Is SNAP Tougher Than CAT? - Know Differences and Similarities
SNAP is easier than CAT, but has its own challenges. Preparation for CAT and SNAP has to run in parallel as they are conducted a week apart. Know the differences and similarities between SNAP and CAT to judge which of the two exams is tougher.
'Is SNAP easier than CAT?'. Yes, SNAP is much easier than CAT, but you can't take it lightly. You need to prepare for SNAP dedicatedly as it has its own challenges. There are a lot of similarities between CAT and SNAP, but they are very different in several aspects. For an MBA aspirant, it is tough to prepare for multiple entrance exams and score high in all of them. Some candidates have aptitude for certain type of tests whereas some have the aptitude for other types of test. The dilemma of CAT vs SNAP is fair and natural because both are top MBA exams and gateway to some of the top MBA colleges in India.
Explore colleges based on CAT
Want better recommendations?
There is a 90% more chance of getting best college recommendations by sharing preferences.What makes one tilt more towards CAT is that it is accepted by over 1300 colleges. SNAP on the other hand is accepted by only 16 SIU colleges. However, what makes SNAP popular is that it is easier than CAT and SIU constituent institutes offer some of the most popular as well as niche MBA programmes.
LATEST:
Q: What makes CAT tougher than other MBA entrance exams?
Q: How is SNAP different from other management entrance exams?
SNAP features three major sections, namely General English Quantitative, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency, and Analytical & Logical Reasoning. The test lasts for 60 minutes and comprises 60 questions, with each correct answer earning one mark and a 0.25 mark deduction for each incorrect response. Additionally, the exam is conducted in online mode, making it a more convenient option for test-takers.
The SNAP 2023 syllabus encompasses a broad range of topics, including Reading Comprehension, Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude Data Interpretation, and Analytical & Logical Reasoning. To make it to the next round of the selection process, candidates must meet the required cut-off score and impress the selection panel during Group Exercise, Personal Interaction, and Writing Ability Test (GE-PIWAT).
Compared to other management entrance exams like CAT XAT and MAT SNAP 2023 is a refreshing change of pace. With its shorter duration, fewer questions, and different selection process, it provides candidates with a unique opportunity to demonstrate their skills and stand out from the crowd.
Q: Which is better IIM Jammu or IIM Sambhalpur?
Both IIM Jammu and IIM Sambalpur accepts CAT score for admission to the Management courses. IIMs cutoff 2023 will be released after the CAT result. However, considering the 2022 cutoff, IIM Jammu CAT percentile was 90 and for IIM Sambhalpur, the percentile stood at 92 for the General ALL India category candidates. So, considering the previous year CAT percentile for both the IIMs, Sambhalpur is more competitive than Jammu.
Talking bout the NIRF Ranking 2023 under the Management category, IIM Jammu ranked 41, whereas, IIM Sambalpur secured the 58th position. Candidates can refer to the table given below to compare both IIM Jammu and IIM Sambalpur considering several aspects such as total MBA fees, highest package, NIRF ranking and CAT cutoff 2022 to make a clear decision:
| Parameters | IIM Jammu | IIM Sambhalpur |
|---|---|---|
| NIRF Management Ranking 2023 | 41 | 58 |
| CAT Cutoff 2022 | 90 | 92 |
| Total MBA fee | INR 10.5 L - INR 20.7 L | INR 10.5 L |
| Highest package 2023 | INR 64 LPA | INR 64.61 LPA |
- CAT 2024 Slot 3 Answer Key PDF, Question Paper Analysis
- CAT 2024 Slot 2 Answer Key PDF, Question Paper Analysis
- IMS CAT 2024 Exam Analysis for Slot 1, 2 and 3
- CAT 2024 Analysis by Career Launcher and TIME
- CAT 2024 Response Sheet and Answer Key PDF
- CAT 2024 Slot 1 Answer Key PDF, Question Paper Analysis
- CAT 2024 Review and Student Reaction
- CAT 2024 Analysis, Expected Cutoff by CATKing
- CAT 2024 Question Paper PDF Download (Slot 1, 2 and 3)
SNAP VS CAT: Which is easier?
The difficulty level of SNAP is much lower than CAT despite having same syllabus and parameters for candidate selection. CAT is a higher difficulty level exam. SNAP is easier than CAT also because it is more student friendly also.
