XAT serves as a competitive examination that enables aspirants to pursue their management education in esteemed institutions, broadening their career opportunities in the field of business and administration. Read more career blogs at college49.
Preparation Tips and Tricks To Crack The Exam
XAT exam preparation requires a dedicated time frame of six to nine months. As one of the more challenging MBA entrance exams, XAT demands focused effort and commitment. The exam consists of four sections: Decision Making, Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge.
To succeed in XAT, it is crucial to allocate equal attention to all four sections, as sectional cut-offs play a significant role in XLRI, Jamshedpur’s selection process. Therefore, divide your study hours equally among these sections. Start by gaining a strong conceptual understanding of each subject. Analyze the topics you are familiar and unfamiliar with, and create a list of your strengths and weaknesses. Begin with your strong areas to build confidence in tackling tougher topics. Here are some key tips to formulate your XAT 2024 exam preparation strategy:
- Join online study groups on platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Telegram, and WhatsApp.
- Obtain XAT books and study materials, which are available online and at coaching institutes.
- Start with topics you are already familiar with and have a good command over.
- After completing a topic or concept, solve two to three problems based on it to assess your understanding.
- Focus on completing the XAT syllabus first and then move on to solving XAT mock tests. Aim to practice at least 25-30 mock tests for optimal performance.
Introduction
Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is a renowned national-level management entrance examination conducted by XLRI, Jamshedpur. It serves as a gateway for admission to MBA/PGDM programs offered by XLRI and 10 other XAMI member colleges, along with more than 1,000 other B-schools across the country.
The XAT question paper comprises 100 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) from various sections, namely Decision Making, Verbal & Logical Ability, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge. For admission to XLRI’s PGDM-BM program, the XAT cut-offs are generally around 95 percentile for male candidates and 92 percentile for female candidates. Achieving a percentile score above the cut-off is crucial for securing a seat in the program.
XAT Exam Dates 2024
XAT 2024 Exam Schedule:
| Events | XAT 2023 Cut-Offs Release |
|---|---|
| Upcoming Exam Dates | Aug ’23 – Dec ’23 |
| XAT 2024 Exam Registration | Dec ’23 |
| XAT 2024 Admit Card Download | Dec ’23 |
| XAT 2024 Exam Date | 7th Jan ’24 |
| XAT 2024 Response Sheet Release | Jan ’24 |
| XAT 2024 Answer Key Challenge Window Opens | Jan ’24 |
| XAT 2024 Result | Jan ’24 |
| XAT 2023 Cut Offs Release | Feb ’24 |
XAT Exam Registration
The registration process is the first step to appear in the XAT Exam. To apply online for the XAT 2024 exam, follow the step-by-step guide provided below:
- Visit the official website: xatonline.in and log on to XAT 2024.
- Click on the ‘XAT Registration’ tab.
- Enter all the required details, including your name, date of birth, contact details, and email-id, to complete the registration process.
- Upload the scanned Photo & Signature as per the specified specifications to complete the XAT Exam form fill-up.
- Select the XLRI program if you wish to apply for it.
- Choose your preferred test cities for the XAT Exam. You can select up to 2 preferred test cities.
- After verifying your registration, a unique XAT ID and registration link will be shared with you on your verified email ID.
- Open your email and click on the registration link to verify your registration.
- Go to the XAT 2024 homepage and click on the ‘Login’ tab.
- Enter your email ID and password to access the XAT 2024 application form.
- Double-check all the entered details before clicking on the ‘Submit’ button.
- Pay the XAT Exam fees using online payment modes such as Internet Banking, Debit/Credit Card, or UPI.
The details of the XAT registration fee are as follows:
- Registration fee for XAT Exam (without late fee) – Rs. 2000/- Candidates interested in XLRI Programmes need to pay an additional fee of Rs. 300/- for each program.
- Fee for NRI/Foreign Candidates applying for one or more programs through GMAT– Rs. 5000/-.
XAT Exam Eligibility Criteria
Before filling out the application form for the Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT), candidates are advised to review the XAT 2024 eligibility criteria. The eligibility criteria for XAT 2024, predefined by XLRI Jamshedpur, are as follows:
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree of a minimum of three years duration or equivalent in any discipline from a recognized university.
