NMAT Vs SNAP: Which Among the Two Exam is Tough?

NMAT Vs SNAP: Which Among the Two Exam is Tough?

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Abhishek
Abhishek Dhawan
Assistant Manager – Editorial Content
Updated on Dec 3, 2024 16:37 IST

Do you want to know the key differences between NMAT and SNAP exams? Read here the differences in the syllabus, exam pattern, competitive scope and varying cut off levels.

NMAT vs SNAP

NMAT vs SNAP; Check Differences and Similarities

NMAT vs SNAP: Besides CAT, India has several MBA entrance exams offering admissions to tier-1 b-schools. NMAT and CAT exams are among the most popular MBA entrance exams with a similar pattern and syllabus. The difficulty standards of NMAT and SNAP exam are also on a similar line. Both SNAP and NMAT have many similarities; however, preparation plan must include exam-specific bits, including mock tests, previous year's practise papers, etc. Candidates planning to appear for both tests must know the differences and similarities to plan and crack both exams with high scores. Check NMAT vs SNAP to know the key differences between the two exams, with syllabus and exam pattern comparisons.

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NMAT vsSNAP: Test Structure and Level of Difficulty

Both tests have went through major changes back in 2020. NMAT is a unique MBA entrance exam as it is conducted in a test window ranging from 45 to 90 days while SNAP will be conducted over three days, in a non-consecutive manner. Candidates can attempt SNAP twice and the score of best of the two will be considered for admission. Each NMAT test taker can appear for the test thrice, including the first attempt and two retake test opportunity to improve their score. The best of the three scores obtained by any candidate is taken to prepare the result. This aspect of NMAT makes is a very student-friendly test among all the top MBA entrance tests conducted in India.

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NMAT vs SNAP: Exam Pattern Differences

Find the key differences between the two important MBA entrance test, NMAT and SNAP exams in the table below:

Components

NMAT by GMAC

SNAP

Total Questions

108

60

Total Duration of the Test

2 Hours

1 Hour

Type of Questions

MCQs

MCQs

Answer Options for MCQs

5

4

Marks Per Question

3

1 Mark

Negative Marking

No Negative Marking

25%

Exam Difficulty Level

Moderate to High

Moderate

Number of Sections

3

3

Section 1: Broad Topic & Number of Questions

Language Skills - 36 MCQs

General English ( Reading Comprehension, Verbal Reasoning, Verbal Ability)

15 MCQs

Section 2: Broad Topic and Number of Questions

Quantitative Skills

36 MCQs

Quantitative, Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency

20 MCQs

Section 3: Broad Topic and Number of Questions

Logical Reasoning

36 MCQs

Analytical & Logical Reasoning

25 MCQs

Individual Sectional Time Limit

Yes, varying time limit of 28 minutes to 52 minutes.

No

Top MBA Colleges Accepting Exam Score

NMIMS, Amity University, Shiv Nadar University and others

SIBM Pune, SCMHRD Pune, SIIB Pune, SIBM Bangalore & all other Symbiosis Institutes

Q:   Which exam is easier amongst CAT, NMAT, XAT and CMAT?

A:

The difficulty level of exams may vary depending on numerous factors, including an individual's preparation, conceptual knowledge and aptitude. However, based on the past student reactions, the difficulty level of these exams is often perceived as mentioned below:

  1. CMAT is considered relatively easier in comparison with other MBA exams mentioned. Typically, the CMAT question paper is designed to test candidate's knowledge in quantitative techniques, logical reasoning, language comprehension, along with general awareness.
  2. NMAT is considered to be moderately difficult if compared with CMAT. NMAT question papers are designed with a focus on skills like language proficiency, logical reasoning, and quantitative aptitude. Candidates are allowed to choose the order of sections and provides some flexibility.
  3. CAT is the most challenging MBA exam from the list. Different IIM conduct CAT exam every year for admission to PGP courses. Almost all the MBA aspirants in India appear for CAT exam. Therefore, it becomes challenging to score well in the exam. CAT assesses candidate's aptitude in similar sections, such as quantitative ability, verbal ability and reading comprehension, data interpretation and logical reasoning.
  4. XAT is also considered a challenging exam However, it is easier than CAT. XLRI Jamshedpur conducts XAT exam for admission to its MBA programme. Besides XLRI, several other b-schools accept XAT scores for admission. XAT assesses candidates on similar sections as CAT, with the addition of a general awareness section.