Explore more MBA exams with upcoming dates
21 Dec '24
18 Dec '24 - 22 Dec '24
22 Dec '24
22 Dec '24
1 Jul '24 - 23 Dec '24
26 Aug '24 - 23 Dec '24
14 Nov '24 - 25 Dec '24
28 Dec '24
14 Oct '24 - 21 Jan '25
In SNAP, candidates are allowed three attempts in the same session and candidate can choose to appear in a session of their choice. Even though, CAT in the past two year, has made efforts to become a more student friendly exam (with reduction in the total number of questions, lowering of the difficulty level of Quantitative Aptitude, etc.), it is still more difficult than SNAP.
CAT vs SNAP: Number of Applicants
SNAP has low competition than CAT. About 1.25 lakh aspirants appeared for SNAP 2023 exam as compared to 3.20 lakh aspirants who took the CAT 2023 exam. Since, CAT score is accepted for admission to 1,300 MBA colleges. Thus, by appearing for CAT one can be assured that they will be able to pursue MBA in the same session, if not from a top institute then from a Tier-2 college at least. However, if one appears for SNAP only and fails to meet the cut off requirement of SIU institutes they stand to lose an entire year because SNAP score is accepted by only SIU institutes. Thus, MBA aspirants must appear for both CAT and SNAP.
MBA aspirants must weigh pros and cons of SNAP vs CAT such as which one is tougher and require more preparation. In this article, we have shared all about SNAP and CAT such as syllabus, pattern, marking scheme and exam preparation to help you know the differences and similarities between the two. This will help in deciding whether SNAP is tougher than CAT or not.
Difference Between SNAP and CAT
To choose between CAT and SNAP, you must know the key points about both. Given below is the table indicating key differences and similarities between CAT and SNAP.
| Details |
SNAP Exam |
CAT Exam |
|---|---|---|
| Full form |
Symbiosis National Aptitude Test |
Common Admission Test |
| Conducting Body |
Indian Institute of Management (on rotational basis) |
|
| Eligibility |
The candidate must have completed Graduation with minimum 50% aggregate (45 % for SC/ST/PwD candidates) |
The candidate must have completed Graduation with minimum 50% aggregate (45 % for SC/ST/PwD candidates) |
| Sections |
3 |
3 |
| Exam mode |
Online |
Online |
| Exam Duration |
60 minutes |
120 minutes |
| Difficulty level |
Moderate to Difficult |
Difficult |
| Exam Fee |
INR 2,250 for all candidates + INR 1000 (per SIU institute) |
INR 2,500 for General and OBC candidates and INR 1,250 for Reserved category candidates |
| Registration Process |
Online |
Online |
SNAP VS CAT: Syllabus
The syllabus of both CAT and SNAP is more or less the same having Quant, Verbal Ability and Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning topics. However, the nature of SNAP questions is easier than CAT questions. Given below are the subjects one needs to study for SNAP and CAT.
| Setions |
SNAP Syllabus |
CAT Syllabus |
|---|---|---|
| English |
Verbal Ability, Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Parajumbles, Para Completion, Odd Sentence Out |
Verbal Ability, Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Parajumbles, Para Completion, Odd Sentence Out |
| Quantitative Ability |
Algebra, Arithmetic, Geometry, Trigonometry, Mensuration, Number System |
Algebra, Arithmetic, Geometry, Trigonometry, Mensuration, Number System |
| Data Interpretation |
Pie Chart, Graphs, Tables, Venn Diagrams |
Pie Chart, Graphs, Tables, Venn Diagrams |
| Analytical and Logical Reasoning |
Blood Relations, Alphanumeric Series, Odd One Out, Input-Output, Statement and Assumptions, Calendars, Cause and Effect, Coding-Decoding, Statement and Conclusions, Pattern Series and Sequences, Syllogism and Seating Arrangements |
Blood Relations, Alphanumeric Series, Odd One Out, Input-Output, Statement and Assumptions, Calendars, Cause and Effect, Coding-Decoding, Statement and Conclusions, Pattern Series and Sequences, Syllogism and Seating Arrangements |
Check: SNAP syllabus 2024
Check: CAT syllabus 2024
SNAP VS CAT: Exam Pattern
The time duration of CAT exam is more and the number of questions is less than SNAP. However, what makes CAT tougher is the sectional time-limit.
In CAT, the candidate is supposed to complete each section within 40 minutes. As soon as the 40 minutes gets over, the candidate is directed to the next section. Also, in CAT, candidates are bound to solve the question paper in the given sequence.