- Final Year Candidates: Students in the final year of their Bachelor’s degree or those awaiting their results are also eligible to apply for XAT 2024.
- No Specific CGPA or Percentage Requirement: There is no specific CGPA or percentage mentioned that needs to be obtained in graduation.
- No Age Limit: There is no age limit specified to appear for XAT 2024.
- Valid Email Account and Phone Number: Candidates must declare and maintain a valid and unique email account and phone number throughout the selection process.
XAT Exam Syllabus
The XAT exam follows a syllabus that is similar to other MBA exams in India, with the inclusion of two unique sections: Decision Making and Essay Writing. Here is a brief outline of the XAT syllabus for each section:
Verbal & Logical Ability:
- Vocabulary
- Para jumble
- Grammar
- Fill in the blanks
- Analogy
- Binary Logic
- Reading Comprehension
Decision Making:
- Data Arrangement
- Assumptions
- Complex Arrangement
- Conclusions
- Ethical Dilemmas
- Decision-Making Scenarios
Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation:
- Mensuration
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Arithmetic
- Caselets
- Data charts
- Tables
- Data Interpretation
General Knowledge:
- Economics and Finance
- Books and Authors
- Constitution of India
- Current Affairs
- History
- Geography
- Science and Technology
It is important for candidates to thoroughly prepare each section of the XAT syllabus to perform well in the exam.
XAT Exam Cut Off
The XAT Exam 2023 cutoff has been released, and for male candidates from an engineering background, the cutoff is 93 percentile, while for female candidates from an engineering background, it is 91 percentile. For male candidates from a non-engineering background, the XAT 2023 cutoff is 90 percentile, and for female candidates from a non-engineering background, it is 88 percentile.
For the Business Management Programme (BMP), the overall cutoff for male candidates from an engineering background is 95 percentile, and for female candidates from an engineering background, the XAT cutoff requirement is 92 percentile. Male applicants from a non-engineering background must have a XAT percentile of 95, and for female applicants, it is 92 percentile.
Here is the XAT cutoff trend for the XAT 2022 cutoff for PGDM-BM:
XAT 2023 Cut-Offs: PGDM BM
| General Engineers | VA | DM | QA | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Males | 75 | 75 | 85 | 95 |
| Females | 75 | 75 | 80 | 92 |
| General NonEngineers | VA | DM | QA | Overall |
| Males | 75 | 75 | 85 | 95 |
| Females | 75 | 75 | 80 | 92 |
XAT 2023 Cut-Offs: PGDM HRM
| General Engineers | VA | DM | QA | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Males | 90 | 75 | 85 | 93 |
| Females | 90 | 75 | 65 | 91 |
| General NonEngineers | VA | DM | QA | Overall |
| Males | 90 | 75 | 70 | 90 |
| Females | 75 | 75 | 60 | 88 |
XAT Exam Pattern and Test Structure
The XAT exam is conducted exclusively in the English language. The XAT test pattern outlines the type and quantity of questions that will be included in the exam. XAT is a highly competitive national-level entrance exam for MBA admissions conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur.
Numerous prestigious B-schools in India, including XLRI Jamshedpur, MICA Ahmedabad, XIM Bhubaneshwar, IMT Ghaziabad, and S P Jain Mumbai, accept XAT scores. XAT is known for its transparency as it releases question papers and answer keys, and it also allows candidates to request a score recount.
The XAT exam is divided into two papers with different sections, as follows:
Paper 1:
- Total number of questions: 75
- Time Limit: 165 minutes
Sections:
- Verbal and Logical Ability: 26 questions (No Sectional Time Limit)
- Decision Making: 21 questions (No Sectional Time Limit)
- Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation: 28 questions (No Sectional Time Limit)
Paper 2:
- Total number of questions: 25
- Time Limit: 15 minutes
Sections:
- General Knowledge: 25 questions
Additionally, there is an Essay Writing section with a time limit of 10 minutes.
Overall, the XAT exam consists of 100 questions to be answered within a total time limit of 190 minutes.
XAT Exam Question Papers
To crack the XAT exam and achieve a good score, it is important to go beyond just relying on books for preparation. Here are some additional strategies and resources that can help you in your XAT preparation:
- Solve XAT previous year question papers: Solving previous year question papers gives you a good understanding of the exam pattern, question types, and difficulty level. It helps you familiarize yourself with the exam format and boosts your confidence. You can find previous year question papers on various websites and educational platforms.
