XAT Exam Pattern 2025: Section-Wise Questions, Marking Scheme, Exam Duration
XAT exam pattern 2025 includes details of paper structure, time allotment, marking system, & section-wise weightage. Get detailed info and changes to XAT exam pattern 2025.
Shivani 2 Dec, 2024
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XAT Exam Pattern 2025: XLRI Jamshedpur decides the XAT exam pattern 2025. The XAT exam pattern typically includes a total of five sections grouped into three parts. The XAT exam includes both objective and subjective questions across three parts.
The first part of the XAT exam includes three sections, namely Decision Making, Verbal & Logical Ability, and QADI. Following this, candidates have to take a 5-minute mock keyboard test. The third and final part of the XAT exam includes a GK section with a brief essay topic spanning 30 minutes. Each section, except for essay writing, contains 22-27 multiple-choice questions with five answer options. Candidates must adhere to the specified time limits for each section, with PwD candidates receiving an additional 20 minutes per part. Unlike other sections in the XAT exam, the GK section does not include negative markings for inaccurate responses.XAT Exam Pattern 2025 Highlights
The following table shows the notable highlights of the XAT exam pattern 2025:| XAT Exam Pattern 2025 Highlights | |
| Mode of examination | Online |
| XAT exam time duration | 210 minutes |
| Extra 20 minutes per hour for PwD candidates | |
| Language of paper | English |
| Number of sections | 5 sections |
| Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning (VA & LR) | |
| Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation (QA & DI) | |
| Decision-making (DM) | |
| Analytical Essay Writing (AEW) | |
| General Knowledge (GK) | |
| Number of questions | 101 + 1 AEW |
| XAT total marks | 101 |
| No. of answer choices | Five |
| XAT marking scheme | +1 mark for a correct answer |
| - 0.25 marks for incorrect answer | |
| No negative marking for inaccurate answers in the GK section | |
| - 0.10 marks for leaving questions Unattempted after 8 unanswered questions in a row | |
XAT Exam Pattern 2025 Sectional Weightage
The XAT 2025 question paper will include approximately 100 multiple-choice questions distributed across four sections. The Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation section carries the highest weightage. The table below presents the section-wise weightage for the XAT exam:| XAT Exam Pattern 2025 Sectional Weightage | |
| Section | Weightage |
| Decision Making | 21% |
| VARC | 26% |
| QA and DI | 27% |
| GK | 25% |
XAT Exam Pattern 2025 Section-Wise Break-Up
The section-wise questions vary in the XAT exam. Additionally, candidates get a specified time limit to complete the questions in different parts of the XAT exam. The table below presents the detailed section-wise XAT exam pattern 2025 along with question types:| Section | Duration | Number of Questions | Question Types |
| XAT Part-1 | |||
| Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning (VA & LR) | 175 mins | 26 | Critical & analytical reasoning Reading comprehension Vocabulary English grammar Para jumbles Cloze tests |
| Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation (QA & DI) | 28 | Arithmetic Algebra Geometry Mensuration Modern maths | |
| Decision-making (DM) | 22 | Scenarios from personal and professional contexts Problems on critical thinking, prioritization, and problem-solving | |
| XAT Part-2 | |||
| Mock Keyboard Testing | 5 mins | NA | Testing Keyboard typing skills |
| XAT Part-3 | |||
| General Knowledge (GK) | 30 mins | 25 | Static GK Current affairs |
| Analytical Essay Writing (AEW) | 1 | 250 words essay on any one of three provided topics. Candidates are tested for demonstrating logical consistency, coherence, and strong argumentation | |
XAT Marking Scheme 2025
A significant aspect of the XAT examination paper is its unique marking scheme. Unlike other MBA entrance exams, the XAT exam includes negative markings for unattempt questions. However, there isn’t any negative marking for marking wrong answers in the GK section. Additionally, the GK section marks are not considered for calculating the XAT overall score. The table below presents the notable XAT marking scheme:| XAT Marking Scheme 2025 | |
| Marks awarded for each correct answer | +1 mark |
| Negative marking for incorrect answers | - 0.25 marks |
| Marks deducted for leaving more than 8 questions un attempted | -0.10 |
XAT Exam Pattern Flexibility for PwD Candidates
XLRI Jamshedpur offers relaxation on time allotment to PwD and visually impaired candidates for completing their XAT exam papers. These are as follows:Flexibility for PwD Candidates
PwD candidates are granted flexibility in the XAT exam timing. To complete Part 1 of XAT, candidates get 165 and 220 minutes, and for Part 2, they get 15 and 20 minutes. The extra time allotment permits candidates to complete the XAT exam within 190 and 240 minutes.Visually Impaired Candidates
Candidates with visual impairments are allowed an additional 25 minutes to complete Part 1 questions. In total, these candidates get 200 minutes to complete Part 1 of the XAT exam.Changes to XAT Exam Pattern
The XAT paper pattern has seen notable modifications in recent years. In 2018, XLRI introduced the most significant modification by transitioning the exam from Paper Based Test to Computer Based Test. Other changes to the XAT exam pattern include the following:- Changes in the number of questions per section.
