XAT MBA entrance exam 2026

The XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test) is a national-level MBA entrance exam conducted annually by XLRI, Jamshedpur for admission to MBA, PGDM, and other management programmes at XLRI and over 1,000 B-schools across India. For 2026, the XAT exam is scheduled for Sunday, January 4, 2026, with registration open from July 10, 2025, to December 5, 2025.

Key Details about XAT:

• Exam Mode: Online computer-based test.

• Duration: 3.5 hours.

• Number of Questions: 95–100 MCQs, including sections on Decision Making, Verbal & Logical Ability, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge.

• Essay Writing: The essay section has been reintroduced; it is descriptive and not counted in the main score.

• Negative Marking: 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer in MCQ sections, except for GK and Essay.

• Participating Institutes: Besides XLRI and 10 other XAMI member colleges, 250-1,000+ B-schools accept XAT scores.

• Cut-offs: XLRI’s PGDM-BM cut-off is about 95 percentile for males and 92 percentile for females.

• Number of Candidates: Nearly 1 lakh candidates appear every year.

Exam Sections & Syllabus Highlights:

• Decision Making: Unique to XAT; tests situational and analytical judgment.

• Verbal & Logical Ability: Includes reading comprehension, verbal reasoning, grammar, and para jumbles.

• Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation: Arithmetic, geometry, algebra, tables, charts, and data interpretation.

• General Knowledge: Current affairs, business, economics, politics, sports, and general science (not used in the percentile calculation, but considered in later admission stages).

Admission Process:

1. XAT Score is used for initial shortlisting.

2. Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) follow for selected candidates.

3. Final Selection considers XAT score, GD/PI performance, academic record, work experience, and (sometimes) essay and GK sections.

Eligibility:

• Candidates with a bachelor's degree (minimum three years) from a recognized university are eligible.

• No age limit for appearing in XAT.

Score Validity:

• XAT score is valid for one academic year; a few colleges may allow use of previous year's scores.

Why appear for XAT?

• XLRI is one of India’s premier management institutes, regularly ranking among the top 5 B-schools.

• XAT is a gateway to many top B-schools that may accept lower percentiles compared to CAT.

• The decision-making section uniquely evaluates real-world management aptitude.

Important Dates for XAT 2026:

Event	Date Range
Registration Start	July 10, 2025
Registration Last Date	December 5, 2025
Admit Card Download	Last week of December 2025
XAT 2026 Exam Date	January 4, 2026
Result Declaration	Third week of January 2026
XLRI PI/GD	March–April 2026

For further details and updates, applicants should refer to the official XAT website.

Caveats: Recent sources confirm no major pattern changes for XAT 2026, but the essay section, previously removed, has now been reinstated. Always check official notifications for the most accurate, up-to-date information.

XAT 2026: Evolving Exam Pattern and Syllabus

Key Evolution in XAT 2026 Exam Pattern

The XAT exam pattern for 2026 has undergone several notable changes aimed at enhancing assessment quality and candidate experience:

• Reduced Number of Questions: The total questions have decreased from 101 to 95, making the paper more targeted and manageable.

• Shortened Exam Duration:The time allotted has been reduced from 210 minutes to 180 minutes.

• No Sectional Time Limits: Unlike previous years, candidates can now freely switch among all sections within the overall 180-minute time frame—there are no fixed time blocks per section anymore.

• Exam Structure:

  • Part I (170 minutes):

    • Verbal & Logical Ability

    • Decision Making

    • Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation

  • Part II (10 minutes):

    • General Knowledge.

• General Knowledge (GK):

  • Reduced to 20 questions (previously 25), with an even mix of 12 current affairs and 8 static GK questions.

  • GK is not used in percentile calculation but is considered in subsequent selection rounds.

• Essay Writing Section: The essay writing component has been removed from the main test and will now be assessed during the GD/PI rounds conducted by select institutes.