- Take mock tests: Mock tests are an essential part of your preparation. They simulate the actual exam environment and help you assess your strengths and weaknesses. Regularly taking mock tests will improve your time management skills and enhance your problem-solving abilities. Many coaching institutes and online platforms offer mock tests specifically designed for XAT.
- Analyze your performance: After each mock test or practice session, analyze your performance. Identify the areas where you are strong and weak. Work on improving your weak areas and focus on enhancing your overall performance. Keep track of your progress and make necessary adjustments to your study plan.
- Join coaching classes or online courses: Consider enrolling in coaching classes or online courses that specifically cater to XAT preparation. These classes provide expert guidance, study materials, and structured study plans. They also offer valuable insights and strategies to tackle different sections of the exam effectively.
- Stay updated with current affairs: XAT includes a section on General Knowledge, which covers current affairs and static GK topics. Stay updated with the latest news, national and international events, business and economic updates, and important developments across various fields. Read newspapers, magazines, and online news portals regularly to improve your knowledge in this area.
XAT Exam Books
Here are some recommended books for preparation of various sections of the XAT exam:
- “Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations” by R.S. Aggarwal
- “How to Prepare for Data Interpretation” by Arun Sharma
- “Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations” by Abhijit Guha
- “Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension” by Ajay Singh
- “A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning” by R.S. Aggarwal
- “Analytical Reasoning” by MK Pandey
- “Analytical and Logical Reasoning” by Arihant Publications
- “Target XAT 2024 (Past papers & mock tests)” by Disha experts
- “General Knowledge 2024” by Manohar Pandey
- “Lucent’s General Knowledge 2024” by Dr. Binay Karna
- “Mastering Essay & Answer Writing” by Disha Experts
- “151 Essays” by S.C. Gupta
XAT Exam Admit Card
The XAT 2024 admit card will be issued by XLRI Jamshedpur in the last week of December 2023. Candidates can download their XAT admit card from the official website of XAT – xatonline.in. To access the admit card, candidates need to log in using their XAT ID and Date of Birth (DOB). The XAT 2024 entrance test is scheduled to be held in the second week of January 2024.
The XAT 2024 admit card will be issued by XLRI Jamshedpur in the last week of December 2023. Candidates can download their XAT admit card from the official website of XAT – xatonline.in. To access the admit card, candidates need to log in using their XAT ID and Date of Birth (DOB). The XAT 2024 entrance test is scheduled to be held in the second week of January 2024.
Here are the important dates related to the XAT admit card:
| XAT Exam Events | XAT 2024 Dates |
|---|---|
| XAT Admit Card Release Date 2024 | Last week of December 2023 |
| XAT 2024 Exam Date | Second week of January 2024 |
XAT Exam Result
The XAT result for the year 2024 will be announced approximately 20 days after the exam. Candidates will need to visit the official XAT and XLRI websites to download their scorecards. Here is a brief description of the XAT result download process:
- Open the XAT ONLINE website: xatonline.in
- Click on the ‘scorecard’ tab.
- Enter your XAT User ID and date of birth, and click on ‘login’.
- Download the XAT result cum scorecard and save a copy as a PDF.
- The XAT result cum scorecard will remain valid for admission to XLRI Jamshedpur for only one year. If a candidate decides to take a gap year, they will need to appear for the exam again.
XAT Exam Highlights
XAT 2024 Exam Highlights:
| Exam Name | Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | XLRI, Jamshedpur |
| Exam Level | National |
| Exam Frequency | Once a year |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Exam Duration | 3.30 hours |
| Exam Syllabus | Decision Making Verbal & Logical Ability Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation General Knowledge, Essay Writing |
| Exam Pattern | 100 questions in Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) format |
| Language | English |
| Exam Fees | INR 2,000 (for all categories) |
| Exam Purpose | Admission to 1,000+ MBA colleges |
| Course Offered | MBA/PGDM |
| Number of Test Takers | Nearly 98,000 |
| Number of Test Cities | 79 (in 2023) |
| Exam Helpdesk No. | 18002674008 |
| Exam Website | https://xatonline.in/ |