SNAP is flexible. In SNAP, there is no sectional time-limit and the candidates can choose the sequence of questions to solve as per their choice.
| Details |
SNAP Exam |
CAT Exam |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Questions |
60 |
66 |
| Total Marks |
60 |
198 |
| Negative Marking |
Yes |
Yes |
| Types of Questions |
MCQs |
MCQs and non-MCQs |
| Number of choices in MCQs |
4 |
4 |
| Sectional Time limit |
No |
Yes (40 minutes per section) |
Check: SNAP Exam Pattern 2024
Check: CAT Exam Pattern 2024
SNAP vs CAT: Marking Scheme
There is negative marking in both CAT and SNAP, which makes them both tricky. It is crucial to choose questions which you can answer with 100 per cent accuracy and leave out the ones you are not sure of. Wrong choice of question adversely impacts the score in both CAT and SNAP.
| SNAP Marking Scheme |
CAT Marking Scheme |
|---|---|
| +1 for correct answer |
+3 marks for correct answer |
| -1/4 marks for incorrect answer |
-1 mark for incorrect answer |
Check: SNAP Exam Analysis
Check: CAT Exam Analysis
SNAP Preparation 2024
SNAP question paper is divided into three sections. Let’s look at each of them section wise:
General English: This section of SNAP consists of grammar, vocabulary and verbal ability. As per past years trends, this section of SNAP exam is usually of easiest of the three. The verbal ability section typically contains questions from grammar and word-power. Just stick to basics and practice mock tests for RC passages.
Also Read: How to ace in General English section of SNAP
Quantitative Ability: This section of SNAP exam includes three subjects – quantitative ability, data interpretation and data sufficiency. To score well in this section, just focus on basic Maths – geometry, mensuration and algebra.
Also Read: How to crack QA, DI-DS section of SNAP
Analytical and Logical Reasoning: In this section of SNAP, candidates will be asked questions from puzzles, number, series coding and decoding, blood relations, non-verbal reasoning, etc. Focus on choosing the right questions and solving it faster.
Also Read:
- 8 key tips to crack Analytical & Logical Reasoning section of SNAP
- How to Prepare for SNAP 2024
- Best Books to Prepare for SNAP 2024
CAT Preparation 2024
The CAT question paper is divided into three sections. Let’s look at each of them section-wise:
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension: This section of CAT exam consists of RC passages and General English - fill in the blanks, parajumbles, missing word, one-word substitution and generic grammar. This is the first section the CAT question paper hence opportunity to perform well is immense.
Also Read: CAT Preparation Plan for Verbal Ability
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning: This section includes questions from number series, puzzles, blood-relations, tables, graphs, caselets, etc. This section, generally turns out to be the toughest in the exam each year. The key to crack DILR section is practicing mock questions. The more puzzles you’ll solve, the better you’ll get.
Also Read: CAT Preparation Plan for Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning
Quantitative Aptitude: This section of CAT exam is usually moderate to difficult. Most of the questions are asked from mensuration, algebra and geometry. Since this section is the last section of the paper and calculation heavy, the key here is to not only know all the formula and concepts but also to build stamina to last two hours.
Also Read: CAT Preparation Plan for Quantitative Aptitude
CAT Mock Test by Shiksha
| CAT_Mock_Test 1 | CAT_Mock_Test_1_Solutions |
| CAT_Mock_Test_2 | CAT_Mock_Test_2_Solutions |
Admission Process Through CAT
The IIMs and other top ranked MBA colleges in India select candidates for admission on the basis of CAT score. The selection criteria includes Written Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI). Some of the institutes conduct group discussions instead of written ability test.
Final admission list is prepared on the basis of the candidate’s performance on several criteria. Given below is the table indicating parameters taken into consideration for admission to MBA/PGP programmes of IIMs:
| IIM Selection Parameters |
|
|---|---|
| CAT score |
Class10 and 12 marks |
| WAT |
Graduation marks |
| PI |
Weighted Work Experience |
Also Read: IIM Admission Criteria and Selection Process
Admission Process Through SNAP
Admission process of SIU constituent institutes for MBA/PGDM courses includes Group Exercise (GE), Writing Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI). The GE-WAT-PI round is conducted by each constituent institute individually. However, the parameters of final selection is common for all of them. Given below is the table indicating parameters taken into consideration for admission to MBA/PGDM programmes of SIU:
| IIM Selection Parameters |
|
|---|---|
| SNAP exam score |
WAT |
| GE |
PI |
Also Read: How to Prepare for SNAP GE-WAT-PI
Colleges Accepting CAT Score
The CAT exam score is accepted by all IIMs and top B-Schools including SPJIMR-Mumbai, MDI-Gurgaon, IMT-Ghaziabad, FMS-Delhi and over 1,300 B-schools in India.