• Question Types: Introduction of Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions, requiring candidates to type numeric answers, mainly in Quantitative Ability & DI, to check deeper conceptual understanding.

• Marking Scheme:

  • +1 mark for every correct answer

  • –0.25 mark for a wrong answer (excluding GK)

  • –0.10 mark for each question left blank after 8 consecutive unattempted responses

  • No negative marking for GK.

• Accessibility Adjustments: Extra time allotted for PwD candidates (25–55 minutes, depending on section).

• Test City Choice: Candidates can now select only two preferred test cities (previously six) during registration.

XAT 2026 Syllabus Update

There is no dramatic change in the syllabus for XAT 2026, but a greater emphasis is being placed on conceptual accuracy, especially in Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation sections due to the NAT questions. The syllabus structure is as follows:

Section	Major Topics
Verbal & Logical Ability	Reading Comprehension, Para Jumbles, Grammar, Critical Reasoning, Vocabulary, Fill in the Blanks, Analogy
Decision Making	Caselets, Analytical and Ethical Dilemma Scenarios, Data Arrangement, Logical Progressions
Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation	Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration, Percentage, Surds, Indices, Data Interpretation, Bar Charts, Pie Charts, NATs
General Knowledge	Current Affairs, Economy, Business, Indian Polity, Constitution, Science, Sports, Awards, Static GK

Highlights:

• The Decision Making section remains unique to XAT and continues to focus on real-world, ethical, and business dilemmas.

• The Quantitative & DI section now includes NATs, fostering conceptual mastery over mere speed.

• The General Knowledge and Verbal Ability sections maintain their traditional scope, covering both static and current topics.

Summary Table: XAT 2026 Pattern Overview

Feature	2025	2026
No. of Questions	101	95
Exam Duration	210 minutes	180 minutes
Sectional Time Limit	Yes	No
Essay Writing	Included	Removed from main test
GK Questions	25	20
Question Types	MCQ	MCQ + Numerical Answer Type (NAT)
Marking for Untouched Questions	Penalty after 8	Penalty after 8
Section Structure	Traditional	As detailed in 2026 above

XAT 2026 thus offers a more flexible, efficient, and holistic examination process, focusing on analytical thinking and candidate comfort, while aligning the content with current management education requirements.

Key Preparation Tips for XAT 2026 to Score Above 85 Percentile

1. Understand the Latest Exam Pattern and Syllabus

• Familiarize yourself with the updated XAT 2026 structure: 95 questions, 180 minutes, no sectional time limits, and the inclusion of Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions.

• Focus on four sections: Verbal & Logical Ability, Decision Making, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge, with essay writing now moved to the GD/PI stage.

2. Section-Wise Preparation Tips

Verbal & Logical Ability

• Practice reading comprehension daily; focus on speed as well as accuracy.

• Revise grammar rules and vocabulary regularly; use flashcards for quick revision.

• Solve para jumbles, critical reasoning, analogies, and fill-in-the–blanks from past XAT papers.

Decision Making

• Solve previous XAT-specific decision-making questions, as this section is unique to XAT.

• Focus on ethical dilemmas and data-driven reasoning rather than personal opinions.

• Analyze explanations for both correct and incorrect choices to understand nuances.

Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation

• Master fundamentals of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation.

• Practice NAT questions as these test conceptual clarity and calculation accuracy.

• Prioritize accuracy over speed; avoid guesswork to minimize negative marking.

• Regularly solve DI caselets, bar and pie charts.

General Knowledge

• Stay updated with current affairs (past 12 months)—focus on business, economy, and national news.

• Revise static GK: Indian polity, constitution, geography, awards, and sports.

• Allocate a fixed weekly slot to GK and take short quizzes for steady improvement.

3. Strategic Preparation

• Take Mock Tests Simulating XAT Pattern: Attempt at least 10–12 full-length mocks in actual test conditions, reviewing analysis for each.

• Analyze Mock Performance: Track accuracy, identify weak areas, and revise corresponding concepts.

