SSC CGL: Recruits graduates for Group B and C posts in various central government departments like CBIC, CBDT, CAG, and MEA. The exam includes Tier-1 and Tier-2 stages with CBT-based testing. Pay ranges from Level 4 to Level 8 (basic ₹25,500–₹47,600), along with DA, HRA, TA, NPS pension, and other government benefits.
CAT: The Common Admission Test (CAT) is an entrance exam for admission to MBA/PGDM programs in top business schools like the IIMs. Conducted by IIMs on a rotational basis, it includes sections on Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability, and Logical Reasoning. There is no fixed pay post exam it depends on the MBA institute and placement. High CAT scores can lead to managerial positions in the corporate sector with packages ranging from ₹6–25 LPA or more.
SSC CGL vs CAT – Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for any exam, it’s important to check if you meet the eligibility requirements. Here’s a comparison of the SSC CGL and CAT eligibility criteria for 2025:
| Criteria | SSC CGL | CAT |
| Educational Qualification | Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university (as on the cut-off date) | Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD) from a recognized university |
| Age Limit | Varies by post: 18 to 32 years (as per post and category) | No age limit |
| Final Year Students | Not eligible unless degree is obtained before the cut-off date | Eligible if degree is completed before admission |
| Attempts Limit | No limit on number of attempts | No limit on number of attempts |
| Nationality | Indian citizens only (some allowances for certain categories) | Indian citizens; NRIs and foreign nationals can also apply with eligibility proof |
SSC CGL vs CAT Educational Qualification
The minimum qualification for SSC CGL and CAT differs based on the exam purpose and the nature of posts. Here’s a detailed comparison:
| Exam | Educational Qualification |
| SSC CGL | Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. For AAO: Bachelor’s degree + CA/CS/MBA (Finance)/Cost & Management Accountant/MCom desirable. For JSO: Bachelor’s degree with at least 60% in Math at 12th level OR degree in any subject with Statistics as one of the subjects. |
| CAT | Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD) from a recognized university. |
SSC CGL vs CAT – Exam Pattern
SSC CGL and CAT have very different exam structures. While SSC CGL focuses on objective-type papers for government jobs, CAT is designed to test aptitude for management education.
| Particulars | SSC CGL | CAT |
| Exam Type | Government Recruitment Exam | MBA Entrance Exam |
| Exam Stages | Tier 1 (Objective) Tier 2 (Objective + Skill Test for some posts) | Single-stage Computer-Based Test |
| Mode of Exam | Online (CBT) | Online (CBT) |
| Total Duration | Tier 1: 60 minutes Tier 2: Varies by paper (generally 2 hours per paper) | 120 minutes (2 hours) |
| Subjects Covered | Tier 1: General Intelligence, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, English Tier 2: Quant, English, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge (Paper-wise) | VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension), DILR (Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning), QA (Quantitative Ability) |
| Negative Marking | Yes (Tier 1: 0.50 marks; Tier 2: varies by paper) Attempt SSC CGL Mock Test | Yes (1/3rd of marks for incorrect answers) Attempt CAT Mock Test |
SSC CGL vs CAT – Salary
Salary is an important point to think about when deciding between a government job through SSC CGL and a private job after clearing CAT. Here is a simple comparison of the salaries usually offered in both options:
| Particulars | SSC CGL | CAT (MBA Jobs) |
| Starting Salary | Varies by post: ₹44,900 to ₹47,600 basic pay (Pay Level 6 to 8) In-hand: ₹55,000 to ₹70,000/month | Depends on institute & company. IIM graduates: ₹12–25 LPA (₹1–2.5 lakh/month) as CTC |
| Allowances | DA, HRA, TA, Medical, Pension, LTC, etc. (as per central govt norms) | Company-dependent: Bonus, HRA, travel allowance, performance-linked incentives |
| Job Security | High (permanent government post with pension benefits) | Moderate to Low (private sector roles based on performance and contracts) |
| Growth Potential | Steady increments + promotions as per government rules | Fast-track promotions in corporate roles depending on performance |
SSC CGL Vs CAT – Which is the Better Career Option?
Choosing between SSC CGL and CAT depends on your career goals, work preferences, and long-term plans. Both paths offer good opportunities, but in different ways:
| Aspect | SSC CGL | CAT (MBA Jobs) |
| Job Type | Government job with fixed working hours, job security, and regular promotions | Private sector roles with performance-based growth and higher early salaries |
| Work-Life Balance | Usually stable with less pressure | May involve long hours and high work pressure |
| Growth | Steady growth through promotions | Faster growth, especially with top companies and good performance |
| Posting Location | Can be anywhere in India (mostly transferable jobs) | Mostly in metro cities or corporate hubs |
| Financial Stability | Predictable salary, pension, and benefits | High initial salary but depends on company and role |
| Risk | Low risk, long-term stability | Higher risk, but also higher rewards |
Note: If you prefer stability, job security, and public service, SSC CGL is a better fit. But if you want a fast-paced corporate career with high earnings and leadership roles, CAT is a stronger option.
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SSC CGL Vs CAT – Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: CAT is generally considered tougher than SSC CGL due to its higher difficulty level in Quant and Logical Reasoning, and intense competition for top MBA colleges.
Ans: In-hand salary after SSC CGL ranges from ₹55,000 to ₹70,000 per month depending on the post and location.
Ans: CAT offers faster early growth and leadership roles in corporates; SSC CGL offers steady growth with secure government positions.
Ans: Choose SSC CGL if you value job security, fixed hours, and government benefits. Choose CAT if you aim for high salaries and corporate leadership roles.
Ans: No, CAT is only for MBA admissions. Government jobs like SSC CGL do not require a CAT score.
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