The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is one of the most challenging and widely accepted MBA entrance exams in India, conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur. Understanding the format of XAT exam and its structure is essential for effective preparation. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the XAT exam pattern, exam sections, time duration, marks calculation, and total number of questions to help you ace the test.
Format of XAT Exam
The format of XAT exam is unique compared to other MBA entrance exams like CAT and NMAT. It tests candidates across multiple domains, including Verbal Ability, Decision Making, Quantitative Aptitude, and General Knowledge. The exam is conducted in an online mode and includes both objective and subjective questions.
Key highlights of the XAT exam format:
- Conducted in computer-based mode (CBT).
- Comprises multiple-choice and essay-based questions.
- Divided into different exam sections covering various skill sets.
- Includes negative marking for incorrect answers in certain sections.
Pattern of XAT Exam
The pattern of XAT exam has remained consistent over the years, with slight modifications. Aspirants must be aware of the XAT test pattern to optimize their preparation strategy.
XAT Paper Pattern Overview
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Duration |
|---|---|---|
|
Verbal & Logical Ability |
26 |
No sectional time limit |
|
Decision Making |
21 |
No sectional time limit |
|
Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation |
28 |
No sectional time limit |
|
General Knowledge |
25 |
No sectional time limit |
|
Essay Writing |
1 |
10 minutes |
|
Total |
101 |
190 minutes |
- The XAT exam pattern is divided into two main parts – the first three sections are evaluated for percentile calculation, while the General Knowledge and Essay Writing sections do not contribute to the final percentile.
- Candidates must complete the first three sections within 175 minutes, while an additional 10 minutes is allotted for the essay section.
XAT Exam Sections
The XAT exam sections cover quantitative, verbal, logical, and decision-making skills to assess candidates’ analytical abilities.
- Verbal & Logical Ability (VA & LR)
- Includes reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary-based questions.
- Critical reasoning and logical deduction-based questions.
- Decision Making (DM)
- Consists of case studies, ethical dilemmas, and business decision-making scenarios.
- Tests logical reasoning, analytical thinking, and ethical judgment.
- Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation (QA & DI)
- Includes arithmetic, algebra, number systems, and geometry.
- Data interpretation involves graphs, charts, and tables.
- General Knowledge (GK)
- Covers static GK and current affairs.
- Includes economy, business, politics, and international affairs.
- Essay Writing
- Evaluates candidates on writing skills, analytical thinking, and articulation.
- Topics are generally abstract or opinion-based.
XAT Exam Time Duration
The XAT exam time duration is an important factor that influences a candidate’s performance. The total time allotted is 190 minutes, which includes:
- 175 minutes for the main exam (VA, DM, QA & DI, GK)
- 10 minutes for the Essay Writing section
Unlike other exams that have strict sectional time limits, XAT allows candidates to switch between sections within the allocated time.
Key takeaways:
- Time management is crucial for optimizing attempts.
- Candidates should prioritize strong areas first to maximize their scores.
XAT Marks Calculator & Marking Scheme
- +1 mark for every correct answer.
- -0.25 marks for every incorrect answer.
- -0.10 marks penalty for leaving more than 8 questions unanswered.
- No negative marking for General Knowledge and Essay Writing sections.
The XAT marks calculator helps candidates determine their expected percentile by comparing raw scores with past year trends.
XAT No. of Questions
| Section | Number of Questions |
|---|---|
|
Verbal & Logical Ability |
26 |
|
Decision Making |
21 |
|
Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation |
28 |
|
General Knowledge |
25 |
|
Essay Writing |
1 |
The XAT no of questions ensures a balanced test structure that evaluates multiple skills.
XAT Paper Pattern vs. Other MBA Exams
| Exam | Number of Questions | Duration | Sections |
|---|---|---|---|
|
XAT |
101 |
190 min |
5 |
|
CAT |
66 |
120 min |
3 |
|
NMAT |
108 |
120 min |
3 |
|
SNAP |
60 |
60 min |
3 |
The XAT paper pattern includes the Decision Making and Essay Writing sections, which are not present in CAT or NMAT.
XLRI Exam Pattern
- XLRI BM and HRM programs require a high percentile in Decision Making and Quantitative Ability.
- Essay Writing is evaluated for candidates shortlisted for XLRI interviews.
- The XLRI exam pattern remains consistent, with minor changes in difficulty levels.
Conclusion
The XAT exam format and pattern are designed to assess candidates’ critical thinking, decision-making, and analytical abilities. Understanding the XAT exam sections, time duration, marking scheme, and paper pattern can help aspirants develop a solid strategy for success.
By mastering the format of XAT exam, XAT no of questions, and XLRI exam pattern, candidates can maximize their performance and improve their chances of securing a seat in XLRI Jamshedpur and other top B-schools.