• Time Management: Strategically switch between sections in mocks to find your most efficient attempt order.

4. Smart Attempt Strategy

• Since there's a penalty for leaving more than 8 consecutive questions blank, attempt at least one in every batch to avoid negative marking.

• Attempt easier questions first; maximize marks before moving on to tougher ones.

• For NAT questions, avoid guesswork—answer only if confident in calculation.

5. General Tips

• Use the official XAT sample papers and reliable coaching material.

• Refine your reading speed with editorials and business magazines for both Verbal and GK improvement.

• Join online forums or study groups for peer learning and resource sharing.

• Keep stress in check with scheduled breaks and regular exercise.

• Revise regularly and consolidate notes for last-minute revision.

By focusing on conceptual clarity, regular practice, and mock analysis tailored to the updated XAT pattern, candidates can significantly boost their chances of crossing the 85 percentile mark.

XAT Compared to Other MBA Entrance Exams: Difficulty & Syllabus

Difficulty Level: XAT vs CAT, SNAP, and Others

• XAT vs CAT:

  • Both XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test) and CAT (Common Admission Test) are among India’s toughest MBA entrance exams.

  • XAT is often perceived as slightly more challenging than CAT due to its unique Decision Making section and the inclusion of General Knowledge and (sometimes) Essay Writing.

  • CAT has a sectional time limit (40min/section), making time management critical, while XAT allows you to navigate across sections freely within the total duration.

  • CAT is usually more "test of speed" with heavy time pressure in each section; XAT is more about endurance and handling a variety of question types in a single 3-hour session.

  • The Verbal Ability section in XAT often features longer, more complex passages, and with five options (instead of four in CAT), making elimination harder.

  • Quantitative Ability is of similar difficulty in both exams, but CAT may sometimes be perceived as tougher by those who find LRDI challenging.

• XAT vs SNAP:

  • SNAP (Symbiosis National Aptitude Test) is considered easier and more focused on speed. It features shorter exams and more direct questions compared to XAT or CAT.

  • SNAP does not have a Decision Making section or the type of complex GK questions seen in XAT.

  • The Analytical & Logical Reasoning section in SNAP can occasionally be tricky, but overall, its difficulty is lower than both XAT and CAT.

• Other Exams (CMAT, MAT, NMAT):

  • Exams like CMAT, MAT, and NMAT are generally less challenging than XAT and CAT. They lack unique sections like XAT’s Decision Making and have more straightforward questions and marking schemes.

Syllabus Comparison Table

Section/Topic	XAT	CAT	SNAP
Quantitative Ability	Yes (moderate to difficult)	Yes (moderate to difficult)	Yes (easier level)
Data Interpretation	Yes	Yes	Yes
Verbal Ability & RC	Yes (longer, more complex RCs)	Yes (strong on logic/variety)	Yes (basic RCs)
Logical Reasoning	Yes (integrated in VA & Decision Making)	Yes (with DILR as a separate section)	Yes
Decision Making	Yes (unique to XAT, analytical/ethical)	No	No
General Knowledge	Yes (static and current)	No	Yes (basic, lighter)
Essay Writing	Sometimes, varies year to year	No	No
Sectional Time Limit	No	Yes (40min per section)	No

Key Differences:

• Decision Making is unique to XAT and is not tested in CAT or SNAP.

• General Knowledge is included in XAT (and SNAP, lightly) but not in CAT.

• Essay Writing may appear in XAT as a separate component; not present in CAT/SNAP.

• Sectional time limits are only present in CAT, giving XAT more flexibility in time allocation.

Summary

• XAT is considered among the most comprehensive MBA entrance exams, primarily because of its unique Decision Making section, inclusion of General Knowledge, the possibility of essay writing, and more flexible time management.

• CAT is extremely competitive and is perceived as tougher in terms of time pressure and the unpredictable nature of its Verbal and LRDI sections.

• SNAP and similar exams are comparatively easier, focusing more on speed and accuracy than conceptual challenges or endurance.

