XLRI to Conduct XAT 2025 Exam on Jan 5; Check Key Dates, Exam Pattern, Syllabus, How to Prepare, Top Colleges
XLRI XAT 2025 is one of the largest MBA entrance exams. It is expected to be held on Sunday January 5, 2025 in a single slot. XAT Exam Time Duration is of three hour thirty minutes duration. XAT 2025 Notification is likely to be out in July third week. The registration process will begin simultaneously. Read below all about the exam details:
Latest Updates
- XLRI Jamshedpur to Conduct XAT 2025 on January 5, 2025
- 160+ B-Schools to Accept XAT 2025 Score for MBA Admission 2025
- XAT 2025 Registration Process Expected to Begin in July 2024 Third Week
- Read XAT 2025 Preparation Strategy with Toppers’ Tips
Table of Contents
- What is XAT Exam?
- XAT 2025 Highlights
- XAT 2025 Exam Date: Important Dates for Xavier Aptitude Test
- XAT Eligibility Criteria 2025
- XAT 2025 Exam Pattern
- Previous XAT Exam Analysis
- XAT 2025 Exam Syllabus: Overall and Section wise syllabus
- How to Prepare for XAT 2025? XAT Preparation Strategy
- Role of XAT Mocks in XAT 2025 Preparation?
- XAT 2025 Registration & Application Process
- XAT 2025 Admit Card Release: How to Download?
- XAT Exam Centers in India
- XAT 2025 Answer Key
- XAT 2025 Cut offs for XLRI
- MBA Courses Offered by XLRI
- Top MBA Colleges Accepting XAT other than XLRI with cut offs
- XAT 2025 Result & XLRI Final Selection Process
- FAQs on Xavier Aptitude Test: Answers by Experts
1. What is XAT Exam?
Xavier Aptitude Test is the Admission Test for admission to MBA/PGDM programs in XLRI and other top MBA colleges like XIMB, IMT Ghaziabad, IMI New Delhi, LBSIM Delhi, TAPMI Manipal and 150 other top MBA colleges in India. XLRI will offer admission to its PGDM programs, offered at Jamshedpur and Delhi campuses on the basis of this exam score only, and will not accept any other test score. There are more than 70 cities and more than 100 venues where the exam will be conducted in India.
Salient Points about the Exam are:
- A computer based test conducted at more than 70 test cities
- Since 2024, the exam duration is increased to three hours thirty minutes from earlier three hours ten minutes
- The exam is divided into two parts & five sections of Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning; Decision Making; Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation; General Knowledge; Analytical Essay Writing (AEW)
- Part two of XAT comprising General Knowledge and Analytical Essay Writing (AEW) sections does not count for percentile score calculation
- No Individual time limit to attempt the sections
- XLRI will offer admission 2025 based on XAT 2025 only and will not accept any other test score
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FAQs
Q: Is XAT conducted by Government or by some Institute?
A: The exam is conducted only by XLRI Jamshedpur for the last seventy years.
Q: Is XAT a larger exam than CAT and CMAT?
A: XAT is one of the largest and reputed MBA entrance exams and is larger than CMAT but is not larger than CAT. Number of registrations last year had gone up by 40% at 1.35 lakhs which is higher than the number of CMAT test takers
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2. XAT 2025 Highlights
XAT is not only one of the largest MBA entrance exams in India, it is the gateway to top MBA colleges.
Following are the key XAT 2025 Exam Highlights including XAT Exam Details, XAT Full Form, XAT Form 2025 release date, XAT 2025 Exam Dates, top MBA colleges accepting the exam
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XAT Exam Particulars
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Details
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XAT Exam Full Form 2025
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Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2025
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Who conducts XAT Exam?
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Xavier School of Management (XLRI) Jamshedpur
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XAT 2025 Notification Release
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Expected on July 15, 2024
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XAT 2025 Exam Date
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Sunday, January 5, 2025
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XAT Official Website
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xatonline.in
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XAT Exam Fees
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Rs.2100
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Number of Candidates who registered for last XAT exam
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1.35 lakhs
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Top MBA colleges accepting XAT Exam
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XLRI, XIMB, IMI, IMT, FORE, Great Lakes, GIM, IMT Nagpur
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Total Questions in the Exam
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100 + Essay Writing Test
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Number of Sections
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5; Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning; Decision Making; Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation; General Knowledge; Analytical Essay Writing (AEW)
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Number of Answer Options
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5
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Scoring Pattern in XAT exam
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+1 Mark for Each Correct Answer
-0.25 Mark for Each Wrong Answer
0 Mark for Un-attempted Question
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XAT Exam Duration
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3 hours 30 Minutes
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XAT Sectional Time Limit
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No Sectional Time Limit
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XAT Application Fee 2024
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Rs.2000/- (Under Revision)
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Facility to Choose Order of Sections
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Yes, Attempt any question from any section within overall time limit
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FAQs
Q: How many times XAT is conducted in one year?
A: It is conducted once in a year. For the last many years, the exam is conducted on the first Sunday of January every year.
Q: What is the mode of the exam?
A: It is a computer based test and is conducted at exam centres in more than 70 cities in India
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XAT Entrance Exam dates including XAT Registration Date 2025, XAT 2025 Last Date
3. XAT 2025 Exam Date: Important Dates for Xavier Aptitude Test
Important dates including XAT 2025 Exam Dates, form filling dates and timelines for the Exam are as below:
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XAT 2025 Important Dates & Timeline
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Important dates
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XAT 2025 Notification Date
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July 15, 2024
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XAT Registration Start Date 2025
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July 15, 2024
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XAT 2025 Registration Last Date
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November 30, 2024
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Admit Card Release
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December 20, 2024
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Exam Dates
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January 5, 2025
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XAT answer key release date
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January 10, 2025
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Answer key challenge process last date
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January 14, 2025
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Result Date
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January 20, 2025
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FAQs
Q: Is the XAT exam date 2025 is fixed or it can be changed?
A: For the past many years XAT is conducted on the first Sunday of January. As such the XAT exam date 2025 is unlikely to be changed.
Q: Is the XAT Notification Release date and Registration start date is same?
A: The registration begins from the date of release of Notification unless XLRI specifies some other date.
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4. XAT Eligibility Criteria 2025
Below are the important points that determine XAT eligibility criteria 2025
- A candidate who has passed bachelor’s degree
- A final year student in graduation is also eligible
- There is no age limit to apply and appear in the exam
Read & Check your XAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria
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FAQs
Q. Is there any difference in XAT eligibility criteria and XLRI Admission eligibility criteria?
A: Although broadly both are same but XLRI needs very good score in graduation, high performance in XAT exam among others.
