Great Lakes - PGDM & PGPM Admissions 2026
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How to start XAT 2026 Preparation: XLRI is one of the top B-schools in India, and it selects students through the XAT exam, which is known to be one of the toughest MBA entrance tests. To do well in XAT 2026, you need more than just hard work; you need a smart study plan and the right strategy. If you're not sure how to begin your preparation, don’t worry. This article will help you understand how to start, sectional composition and which study materials can really make a difference. XAT tests not only your academic knowledge but also your decision-making skills, time management, and ability to stay calm under pressure. It’s different from many other entrance exams, so your preparation approach should also be unique.
This Story also Contains
- How to Start XAT 2026 Preparation?
- XAT Preparation Process – Get Familiar with the XAT Exam Pattern
- XAT 2026 Preparation: Points to Remember
- Last Month XAT Preparation Plan 2026
- XAT 2026 Preparation with Mock Tests
- What Is the Best Way to Prepare for XAT at Home?
- Best books for XAT preparation
- XAT Preparation Materials
From choosing the right books to practicing mock tests and learning from past papers, every step counts. With the right guidance and consistent effort, you can boost your chances of cracking the exam and getting closer to your dream of studying at XLRI.
How to Start XAT 2026 Preparation?
Apart from XLRI, several other top B-schools like SPJIMR, IMT, XIMB, TAPMI, XIME, and BIMTECH also accept XAT scores for admission. To begin your XAT 2026 preparation journey, the first and most important step is to understand the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly. This foundational knowledge will help you create an effective study plan and strategy, increasing your chances of securing a high percentile. So, before diving into "How to prepare for XAT 2026," it's crucial to get familiar with the exam pattern and the sectional structure of the test.
XAT Preparation Process – Get Familiar with the XAT Exam Pattern
XAT 2026 is conducted for those aspirants who want to take admission in MBA/ PGDM programs offered at XLRI institutions. Here you can scan over to know about the exam pattern of XAT, such as the medium of the exam, the no. of questions, marking scheme, topics, and duration of the exam.
XAT Exam Pattern 2026
Exam Structure | XAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus |
Number of sections | 5 Sections along with Mock Keyboard Testing
|
XAT exam time duration | 180 minutes |
Number of questions | 95 |
XAT total marks | 95 |
Language of paper | English |
Number of answer choices | Five |
Mode of examination | Online |
XAT marking scheme |
|
XAT 2026 Sectional Composition
There is a variable distribution of questions in the XAT entrance exam, i.e., one section has more questions than another section. All questions will be asked in MCQ format. Check out the sectional break-up of the XAT question paper.
Sections | Number of Questions | Duration |
XAT Part-I | ||
Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning (VA&LR) | 26 | 175 |
Decision-making (DM) | 21 | |
Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation (QA & DI) | 28 | |
XAT Part-II | ||
General Knowledge (GK) | 20 (12 questions from current affairs and 8 from static GK) | 20 |
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XAT 2026 Preparation: Points to Remember
XAT, also known as the Xavier Aptitude Test, is one of the most highly sought-after entrance exams for management aspirants in India. Conducted annually by Xavier Association of Management Institutes (XAMI), the exam is designed to evaluate the aptitude of candidates seeking admission into some of the top management institutes across the country. As the XAT 2026 exam date approaches, aspirants need to gear up their preparation strategy and keep some important points in mind to maximize their chances of success. In this article, we will highlight some crucial points that every XAT 2026 aspirant should remember to ace the exam.
In view of the past XAT toppers, XAT preparation requires a well-planned approach to time management. Here are some of the key features of the exam that you need to keep in mind before preparation:
Before you start your preparation, note down the latest syllabus of XAT 2026
Put together the list of best books for XAT preparation.
You need a game plan in order to excel in any field. Similarly, here you need to have an XAT preparation timetable.
Download and solve previous year XAT sample papers and mock tests.