• While the overall syllabus overlaps for quant, reasoning, and verbal, XAT stands out for its holistic test of managerial aptitude and ethical judgment.

XAT Marks vs Percentile

Understanding the relationship between your raw score (marks) and percentile in the XAT exam is crucial for setting your target and analyzing your result. Here’s how the marks translate to percentiles, based on recent and historic data.

Marks vs Percentile: Recent Data

XAT Marks (Raw Score)	Approximate Percentile
47+	99.6+
43–47	99
39–42	98
35–38	95–97
32–34	90–94
28–31	87–90
25–27	85
21–24	80

• 99+ percentile: Typically, you need a score of more than 42–47 marks (out of the main sections; General Knowledge is not counted).

• 95 percentile: Usually requires about 35–38 marks.

• 90 percentile: Achieved with 32–34 marks.

• 85 percentile: Around 25–28 marks suffices.

• Lower percentiles require progressively fewer marks.

Percentile Calculation Formula

The percentile is statistically derived with the following formula:

• Your percentile reflects the proportion of candidates scoring below your raw score.

Key Influences on Marks-vs-Percentile

• Difficulty Level: Score thresholds can fluctuate each year depending on the paper’s toughness. A tougher test means lower marks could still yield a high percentile.

• Total Number of Takers: More test-takers generally raise the bar for each percentile bracket.

• Normalisation: XLRI may normalize scores to account for variations if the test is conducted in multiple slots.

Sectional Percentiles

Individual sections also have mark-to-percentile brackets. For example:

Section	95 Percentile (Marks)	99 Percentile (Marks)
Verbal & Logical	12–13	17–18
Decision Making	12–13	15+
Quant & DI	13–15	19+

How to Use This Table

• Target Score: For top B-schools (e.g., XLRI), aim for at least 36+ marks to be above the 95 percentile.

• Check Sectional Cutoffs: Don’t neglect individual sections—falling short in one can hurt your overall chances.

Note: These numbers are indicative and based on aggregated recent trends; actual cut-offs may vary slightly each year based on difficulty and candidate pool.

Summary: For a 99 percentile in XAT, target 42–47 marks; for 95 percentile, 35–38 marks; for 90 percentile, 32–34 marks. Always check the latest official key after the exam for precise mapping of your score to percentile.

How Number of Takers Influences Percentile

• The percentile is directly influenced by the total number of XAT participants.

• For the same raw score, your percentile will typically be higher if more people take the exam, assuming the overall performance distribution remains similar.

• When the candidate pool increases, the number of people with lower scores than yours is likely to increase, boosting your percentile.

• Conversely, if there are fewer test-takers, a single incorrect answer or lower score can significantly affect your relative standing and drop your percentile.

Example Scenario

Suppose you score high enough to rank 1,000th in:

• A pool of 100,000 candidates:Percentile = (1−1,000100,000)×100=99.0%(1−100,0001,000)×100=99.0%

• A pool of 50,000 candidates:Percentile = (1−1,00050,000)×100=98.0%(1−50,0001,000)×100=98.0%

So, with the same rank, you achieve a higher percentile in a larger pool.

Key Points to Note

• Percentile changes are most sensitive at the top and bottom ranks. A small shift in absolute score or rank can have a big impact on percentile, especially when total test-takers is low.

• The score needed for a given percentile may vary each year based on not only the number of candidates but also the difficulty of the exam and overall performance trends.

• Percentile is a relative measure, so your standing depends entirely on how many people you outperform, not your absolute marks alone.

Conclusion

The more people who take the XAT, the easier it typically is for your raw score to translate into a higher percentile. A larger pool provides more opportunities to outperform others, so your percentile can improve even if your raw score remains constant year-on-year. Always aim to maximize both your raw score and relative standing for the best percentile outcome.

