The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is one of India’s leading management entrance exams, conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur on behalf of the Xavier Association of Management Institutes (XAMI). Known for its rigorous testing pattern, XAT is a gateway to not only XLRI but also numerous other top business schools in India. Here’s a detailed guide about the exam, including its structure, fees, eligibility, syllabus, and preparation tips.
What is XAT?
The XAT is a national-level entrance exam designed to assess a candidate’s aptitude in areas critical for management studies, such as decision-making, quantitative ability, and verbal reasoning. Over 150 institutes in India accept XAT scores for their MBA and PGDM programs.
Key Highlights of XAT Exam
Feature
Details
Exam Name
Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT)
Conducting Body
XLRI Jamshedpur
Exam Level
National
Mode of Exam
Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Frequency
Once a year
Languages
English
Application Fee
INR 2000
Duration
3 hours and 10 minutes
Sections
4 (VA & LR, DM, QA & DI, GK)
Negative Marking
Yes (-0.25 for wrong answers, -0.10 for unattempted questions beyond 8)
Eligibility Criteria
To appear for XAT, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Educational Qualification:
A bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
Final-year undergraduate students are also eligible.
Age Limit:
There is no age limit for the XAT exam.
Exam Pattern
The XAT exam tests candidates in diverse areas through a structured pattern:
Section
Number of Questions (Approx.)
Time Allotted
Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning (VA & LR)
26
175 minutes
Decision Making (DM)
21
175 minutes
Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation (QA & DI)
28
175 minutes
General Knowledge (GK)
25
25 minutes
Note: The essay-writing section, reintroduced recently, is evaluated in the XLRI selection process but not part of the initial percentile calculation.
Application Process
Registration:
Visit the official XAT website (xatonline.in).
Create an account using your email ID and phone number.
Fill Application Form:
Provide personal, academic, and work experience details.
Select XLRI programs or other institutes you wish to apply to.
Upload Documents:
Recent passport-sized photograph and signature.
Pay Application Fee:
Pay INR 2000 online via net banking, credit/debit card, or UPI.
Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number System, Data Interpretation
GK
Current Affairs, History, Economics, Geography
Preparation Tips
Understand the Exam Structure: Familiarize yourself with the syllabus and weightage of each section.
Practice Decision-Making: Focus on solving situational questions unique to the XAT exam.
Take Mock Tests: Analyze your performance and identify weak areas to improve.
Time Management: Learn to allocate time efficiently for each section.
GK Preparation: Regularly read newspapers and stay updated with current events.
Important Dates for XAT 2024 (Tentative)
Event
Date
Notification Release
August 2024
Registration Begins
September 2024
Registration Closes
December 2024
Admit Card Release
December 2024
Exam Date
January 2025
Result Declaration
January 2025
Fee Structure for Top MBA Colleges via XAT
Institute Name
Average Fee (INR)
Average Placement Package (INR)
XLRI Jamshedpur
24-26 Lakhs
30-34 Lakhs
XIM Bhubaneswar
16-18 Lakhs
15-18 Lakhs
SPJIMR Mumbai (XAT accepted)
19-20 Lakhs
27-30 Lakhs
IMT Ghaziabad
19-20 Lakhs
17-20 Lakhs
TAPMI Manipal
15-16 Lakhs
11-14 Lakhs
XAT vs. CAT: A Quick Comparison
Feature
XAT
CAT
Conducting Body
XLRI Jamshedpur
IIMs
Unique Section
Decision-Making
None
Frequency
Once a year
Once a year
Mode
Computer-Based
Computer-Based
Application Fee
INR 2000
INR 2400 (General Category)
Score Validity
1 Year
1 Year
Conclusion
The XAT exam is a vital step for aspiring business professionals seeking admission to some of India’s top B-schools. Known for its emphasis on decision-making and analytical skills, XAT offers a unique challenge that rewards strategic preparation and practice. With the right resources and consistent effort, you can excel in XAT and secure admission to a premier management program. Begin your preparation today and take the first step toward a successful career in management.
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