Q. I'm 2020 BE passed out but I have an arrear am I eligible to write the XAT exam?
A. Yes you can write the exam provided the arrear is cleared
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Download XAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria
You can get eligibility criteria 2025 Pdf download document free at xatonline.in or can also copy this document to understand the eligibility criteria.
5. XAT 2025 Exam Pattern
Xavier Aptitude Test is online computer based exam conducted in a Single slot, single day. XAT Entrance Exam timings are in afternoon.
- The GK and Essay Writing Sections are not counted for percentile calculation
- Marks for every correct answer are +1 and - 0.25 Negative Marking applies for wrong answer
- No Negative marking for General Knowledge and Essay writing section in part-2 of question paper
- All the MCQ type questions have five options with one correct option
- Essay shall be evaluated after the candidate is shortlisted for the interview.
- 5 Minutes break between part-1 and part-2
The table below shares the sectional order, number and type of questions in each section, questions for each section in the exam
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Exam Sections
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Number of questions
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Overall Time Duration
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Part-1
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75 Total MCQs
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175 Minutes
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Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning
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26
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No Sectional Time Limit
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Decision Making
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21
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No Sectional Time Limit
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Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation
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28
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No Sectional Time Limit
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Part-2
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25 Total MCQs + Essay Writing Test
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30 Minutes
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General Knowledge
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25
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Ideal Time 10-15 Minutes
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Analytical Essay Writing (AEW)
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1 Descriptive Topic
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Ideal Time 15-20 Minutes
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Total questions (Part 1 + Part 2)
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100+ 1 Essay
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FAQs
Q. In how many days exam will be conducted
A. The exam will be conducted in a single day as a computer based test
Q. In how many sessions will exam be conducted?
A. Like previous years, this year also, the exam will be conducted in single slot of 3 hours 30 minutes duration
Q. What is the Mode of exam?
A. It is a computer based test and is conducted at test centres. Last year the exam was conducted in more than 70 test cities.
Q. Is XAT a difficult exam?
A. Yes, to some extent it is a difficult exam with a unique Decision Making section.
Q. Can I attempt any section in the exam within over all time limit?
A. Yes, it does not have individual sectional time limit
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6. Previous XAT Exam Analysis, Pattern, Key Changes
Last year exam had got over on January 7, 2024 at 5.30 PM. The exam was a single session computer based test of 3 hours 30 miniute duration as against 3 hours 10 minute duration exam earlier. This year XLRI introduced many aspirant friendly changes in the exam and offered a better test taking experience to the test takers.
XAT 2024 Analysis: Summary
- Exam was conducted from 2.00 PM to 5.30 PM on January 7, 2024
- Total 75 Questions appeared in Verbal, DM, Quant & DI section.
- GK in exam had 9 Questions on Static GK and 16 Questions on Current Affairs
- Total Questions in 2024 were 101 (Including Essay Writing)
- Exam difficulty level remained similar to last year
- Exam Duration is increased to 3 hrs 30 minutes from earlier 3 hrs 10 minutes
- Test taker was allowed to choose 1 Essay topic out of 3 Options
XAT 2024 Exam Pattern: Analysis
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Exam Sections
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Number of questions
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Overall Time & Scoring Pattern
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Part-1
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75 Total MCQs
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175 Minutes. Max.75 Marks(+1 Mark for each Correct answer; -0.25 Negative Marking for each wrong answer)
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Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning
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26
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No Sectional Time Limit. +1 and -0.25 (Max 26 Marks)
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Decision Making
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21
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No Sectional Time Limit. +1 and – 0.25(Max 22 Marks)
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Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation
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28
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No Sectional Time Limit. +1 and – 0.25 (Max 28 Marks)
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Part-2
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25 Total MCQs + Essay Writing Test
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30 Minutes
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General Knowledge
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25
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Complete both parts in 30 Minutes. +1; No Negative Marking (Max 25 Marks)
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Analytical Essay Writing (AEW)
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1 Descriptive Topic
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Will be evaluated if you are shortlisted for PI round.
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Total questions (Part 1 + Part 2)
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100+ 1 Essay
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Max 101 Marks; Essay Evaluation after shortlisting is over based on score obtained in Part-1 sections
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Exam Wise Section wise Topics & Types of Questions Table
Section: Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning (VALR)
- There were 15 Reading Comprehension questions and 11 Verbal Ability/Reasoning questions.
- The Verbal ability/Verbal Reasoning questions were a fair mix of grammar, vocabulary, and reasoning-based questions (Critical Reasoning and Jumbled Paragraphs).
- The 15 RC questions were distributed among five passages (of 300 – 450 words each) and one poem.
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Sub-section/ Topic
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Type of Questions
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Description
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No of Questions
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Verbal Ability
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Sentence Correction
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Grammatically Correct & Incorrect Sentences
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3
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Para Summary
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Making choice of Summary of small Paragraph
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1
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Jumbled Paragraph
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Placing the 5 Jumbled sentences in coherent paragraphs
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2
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Fill in the Blanks
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Filling 2 Blanks in each sentence with correct words
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2
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Reading Comprehension
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Questions on True False Statement, Argument, Inference, Main Idea, Interpretation of Phrase as used in RC; Passage Title
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RC Passage 1
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Topic: Beauty has an aesthetic, but it is not the same as aesthetics
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2
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RC Passage 2
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Topic: The problem of unrecognized ignorance
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3
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RC Passage 3
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Topic: Simplified moral frames
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3
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RC Passage 4
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Topic: Reductive instinct and realist storytelling
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2
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RC Passage 5
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Topic: Mass vaccination and herd immunity
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3
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RC Passage 6
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Topic: Poem
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2
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Reasoning
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Critical Reasoning
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True False, Correct Logica following the Statements, Best combination
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3
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Total Questions
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26
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Exam Wise Section wise Topics & Types of Questions Table
Section: Decision Making
- All the questions were in sets
- There was no question set based on Quantitative problem in Decision Making
- The section consisted of 7 sets of 3 questions each.
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Sub-section/ Topic
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Type of Questions
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Description
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No of Questions
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Caselet-1
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Problem Based on Human Resources
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Experience Credentials of Employees
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3
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Caselet-2
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Problem Based on ABC Business School
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Disciplined School with High Placements but less learning
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3
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Caselet-3
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Problem Based on Taxis
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Competition among Taxi Drivers
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3
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Caselet-3
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Problem Based on Sales & Marketing
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SUV Sales Target Met but recovery of loss a concern due to extended warranty
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3
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Caselet-4
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Problem Based on Household help
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Wrongful Termination of Domestic Help
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3
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Caselet-5
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Problem Based on Human Resources at IT Firm Symbolis
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Distribution of Performance Bonus to the Best Employees
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3
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Caselet-6
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Problem Based on Gas Extraction Company Deep Sea c
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Releasing the Natural Gas Pressure and Safety Arrangements
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3
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Exam Wise Section wise Topics & Types of Questions Table
Section: Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation
- Out of the 28 questions in the section, 17 were on Quantitative Ability and 11 were on Data Interpretation.