XAT vs CAT Syllabus: Content and Scope Differences

Unique Elements in XAT

• Decision Making Section: Exclusive to XAT, this section presents real-life and business scenarios requiring analytical reasoning, ethical judgment, and problem-solving. CAT does not test these skills explicitly.

• General Knowledge (GK): XAT includes a separate GK section covering current affairs (business, politics, economics, sports) and static GK (history, science, geography). CAT has no GK component.

• Essay Writing: XAT sometimes features an essay component (now often administered during GD/PI by select institutes), testing written communication, argumentation, and structure. CAT does not include essay writing.

Syllabus Scope Comparison

Section	XAT	CAT
Quantitative Ability	Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration, Number Systems, Data Sufficiency, and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions	Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Number Systems, and Data Sufficiency
Data Interpretation	Yes (often paired with Quant)	Yes (as part of DILR section)
Verbal Ability & RC	Reading Comprehension, Para Jumbles, Grammar, Vocabulary, Critical Reasoning, Analogy	Reading Comprehension, Para Jumbles, Grammar, Vocabulary
Logical Reasoning	Integrated into Verbal & Decision Making	Dedicated DILR section combining logic and data interpretation
Decision Making	Yes (unique; includes ethical/situational analysis)	No
General Knowledge	Yes (current + static GK)	No
Essay Writing	Sometimes (varies by year/institute)	No
Sectional Time Limits	No	Yes (40min per section)

Depth and Complexity

• Quantitative Ability: Both exams cover similar mathematics topics, but XAT’s inclusion of NAT questions demands direct numeric input and greater conceptual clarity.

• Verbal Ability: XAT can feature slightly more complex and longer RC passages, and five options per MCQ instead of CAT’s four—making elimination harder.

• Reasoning: CAT isolates Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation with stringent sectional timing. XAT merges logical reasoning questions across Decision Making and Verbal sections, offering more flexibility but less predictability.

• General Knowledge & Essay: These components expand XAT’s scope beyond quantitative and verbal reasoning, testing awareness and communication—areas not assessed in CAT.

Summary

• XAT’s syllabus is broader—with Decision Making, GK, and sometimes Essay Writing adding management, ethical, and awareness dimensions.

• CAT is more focused on Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability, and Logical/Data Reasoning, tested under strict sectional time constraints.

• Both exams share significant overlap in math and verbal concepts, but XAT evaluates a wider range of managerial competencies through its unique sections and fewer restrictions on time distribution across sections.

Passage Lengths and Complexity: XAT vs CAT

Passage Lengths

• XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test):

  • Passages in XAT are generally longer, often ranging from 500 to 700 words.

  • It is common to find a few lengthy passages that require deeper engagement and careful reading.

  • XAT passages tend to include detailed arguments, nuanced examples, and multi-layered content.

• CAT (Common Admission Test):

  • CAT RC (Reading Comprehension) passages are typically shorter, averaging 350 to 500 words.

  • While occasional longer passages do appear, the overall word count per passage is usually lower than in XAT.

Complexity of Passages

• XAT:

  • Passages are considered more complex in terms of language, reasoning, and argument structure.

  • They cover abstract, philosophical, or interdisciplinary topics with dense vocabulary and indirect inferences.

  • The answer choices in XAT RCs often have five options, making elimination harder and increasing cognitive load.

• CAT:

  • CAT passages, though sometimes challenging, are typically more straightforward in language and structure.

  • The focus is more on logic, tone, and factual details within the passage.

  • Most CAT RC questions are fact- or inference-based, without much emphasis on abstract or philosophical interpretation.

Comparative Table

Feature	XAT	CAT
Length	Longer (500–700 words)	Shorter (350–500 words)
Complexity	Higher: dense, abstract, nuanced	Moderate: direct, logical, less abstract
Passage Topics	Philosophy, psychology, social issues, business	Science, technology, humanities, current affairs
Number of Options	Five per RC question	Four per RC question
Inference Load	High; complex relationships, subtle logic	Moderate; clear logic, direct questions

Summary

• XAT passages are both longer and more complex than those in CAT. They require deeper comprehension, quick reading, nuanced interpretation, and careful elimination due to the five-option format.