Proper preparation, practice, and understanding of the exam pattern and syllabus are crucial for success in any of these exams. therefore, candidates must plan a well structured preparation startegy for NMAT and other MBA exams.

Q:   What is the difference between NMAT and other MBA entrance exams?

A:
Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) conducts NMAT exam with a aspirant first approach. Therefore, GMAC provides several facilities, including the retake attempts, rescheduling window, etc. Unlike other MBA entrance exams, the NMAT exam is held over a period of approximately 90 days. An examinee can appear for the test three times during this window, including the first attempt and two retake attempts. This opportunity is provided to the candidates to improve their score. In the previous session, an additional phase of the exam was conducted from January 11 to 15. During the additional window, candidates who did not appear for all three attempts were allowed to apply for NMAT exam for an improved score.

Q:   Which NMIMS is best for MBA?

A:

NMIMS University Mumbai offers a wide range of regular, distance and part-time courses at the UG, PG and PhD levels. The University offers these courses via its 17 constituent schools. NMIMS School of Business Management, Mumbai is popularly known for its MBA courses. NMIMS SBM, Mumbai is a part of the NMIMS Group and is among the leading private B-schools in India. Accredited by AACSB, NMIMS School of Business Management is approved by UGC and AICTE. So, candidates seeking admission to the MBA course can apply to the School of Business Management, NMIMS Mumbai. To get admission to this college, candidates must have valid scores in entrance test such as NMAT.

NMAT Vs SNAP: Difference in Syllabus, Pattern, Competitive Scope

The space below mentions the differences between NMAT and SNAP in regard with the exam pattern, syllabus and overall competitiveness.

  1. The NMAT and SNAP syllabus are on similar lines. However, few topics in the syllabus are distinct to each test. For instance, in the NMAT syllabus, one can find topics such as contextual usage and syllogism in the language comprehension section. On the other hand, in the SNAP syllabus, one can find idioms, synonyms, antonyms and fill in the blanks in the General English, RC, VR, VA section.
  2. Pattern-wise, both NMAT and SNAP exams are essentially speed-based test. Going by the NMAT pattern, test-takers will get 120 minutes to solve 108 questions. Further, there is a sectional time limit in NMAT exam. Thus, candidates do not get a chance to switch between sections but follow a systematic order to answer questions. There is no negative marking in the NMAT exam. On the other hand, SNAP pattern suggests test-takers will get 60 minutes to answer 60 questions. Further, unlike NMAT, in the SNAP exam there will be a negative marking, but no sectional time limit; allowing test takers to switch between sections as per one’s convenience.
  1. On a competitive scale, both exams act as gateways to MBA/PGDM admission to top B-schools in India. However, NMAT exams receive about 88,000 applicants on average each year and this increases the competition level for the candidates. The primary reason for higher competition in NMAT is the number of NMAT participating institutes. NMAT score accepting colleges are not confined to SVKM’s NMIMS and its branches but other top B-schools in India such as ─ ICFAI Business School (IBS), Xavier’s University, ITM Business School and more. On the other hand, for SNAP, Symbiosis International University (SIU) receives nearly 50,000 to 60,000 applications every year. The scope of SNAP scores, however, is limited to SIU institutions and few other private B-schools.

NMAT Vs SNAP: Timeline

While planning for both NMAT and SNAP, candidates must keep the timeline in mind. The indicative timeline for both SNAP and NMAT followed every year is as follows:

Events

NMAT Timeline

SNAP Timeline

Registration commencement

August to October August to November

Admit Card

Soon after scheduling the exam December

Exam window

October to December December

Result

Within 48 hours of taking the test

Third week of January

NMAT vs SNAP Preparation Strategy in Specified Timeline

NMAT Preparation Plan SNAP Preparation Plan
How to Prepare for NMAT in 6 Months? How to Prepare for SNAP in 6 months?
How to Prepare for NMAT in 3 months? How to Prepare for SNAP in 3 months?
How to prepare for NMAT in 1 Month? How to prepare for SNAP in 1 Month?

NMAT Vs SNAP: Comparative Levels of NMAT & SNAP Cutoff

The NMAT participating colleges evaluate both sectional and overall NMAT cutoff of all the test takers, which is somewhere between 150 and 200 out of 360. While SNAP accepting colleges take into consideration just the overall expected SNAP cutoff, which is somewhere between 68 and 70 out of 150.

