Is XAT Tougher Than CAT Exam? Difficulty Level, Study Plan

Is XAT tougher than CAT? 

This is a common question among MBA aspirants targeting top MBA colleges in India. Both CAT (Common Admission Test) and XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test) serve as pathways to prestigious institutes like the IIMs and XLRI. CAT has a simple structure of three main sections, which are time-bound, while XAT has a complex structure that contains sections like Decision Making and General Knowledge and requires test-takers to demonstrate a broader skillset. Differences in structures, types of questions, and difficulty levels are some reasons many students ask which exam is harder, but students also wonder how to create a solid preparation plan for each exam, as many students prepare for both.

XAT vs CAT Comparison

Understanding the structure of CAT and XAT is the first step to answering the question of whether is XAT tougher than CAT. CAT has three sections with a limited time in each section. Whereas, XAT has longer timed sections and contains Decision Making and General Knowledge, which test more general skills. Because XAT tests more general knowledge, the question level in XAT is therefore broader, whereas CAT tests more in these narrow, timed sections. XAT is more comprehensive, whereas CAT, with a shorter duration and strict limits, brings more pressure on time. This structure is Important for the comparison of XAT vs CAT level of questions. Also, this structure is Important for aspirants to prepare accordingly.

Also Read, CAT vs XAT Syllabus, Difficulty Level, Exam Pattern, Topics

XAT vs CAT Difficulty Level

To determine is XAT is tougher than CAT, it is important to analyze different sections independently. Both tests have the same three sections - Verbal, Quantitative, and Logical. However, XAT is further complicated with tasks including Decision Making and General Knowledge. The comparison of XAT and CAT difficulty levels section-wise will allow aspirants clarity on what angle to prepare, the time to spend on the sections, and question presentation, hence, maximizing their efforts. The table below shows section-wise CAT and XAT difficulty levels:

Why Many Believe XAT Is Tougher Than CAT

Multiple factors contribute to the perception that XAT is tougher than CAT. The exam’s length, diverse sections, and unpredictable questions make it demanding. By examining the XAT vs CAT 2025 comparison, aspirants can understand the main reasons why XAT is considered slightly harder, enabling them to adjust their XAT vs CAT preparation strategy accordingly. Below are some important points why many believe XAT is tougher than CAT:

● Additional Sections: Decision Making and GK.

● Longer Duration: 3 hours versus CAT’s 2 hours.

● Question Variety: Ethical, analytical, logical, and numerical reasoning.

● Time Flexibility: XAT allows section-wise allocation; mismanagement may cost marks.

XAT vs CAT Preparation Strategy

A well-defined XAT vs CAT preparation strategy becomes important for candidates who are preparing for both examinations. These examinations have the same foundations. However, some unique sections, such as Decision Making and GK in XAT, require individual practice. If candidates have designed an explicit plan for preparation, they can capitalize on their strengths, work to overcome their weaknesses in order to better prepare for both the XAT and the CAT.

How to Prepare for Both XAT and CAT Together

Preparing for both exams at the same time may require a well-thought-out strategy. Aiming to prepare for both XAT and CAT together will ensure that no course material is diminished, and you can also devote sufficient time to those portions that are only relevant to one exam. As an aspirant, you can also focus on extracting all the relevant CAT syllabus sections, tailoring mock practice strategically, and tackling similar aspects of the exams uniquely for both exam formats to enhance performance in both CAT and XAT. Here are six step-by-step plans to prepare for both XAT and CAT together:

Plan 1: Start with a common subject: Quant, DI, VARC.

Plan 2: Spend 3-4 hours weekly for decision-making.

Plan 3: Read daily for GK and analytical reasoning.

Plan 4: Shift mocks for CAT and XAT on alternate weeks.

Plan 5: Following each mock, look at how you performed & areas to fix.

Plan 6: Work on stamina through mock to exam simulations.

Is XAT Tougher Than CAT Exam?: Conclusion

Depends on perspective and individual strengths, as both exams are challenging in different ways. XAT is considered slightly tougher due to its unique sections like Decision Making and General Knowledge, along with a longer duration that tests endurance and analytical thinking. Whereas CAT demands speed and accuracy under strict sectional limits. A well-rounded preparation strategy should cover overlapping areas like Quant, DI, and Verbal, while also addressing exam-specific topics, and attempting both exams maximizes opportunities for admission to top B-schools.