• CAT passages are shorter and more direct, focusing primarily on reading accuracy, logical inference, and speed under time-bound conditions.

• Candidates preparing for XAT should practice reading lengthy, philosophically dense, and argument-heavy passages, while CAT test-takers should emphasize strategic reading and logical deduction with a moderate passage length.

What strategic differences should I consider when preparing for XAT versus other exams?

Strategic Differences in Preparing for XAT vs Other MBA Entrance Exams

1. Decision Making: The XAT Edge

• Unique to XAT: XAT features a Decision Making section not found in CAT, SNAP, or NMAT. Prepare by:

  • Practicing past XAT Decision Making sets, which test ethical judgment, real-life situations, and analytical thinking.

  • Avoiding subjective or impulsive answers; focus on logical reasoning and balanced judgment.

  • Reviewing explanatory solutions to understand the rationale behind correct answers.

2. General Knowledge Component

• Included in XAT: Unlike CAT, XAT has a dedicated GK section (static + current affairs). For XAT:

  • Allocate regular time to revise GK, focusing on business, economics, polity, and major national/international news.

  • Use monthly compendiums and quiz apps for steady improvement.

  • Remember: GK doesn’t affect percentiles but is used in interviews/selection after the written test.

3. Passage Length and Verbal Complexity

• XAT: Passages are longer (500–700 words) and more philosophically dense, with complex logic and higher reasoning requirements. Each RC question features five options, increasing the challenge.

• CAT/SNAP: Typically have shorter, more factual or inference-based RCs with four options per question.

Preparation Strategy:

• Practice reading complex, abstract editorials and philosophical essays for XAT.

• For CAT, focus on maximizing speed and accuracy with shorter passages.

4. Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions

• XAT: Includes NATs requiring candidates to type answers. This tests calculation precision and conceptual understanding.

• Other Exams: MCQs dominate; NATs are less common or absent.

Preparation Strategy:

• Regularly solve NATs in Quant and DI; focus on accuracy, minimize guesswork.

5. Essay Writing

• XAT: Essay writing, if included, typically happens during admission rounds and tests argumentation, clarity, and structure.

• CAT/SNAP: No essay writing.

Preparation Strategy:

• Practice concise, logical essays on current and ethical issues for XAT.

6. Exam Structure and Time Management

Feature	XAT	CAT	SNAP/NMAT/CMAT
Unique Section	Decision Making, GK	None	None
Sectional Time Limit	No	Yes (strict)	Usually No
Passage Format	Longer, denser RCs	Shorter, direct RCs	Concise, easier RCs
GK Section	Yes	No	Lighter (in some exams)
NATs	Yes	Not in all years	Rare
Essay Writing	Sometimes	No	No

• XAT:No fixed time blocks per section—develop your own timing and section navigation strategy. Avoid leaving more than eight consecutive questions unattempted to prevent penalties.

• Other Exams:CAT imposes strict sectional timing, so practice intense time management per section. SNAP, NMAT, and others require rapid solving for easy-to-moderate questions.

7. Mock Test Approach

• XAT:Take full-length mocks simulating the latest XAT pattern, emphasizing Decision Making, NATs, long RCs, and GK.

• CAT/SNAP:Prioritize speed and accuracy for each section; focus on LRDI sets (for CAT) and rapid attempts (for SNAP/NMAT).

8. Flexibility in Attempt Order

• XAT: Flexibility to switch between sections; strategize on attempt order based on personal strengths.

• CAT: Strict order and timing by section; develop sectional stamina.

In summary: Target Decision Making, GK, essay writing, NATs, and the flexible structure for XAT. For other exams, emphasize sectional speed, accuracy, and test-specific reasoning sets. Tailor your study plan and mocks accordingly to maximize your chances in each exam’s unique environment.