- There were three sets of Data Interpretation with 3 questions each and two sets with two questions each.
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Sub-section/ Topic
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Type of Questions
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Description
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No of Questions
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Arithmetic
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Time Speed Distance
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Pilot increasing speed of Aircraft to reach Destination
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1
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Arithmetic
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Profit & Loss
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Cost of Running Movie Theatre and required capacity to ear profit; Selling Price at Food Stall
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2
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Arithmetic
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Arithmetic Progression
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Number of students in a class
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1
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Number System
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Increasing, Decreasing
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Real Numbers, Value
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3
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Permutation & Combination; Set Theory
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Combination of Items in Restaurant; Vegetable Market
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Making a combination of Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian items from Menu; Aman buying vegetables
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3
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Geometry
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Triangles and Rectangles
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Farmer’s Tringalular land; Rectangle Football ground; Right Angle
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3
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Algebra- Polynomials
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Roots of Polynomial
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Ratio of area from largest to smallest
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1
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Linear Equation, Log, Quadratic Equation
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Real Numbers, Logs
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Coinciding Lines represented by the two equations; Equation Log
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3
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Data Interpretation
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DI Set-1
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T-20 Match
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3
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Data Interpretation
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DI Set-2
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Statistics – Hinge number
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3
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Data Interpretation
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DI Set-3
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Discount Coupon
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3
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Data Interpretation
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DI Set-4
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Shortlisting for Interview
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2
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Total Questions
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28
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Exam Wise Section wise Topics & Types of Questions Table
Section: General Knowledge
The General Knowledge section comprised 25 questions.
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Sub-section/ Topic
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Type of Questions
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Description
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No of Questions
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Static GK
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History
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Historical capital cities of India; Famous battles; Doctrine of lapse
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3
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Static GK & Changes
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Geography
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National capitals of countries; Flow of River Ganges
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2
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Static & Current
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Economics & Business
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Brics
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1
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Current Affairs
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Personality & Awards
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Dr Akshata Krishnamurthy, Matthew Perry,
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2
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Current Affairs
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Science & Technology
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Aditya L-1; X 37B
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2
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Current Affairs
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Sports
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Women’s Premier League, Asian Games
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2
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Static & Current
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Books & Authors
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Match the authors of the books
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1
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Current Affairs
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Latest National & International
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Country pulling out of “Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe”; Air India’s AI; “Ghol” as the state fish; City illuminating 22.23 lakh earthen lamps; Earthquake in Japan;
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5
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Miscellaneous
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Companies, people, work, action
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Leap Year calculation; Dedicated air cargo service in India; ChatGPT, Google Bard, Chatsonic
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3
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Current Affairs
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Nobel Prize
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Nobel Peace Prize, Nobel Prize in Economics
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2
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Static & Current
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Culture & Entertainment
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Movie Oppenheimer, Nabanno harvest festival of Bengal and Bangladesh
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2
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Total
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25
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Exam Wise Section wise Topics & Types of Questions Table
Section: Analytical Essay Writing
- Essay section had 3 Topics
- Out of three options, the candidate had to choose one option for Essay Writing
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Sub-section/ Topic
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Type of Questions
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Description
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No of Questions
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Essay
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Essay-1
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Tech prediction often fail not because of wrong models or a lack of imagination but due to lack of humility in admitting our uncertainties about the future.
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1
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Essay
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Essay-2
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Implementing more stringent regulations for Social Media Platforms is crucial to effectively combat the proliferation of fake news.
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1
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Essay
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Essay-3
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Things which matters the most must never be at the mercy of things that matters the least.
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1
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Total
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Choice to choose one Topic out of 3
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3
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7. XAT 2025 Exam Syllabus: Overall and Section wise syllabus
Exam syllabus is divided into two parts and five sections. In Part-1, it tests the candidate on Verbal Ability, Reading Comprehension & Logical Reasoning; Decision Making; Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation. In part-2 it tests General Knowledge and Essay Writing.
- The revised syllabus includes 100 MCQ type questions and 1 descriptive question on Essay Writing out of 3 choices
- Except the General Awareness and Essay Writing Test, all the other three sections are core sections that determine the percentile score as well as XLRI shortlisting criteria
- The scores of General Awareness and Essay Writing sections are taken into account at the time of XLRI personal Interview round.
7.1 XAT Syllabus Section-Wise
Part-1 Syllabus
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Section
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Syllabus
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Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning (VALR)
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The VA&LR section will encompass critical & analytical reasoning, reading comprehensions (including poems & passages), vocabulary, English grammar, and other related exercises such as para jumbles, cloze tests. Key Topics in syllabus include:
Verbal Ability Syllabus: English Vocabulary based questions – fill in the blanks with correct words; synonyms/antonyms; contextual usage on vocabulary words; Jumbled Paragraphs; Correction of errors in sentences, correct use of words; Completion of sentences; Completion of paragraph
Reading Comprehension Syllabus: Abstract topics, Literature, Social and Economic issues; Science & Culture; history & fiction. Questions based on information in RC passage; explanation of the words & phrases as used in the passage; In context of the passage –True/false statements; Author’s view on various issues raised in the RC passage; Inference from the passage; main idea of RC passage; Purpose of the RC passage
Logical Reasoning Syllabus: Critical Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Analogy, Clocks, calendars, Fact, Inference, Judgement, binary logic, seating arrangement, blood relations, logical sequence, assumption, premise, conclusion
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Decision Making (DM)
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The DM section will present scenarios drawn from both personal and professional lives. Candidates will be required to apply critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and prioritization to make informed decisions. XAT measures skills broadly on Conditions and Grouping Test; Data Arrangement Test; Complex Arrangement; Decision Making in a situation; Case lets
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Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation (QADI)
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The questions are designed to assess the quantitative aptitude of candidates who possess a foundational understanding of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, mensuration, modern maths, etc. The questions on DI are about clear interpretation, summarization, and insightful analysis of the data.
