What is CAT Exam VS SNAP Exam?
CAT (Common Admission Test): CAT, conducted by the IIMs, is India's most recognised MBA entrance exam and is accepted by more than 1000 leading B-Schools including the 20 IIMs, FMS, MDI, SPJIMR and the IITs which offer an MBA.
SNAP (Symbiosis National Aptitude Test): SNAP is conducted by Symbiosis International (Deemed University) for admissions into more than 15 Symbiosis institutions, like SIBM Pune, SCMHRD and SIIB.
CAT vs SNAP -Compare Salary Package & Fees 2025
| College Name | Entrance Exam | Average Package (₹ LPA) | Highest Package (₹ LPA) | Fees (₹ Lakhs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IIM Ahmedabad | CAT | ₹35.68 LPA | ₹1.15 Cr | ₹25.00 |
| IIM Bangalore | CAT | ₹35.31 LPA | ₹1.00 Cr | ₹24.50 |
| FMS Delhi | CAT | ₹34.10 LPA | ₹85.00 LPA | ₹2.00 |
| SPJIMR Mumbai | CAT | ₹33.02 LPA | ₹81.00 LPA | ₹20.42 |
| MDI Gurgaon | CAT | ₹27.67 LPA | ₹60.00 LPA | ₹23.47 |
| SIBM Pune | SNAP | ₹26.77 LPA | ₹35.05 LPA | ₹24.59 |
| SCMHRD Pune | SNAP | ₹23.71 LPA | ₹61.50 LPA | ₹24.00 |
| SIIB Pune | SNAP | ₹12.85 LPA | ₹22.00 LPA | ₹21.00 |
| SIBM Bengaluru | SNAP | ₹13.48 LPA | ₹27.00 LPA | ₹22.60 |
From the above table we can see that the CAT accepting colleges lead the salary and ROI figures, especially institutes like FMS Delhi, which have very low fees but offer high packages. The SNAP colleges provide reasonable salaries; however, they often have fees similar to IIMs.
What is the Exam Pattern & Difficulty Level?
Here is the analysis of both CAT and SNAP exam pattern and difficulty level:
| Parameter | CAT | SNAP |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 120 minutes | 60 minutes |
| Total Questions | 66 | 60 |
| Sections | VARC, DILR, QA | English, QA, LR |
| Difficulty Level | High | Moderate |
| Attempts Allowed | Once per year | Up to 3 attempts |
| Marking Scheme | +3 / -1 | +1 / -0.25 |
What is the weightage given to CAT and SNAP?
The weightage given by the CAT accepting Colleges like IIMs, FMS, MDI normally lies between:
- CAT Score Weightage: 30% - 60%
The weightage given by the SNAP accepting Colleges like SIBM, SCMHRD, SIIB:
- SNAP Score Weightage: 50%
Which Exam you must choose?
If you’re looking for superior placements, global roles, and sustainable ROI, CAT is your best option.
SNAP is a good alternative for someone looking for good colleges with lower exam headspace and flexibility in preparation options.
Which ever you choose you need to prepare very well to get 99% in CAT or in SNAP.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on CAT and SNAP Exam
Q1. Can I appear for CAT and SNAP in the same year?
Ans: Yes, CAT is usually held before SNAP, so you can answer both.
Q2. Which SNAP college offers the best placement?
Ans: SIBM Pune has the highest average package and median package of all Symbiosis institutes.
Q3. Should I bother preparing for SNAP if I am preparing for CAT?
Ans: Yes. There is a reasonable amount of overlap in the syllabus; also, SNAP is easier – so it is a good plan B.