The XAT 2024 examination is scheduled for January 7th, 2024. XAT scores are accepted by over 160 premier management institutes throughout India, meaning the exam serves as a coveted pathway for students who aim to pursue management education at top Indian institutions.
The XAT 2024 examination is scheduled across 80 cities in India including key locations like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi-NCR, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kolkata, and Thiruvananthapuram. To finalize your XAT registration for 2024, you must submit a registration fee of Rs 2100. For those aspiring to apply to XLRI programs, an extra fee of Rs 200 per program is required.
"XAT is not just an exam it is a smart exam that can be cracked easily with thorough preparation," says Dr Rahul Shukla, convenor of admissions of the XAT.
“We believe in empowering candidates with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their management careers. With over 160+ XAMI and XAT Associate colleges accepting XAT scores, the opportunities are vast and diverse," he adds.
So how can you have the best chance of success in the XAT exam? Here's what you need to know.
XAT 2024 Important Highlights
⇨ Exam date: Sunday, January 7th, 2024
⇨ Registration deadline: November 30th, 2023
⇨ Testing mode: Online Computer-Based
⇨ Total no. of questions: 101 (based on last year's pattern)
⇨ Time duration: 3 Hours 10 minutes; 9.30 AM to 12.40 PM
⇨ No. of sections: 5 (Verbal, DM, QA, GK, Essay Writing)
⇨ Type of questions: Multiple Choice Type (MCQs) with 5 answer options & Descriptive Essay Writing Test
⇨ Questions with negative marking: 75
⇨ Questions without negative marking: 25 (GK Section) + 1 Descriptive Essay Writing
⇨ Score awarded for each correct answer: 1 Mark
⇨ Negative marking (applicable for wrong answers): ¼ (0.25) Mark
XAT Eligibility
To meet the eligibility criteria for XAT registration in 2024, candidates must hold a recognised Bachelor's degree that spans at least three years or it's equivalent in any field. Individuals who will be concluding their final undergraduate examinations by June 10th, 2024, are also eligible to apply.
While all Indian candidates are mandated to take the XAT 2024, NRI and Foreign candidates have the option to apply using their GMAT scores.
XAT Exam Pattern
The XAT question paper comprises two sections, each with a specified time limit. Generally, the total number of questions falls between 100 to 105, distributed across sections with 22 to 30 questions each.
Part I encompasses Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning, Decision Making, Quantitative Aptitude, and Data Interpretation.
Part II encompasses General Knowledge and Analytical Essay Writing.
XAT 2024 Syllabus: Overview and Section Weightage
In total there are five sections included within the XAT syllabus. Each holds a separate weighting that adds up to your total exam score. Here's a breakdown of the content and weightage associated with each section.
Verbal & Logical Ability (35%):
→ Vocabulary: Synonyms, Antonyms, Correct usage
→ Contextual Usage
→ Jumbled Paragraphs
→ Correction of Errors
→ Completion of Sentences and Paragraphs
→ Reading Comprehension: Abstract topics, Literature, Social and Economic issues, Science & Culture, History & Fiction
→ Logical Reasoning: Analogy, Binary Logic, Seating Arrangement, Blood Relations, Logical Sequence, Assumption, Conclusion, Clocks, Calendars, Fact Inference, Judgment
Decision Making (28%):
→ Conditions and Grouping Test
→ Data Arrangement Test
→ Complex Arrangement
→ Decision Making in Various Situations
→ Case Lets
Quantitative Ability (37% combined with Data Interpretation):
→ LCM and HCF
→ Percentages
→ Profit and Loss
→ Interest (Simple and Compound)
→ Speed, Time and Distance
→ Time and Work
→ Averages
→ Ratio and Proportion
→ Number System
→ Algebra
→ Geometry
→ Mensuration
→ Pure Math
→ Venn Diagrams
→ Linear Equations
→ Quadratic Equations
→ Complex Numbers
→ Logarithm
→ Progressions
→ Binomial Theorem
→ Surds and Indices
→ Inequalities
→ Permutation and Combination
→ Probability
→ Functions
→ Set Theory
→ Mixtures and Alligations
→ Trigonometry
Data Interpretation (37% combined with Quantitative Ability):
→ Analysis of Comparative Data Tables
→ Data Charts
→ Bar Diagrams
→ Pie Charts
→ Graphs
General Awareness (25 Questions; No Weightage):
→ National and International Current Affairs
→ Conventional General Knowledge
→ Constitution of India
→ Company Profiles and Logos
→ Business & Economy
→ Who’s Who
→ Books & Authors
→ Capitals & Currencies
Essay Writing Test: (No Weightage):
→ Essay writing assesses writing skills
→ Essay topics can be contemporary or abstract
→ Test taker must write an essay on the given topic
→ Evaluation is done based on the score obtained in Part-1 sections after shortlisting
XAT 2024 Preparation: Essential Components
According to experts and past XAT top scoring candidates, effective preparation for XAT Exam 2024 demands a strategic approach coupled with adept time management. To excel in XAT preparation for 2024, consider these six crucial tips:
1. Familiarize yourself with the XAT 2024 Exam Pattern & Syllabus: Gain an in-depth understanding of the XAT 2024 exam pattern and syllabus to identify the key preparation topics.
2. Acquire top-notch preparation material: Gather high-quality study resources that cover all sections of the XAT exam comprehensively.
3. Utilize the best preparation books: Opt for well-regarded preparation books that align with the XAT syllabus to enhance your study material.
4. Engage in mock tests: Evaluate your current level of XAT Exam preparation by taking mock tests. This aids in identifying strengths and areas that need improvement.
5. Emphasize section-wise preparation, particularly Decision Making: Focus your effort on section-wise preparation, with special attention to Decision Making, which is a distinct and crucial part of the XAT exam.
6. Craft a detailed preparation schedule: Design a comprehensive XAT Exam Preparation timetable that ensures adequate coverage of all topics. Strive to maintain a balance between sections.
XAT 2024: How To Apply?
Here is a step-by-step guide to applying online for XAT 2024:
1. Access the official website: Go to the official website for XAT 2024 - www.xatonline.in.
2. Register: Locate the "Register" button prominently displayed on the homepage.
3. Provide your personal information: Begin by setting up an account. Fill in essential personal details such as your full name, email address, mobile number, and date of birth.
4. Select your test city: Choose your preferred test city from the list of available options provided.
5. Payment of registration fee: Complete the registration fee payment using the provided payment methods. Note that the fee amount may vary based on whether you are applying for XLRI programs or not.
6. Upload the required documents: Follow the specified guidelines to upload scanned copies of your recent photograph and signature.