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Q:   Is CAT harder than NMAT?

A:

Yes, the NMAT is easier than the CAT exam. This is due to the following reasons:

  1. There is no negative marking in the NMAT unlike one-third negative marking for wrong answers in the CAT.
  2. You can do guess marking in a last-minute rush and get three marks even if only one choice is right.
  3. NMAT allows you to schedule the order of sections during the test. This makes it easier to attempt the sections for which you are well prepared.
  4. According to the updated pattern, the CAT has only 66 questions, compared to the NMAT's 108 questions, but the level of difficulty is higher.
  5. The CAT is a concept-based exam where you need to understand each question, and therefore, you need accuracy as well as speed in this exam.
  6. The competition in the NMAT is less than that in the CAT. As most MBA aspirants aim for IIM.

Q:   Which is better for MBA: NMIMS SBM or Symbiosis?

A:

Symbiosis Institute of Business Management maintained a good ranking earlier than NMIMS. However, in the NIRF 2023 rankings, SVKM's NMIMS is ranked at 21st spot and Symbiosis secured 17th spot. Going by the ranking, Symbiosis will be a better option for MBA aspirants. Furthermore, SIMS Pune MBA is INR 11.3 Lacs and NMIMS SBM fee range between INR 6 Lacs and INR 24 lakh. Aspirants can consider more factors like ROI to make a decision.

Q:   How is SNAP different from other management entrance exams?

A:

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:   I am confused between NMAT and SNAP. Will the preparation of NMAT help me in the preparation of SNAP.

A:

Yes, preparation for NMAT and SNAP can be done together as most of the syllabus of both the exams are identical. Candidates are always recommended to appear for both the exams together if you are planning to give any one. Both NMAT and SNAP have four broad sections, that include Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Ability and Language skills. The names of these sections can change across different exams but are identical in relation to the MBA entrance exams.

Although one can prepare for all MBA entrance exams simultaneously, candidates must tweak the preparation strategy and fine tune a particular type of questions that are seen typically in each of the entrance exam. Some of the tips top prepare for both NMAT and SNAPT simultaneously are as follows:

  1. Begin by practicing conceptual questions with easy to moderate level difficulty.
  2. Learn about a lot of tips and tricks which can be used for both NMAT and SNAP. This saves a lot of time while attempting questions.
  3. Once the concept is clear, one must move on to moderate to tough questions. Transitioning from easy to difficult questions will help candidates preparing for different MBA entrance exams.
  4. Candidates must appear for mock tests of both NMAT and SNAP to get the clarity in terms of the pattern, difficulty standards, type of questions, and more.
  5. Start with NMAT mock tests as NMAT exam typically commences in the month of October, while the SNAP exam date lies around December.

Taking the mock tests for both SNAP and NMAT will provide a base to develop an exam day strategy for both the exams.

Q:   Is SIU Pune best in Pune?

A:

SIT, a private engineering college located in Pune, India, secured the 38th position among Indian universities and ranked 68th overall in 2021. This was a notable recognition of its academic standing and contribution to the education sector. In the preceding year, 2020, India Today positioned SIT at the 48th spot specifically among engineering colleges, further emphasizing its significance in the realm of technical education.

 

The institution, known as the Symbiosis Institute of Technology, has evidently garnered attention and acknowledgment for its commitment to academic excellence. Its consistent presence in various rankings reflects its standing within the academic landscape of India. Achieving the 38th position among Indian universities underscores its comprehensive approach to education, encompassing a variety of disciplines beyond engineering.

 

Pune, a city renowned for its educational institutions, hosts SIT, contributing to the city's reputation as an academic hub. The rankings serve as a quantitative measure of the institution's performance and impact, providing prospective students and stakeholders with valuable insights into its academic prowess.

 

As educational institutions play a pivotal role in shaping future professionals and contributing to societal progress, SIT's placement in these rankings positions it as a key player in the Indian education system, with a focus on engineering and related disciplines.

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About the Author
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Abhishek Dhawan
Assistant Manager – Editorial Content

With a creative soul, Abhishek is inclined towards anything in the creative space be it drawing, painting, craft, or writing. He has been working in the ed-tech industry since he started his career. Besides creative... Read Full Bio