- Removal of Essay Based Questions after XAT 2018.
- Inclusion of the descriptive question in 2020 after its removal in 2019.
- Reduction in the allowed unattempted questions without negative marking from 12 to 8.
- Inclusion of Essay Writing from XAT 2022.
- Increase in the time allotment and total number of questions of the decision-making section in XAT 2023.
XAT 2025 Preparation Tips
Preparing for the XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test) 2025 requires a strategic approach due to its unique structure and content. Here are some essential tips to help you effectively prepare for the exam.Understand the Exam Structure
The XAT consists of three parts:- Part A (175 minutes) : Includes Verbal and Logical Ability (26 questions), Decision Making (21 questions), and Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation (28 questions).
- Part B (5 minutes) : Keyboard check.
- Part C (30 minutes) : General Awareness (25 questions) and an Essay. The essay is evaluated only if you are shortlisted for an interview.
Create a Study Plan
- Start Early : Ideally, begin your preparation 6-9 months in advance. This allows ample time to cover the syllabus thoroughly.
- Daily Commitment : Dedicate 4-8 hours daily to studying, focusing on different sections based on your strengths and weaknesses.
- Time-Bound Goals : Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for each study session.
Focus on Weak Areas
Identify your weak points early in your preparation. Allocate extra time to these areas while continuing to strengthen your strong subjects. This balanced approach ensures comprehensive preparation.Utilize Quality Study Materials
Gather recommended books and resources for XAT preparation. Focus on materials that cover:- Verbal Ability
- Logical Reasoning
- Quantitative Aptitude
- Decision Making
- General Knowledge
Practice Mock Tests
- Regular Mock Tests : Incorporate mock tests into your study schedule from the beginning. This will help you get accustomed to the exam format and improve time management skills.
- Analyze Performance : After each mock test, analyze your results to identify areas needing improvement. Adjust your study plan accordingly.
Revise Effectively
In the last month leading up to the exam:- Focus on revising key concepts and shortcuts.
- Avoid starting new topics; instead, consolidate what you've learned.
- Create short notes for quick revisions before the exam.
Stay Updated on Current Affairs
For the General Knowledge section, stay informed about current events, especially those related to economics and business. Reading newspapers and magazines daily can be beneficial.Engage in Group Discussions
Participating in discussions can enhance your decision-making skills by exposing you to diverse perspectives on various issues. This practice is particularly useful for tackling the unique Decision Making section of the XAT.Maintain a Positive Mindset
As you approach the exam date, keep a positive attitude and trust in your preparation. Mental preparedness is as important as academic readiness. Achieve your MBA target with strategic preparation offered by PW MBA Online Coaching . Join now for comprehensive syllabus coverage, doubt support, access to relevant study materials, and weekly test series provided by India's best MBA faculties.XAT Exam Pattern 2025 FAQs
What is the mode of the XAT exam 2025?
XAT exam is administered online in a computer-based format.
Does XAT include negative marking?
Yes, XAT includes negative marking of 0.25 marks for incorrect answers and 0.10 marks for unattempted questions after leaving 8 questions unanswered.
What is the duration of the XAT exam?
The XAT exam is conducted for a duration of 210 minutes.
Which is the most crucial section in XAT exam?
Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation is the most crucial section in the XAT exam.
What is the type of question in the XAT exam?
The XAT 2024 comprises multiple-choice questions and one subjective question.
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