Likhith · September 15, 2025 
Introduction
The eternal dilemma of SNAP vs CAT 2025 continues to challenge MBA aspirants seeking admission to India’s premier business schools. Both examinations serve as gateways to prestigious institutions, yet each offers distinct advantages and targets different academic ecosystems. Understanding the SNAP vs CAT 2025 landscape becomes crucial for making informed decisions about preparation strategies, time allocation, and career trajectory planning.
The SNAP vs CAT 2025 comparison reveals fundamental differences in exam patterns, difficulty levels, participating colleges, and admission processes. CAT opens doors to IIMs and numerous non-IIM institutions, while SNAP exclusively serves Symbiosis International University’s renowned business programs. The SNAP vs CAT 2025 decision should consider factors including target colleges, preparation time availability, subject strengths, and long-term career objectives.
Exam Overview: SNAP vs CAT
| Feature | SNAP 2025 | CAT 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Symbiosis International (Deemed) University | IIM (rotational basis) |
| Exam Mode | Computer-based (online) | Computer-based (online) |
| Duration | 60 minutes | 120 minutes |
| Sections | General English, Quantitative-Data Interpretation, Analytical & Logical Reasoning | Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Ability |
| Marking Scheme | +1 for correct, -0.25 for wrong | +3 for correct, -1 for wrong |
| Attempts | Can attempt SNAP 3 times | One attempt only |
| Colleges Accepting | 16 Symbiosis institutes (e.g., SIBM Pune, SCMHRD) | 20 IIMs + 100+ non-IIMs |
Difficulty Level: Which Exam Is Tougher?
- CAT: Known for its high difficulty level, especially in DILR and VARC sections. Time management is a challenge due to complex, lengthy questions.
- SNAP: Comparatively easier, but highly speed-oriented. With only 60 minutes, you need to solve around 60 questions quickly and accurately.
Verdict: CAT is conceptually tougher, while the SNAP tests speed and accuracy.
Colleges and Opportunities: Where Do They Lead You?
CAT
- Top Colleges: All IIMs, FMS Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, SPJIMR, IMT Ghaziabad, IIT SOMs, etc.
- Placements: Average packages in old IIMs and FMS range from ₹25–35 LPA.
- Best For: Aspirants targeting elite, high ROI institutes and diverse career options.
- For more details
SNAP
- Top Colleges: SIBM Pune, SCMHRD Pune, SIIB Pune, SIBM Bangalore, etc.
- Placements: SIBM Pune average package ~₹24 LPA, SCMHRD ~₹20–21 LPA.
- Best For: Aspirants looking for specialized programs (HR, IB, Marketing, Analytics) with strong corporate linkages.
- For more details
ROI Comparison
- CAT Colleges (FMS, IIMs, MDI): Generally higher ROI because fees (₹2–25 lakhs) balance out against very high placements.
- SNAP Colleges (SIBM, SCMHRD): Fees are slightly high (~₹20–24 lakhs), but placements are strong, especially in Marketing and HR roles.
Which Exam Should You Choose?
- Choose CAT if:
- You aim for IIMs, FMS, or top non-IIMs.
- You’re ready for rigorous preparation over months.
- ROI and brand recognition are your priorities.
- Choose SNAP if:
- You want to focus on Symbiosis institutes like SIBM Pune or SCMHRD.
- You’re stronger in speed-based exams.
- You prefer programs with specialized focus areas like HR, Analytics, or International Business.
- Choose Both if:
- You want to maximize options. Many aspirants attempt both, as SNAP prep overlaps significantly with CAT.
How Career Plan B Can Help You
At Career Plan B, we help you make strategic choices between exams like CAT, SNAP, NMAT, and XAT based on your aptitude, profile, and goals.
Here’s how we can guide you:
- Personalized Counselling: Tailored exam strategy based on your strengths.
- Career Assessment Tests: Find out which exam suits your preparation style—conceptual or speed-based.
- Admission Guidance: Help in shortlisting colleges, writing SOPs, and interview prep.
- Roadmapping: From exam prep to final admission, we guide you at every step.
Have any doubts?
📞 Contact our expert counsellor today and get all your questions answered!
FAQs
Q1. Is SNAP easier than CAT?
Ans. Yes, SNAP is an easier conceptually, but tougher in terms of speed due to limited time.
Q2. Can I crack both CAT and SNAP together?
Ans. Yes, since the syllabus overlaps. CAT prep builds strong concepts, and SNAP requires speed training in mocks.
Q3. Does SNAP have sectional time limits?
Ans. No, SNAP allows flexible time distribution across sections within the total 60 minutes.
Q4. Should I opt for SNAP or CAT preparation?
Ans. Opt for CAT preparation if aiming for top IIMs and premier B-schools with a rigorous exam pattern; choose SNAP if targeting Symbiosis institutes with a shorter, moderate-level exam and multiple attempts.
Conclusion
Both CAT and SNAP offer distinct advantages for MBA admission in 2025. CAT is ideal for aspirants targeting prestigious IIMs and top-ranking B-schools with a rigorous, comprehensive exam. SNAP is excellent for a shorter, moderate-level test primarily for Symbiosis-affiliated institutes, offering flexibility with multiple attempts. Aspirants are advised to align exam focus with their career goals, preparation levels, and exam comfort. For tailored preparation, strategic planning, and admission guidance for both exams, connect with Career Plan B—your expert MBA mentoring partner.