QA: Major topics covered in XAT syllabus for Quant are LCM and HCF, Log, Percentage, Profit and Loss. Linear Equation, Interest (Simple and Compound), Speed Time and Distance, Time and Work, Averages, Ratio and Proportion, Number System, Algebra equations, Polynomials, Geometry, Mensuration, Complex Numbers, Progressions, Binomial Theorem, Permutation and Combination, Probability Functions, Set Theory, Mixtures and Alligations, Trigonometry
DI: Major Topics Covered in DI Syllabus are Data Tables, Data charts, Bar diagrams, Pie charts, Graphs, Data analysis and comparison
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Part-2 Syllabus
Part-2 covers General Knowledge and Essay Writing Test.
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Section
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Syllabus
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General Knowledge
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In the GK section, questions focus on static GK and current affairs. Major Topics Covered: Economics, finance, national and international current affairs, Constitution of India, Company profiles, logos, Business & Economy, Who’s who, Books & Authors, Capitals & Currencies
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Analytical Essay Writing (AEW) Test
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The AEW section offers three topics, of which candidates will select one. Essays should be approximately 250 words in length and must demonstrate coherence, logical consistency, and strong argumentation , serving as an assessment of the students' analytical abilities.
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FAQs
Q: Is the XAT 2025 Syllabus Changed? What are the important changes
A: The most recent changes in the syllabus were in 2022 with restoration of Essay Writing Test in the exam. Since then, same syllabus is being followed.
Q: Is XAT exam syllabus published by XLRI before the exam?
A: Yes, from the year 2024, broad syllabus for upcoming exam is published. For example XLRI outlined that GK section in 2024 would consist of 10 questions on Static GK and 15 questions on Current Affairs.
Q: Which Section syllabus in XAT is considered more difficult to cover?
A: Decision Making is considered more difficult to cover. However, it depends on your aptitude. If you have Mathematics back ground, you may find Quant and DI easier and VALR difficult, but if you have Arts/Humanities back ground, you may find VALR easier than QADI
Q: How much time is sufficient to cover complete XAT syllabus?
A: If you are devoting time and studying 3-4 hours a day, 4-6 months are considered sufficient to cover the syllabus.
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Toppers’ Tips to Cover XAT Syllabus
“I had prepared for the MBA entrance tests myself, and did not go for any coaching. Like many others, I did not specifically prepare for XAT, except for the DM section. Someone who is preparing for XAT would have prepared for CAT as well, so the QA and Verbal sections can be covered by CAT”
- Nandagopal V, XAT Topper 99.99%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
“I covered quants for XAT along with my CAT preparation. I Practiced the verbal and DM sections from the previous 10 years papers and had been reading newspapers for the past 6 months which was enough prep for GK section.”
- Tanish Jain, XAT Topper 99.99%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
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8. XAT Preparation
You can prepare with self preparation through Books, Mocks or through coaching as per your convenience. You need to devise your own XAT exam preparation strategy. One of the important points which differentiate the exam preparation from other exams is the Decision Making Preparation and the strategy to prepare for this important section. Shared below are the details of best preparation books section wise, how to prepare with Coaching, how to prepare with self preparation, Preparation with Mocks, toppers’ tips and more:
8.1 XAT Preparation Books for VALR, QADI, DM
The Best Books for Preparation should keep pace with the changing exam pattern. Most of the preparation books in the market are based on the previous exam pattern but the best books shared here are the updated books which have incorporated changes with the anticipated question type in the exam. Every year different types of questions appear in the exam. During the last few years, the exam pattern has been modified completely. So, while choosing the best books for exam preparation, it should be kept in mind that the books are conversant with the changed exam pattern and difficulty level. Few things to check in the books are:
- Should Provide conceptual clarity on the relevant topic
- Rich on the exercises, practice questions and Mocks given after each topic
- Caters your need to focus more on the weak areas with variety of practice questions
- Latest edition of preparation Book offers the updated exam pattern and syllabus also
8.1.1 Section-Wise 10 Best books for XAT Preparation
If you are self-preparing for the exam or are preparing with the support of coaching institute, in both the cases, the latest edition of the books for preparation as shared below section wise will help you in getting more conceptual clarity, practice questions and attempting the sample papers
8.1.2. Preparation Books for VALR
- How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for CAT’- by Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay
- Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT by Nishit K Sinha
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension by Ajay Singh
- How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for CAT by Arun Sharma (Published by McGraw Hill)
- Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis
8.1.3 Preparation Books for QADI
- How to prepare for Quantitative for the CAT by Arun Sharma, published by MGH Education
- Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT by Nishit K Sinha
- Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT by Sarvesh K Verma
- How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT by Arun Sharma (Published by McGraw Hill)
8.1.4 Preparation Books for Decision Making
- Jabbing the XAT (with solved papers)-RK Jha
- Focus on Situation Analysis: Understanding the motives behind the test will help you align your thinking process with the expectations of the test setter. Thus before answering a question you need to first analyse the situation from the different perspectives, i.e., the economic as well as the social perspective.
- Frame the answer in your mind: Read, understand and try to gauge the motive behind the question. Once you have done this try to frame the answer within your mind without looking at the options, as sometimes the options can be misleading and lead you to a different outcome.
- Eliminate incorrect options: Not all the five options are relevant. After a basic reading of the question you can start eliminating the options and in most cases, you would be able to eliminate at least two options.
|
Toppers Tips on XAT Preparation
“My preparation strategy mainly emphasised on focusing on my stronger suits, mainly DM and Verbal Ability. At the same time, I also made sure to very thoroughly cover all the topics and concepts in Quants section. For GK section, I only went through daily newspapers and there was not any specific preparation as such”
Nipun Garg, XAT Topper 99.95%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
“With XAT having very different structure as compared to other exams, I had to ensure that I get comfortable with the whole format. So, I started working on separate sections to bring up my accuracy”
Harsh Gupta, XAT Topper 99.99%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
|
8.2. XAT Preparation with Top Coaching Institutes
A few months of devoted preparation can enable you to crack the exam as it requires ‘Smart Preparation.’ You can join a coaching as it offers expert guidance.
8.2.1 Benefits of Preparation with Coaching
- Coaching institutes help you to prepare systematically without deviating from your preparation path.
- While offering smart and intensive preparation for the exam, the top coaching institutes help you to minimize the wastage of time with optimum utilization.
- There are 6 months, 3 months and 1 month preparation time modules offered by the good coaching institutes that help you crack the exam with high score
- If you need to clear the concepts and build your basics before practicing sessions, coaching centers suggest to start the preparation with a 6 month time margin.