Colleges and Courses Accepting XAT Scores

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is a widely recognized MBA entrance exam in India, accepted by over 250 top B-schools and management institutes for their MBA, PGDM, and related management programs. While XLRI Jamshedpur is the principal institution for XAT, a host of other prestigious colleges across India use XAT scores for their flagship management courses.

Top MBA/PGDM Colleges Accepting XAT Scores

College Name	Location	Courses Offered	Typical XAT Cut-off (Percentile)
XLRI Jamshedpur	Jamshedpur	PGDM (BM, HRM, GM)	95+
XLRI Delhi-NCR Campus	Delhi-NCR	PGDM (BM, HRM)	92+
Xavier Institute of Management (XIMB)	Bhubaneswar	MBA, EMBA	91+
MICA	Ahmedabad	PGDM–C (Communications)	90+
IMT Ghaziabad	Ghaziabad	PGDM (Core, Marketing, Banking)	90+
Great Lakes Institute of Management	Chennai, Gurgaon	PGDM, PGPM	85+
T.A. Pai Management Institute (TAPMI)	Manipal	PGDM (Core, BKFS, HR, Marketing)	80+
Goa Institute of Management (GIM)	Goa	PGDM, PGDM–BDA, HCM	85+
International Management Institute (IMI)	Delhi	PGDM, PGDM-HRM, PGDM (B&FS)	88+
K J Somaiya Institute of Management	Mumbai	MBA (Core, IMC, HR, Financial Svs)	82+
FORE School of Management	Delhi	PGDM (Core, IB, FM, BDA)	80+
Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA)	Anand	PGDM (RM, Agribusiness)	83+
LIBA (Loyola Inst. of Business Admin.)	Chennai	PGDM, Executive PGDM	75–80

Note: Cut-offs are indicative and may change year to year.

Other Notable Colleges Accepting XAT Scores

• GIM Goa

• SP Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR)

• Xavier Institute of Management & Entrepreneurship (XIME)

• Amity University

• Christ University, Bengaluru

• Welingkar Institute of Management, Mumbai

• Alliance University, Bengaluru

• BIMTECH, Greater Noida

• Lovely Professional University (LPU)

• 250+ other private, public, and university-affiliated institutions across India.

Management Courses Offered

XAT-accepting colleges provide a variety of postgraduate management programs, including:

• MBA (Master of Business Administration)

  • General Management

  • Human Resource Management

  • Business Analytics

  • Finance, Marketing, Operations, IT, and more.

• PGDM (Post Graduate Diploma in Management)

  • Core PGDM

  • PGDM (Banking & Financial Services)

  • PGDM (International Business, Retail, Rural, Communications, etc.)

• Specialized Management Programs

  • Rural Management (IRMA, XIMB, Welingkar)

  • Communication Management (MICA)

  • Healthcare, Agri-Business, IT and Systems, Supply Chain, etc.

• Executive Programs

  • Executive PGDM/EMBA for candidates with work experience.

Specializations Offered

Specialization	No. of Colleges (approx.)
Finance	586
Sales & Marketing	577
Human Resources	565
Operations	348
IT & Systems	278

Additional Resources

For an extensive, up-to-date list of all colleges and management courses accepting XAT scores, refer to the official.

Summary: XAT unlocks admission to 250+ top MBA/PGDM colleges in India, including XLRI, XIMB, MICA, IMT, TAPMI, GIM, FORE, and more. They offer a wide array of management programs and specializations in line with industry needs.

IIMs, FMS Delhi, and a few other B-schools do not accept XAT scores for admission.

Frequently Asked Questions About The XAT Exam

Is XAT harder than CAT?

Is XAT tough to crack?

Yes, XAT is considered tough, but not impossible. What makes it challenging is the inclusion of the Decision Making section, longer reading comprehension passages, and the presence of GK and Essay Writing components.

Do IIMs accept the XAT score?

No, the IIMs do not accept XAT scores. IIMs only consider CAT, GMAT, or GRE (for some executive programs). XAT scores are accepted by XLRI, XAMI member institutes, and 800+ other B-schools across India.

