The key major difference between MAH MBA CET and CAT is the syllabus and exam pattern. Interested candidates can explore more factors to understand the difference between MAH MBA CET vs CAT.
Understanding the difference between the Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MAH MBA CET) and the Common Admission Test (CAT) is crucial for MBA aspirants. It helps them determine which exam aligns best with their academic and career goals. Below is a comparative overview highlighting the key differences between these two prominent management entrance exams:
Difference Between MAH MBA CET and CAT Overview |
||
Aspect |
MAH MBA CET |
CAT |
Full Form |
Maharashtra Common Entrance Test |
Common Admission Test |
Conducting Authority |
Directorate of Technical Education (DTE), Maharashtra |
Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) |
Level of Examination |
State Level |
National Level |
Application Mode |
Online |
Online |
Exam Mode |
Online (Computer-Based Test) |
Online (Computer-Based Test) |
Exam Duration |
150 minutes |
120 minutes |
Medium of Exam |
English |
English |
Frequency |
Annually |
Annually |
Number of Questions |
200 |
66 |
Exam Fee |
General Category: INR 1,000; Reserved Category: INR 800 |
General Category: INR 2,200; Reserved Category: INR 1,100 |
Number of Applicants |
Approximately 75,000 to 100,000 |
Over 200,000 |
Official Website |
cetcell.mahacet.org |
iimcat.ac.in |
Here’s a detailed syllabus comparison between MAH MBA CET and CAT to help candidates understand the key differences:
MAH MBA CET and CAT Syllabus | ||
Section | MAH MBA CET | CAT |
Logical Reasoning | Yes (Includes Analytical and Critical Reasoning) | Yes (Part of DILR) |
Abstract Reasoning | Yes (Unique to MAH MBA CET) | No |
Quantitative Aptitude | Yes (Covers Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, and Data Interpretation) | Yes (Advanced focus with complex Data Interpretation sets) |
Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC) | Yes (Includes Grammar, Vocabulary, and Comprehension) | Yes (More emphasis on Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning) |
Data Interpretation | No | Yes (Forms a major portion of DILR section) |
MAH MBA CET and CAT also differ in terms of Eligibility Criteria. From academic qualifications and minimum percentage requirements to state-specific reservations, both exams required different criteria. While both exams require candidates to hold a bachelor’s degree, CAT eligibility does not specify a domicile requirement, whereas MAH MBA CET criteria require reservations for Maharashtra state candidates.
Difference Between MAH MBA CET and CAT Eligibility Criteria |
||
Criteria |
MAH MBA CET |
CAT |
Educational Qualification |
Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university |
Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university |
Minimum Marks Required |
General: 50% Reserved (Maharashtra Domicile): 45% |
General: 50% SC/ST/PwD: 45% |
Final Year Students Eligible? |
Yes |
Yes |
Age Limit |
No age limit |
No age limit |
Domicile Requirement |
Only for Maharashtra state quota seats |
No domicile restriction |
Reservation Policy |
Maharashtra state candidates get reservation benefits |
Reservation applicable for SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwD as per government rules |
Work Experience Requirement |
Not required |
Not required |
There are significant differences between MAH MBA CET and CAT exam patterns and marking schemes. The major key differences are question distribution, time allocation, and scoring system. MAH MBA CET is a speed-based test with 200 questions with four sections, whereas CAT is a concept-heavy exam with 66 questions divided into three sections.
Difference b/w MAH MBA CET and CAT Exam Pattern |
||
Feature |
MAH MBA CET |
CAT |
Total Questions |
200 |
66 |
Exam Duration |
150 minutes |
120 minutes |
Number of Sections |
4 (Logical Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension) |
3 (VARC, DILR, QA) |
Sectional Time Limit |
No |
Yes (40 minutes per section) |
Marking Scheme |
+1 for the correct answer, No negative marking |
+3 for correct answer, -1 for incorrect MCQ, No negative marking for TITA (Type In The Answer) questions |
The difficulty level of MAH MBA CET and CAT varies in terms of question complexity, competition, and time constraints. CAT is considered more difficult due to its concept-heavy questions, time limits in each section, and negative marking. Meanwhile, MAH MBA CET focuses on speed and accuracy, making it relatively easier. Here are some top differences in the difficulty level of MAH MBA CET and CAT:
Category |
MAH MBA CET |
CAT |
Overall Difficulty |
Moderate |
High |
Quantitative Aptitude |
Easy to Moderate |
Difficult (Heavy on Data Interpretation) |
Logical Reasoning & DI |
Moderate |
Difficult (More Logical Reasoning & Data-Intensive Questions) |
Verbal Ability |
Moderate (Grammar & Vocab Based) |
High (Reading Comprehension Heavy) |
Abstract Reasoning |
Included (Unique to MAH MBA CET) |
Not Included |
Time Management |
Manageable (No Sectional Time Limit) |
Challenging (Strict Sectional Time Limit) |
Also, MAH MBA CET does not have negative markings, making it less risky compared to CAT. Aspirants should align their preparation strategy with the difficulty level of their chosen exam to maximize their chances of success.
Start strategic MBA exam preparation under the guidance of PW MBA Online Coaching . Join PW MBA Coaching Class to access regular live classes, doubt clearing sessions, weekly evaluations, and full length mock tests with in-depth performance analysis.