Check: List of Colleges Accepting CAT score for Admission
Colleges Accepting SNAP Score
The SNAP exam score is accepted by all the constituent institutes of Symbiosis International (Deemed) University.
Check: List of Colleges Accepting SNAP score for Admission
Read More:
- Top 20 MBA Entrance Exams in India
- Difference between XAT and CAT
- Difference between CAT and GMAT
- Difference between CAT and IIFT exam
- Difference between CAT and NMAT
- Difference between CAT and MAT
CAT vs SNAP FAQs
Q: Which exam is easier, CAT or SNAP?
A: Compared to CAT, SNAP is an easier exam. It is of shorter duration and has less number of questions than CAT. The total number of questions are 60 and candidates get 60 minutes to solve it. Since the last two years, SNAP also doesn’t have DI sets and RC passages. The difficulty level of SNAP is way too low than CAT.
Q: What is the difficulty level of SNAP exam?
A: SNAP is an easy exam. The sectional as well as overall difficulty levels are usually easy to moderate. There is no sectional time limit in SNAP and candidates need not solve all 60 questions too. There is no worry of sectional cut off in SNAP. Moreover, candidates can reappear in SNAP to improve their score.
Q: How many MBA colleges accept SNAP score for admission?
A: SNAP exam score is accepted by all 16 Symbiosis International (Deemed) University affiliated institutes. The SIU admission process includes Group Exercise (GE), Writing Ability Test (WAT) and Personal Interview (PI).
Q: How many MBA colleges accept CAT score for admission?
A: There are about 1,200 MBA colleges that accept CAT score for admission. These include all 20 IIMs, SPJIMR, MDI, IMT, FMS, IITs (DoMS), IMI, GLIM, LIBA, etc. CAT is the top most exam in India for MBA, so all government and a large number of private institutions accept CAT score for admission. The CAT score is accepted by almost all colleges of Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 3.
Q: What are the benefits of SNAP over CAT?
A: One of the main benefits of SNAP over CAT is that, in SNAP, one gets the chance to improve their score in the same academic session whereas in CAT, there is no provision of second attempt in the same academic session. In SNAP, candidates get three attempts and the score of the besr attempt is taken into consideration for SIU MBA admission.
Q: Is the syllabus of SNAP different from CAT?
A: No, the syllabus of SNAP and CAT are same. Both the exams have questions from Reasoning, Data Interpretation, Data Sufficiency, Quantitative Aptitude and English. The preparation plan is also same for both CAT and SNAP. In fact, if you prepare for the CAT, you will not have to prepare for SNAP separately. You can gain control on SNAP by solving sample questions and mock tests only.
Q: How many times is SNAP conducted in a year?
A: SNAP exam is conducted on three days in one academic session. The gap between every session is of one to two weeks. Candidate can register for one, two or three attempts at the time of registration process and appear for one, two or three sessions as per their choice. The best score of all attempts will be valid for admission.
Q: What is the difference between CAT and SNAP?
A: CAT is an annual exam, conducted only once a year. SNAP is also an annual exam but it allows candidates three attempts. Those who want to improve their score can take the test again. CAT is a high difficulty level exam where as SNAP is a low difficulty level exam. CAT score is valid for admission to over 1200 B-Schools but SNAP is valid for admission to only SIU institutes.
Q: How much time is needed to prepare for SNAP?
A: SNAP is an easy exam so it doesn’t require a lot of time for preparation. One can prepare for it within six months if they have a strong base in Mathematics and English. If a candidate is preparing for CAT, they can prepare for SNAP in three or two months also.
Q: Is the eligibility criteria for SNAP different from CAT?
A: No, the eligibility criteria for SNAP is not different from CAT. For appearing in both exams, candidates need to have completed graduation with minimum 50 per cent aggregate (45 per cent for reserved category) or should be final year student.
Q: Is giving SNAP worth it?
A: Yes. SNAP is one of the popular MBA entrance exams in India as it is a gateway to the prestigious Symbiosis International (Deemed) University and its 15 affiliated colleges. SNAP is also worth appearing for because SIU institutes offer some of the niche MBA specialisations in India and admission is possible only through SNAP.
Vipra is a massive Breaking Bad fan. When not watching crime drama series, she spends time in updating the list of places she wants to visit and people she wants to meet, but she is happiest in the company of dogs. ... Read Full Bio