission criteria set by individual universities.
| IPMAT VS CUET 2025: Comparison Table | ||
| Criteria | IPMAT 2025 | CUET 2025 |
| Educational Qualification | Minimum 60% (General), 55% (SC/ST) | Typically minimum 50%-60% |
| Age Limit | Max age 20 (General), Max age 22 (SC/ST) | No strict age limit |
| Qualifying Exams | Class 10 and Class 12 | Class 12 or equivalent |
| Provisional Admission | Allowed for final year students | Varies by university |
IPMAT vs CUET: Application Fee
The IPMAT application fee is INR 4,130 for General and NC-OBC candidates, while SC/ST/PWD (DA) candidates pay INR 2,065. Payment can only be made online through credit card, debit card, internet banking, or UPI. Similarly, the CUET application fee is also paid exclusively online, following the same methods. CUET UG application fees vary based on category and subject selection.| IPMAT vs CUET: Application Fee | ||
| Category | Up to 3 subjects | For each additional subject |
| General UR | INR 1000 | INR 400 each |
| OBC-NCL/EWS | INR 900 | INR 375 each |
| SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender | INR 800 | INR 350 Each |
| Centres outside India | INR 4500 | INR 1800 each |
IPMAT vs CUET: Exam Pattern
The Integrated Program in Management Aptitude Test (IPMAT) and the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) are significant entrance exams in India, each with distinct exam patterns. IPMAT is a computer-based test lasting 2 hours , divided into three sections: Quantitative Ability (QA) with both multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and short-answer questions, and Verbal Ability (VA) , totaling 100 questions . Each section has a time limit of 40 minutes , with a marking scheme of +4 for correct answers and -1 for incorrect answers. In contrast, the CUET operates in a hybrid format, combining offline and computer-based testing. It typically consists of multiple-choice questions across various subjects chosen by the candidates, with a total duration of 60 minutes for specific sections and longer for others. The marking scheme awards +5 for correct answers and deducts -1 for incorrect ones , but it does not impose sectional time limits.| IPMAT vs CUET: Exam Pattern | ||
| Details | IPMAT | CUET |
| Mode of examination | Computer-based test mode | Hybrid mode (offline using OMR sheet and CBT mode) |
| Number of questions | 100 |
|
| Exam duration | 2 hours | - 60 minutes for
|
| Marking Scheme | +4 marks for a correct answer -1 mark for an incorrect answer | +5 marks for each correct response -1 mark for each incorrect response |
| Type of Questions | Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and Short-Answer Type Questions (SA) | Multiple-choice questions |
| Sectional time limit | Yes 40 minutes per section | No |
| Medium of the exam | English | English, Hindi, Bengali, Assamese, Odia, Punjabi, Marathi, Gujarati, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Urdu |
IPMAT vs CUET: Syllabus
The Integrated Program in Management Aptitude Test (IPMAT) and the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) are two significant entrance examinations in India for undergraduate programs, particularly in management. While both tests assess similar skills, they differ in structure, content, and focus areas. Below is a detailed comparison of their syllabi.| IPMAT vs CUET: Syllabus | ||
| Aspect | IPMAT Syllabus | CUET UG Syllabus |
| Sections | Quantitative Aptitude (MCQs), Quantitative Aptitude (Short-Answer), Verbal Ability | Subjects based on choice (e.g., Mathematics, Business Studies) |
| Topics Covered | Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Reasoning, Verbal Ability | General Awareness, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Verbal Ability |
| Exam Structure | 2 hours, 100 questions total (90 MCQs + Short Answers) | 3 sections with varying questions per subject (typically 40 questions each) |
| Key Differences | Focuses on higher-level math and verbal skills; generally tougher | Broader range of subjects; seen as easier due to diversity |
| Preparation Strategy | Focus on understanding core concepts and developing a study routine | Practice a range of subjects and manage time effectively |
IPMAT vs CUET: Programme
IPMAT: The IPMAT exam is for students who want to join the five-year Integrated Program in Management (IPM). This program combines a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree, offered by colleges that accept IPMAT scores. Students who complete the program at IIM Indore get a BA (Foundations of Management) and an MBA. Those who choose IIFT as their college receive a BBA (Business Analytics) and an MBA (International Business). CUET: CUET, also called CUET UG, is organized by NTA for admission to various undergraduate (UG) courses. CUET UG gives students a single platform to apply for UG programs at top colleges and universities across India.Colleges Accepting IPMAT Scores
Here is the required Colleges Accepting IPMAT Scores listed below:| Colleges Accepting IPMAT Scores | |||||
| College Name | Programs Offered | Exam Accepted | Fees (Lakh) | Average Package (LPA) | Highest Package (LPA) |
| IIM Indore | Integrated Program in Management (IPM) | IPMAT Indore | 30-35 | 30.21 | 1.14 |
| IIM Ranchi | Integrated Program in Management (IPM) | IPMAT Indore | 30-32 | 17.30 | 67 |
| IIM Rohtak | Integrated Program in Management (IPM) | IPMAT Rohtak | 25-30 | 18.73 | 36 |
| IIFT Kakinada | Management Programs | IPMAT Indore | 30-35 | 29.10 | 85.4 |
| NIRMA University | Management Programs | IPMAT Indore | 20-21 | 12.12 | 30 |
| NALSAR University | BBA, Management Studies | IPMAT Indore, IPMAT Rohtak, JIPMAT | 10-11 | 7.3 | - |
| NICMAR University | Management Programs | IPMAT Indore | 19-20 | 9 | 16 |
| TAPMI Bengaluru | BBA | IPMAT Indore, IPMAT Rohtak, JIPMAT | 18-20 | - | - |
| Jagdish Sheth School of Management | Management Programs | IPMAT Indore | 21 | - | - |
Top BBA Colleges Accepting CUET Scores
Here is the required Top BBA Colleges Accepting CUET Scores listed below:| Top BBA Colleges Accepting CUET Scores | ||||
| College Name | Location | Total Tuition Fee (Approx.) | Seat Intake | Type |
| Shaheed Sukhdev College of Business Studies | Delhi | INR 67,000 | 131 | Government |
| Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University Delhi | Delhi | INR 79,860 | 63 | Government |
| Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University | Delhi | INR 79,400 | 60 | Government |
| Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University | Lucknow | INR 25,000 | 90 | Government |
| Shaheed Rajguru College of Applied Sciences for Women | Delhi | INR 98,000 | 66 | Government |
| Galgotias University | Greater Noida | INR 3,00,000 - INR 4,00,000 | - | Private |
| Amity University | Noida | INR 7,00,000 - INR 21,00,000 | - | Private |
| Kristu Jayanti College | Bangalore | INR 2,40,000 | - | Private |
| LPU (Lovely Professional University) | Punjab | INR 1,80,000 | - | Private |
| MIT World Peace University | Pune | INR 2,80,000 | - | Private |
- Format: Three sections – two on Quantitative Ability (QA) and one on Verbal Ability (VA), totaling 90 questions.