XAT 2026: Sample Paper, Section wise Questions
Download latest XAT sample papers with detailed solution for the XAT 2026 examination preparation based on latest exam pattern, Topics and their weightage, difficulty level.
Download EBookHow to Start Preparing for XAT Verbal and Logical Ability Section?
The Verbal Ability/Verbal Reasoning and Logical Ability questions are a fair mix of grammar, vocabulary, and reasoning-based questions (Critical Reasoning and Jumbled Paragraphs). Critical Reasoning & Reading Comprehension areas have historically dominated this section.
Having a good hold of grammar basics is your asset here. Some top-notch strategies are:
Keep a fine balance between quick reading and your comprehension skills.
Practice at least 4 RCs in a day. Start with short RCs so that you do not get bored in the initial phase of your preparation. Try to read a single line of one passage in one go. This will require practice if you start solving different formats of RCs a lot.
Get to know all the tones of passages, as the author’s tone is the most commonly asked question in the exams. The tones can be acerbic, humorous, sarcastic, incendiary, dogmatic, ironical, nostalgic, etc.
Build your vocabulary and grammar by subscribing to daily alerts of one word of vocabulary online. Learn its synonyms and antonyms. In this way, you get to know all the usages of the word.
Learn the prefixes and suffixes' meanings, methods, which will help you a lot in answering various vocabulary-based questions.
XAT 2026 Preparation Tips for Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation
Time management is so critical in the exam, so you need to solve the easiest questions first. Here are some of the preparation tips you can refer to for this section.
Remember, there is no on-time screen calculator in XAT like in CAT. So if the calculation is intensive, you can only master the section if you have practiced a lot on your calculations.
The questions are usually asked from Arithmetic, algebra, permutation and combinations, number systems, probability, functions, time and work, data interpretations, and geometry.
Expertise requires a lot of time and practice. Improving your calculation skills and approximation skills is very crucial for this section.
Practice line graphs, pie charts, tabular graphs, and bar graphs.
Learn the concept of successive percentages and also the fraction values up to 30, as these concepts are used in most of the questions.
Do mental calculations while practicing questions, and also learn the shortcut tricks.
The sets of DI can be of medium to difficulty level and calculation-intensive. So in your daily routine, solve as many DI sets as you can.
How to Start XAT Preparation for the Decision-Making Section?
Candidates need to focus on their aptitude and management skills as this section can be quite tricky. Here you will face the questions based on different scenarios. The questions are basically for authorities to comprehend your judging capability. The various types of questions probed in these areas include financial issues involving the revenues of a company, ethical dilemmas, employee management issues, and general management scenarios.
As far as what decisions you should make, try to be selective in the questions regarding giving unbiased answers. Do not let your emotions form your own biases and then you cloud your judgment based on it.
How to Start XAT 2026 Preparation for General Awareness?
More emphasis here will be on economic and business awareness news. So read on daily basis newspapers like - The Financial Express, The Statesman, etc.
Read the newspaper daily so that you get updated on national and global current affairs.
In the static GK section, focus on awards, books & authors, and geography. Start brushing up on your GK at an early stage.
Recommended eBooks
Related eBooks & Sample Papers
Last Month XAT Preparation Plan 2026
The candidates are advised to follow the given below XAT last month preparation plans to enhance their XAT 2026 preparation.
Review the Syllabus: Start by revisiting the entire XAT exam syllabus. Focus on key topics in each section: Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation, Verbal Ability, and General Knowledge. Make sure you understand the important concepts and formulas.
Practice with Mock Tests: Take as many full-length mock tests as possible. This will help you get used to the XAT exam format, improve your time management skills, and identify areas where you need more practice.
Analyze Your Performance: After each XAT mock test, spend time analyzing your performance. Look at the types of mistakes you’re making and work on improving those areas. Pay attention to both accuracy and speed.
Revise Key Concepts: Focus on revising key formulas, important concepts, and common question types. Create quick XAT reference notes or flashcards to help with last-minute revisions.