8.2.2 Top XAT Coaching Centers in India
The choice of coaching mode depends upon your interest, time, money and preparation level while preparing for the exam. Shared below are the top coaching institutes with their key centres and available options for coaching:
|
Top XAT Coaching Institutes
|
Type of Courses Online/Offline/Both
|
City wise XAT Preparation Center Location
|
|
TIME
|
Both
|
Delhi, Noida, Lucknow, Chennai, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Gurgaon among total 100+ centres
|
|
Career Launcher
|
Both
|
Delhi, Noida, Lucknow, Chennai, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Gurgaon among 80+ centres
|
|
IMS
|
Both
|
Delhi, Lucknow, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Lucknow among 50+ centres
|
|
Byju’s
|
Online
|
Online Coaching via Tablet anywhere in India & Abroad
|
|
2IIM.com
|
Online
|
Online coaching course with videos, quizzes, practice tests, and slideshows. Classroom coaching in Chennai only
|
|
MBAGURU
|
Both
|
Centres across Delhi located in CP, Rajouri Garden, Pitampura, Kailash Colony
|
|
Arun Sharma’s Mindworkzz
|
Both
|
Mindworkzz has 3 centres in C P, Delhi and offers online coaching as well
|
|
Endeavor
|
Both
|
Lucknow, Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai, Pune among 20+ centres across India
|
|
BullsEye
|
Online
|
Offers Online Coaching
|
|
Tathagat
|
Classroom coaching
|
Centres located in Delhi, Noida
|
|
Alchemist
|
Classroom coaching
|
CP-Delhi, North Delhi, West Delhi and Gurgaon
|
8.3 Self & Coaching Mixed Preparation
Exam preparation can be self, with the support of online or offline coaching or a mix of both. To begin and advance with your preparation, experts suggest:
- You should have strong basics with clarity on concepts
- Improve your weak areas and strengthen your strong areas
- Consistent revision is required with Mocks, practice tests, Quizzes
- Prepare a list of topics as per the syllabus and improve on each of them
- Form a peer group on social media for preparation
- Time Management with Accuracy & Speed is required. Consistently improve on them
- Consult best preparation books and attempt their practice questions
- Read Interviews and tips from Toppers studying at XLRI, IMT, IMI, XIMB on their preparation strategy published on MBAUniverse.com and other channels
8.3.1 Preparation for VALR, DM, QADI
The section wise preparation strategy is very important. Key tips to prepare for each section is as below:
8.3.1.1 Preparation for VALR
- Go through the Verbal Ability, Reading Comprehension & Logical Reasoning Syllabus
- Choose the Best books
- Read the strategy for Verbal Ability Preparation of past toppers
Section-1: Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning (VALR): Composition
|
Toppers’ Tips on VALR Preparation
“My main source for preparation of the VA section was the daily newspapers (mainly The Hindu or Indian Express). Apart from that, one of the main things anyone should focus on is to read the RCs and poems in the exam extremely carefully before attempting”
Nipun Garg, XAT Topper 99.95%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
“For verbal, I was mainly studying from online available sources. My major focus in verbal was to ensure that I can understand the meaning of the passages and poems and don’t make silly mistakes during examination. So, I was regularly reading short passages on diverse topics and I had set a fixed timing of 1.5-2 hrs every day to spend on verbal section solving RCs and critical reasoning questions.”
Harsh Gupta, XAT Topper 99.99%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
|
Section-2: Preparation for Decision Making
- Decision Making (DM) section in Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) tests you not on your ability to learn concepts or remember formulas, but on your ability to holistically view a situation and propose a solution to a problem.
- DM also tests you on your ethical standing and asks you to take a decision in a conflicting situation. Prepare as per the three different types of questions asked in Decision Making section.
- Prepare for Data Based Problems: Data given and the answer is to be based on analyses of the data,
- Prepare for Situation Based Problems: A scenario wherein you will be tested on your ethical standing,
- Prepare for the Mixture of both type of Problems: A mixture of both of the above
Section-2: Decision Making: Composition
|
Toppers’ Tips on DM Preparation
“To prepare for DM, my recommendation would be to practise previous year papers, as many times as you want, specifically the DM section. Each of us has a unique perspective that might give us different yet valid answers for the questions in DM. Unless this perspective matches with the examiner’s, there is no point in our justifications”
Nandagopal V, XAT Topper 99.99%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
“The past year papers were the best source for preparation for the exam. I tried to deduce a logically why the given answer was correct. I also relied on few of my friends to discuss the given case studies to gain a different perspective”
Nipun Garg, XAT Topper 99.95%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
|
Section-3: Preparation for QADI
- Go through the complete syllabus of Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation section
- QADI questions in XAT are designed to assess the quantitative aptitude of candidates
- The students are expected to possess a foundational understanding of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, mensuration, modern maths, etc.
- The questions on DI are about clear interpretation, summarization, and insightful analysis of the data
Section-3: Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation: Composition
|
Toppers’ Tips on QADI Preparation
“I prepared for the QA section in CAT by practising questions from the Arun Sharma book. What most of the engineers are weak at, and generally ignore, are concepts in geometry and mensuration. The competitive advantage of putting in the extra hours in them are two-pronged. Primarily, you won’t shy away from answering them since you have prepared. Additionally, now that you are prepared, you might know some theorems and lemmas that can help you solve these questions really fast, thus saving time.”
Nandagopal V, XAT Topper 99.99%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
“My major preparation strategy for this section was to solve a set of diverse questions covering all major domains every day to retain concepts in my mind. Though one thing I did was that in final exam I attempted the questions of topics I was most comfortable in and rest I attempted only after I had solved everything else”
Harsh Gupta, XAT Topper 99.99%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
|
9. Role of XAT Mocks in XAT 2025 Preparation?
Toppers are of the view that taking Mocks is of utmost importance as it is a very important preparation tool. If you are seriously preparing for the exam and wish to score high percentile, it is necessary to attempt more and more Mock Tests to get ready for the exam day. All the XAT toppers studying at XLRI, XIMB, IMT, IMI found Mocks the most important part of their preparation and have recommended to take more mocks just like taking the actual exam and analysing mistakes in each mock. You can attempt the full length XAT Mock and sectional Mocks prepared by experts at MBAUniverse.com
|
(FAQs)
Q: How many Mocks before the exam are sufficient to take?
A: You should take a minimum number of 35-40 Mock tests before the exam of different difficulty level. To prepare for the exam, it is not only sufficient to take Mocks but more important is to analyse your mistakes in them and improve for future.
Q: Is writing Offline Mocks helpful to score high in the exam?
A: Although it is a computer based test, taking offline Mock can also help you in improving your score. Whenever, you are writing an Offline Mock, you should adhere to sectional time limit and overall time limit of three hours thirty minutes. This will give you actual exam feeling with time management and improving your score.
Q: Where can I get online computer based Mocks Free?
A: You can take Online computer based free Mocks at MBAUniverse.com as well as other websites including the websites of coaching institutes
Q: If I score low in Mock, what should I do?