Is it easy to get the 95 percentile in XAT?

Scoring 95 percentile in XAT requires rigorous preparation, particularly in Decision Making and Verbal sections. It’s achievable with conceptual clarity, strategic mock test analysis, and consistent practice.

Which is easier, CAT or XAT?

Neither is universally “easier”—CAT is speed-intensive with sectional time limits, while XAT requires deeper thinking, especially in Decision Making and RCs. XAT offers more flexibility in time management.

Can I clear XAT in 1 month?

If you have a strong foundation in Quant, Verbal, and Logical Reasoning, one month of focused prep may suffice for 75–80 percentile. For 90+, a 3–4 month strategy with mocks and GK is advisable.

Is XLRI better than IIM?

XLRI consistently ranks among the top 5 Indian B-schools, often compared to IIM A, B, and C. It’s particularly renowned for HR and BM programs. However, “better” depends on program, location, and career goals.

What is the XAT exam used for?

What are the benefits of XAT?

XAT opens doors to XLRI and 1000+ MBA colleges. It’s the only exam that tests real-world decision-making and includes components like essay writing and GK, offering a more holistic management aptitude assessment.

Is XAT good for MBA?

Absolutely. XAT is a top-tier MBA entrance test, accepted by premium B-schools like XLRI, XIMB, IMT, TAPMI, and MICA (via profile). It’s a strong alternative to CAT for competitive MBA aspirants.

What is XAT famous for?

XAT is famous for its unique Decision Making section, designed to assess ethical judgment, analytical thinking, and business reasoning—skills critical to management professionals.

What are the benefits of the XAT exam?

Beyond access to top schools like XLRI, XAT evaluates broader management aptitude and offers more time flexibility during the exam. It also allows candidates with average CAT scores to target quality schools.

What’s a good score in XAT?

A 95 percentile or above is generally needed for XLRI BM (Business Management). For XLRI HRM, 92 percentile for females and 93–94 for males is considered competitive. For other B-schools, 75–85 percentile is a good range.

Is XAT eligible for IIM?

Can I get into IIM through XAT?

No, IIMs do not accept XAT scores. You’ll need to take the CAT or GMAT (for some executive programs) to be considered for admission to IIMs.

Is XAT as difficult as CAT?

Difficulty levels vary. CAT is more intense with sectional time limits, while XAT is conceptually deeper due to the Decision Making section and complex RCs. Many find XAT slightly more challenging.

Does XAT offer MBA?XAT itself doesn’t offer an MBA—it’s an entrance exam. It is used for admission to MBA/PGDM programs at XLRI and over 1000 other B-schools.

Does IIM Indore accept the XAT score?

No, IIM Indore and all other IIMs accept only CAT scores for full-time MBA admissions.

Is XAT 2025 difficult?

Yes, like every year, XAT 2025 will be rigorous. But recent pattern updates—no sectional time limits and a reduced number of questions—make time management easier if you’re well-prepared.

Which is better, XLRI or IIM?

Both are elite. XLRI excels in HR and is well-regarded for its legacy. Top IIMs (A, B, C) may offer broader global recognition. Your choice should depend on specialization, placements, and fit.

Who is eligible for XAT?

Who is eligible for the XAT exam?

Anyone with a bachelor's degree (minimum 3 years duration) from a recognized university is eligible to take the XAT. Final-year students may also apply.

Is XAT easier than CAT?

XAT may seem easier in terms of time flexibility, but it introduces additional layers of complexity through Decision Making, GK, and essay writing. It’s different—not necessarily easier.

Can I apply for XAT after 12th?

No. You must have completed or be in the final year of a 3-year undergraduate degree to be eligible for XAT.

What is a good XAT score?

A raw score of 35–40 (out of ~75 in Part 1) typically places a candidate around 95 percentile. For most non-XLRI colleges, a 75–85 percentile is considered good.