The Xavier Aptitude Test is one of India’s most prestigious MBA entrance exams conducted by XLRI, Jamshedpur. But many aspirants wonder: Is XAT compulsory for MBA admission in India? This guide provides a detailed overview of the importance of XAT, eligibility, accepted colleges, exam pattern, and whether it’s mandatory to pursue an MBA.
XAT Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Exam Name | Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) |
| Conducting Body | XLRI Jamshedpur |
| Mode of Examination | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Frequency | Once a year |
| Exam Duration | 210 minutes (3 hours 30 minutes) |
| Tentative Exam Date | First Sunday of January 2025 |
Is XAT Compulsory for MBA?
Short Answer: No, XAT is not compulsory for all MBA programs in India.
XAT is one of several MBA entrance exams in India. While it is essential for admission to XLRI and over 160 participating B-schools, it is not mandatory for other top B-schools like IIMs (which require CAT), NMIMS (NMAT), or Symbiosis institutes (SNAP). Thus, XAT is only compulsory if you’re targeting institutions that accept only XAT scores.
Some notable B-schools accepting only or primarily XAT scores include:
- XLRI Jamshedpur
- SPJIMR (Mumbai) – profile-based admissions may also consider CAT
- XIMB (Xavier Institute of Management, Bhubaneswar)
- IMT Ghaziabad
- TAPMI, Manipal
- GIM, Goa
XAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria
To appear for XAT 2025, candidates must meet the following:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline (minimum 3 years)
- No minimum percentage required
- Final-year students can also apply
- No age limit or restriction on number of attempts
XAT 2025 Exam Pattern
| Section | No. of Questions | Time Allotted |
| Verbal & Logical Ability | 26 | Part I – 175 minutes |
| Decision Making | 21 | |
| Quantitative Aptitude & DI | 28 | |
| General Knowledge | 25 | Part II – 30 minutes |
| Essay Writing | 1 | Part III – within 30 mins |
| Total | 75 + Essay | 210 minutes |
Marking Scheme:
- +1 for each correct answer
- -0.25 for each incorrect answer
- -0.10 for more than 8 unattempted questions (in Part I only)
- No negative marking for GK or Essay section
Best Books for XAT 2025 Preparation
| Section | Recommended Books |
| Verbal & Logical Ability | How to Prepare for Verbal Ability for CAT by Arun Sharma, Word Power Made Easy |
| Decision Making | Target XAT: Decision Making by Disha Experts, Jabbing the XAT by RK Jha |
| Quant & DI | Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams by R.S. Aggarwal, Arun Sharma series |
| General Knowledge | Lucent’s GK, Manorama Yearbook |
Final Thoughts
XAT is not compulsory for pursuing an MBA in India, but it is essential for aspirants aiming for XLRI and other top-tier B-schools accepting XAT scores. If you’re not planning to appear for CAT or other MBA exams, XAT can be your gateway to excellent MBA programs. Start your preparation early, focus on decision-making strategies, and attempt previous year papers to maximize your chances.
For the latest updates on XAT registration, admit cards, and results, visit the official website at career mantra
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