A: The first step after writing Mock test is that, you should analyse it for your errors. Ensure that the errors are not repeated. Make sure to bring clarity on concepts and practice more mocks of similar pattern.
|
|
Toppers’ Tips
“Mocks played a very important role in my final preparation. Especially after covering the syllabus once, I mainly relied on mock for strategizing how to attempt the exam and manage the time.”
Nipun Garg, XAT Topper 99.95%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
“Mocks are the most important tools for the exam and let me explain why they are needed for XAT specifically. A 3-hour long paper like XAT is a totally different ball-game. In cricketing terms, CAT is like T20s, while XAT is like ODIs. Now that your body and mind have been habituated to attempt 2-hour long papers, you could feel lethargic after the 120 minute mark, and may not be able to utilize the 3rd hour as much as you would have wanted to. This is why, once CAT is done, mandatorily write a few XAT mocks, so that you can get used to the 3-hour mindset”
Nandagopal V, XAT Topper 99.99%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
“Mocks played a major part in my success. Most of my preparation was based on practicing through mocks and previous year papers”
Tanish Jain, XAT Topper 99.99%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
|
10. XAT 2025 Registration & Application Process
XAT 2025 Form Filling process is online. You can register & apply online only on the XAT exam official website XAT online.in. The registration fee is Rs. 2100 /-. The exam fee should be paid online only. The application process for the exam remains open from July to November. You can complete registration and application process in following steps:
XAT Registration: Step by Step Process
|
XAT Registration Steps
|
Step Title
|
Description
|
|
Step-1
|
Login
|
Login to XAT official website xatonline.in
|
|
Step-2
|
Register
|
Register with Basic details to get XAT ID and Password
|
|
Step-3:
|
Fill Personal Details
|
Fill in Complete Personal Details in Registration and Application Form
|
|
Step-4
|
Fill Academics
|
Fill in Academics from class 10 onwards, on the next page of XAT form
|
|
Step-5
|
Fill Work Ex & Choose Programs & Exam Cities
|
Fill in Details of Work Experience, XLRI Programmes, choice of XAT Test Cities
|
|
Step-6
|
Documents Details
|
Upload Scanned copies of documents of Required size
|
|
Step-7
|
Declaration
|
Mark tick on the Declaration to complete the process
|
|
Step-8
|
Pay XAT Fees
|
Make Payment online for XAT Application Fees and XLRI Programme Application Fee
|
|
FAQs
Q: If I apply for XAT after the last date of registration, can I get successful registration message from XLRI?
A: No, you should complete your registration process before the closing time on the last date. Usually XLRI closes the XAT registration process at Midnight on the last date. Q: Can I apply for XAT 2025 in offline mode also?
A: No, you can submit only online application |
10.1 Key Points to Note during Exam Registration & Application Process
- During registration, the mobile number and email address provided by the you will be verified through an OTP sent to that mobile number and email address
- Once the OTP is verified, the User ID and the Password will be sent on the registered email address and or on the registered mobile number to complete the registration process.
- You can complete the application form in a single session or in multiple sessions
- Save your current completed application pages and login later to complete the remaining Application Form
- Once the payment is made and the Application Form is submitted, you cannot make any changes
- You can only view and print the Application Form after submitting it
|
FAQs
Q: Is it possible to amend mistake in registration after form submission?
A: After submitting the online application it is not possible to rectify the errors. You will have to re-register. |
10.2 XLRI XAT: Application Trends Over the Years
1.35 lakh candidates had applied for XAT 2024 registering an increase of 40% over last year. The rising number of registrations signify that candidates have to compete with more candidates in the exam and need to score high to get shortlisted by XLRI and other top B-schools.
|
XAT Year
|
Candidate Registrations (No. in lakhs)
|
% Increase/Decrease over last year
|
|
2024
|
1.35
|
40%
|
|
2023
|
0.98
|
22%
|
|
2022
|
0.80
|
--
|
|
Toppers’ Tips
“I chose XLRI XAT after a well thought of decision and registered for it. The key criteria were: Legacy (for how long the institution has existed); Large Alumni Network; High Placement Statistics”
Nipun Garg, XAT Topper 99.95%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
“I Applied for XAT with the aim to get into XLRI after a well thought of decision. My long-term goal is consulting. I wanted to get into a B-school where all major consulting companies hire and XLRI is ideal for this”
Tanish Jain, XAT Topper 99.99%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
|
11. XAT 2025 Admit Card Release: How to Download?
The Admit Card download will start from December 2024 third week. XLRI will upload the Admit card on official XAT exam website 2025 onlinexat.in The admit card release date may be extended by a few days. The last date to download the Admit Card is exam date.
Three Steps to Download XAT 2025 Admit Card
- Go to XAT 2024 website onlinexat.in
- At login page enter XAT ID and password to view and download the XAT Admit Card
- Save the Admit Card and take print on A4 size paper
|
FAQs
Q: How to confirm that I will get my XAT 2025 Admit Card?
A: You should check your mail from XLRI that your application form has successfully been submitted. If yes and still you don’t receive the Admit Card you should immediately contact the help desk. Q: I am unable to access XAT Website, how can I download the Admit Card?
A: After a few minutes from the Admit card release, thousands of the candidates try to get access to website simultaneously due to which some technical glitches may come up. The best strategy at that time is to access the website after some time when the rush gets subsided. Q: Can I download XAT Admit card from my Mobile Phone?
A: You should view the Admit Card only using the recommended browsers and not from your mobile phone. Q: I have got XAT Admit Card which is Blank? What should I do?
A: If the Admit Card is blank, you need not worry. If the candidate registers multiple times, XAT Centre will consider only the most recent (last) registration as the official application. The Admit Card generated for you is for the most recent (last) registration. Thus, if you login by using User ID of earlier registration attempts, you may find your Admit Card as blank. Q: Do I need to take Color print of Admit Card?