- Duration: 120 minutes, with +4 for correct answers and -1 for wrong answers.
- Syllabus Focus:
- Quantitative Ability: Percentages, profit and loss, data interpretation.
- Verbal Ability: Grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension.
- Understand the Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the exam structure.
- Study Plan: Create a detailed timetable for each subject.
- Study Materials: Use textbooks, online resources, and NCERT books.
- Practice: Solve practice questions and take mock tests regularly.
- Revision: Review frequently to reinforce knowledge.
- Stay Updated: Keep track of current affairs.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and exercise.
- Manage stress with techniques like meditation and stay positive for better focus.
CUET Preparation 2025
CUET (Common University Entrance Test) preparation is important for students who want to get into undergraduate programs at over 250 universities in India. The exam is in the third week of May 2025, and a good preparation plan can help you succeed.- Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern: Learn about the CUET syllabus, which includes sections on languages, specific subjects, and a general test. Know the number of questions and the marking system to prepare well.
- Create a Study Plan: Make a study schedule that divides time for each subject, focusing more on the difficult topics. Stick to your daily study routine.
- Use Good Study Materials: Use NCERT books and past years' question papers. These resources help you understand the exam format and common questions.
- Practice Regularly: Take mock tests to get used to the exam environment. It will help you manage time and increase confidence. Review your performance to find areas to improve.
- Revise Effectively: Regularly revise what you’ve studied. Take notes and go over them to strengthen your understanding.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with current events, as they may be part of the general test section. Read newspapers and reliable online sources to improve your general knowledge.
- Seek Guidance if Needed: If needed, join coaching classes or study groups for extra support. This can help if you need guidance on specific topics.
How to Prepare for IPMAT and CUET Simultaneously?
Preparing for the IPMAT (Integrated Program in Management Aptitude Test) and CUET (Common University Entrance Test) together can be a smart choice. Both exams cover similar topics like Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation, and Logical Reasoning. This overlap helps students focus their studies. Start by understanding the exam patterns and formats of both tests. This will help create a study plan that covers all subjects. A clear study plan is important. Set daily goals, make a timetable for each subject, and include time for revision and practice tests. Focus on understanding the concepts rather than memorizing. This is especially important in the Quantitative Ability sections. Make handwritten notes and use books and online resources to learn better. Practice with mock tests regularly. This helps improve speed and accuracy, as both exams are timed. After each test, check your results to find areas for improvement. Work on time management so you can handle the exam pressure. Strengthen your chances to excel in IPMAT with thorough preparation offered by PW IPMAT Online Coaching . Join PW IPMAT Coaching Class to access regular live lectures, 24/7 doubt resolution, recorded video lessons, DPPs, updated study materials, and mock tests with performance analysis.IPMAT vs CUET 2025 FAQs
What is the main difference between IPMAT and CUET 2025?
IPMAT is a specialized exam for admission to integrated management programs like MBA at IIM Indore and IIM Rohtak, while CUET is used for admission to various undergraduate programs across over 250 universities in India. IPMAT is more focused on management, whereas CUET offers a wider range of courses, including science, arts, and humanities.
Which exam is tougher, IPMAT or CUET?
IPMAT is generally considered more challenging for students aiming for management studies because of its focus on higher-level quantitative and verbal ability questions. CUET is broader and includes a range of subjects, but it is often seen as more accessible due to its flexibility in subject selection and less demanding exam structure.
What are the eligibility criteria for IPMAT and CUET?
For IPMAT, candidates must have completed their Class 12 with at least 60% marks (55% for reserved categories) and be under 20 years old. CUET, on the other hand, has no strict age limit, but eligibility varies by university and program, usually requiring a minimum of 50-60% in Class.
What courses can I pursue through IPMAT and CUET?
IPMAT leads to admission into integrated MBA programs at IIMs and other participating colleges. CUET allows admission to a wide variety of undergraduate courses across central universities, including BBA, BSc, BA, and other degree programs.
How should I prepare for both IPMAT and CUET simultaneously?
Since both exams cover similar subjects like Quantitative Aptitude and Logical Reasoning, you can prepare for them together by focusing on mastering core concepts. Create a balanced study plan, practice with mock tests, and revise regularly to stay on track for both exams.
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