Work on Weak Areas: Dedicate extra time to the sections or topics where you feel less confident. Use study materials or online resources to address these weak spots.
Improve Speed and Accuracy: Practice solving questions quickly and accurately. Work on shortcuts and strategies to tackle different types of questions efficiently.
Stay Updated on Current Affairs: For the General Knowledge section, ensure you’re up-to-date with recent events, especially in politics, sports, and business. Read newspapers or use current affairs apps for the latest information.
Focus on Health and Well-being: Maintain a healthy routine with adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and regular exercise. This will help you stay focused and perform better on exam day.
Relax and Stay Positive: In the final week, reduce the intensity of your study sessions. Focus on revising key points and staying positive. Avoid stress and ensure you’re mentally prepared for the exam.
XAT 2026 Preparation with Mock Tests
XAT mock tests must form an essential part of your preparation. Toppers suggest that you attempt at least two to three mock tests in a day. You must also do the analysis of the mock tests so that you can gauge your strengths and weaknesses. This will help in improving your speed in addition to accuracy when you solve the questions on the exam day and thus will make you more adept.
XAT Previous Year Question Papers
Year | Download XAT question paper free |
XAT Question Paper 2024 | |
XAT Question Paper 2023 | |
XAT Question Paper 2022 | |
XAT Question Paper 2021 | |
XAT Question Paper 2020 | |
XAT Question Paper 2019 | |
XAT Question Paper 2018 | |
XAT Question Paper 2017 | |
XAT Question Paper 2016 | |
XAT Question Paper 2015 | |
XAT Question Paper 2014 | |
XAT Question Paper 2013 | |
XAT Question Paper 2012 | |
XAT Question Paper 2011 | |
XAT Question Paper 2010 |
XAT 2026 Time Management
Last but not least, the most important aspect for you to crack XAT 2026 is to master the art of overall time management. Here are some key tips that can help you manage your time:
Start practicing mental calculations rather than using pen and paper-based methods.
Practice mock tests and sample papers as much as you can as these will help you in identifying your weak areas and help you in not wasting much time on them.
Mark faster but with accuracy. This can only be achieved by daily practice from the initial phase period and not just before the one month of commencement of the exam.
Do not get stuck on a question you cannot solve. Leave the confusing puzzles in reasoning and move on to the next question.
From the time you start preparing for the exam day, practice in a way that you have set a particular time for each section. Remember, there is no sectional timing. So don't get overwhelmed by your favorite section and end up wasting too much time in it.
Quick Links-
What Is the Best Way to Prepare for XAT at Home?
The best way to prepare for XAT at home is to create a structured study plan that covers all sections of the exam, including Verbal and Logical Ability, Decision Making, Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge. Start by understanding the exam pattern and syllabus, then gather quality study materials and resources, such as standard textbooks, online courses, and practice tests. Dedicate specific time slots each day to different subjects, ensuring regular practice and revision. Take full-length XAT mock tests to simulate the exam environment and improve time management. Additionally, stay updated with current affairs for the GK section by reading newspapers and following reliable news sources. Consistently analyze your performance, focus on weak areas, and maintain a balanced routine with proper breaks and healthy habits to ensure effective preparation.
Best books for XAT preparation
The best books for XAT preparation are essential as they provide comprehensive coverage of the exam syllabus, including sections on decision-making, verbal and logical ability, quantitative ability, and general knowledge. These books often include a variety of practice questions and papers from previous years, helping candidates to familiarise themselves with the exam pattern and difficulty level. Detailed explanations and solutions enhance understanding and clarify concepts, making it easier to tackle complex problems. Additionally, they offer strategic insights and tips on time management and effective problem-solving techniques, which are crucial for performing well in the competitive XAT exam.
