A Complete Guide to the Syllabus for GMAT, CAT, and GRE Exams

Choosing to pursue an MBA from a top business school is an exciting and challenging journey. Whether you’re planning to take the GMAT, CAT, or GRE exam, understanding the syllabus and structure of each exam is crucial for effective preparation. Here's a breakdown of the key components of the GMAT, CAT, and GRE exams to help you get started.

1. GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

The GMAT is widely accepted by business schools worldwide and is commonly used for admission to MBA programs.

GMAT Exam Sections:

• Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA):
  Write an essay to analyze an argument. You will be given a short argument, and you need to critique its reasoning. Skills Tested: Critical thinking, analysis, and writing skills.
• Integrated Reasoning (IR):
  12 questions that test your ability to analyze data presented in different formats (graphs, tables, charts, etc.). Skills Tested: Data interpretation, multi-source reasoning, and decision-making.
• Quantitative Reasoning (Quant):
  31 multiple-choice questions on topics such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and word problems. Skills Tested: Problem-solving, data sufficiency, and quantitative analysis.
• Verbal Reasoning:
  36 multiple-choice questions covering reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction. Skills Tested: Reading comprehension, logical reasoning, and grammar.

2. CAT (Common Admission Test)

The CAT is a national-level exam for admission to IIMs and other top business schools in India. It consists of three sections:

CAT Exam Sections:

• Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC):
  34 questions on reading comprehension and verbal ability (English grammar, sentence correction, vocabulary-based questions). Skills Tested: Reading comprehension, grammar, and verbal reasoning.
• Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR):
  32 questions on data interpretation (tables, graphs, charts) and logical reasoning (puzzles, data arrangements). Skills Tested: Data analysis, logical thinking, and pattern recognition.
• Quantitative Ability (QA):
  34 questions covering arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number system, and modern mathematics. Skills Tested: Quantitative reasoning, problem-solving, and numerical ability.

3. GRE (Graduate Record Examinations)

The GRE is a graduate-level exam accepted by many business schools worldwide for MBA and other graduate programs. It has three main sections:

GRE Exam Sections:

• Analytical Writing (AWA):
  Two tasks: Issue Task and Argument Task. Skills Tested: Writing clarity, reasoning, and ability to construct logical arguments. Time: 30 minutes per task.
• Verbal Reasoning:
  40 questions covering reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence. Skills Tested: Vocabulary, reading comprehension, and verbal reasoning.
• Quantitative Reasoning:
  40 questions on arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Skills Tested: Quantitative reasoning, data interpretation, and problem-solving.
• Unscored/Research Section (Variable):
  A variable section included to help ETS test future questions. It’s usually mixed with either the verbal or quantitative section.

Key Differences:

• GMAT: More focused on business-related skills like problem-solving, data interpretation, and critical reasoning.
• CAT: Emphasis on quantitative ability, logical reasoning, and verbal ability. Heavier on logical reasoning than the GMAT.
• GRE: A bit broader in terms of academic testing, focusing on verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing.

Preparation Tips:

• GMAT: Focus on improving analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative skills. Use GMAT-specific practice materials.
• CAT: Work on time management and focus on logical reasoning and data interpretation, as these areas tend to be tricky for many candidates.
• GRE: Work on vocabulary and reading comprehension, along with a solid understanding of quantitative concepts. Utilize official GRE prep materials and practice tests.

By understanding the syllabus and structure of each exam, you can start preparing with confidence. Whether you choose the GMAT, CAT, or GRE, your success will depend on diligent preparation and focused study. Good luck with your MBA journey!