Everything You Need to Know About XAT: Xaviers Entrance Exam

Is a management degree something that excites you? Are you interested in pursuing a management degree from a reputed institution in India? Then, you must have heard about the Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT), one of India’s most popular entrance exams for management programs. Conducted by Xavier School of Management (XLRI), XAT is a highly competitive and challenging exam that tests your aptitude, analytical and decision-making skills. But it is more than just a test. It is an opportunity to showcase your potential and secure admission to some of the most prestigious B-schools in India. In this blog, I’ll give you an overview of XAT, its history, exam pattern, eligibility criteria, important dates, and tips to crack the exam.

So, whether you’re a management aspirant or just curious about the XAT exam, keep reading to discover everything you need to know about XAT – the Xaviers Entrance Exam.

Getting The Facts Right About XAT 

Xavier School of Management (XLRI) is popular for the same reasons as a celebrity – it has a long-standing reputation for excellence in management education, is highly respected by the industry, and has produced numerous successful alumni who have made a mark in the corporate world.

Overall, XLRI and XAT are like the rockstars of the management education world, and cracking the XAT exam and securing admission to XLRI or other top B-schools is like winning the ultimate trophy in a fiercely competitive arena. It is like a mental obstacle course that only the most agile and skilled can navigate successfully. 

To appear for this exam, the candidate must have completed a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognised university or institution. The duration of the course should be a minimum of three years. You are expected to have secured a minimum of 50% marks in the Bachelor’s degree examination. For SC/ST and PwD candidates, the minimum percentage required is 45%.

Candidates who are appearing for their final year examination for Bachelor’s degree or awaiting their results can also apply for the XAT exam. However, such candidates must provide their final year mark sheets and degree certificates to the respective institutions within the given time.

The exam is usually held in the first week of January. However, the exact dates may vary from year to year. The registration process for XAT usually starts in August and ends in December. Candidates can check the official website of XAT for the latest updates and notifications. Let’s look at it in a more detailed way now!

XAT’s Exam Pattern And Preps

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) exam is conducted by the Xavier School of Management (XLRI), Jamshedpur on behalf of the Xavier Association of Management Institutes (XAMI). It is a computer-based test (CBT). The exam is conducted in a single session, and candidates are required to answer all the questions within 190 minutes (Part 1- 165 minutes & Part 2 – 25 minutes). The XAT exam consists of two main sections – Part 1 and Part 2. Part 1 contains three sections: Verbal and Logical Ability, Decision Making, Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation. Part 2 comprises two sections: General Knowledge and Essay Writing section. 

Coming to the paper pattern, for every correct answer +1 marks and for every incorrect answer -0.25 will be deducted. -0.10 marks will be deducted for more than 8 unattempted questions.  For part 2 that is GK, there is no negative marking.

Part 1:

Verbal and Logical Ability – 26 questions: The Verbal and Logical Ability section of the XAT tests a candidate’s English language proficiency and reasoning skills. The questions in this section are designed to test a candidate’s ability to comprehend and analyze written material and to identify logical connections and patterns in the material. To prepare for this section, improve your vocabulary and reading comprehension skills. Practice reading a variety of texts, such as newspapers, magazines, and books, and try to identify the main ideas and arguments.

Decision Making – 21 questions: The Decision Making section is unique to the XAT and is designed to evaluate a candidate’s decision-making abilities in complex and ambiguous situations. The questions in this section present a variety of scenarios and require candidates to assess and analyse the given information to arrive at the best possible decision.  This section is unique to the XAT, and the best way to prepare for it is by previous year’s question papers and mock tests. Familiarize yourself with the types of questions that are asked in this section, and practice developing a structured approach to problem-solving.

Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation – 28 questions: The Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation section tests a candidate’s mathematical and analytical abilities. This section includes questions on basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and statistics, and also requires candidates to interpret and analyze data in the form of charts, graphs, and tables. To prepare for this section, practice solving a variety of math problems, including those arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and statistics. Focus on developing your calculation and problem-solving skills, and practice interpreting data presented in the form of charts, tables, and graphs.

Part 2:

General Knowledge – 25 questions: The General Knowledge section of the XAT covers a wide range of topics, including current affairs, history, politics, geography, and economics. This section tests a candidate’s awareness of the world and their ability to stay current with current events. To prepare for this section, stay up-to-date with current events by reading newspapers, magazines, and online news sources. 

Essay Writing – 1 essay: Finally, the essay writing component of the XAT requires candidates to write an essay on a given topic within a designated time frame. This section evaluates a candidate’s ability to express their thoughts clearly and coherently, and to present a well-structured argument.

Things You Should Focus On

• Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus: Candidates should familiarise themselves with the exam pattern and syllabus. They should go through the previous years’ question papers and analyse the types of questions asked. They should also understand the syllabus and the weightage of each topic.
• Focus on Time Management: Time management is critical in XAT. Candidates should practise time management while solving questions. They should take online mock tests to improve their speed and accuracy.
• Improve Your General Knowledge: The General Knowledge section of the XAT exam tests candidates on current affairs, business, and economics. Candidates should stay updated with the latest news and read business magazines and newspapers to improve their knowledge.
• Improve Your Writing Skills: The Essay Writing section tests candidates on their writing skills, analytical ability, and critical thinking. Candidates should practise writing essays on various topics and get feedback from experts to improve their writing skills.
• Join Coaching Classes: If candidates need help with their preparation, they can consider joining coaching classes that offer XAT-specific training and guidance.

Now that you know everything about XAT, what are you waiting for?

Unlock A Bright Future With XAT

So, whether you’re a management aspirant or just curious about the XAT exam, keep reading to discover everything you need to know about XAT – the Xavier’s Entrance Exam.

But hey, don’t forget that the only way to truly succeed is to get the right guidance and support. And that’s where Mentoria comes in – our expert career counsellors can help you navigate the exam and prepare for a successful career in management.  If you are confused and need help- we are here for you! Mentoria promises to handhold you during your career discovery journey – from the time you sign up until you get into a career you love.