- Duration of exam : Approximately 3 hours 10 minutes
- No. of questions: Around 100–105 questions (varies annually)
- Marks distribution: VLA : ~ 26 Question, DM:~ 21 Question, QA-DI:~ 28 Question
- Marking scheme: +1 mark for each correct answer, -0.25 marks for each incorrect answer, No negative marking in GK section, Additional penalty for >8 unattempted questions: -0.10 per question
XAT - Xavier Aptitude Test

Overview
The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is one of India’s most recognized national-level entrance exams for admission into postgraduate management programs. Conducted annually by XLRI Jamshedpur for over 70 years, XAT is accepted by more than 160 management institutes across India, including XLRI and other top B-schools. The exam is known for its distinctive pattern, decision-making section, and essay writing component, making it unique compared to other MBA entrance tests.
Exam Pattern
Syllabus
- Verbal & Logical Ability: RC passages, grammar, vocabulary, critical reasoning, para jumbles
- Decision Making: Ethical dilemmas, business situations, logical caselets
- QA & DI: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems, data interpretation sets
- GK: Current affairs, history, economy, polity, sports, science
- Essay: Abstract ideas, socio-economic themes, management perspectives
Exam Registration & Eligibility Details
- Registration :Visit www.xatonline.in and click on “Register”. If already registered, you may kindly click on “Existing User” or “Login” to proceed.
- Eligibility: The XAT selection process generally involves shortlisting candidates based on XAT percentile, followed by the next stages such as Group Discussion (GD), Written Ability Test (WAT), and Personal Interview (PI). XLRI and other institutes consider XAT percentile along with academic records, work experience, and performance in interview rounds. While the GK section does not contribute to percentile calculation, it plays a role in the final merit list. The essay is evaluated during the interview shortlisting stage to assess writing and thought clarity.
- Documents Required: Passport-size photograph, Candidate signature, Academic certificates, Category certificate (if applicable)
- Exam fee: XAT Registration Fee: Rs. 2200/- Candidates interested in XLRI programs need to pay an additional fee of Rs. 200/- for each program. Indian Candidates applying for PGDM (GM) through GMAT/GRE: Rs. 2500/- NRI/Foreign/PIO/OCI Candidates applying for one or more programs through GMAT: Rs. 5000/-
Selection Process
The XAT selection process generally involves shortlisting candidates based on XAT percentile, followed by the next stages such as Group Discussion (GD), Written Ability Test (WAT), and Personal Interview (PI). XLRI and other institutes consider XAT percentile along with academic records, work experience, and performance in interview rounds. While the GK section does not contribute to percentile calculation, it plays a role in the final merit list. The essay is evaluated during the interview shortlisting stage to assess writing and thought clarity.
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F.A.Q
XAT is usually held in the first week of January.
Not for applying to the exam, but some programs may prefer or require it.
Yes, -0.25 for incorrect answers and -0.10 penalty for >8 unattempted questions.
No, but it is considered in the final selection process.






































