A: It is not necessary, you can also have Black &White print of your Admit card from laser printer. Don't forget to affix your photo on the hard copy of admit card in the space provided beside the printed photograph |
12. XAT Exam Centers in India
The exam will be held in 70+ test cities having around 400 exam centres across the country. List of State Wise Test Cities is given below in the Tabular Form
XAT Exam Cities
|
Sl No.
|
Exam Cities
|
Sl No.
|
Exam Cities
|
Sl No.
|
Exam Cities
|
|
1
|
Agra
|
27
|
Guwahati
|
53
|
Pune
|
|
2
|
Ahmedabad
|
28
|
Gwalior
|
54
|
Rajahmundry
|
|
3
|
Allahabad
|
29
|
Hooghly
|
55
|
Raipur
|
|
4
|
Ambala
|
30
|
Hubballi (Hubli)
|
56
|
Ranchi
|
|
5
|
Amravati
|
31
|
Hyderabad
|
57
|
Rourkela
|
|
6
|
Amritsar
|
32
|
Indore
|
58
|
Roorkee
|
|
7
|
Bengaluru
|
33
|
Jabalpur
|
59
|
Siliguri
|
|
8
|
Berhampur
|
34
|
Jaipur
|
60
|
Sambalpur
|
|
9
|
Bhatinda
|
35
|
Jammu
|
61
|
Surat
|
|
10
|
Bhilai Nagar
|
36
|
Jamshedpur
|
62
|
Tirupathi
|
|
11
|
Bhopal
|
37
|
Kannur
|
63
|
Tiruchirapalli
|
|
12
|
Bhubaneswar
|
38
|
Kanpur
|
64
|
Thiruvananthapuram
|
|
13
|
Bokaro Steel City
|
39
|
Kolkata
|
65
|
Tiruvallur
|
|
14
|
Chandigarh/Mohali
|
40
|
Kota
|
66
|
Udupi
|
|
15
|
Chennai
|
41
|
Kottayam
|
67
|
Udaipur
|
|
16
|
Coimbatore
|
42
|
Kurnool
|
68
|
Vadodara
|
|
17
|
Cuttack
|
43
|
Kurukshetra
|
69
|
Varanasi
|
|
18
|
Dehradun
|
44
|
Lucknow
|
70
|
Vijayawada
|
|
19
|
Delhi NCR
|
45
|
Ludhiana
|
71
|
Visakhapatnam
|
|
20
|
Dhanbad
|
46
|
Mangalore
|
72
|
Warangal
|
|
21
|
Dibrugarh
|
47
|
Mumbai
|
|
|
|
22
|
Durgapur/Asansol
|
48
|
Madurai
|
|
|
|
23
|
Ernakulam
|
49
|
Mysuru (Mysore)
|
|
|
|
24
|
Goa
|
50
|
Nagpur
|
|
|
|
25
|
Gorakhpur
|
51
|
Nasik
|
|
|
|
26
|
Gandhi Nagar
|
52
|
Patna
|
|
|
|
FAQs
Q: How many XAT Exam cities I can choose?
A: You can choose a maximum number 2 exam cities
Q: Can I change my XAT Test City Preference after completion of Registration?
A: Yes, XAT Exam Center will open Application error correction window after close of last date of application submission for 2-3 days. During this period you can change your test city preference Q: Can XLRI increase or decrease XAT exam cities after release of Admit Card?
A: No, the exam cities can be increased or decreased before release of admit card. After release of admit card, test cities can neither be increased nor decreased.
Q: How and When I will know the XAT Exam city and Center allotted to me?
A: The details of exam city and test venue with exam slot is mentioned in admit card. As such, you will know all the details about your exam center after release of admit card.
|
13. XAT 2025 Answer Key
XLRI releases XAT answer key to maintain transparency in exam and to help candidates to check their responses with the correct answers. The Answer key 2025 will be released 3-4 days after the exam date on official website. You can download your answer key from official website by login with your login ID and password. The candidate response sheet will be released separately to enable the exam takers to raise & file objection to the answers which appear wrong to the test takers. XLRI releases the XAT answer keys along with the question paper with all the important instructions
|
FAQs
Q: When & Where to Look for XAT Answer Key 2025?
A: You should look for XAT answer key 2025 release announcement on the home page of official website xatonline.in 3-4 days after the exam date
Q: How can I download XAT Answer Key?
A: You can download the answer key from official website with your login ID and password
Q: What details are available with XAT Answer key?
A: The Answer key contains your responses and official correct answers to the exam questions for all the three sections-VALR, DM, QADI
Q: If I am not satisfied with official XAT answers, can I challenge the official answers?
A: Yes, XLRI will release answer key objection form alongwith answer key. You can challenge the official answers online by paying the requisite objection fee.
|
14. XAT Cut offs for XLRI & Other Top MBA Colleges
XAT exam score will be accepted by more than 160 MBA colleges for admission 2024. Apart from XLRI Jamshedpur and Delhi NCR, top MBA Colleges accepting XAT scores include XIMB, MICA, IMI, IMT, XIME, IRMA, TAPMI, Great Lakes, FORE, LIBA, BIMTECH among others. The required CAT cut off percentile in all these IIMs for admission 2025 is shared below.
|
MBA Colleges
|
Programme Name
|
XAT Cut off %ile required
|
||
|
XLRI Jamshedpur
|
PGDM-BM, PGDM-HRM
|
94-95
|
||
|
XIM University
|
MBA
|
91-92
|
||
|
MICA Ahmedabad
|
PGDM, PGDM-C
|
90-91
|
||
|
IMT Ghaziabad
|
PGDM
|
90-91
|
||
|
IMI New Delhi
|
PGDM
|
90-91
|
||
|
FORE New Delhi
|
PGDM
|
85-87
|
||
|
TAPMI Manipal
|
MBA
|
85-87
|
||
|
Great Lakes Chennai
|
PGDM, PGPM
|
85-86
|
||
|
IRMA Anand
|
PGDRM
|
83-84
|
||
|
GIM Goa
|
PGDM
|
85-86
|
||
|
K J Somaiya Mumbai
|
MBA
|
80-82
|
||
|
LIBA Chennai
|
PGDM
|
80-82
|
||
|
Welingkar Mumbai
|
PGDM
|
75
|
||
|
Great Lakes Gurgaon
|
PGDM
|
75
|
||
|
XIME Bangalore
|
PGDM
|
75
|
||
|
BIMTECH Greater Noida
|
PGDM
|
75
|
||
|
BITS Pilani
|
MBA
|
75
|
||
|
BIM Trichy
|
MBA
|
74
|
||
|
WE School Bangalore
|
PGDM
|
72
|
||
|
IMI Bhubaneswar
|
PGDM
|
74
|
||
|
IMI Kolkata
|
PGDM
|
75
|
||
|
IMT Nagpur
|
PGDM
|
75
|
||
|
JAGSOM Bangalore
|
PGDM
|
75
|
||
|
LBSIM New Delhi
|
PGDM
|
80
|
||
|
Woxsen University
|
MBA
|
72
|
||
|
Sri Balaji University Pune
|
MBA
|
72
|
||
|
BIIB Pune
|
MBA
|
74
|
||
|
VIT Business School (VIT) Vellore
|
MBA
|
75
|
||
|
ISBM Pune
|
PGDM
|
74
|
||
|
KIIT Bhubaneswar
|
MBA
|
75
|
||
|
Alliance School of Business Bangalore
|
MBA
|
72
|
||
|
Jaipuria Lucknow
|
PGDM
|
74
|
||
|
SDMIMD Mysore
|
PGDM
|
75
|
||
|
IBA Bangalore
|
PGDM
|
72
|
||
|
Amrita School of Business Coimbatore
|
MBA
|
72
|
||
|
SIES Navi Mumbai
|
PGDM
|
75
|
||
|
Rajagiri Business School
|
PGDM
|
72
|
||
|
EDII Ahmedabad
|
PGDM
|
--
|
||
|
IIMS Pune
|
PGDM
|
--
|
||
|
IFMR Graduate School of Business at KREA University
|
MBA
|
74
|
||
|
Jaipuria Institute of Management Noida
|
PGDM
|
74
|
||
Check and Read all about the XAT Accepting Colleges
|
FAQs
Q: What is the XAT Cut off for XLRI?
A: XLRI announces cut offs as the first criterion to consider a candidate for shortlisting. For example, if XLRI announces cutoff at 94 percentile, it is not necessary that it will shortlist you at that score, but you will at least be considered for shortlisting at that overall and sectional cutoff by XLRI
Q: Does XLRI announce XAT Cut offs after release of Result?
A: Yes, XLRI releases cutoff for admission immediately after release of result
Q: How can I make best use of XAT Cutoff?
A: You can match MBA Colleges Cut off with your XAT Scores and Percentile for admission after the cutoff is announced and result is out
|
|
Toppers Tips
“I cleared the XAT cut offs and was shortlisted by XLRI at a XAT 2023 percentile of 99.9577. I preferred XLRI to MDI Gurgaon and all the CAP IIMs despite scoring 97+ in CAT”
Nipun Garg, XAT Topper 99.95%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
“At a XAT percentile of 99.9902, I was shortlisted for PI round at XLRI BM, HR and LSCM programmes. I was also shortlisted by IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, IIM Lucknow, IIM Kozhikode, IIM Indore among others after scoring 99.15 in CAT. I converted XLRI BM and HRM programs, IIM Lucknow, IIM Kozhikode and IIM Indore. I preferred XLRI to any other B-school”
Nandagopal V, XAT Topper 99.99%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
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15. XAT Result & XLRI Final Selection Process
XAT 2025 exam official result declaration date is last week of January 2025. However, XLRI releases the result in the second or third week of January. Immediately after the result declaration, XLRI and other top B-schools start announcing their shortlist on the basis of XAT scores and other parameters in their shortlisting criteria for final selection round. The final admission offer will be made to the candidates in the months of April/May 2025
The admission process in XLRI depends upon your performance in three major areas – Your exam score; your academic record and performance in Personal Interview round. There are three stages through which XLRI Admission Process is completed, they are:
- Stage-1: Performance in XAT Exam
- Stage-2: Shortlisting by XLRI for PI round
- Stage-3: XLRI Final Selection Process 2025 comprising PI Round
Your final admission offer depends upon your performance in all the above three stages of XLRI selection process.
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FAQs
Q: What are the key components in XLRI selection process?
A: XLRI shortlists the candidates based on XAT exam score, academic profile and award high weightage to exam score. In final selection round, XLRI conducts PI round and considers score obtained in Essay Writing Test, General Knowledge and GD round. Final merit list is released based on PI score, Academic & Gender diversity, work exp among other components
Q: What is XAT weightage in final selection in XLRI?
A: While in shortlisting, XLRI awards high weightage to XAT score, in the final selection of candidates, XLRI awards a lower weightage to exam score.
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Toppers Tips
“My major strategy included preparation of answers for major obvious questions. Also, I participated in multiple mock GDs and mock interviews so as to familiarize myself for the final interviews and GDs”
Harsh Gupta, XAT Topper 99.99%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
“I did several activities to prepare for the GD/PI process. For GK I religiously read newspapers for the past few months for current affairs. Watched a few UPSC prep YouTube channels to prepare for static GK. For BQs I wrote down every possible BQ question I could think of/ was available in any MBA interview guide (Got some interview guides form IIMs). For Resume I prepared a few talking points for each point on my interview. Wrote down pointers for any possible question on workex, UG, Extra-curriculars, etc. I also prepared for basics of marketing, pricing, org behaviour. For XLRI specific preparation, I studied basic knowledge on XLRI including the values, mission, popular alumni”
Tanish Jain, XAT Topper 99.99%; XLRI PGDM-BM 2023-25
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16. FAQs on XAT: Answers by Experts
Q: When XAT is Conducted?
A: The exam is conducted annually preferably on the first Sunday of January every year
Q: What is Mode of XAT?
A: It is a computer based entrance test of three hours thirty minutes duration
Q: When to look for XAT Notification and complete XAT Information?
A: XLRI releases all the details about the exam in leading news papers in mid July. The process to register and apply for the exam starts simultaneously.
Q: How difficult is XAT?
A: Despite being a highly competitive and most important MBA entrance exam in India, the difficulty level of the exam is considered moderate to high.
Q: What is the Scoring Pattern in XAT
A: Each correct answer in the exam is awarded with +1 mark. The raw score obtained in the exam is converted to scaled score and then converted to percentile score after allowing for equating and normalizing the scores for all the question paper sets. XLRI and other top MBA colleges consider percentile awarded in the exam to shortlist the candidates for final selection round.
Q. How many Questions are expected in XAT 2025?
The exam is expected to consist of 100 MCQs and 1 essay writing test
Q. Does XLRI provide any document and guide how to attempt XAT Exam?
A. XLRI conducts official Mock test and also releases previous papers on the official website xatonline.in. You can familiarize yourself with the functionality and navigation of the actual exam. You can also attempt Mock Tests and Previous Years Question Papers with answers at MBAUniverse.com
Q. Quant and DI questions require too much calculations. Can I take a calculator to the testing centre?
A. No, but the onscreen calculator is available throughout the exam. You can use that
Q. Do the wrong answers carry any penalty of negative marking?
A. The MCQs carry a penalty of -0.25 mark for each wrong answer. However, there is no negative marking for GK questions and Essay Writing Test.
Q. Can I choose the order of sections while attempting the XAT question paper?
A. Yes, you can attempt any question in any section of the question paper within the overall exam time duration.
Q. Can I submit the paper early and leave the test center before the exam time is over?
A. No, the paper cannot be submitted before the test duration is over. You can neither leave your seat, nor can leave the test centre early
XLRI Placements 2024: Completes 100 % Placements; Average Salary dips by 8.6%; Accenture, Amazon, BCG, HUL key recruiters 