Category | Book Title | Author/Publisher |
Best Books for XAT Preparation for Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning | A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal |
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension | Ajay Singh | |
Word Power Made Easy Book | Norman Lewis | |
Analytical Reasoning | MK Pandey | |
High School English Grammar & Composition | Wren & Martin | |
Best XAT Decision-Making Books | Target XAT 2026 (Past papers & mock tests) | Disha Experts |
Analytical and Logical Reasoning | Arihant Publications | |
Jabbing the XAT (with solved papers) | R.K. Jha | |
Best Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation Books For XAT 2026 Preparation | How to Prepare for Data Interpretation | Arun Sharma |
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | R.S. Aggarwal | |
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | Abhijit Guha | |
Data Interpretation for the CAT | Nishit K. Sinha |
XAT Preparation Materials
Preparing for the XAT exam requires focused planning and time management. With less time to go, it's important to have a clear strategy that covers all the sections—Verbal and Logical Ability, Decision Making, Quantitative Ability, and General Knowledge. It is necessary for the candidates to give their best during their XAT preparation to ensure success. Given below are set of XAT preparation materials designed by Careers360 to ensure an enhanced XAT exam preparation of the candidates.
TITLE | DOWNLOAD LINK |
XAT Sample Paper, Section-wise Questions with Expert's Solution | |
XAT Section Wise Preparation Tips | |
XAT 2024 Question Paper | |
XAT Past 10 Years' Question Paper with Answers | |
Know all about XAT 2024 | |
How to prepare for XAT in 6 months? |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the duration of XAT 2026?
A:
The duration of XAT exam will be 180 minutes (3 hours).
Q: What should I focus on in the last month before XAT 2026?
A:
In the last month, review the syllabus, practice with mock tests, analyze performance, revise key concepts, and stay updated on current affairs.
Q: What is the advantage of solving XAT 2026 mock test?
A:
Mock tests help in improving your speed in addition to accuracy when you solve the questions on the exam day and thus will make you more adept.
Q: How should I begin preparing for the XAT in 2026?
A:
Start by understanding the syllabus and exam format. Create a study schedule, gather good study materials, and take practice tests to improve time management and identify weaknesses.
Q: What should I focus on in the last month before XAT 2026?
A:
In the last month, review the syllabus, practice with mock tests, analyze performance, revise key concepts, and stay updated on current affairs.
Q: How can I use my time wisely when taking the XAT exam?
A:
Begin with easier questions, set time limits for each section, and practice mental calculations to manage your time effectively. Avoid spending too much time on tough questions, and start practicing regularly to enhance accuracy.
Q: How to prepare for the Verbal Ability section?
A:
For the preparation of the Verbal Ability section, one should practice reading comprehension regularly, build your vocabulary, and review grammar basics.
Q: What are the tips and tricks for the main XAT exam sections?
A:
Improve calculation skills for Quantitative Ability
Stay updated on current events for General Knowledge
Work on grammar and comprehension for Verbal Ability.
Q: What are the sections from which questions will be asked in XAT?
A:
The questions will be asked from sections namely-
- Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation
- Verbal and Logical Ability
- Decision Making
General Knowledge
Q: Is XAT tougher than CAT?
A:
If you are well prepared for CAT, then you easily clear XAT too. However students term it difficult due to the additional Decision Making section.
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GIBS Business School in Bangalore accepts multiple national and state-level entrance exam scores for admission to its PGDM program. You can apply using scores from exams like CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, GMAT, ATMA, or various state-level CETs.
The admission process typically considers your entrance exam score along with your academic record, performance in the group discussion and personal interview, and any work experience you may have. For the BBA program, admissions are generally based on your Class 12 marks and do not require entrance exam scores.
If you're planning to apply, it's a good idea to keep your exam score, academic documents, and personal statement ready for the selection rounds.
Hii,
No, not all MBA programs require these tests. These are merely entrance exams that are accepted by a lot of universities. Depending on the college you wish to attend, you can take any of them (such as MAH CET, MAT, XAT, GMAT, CMAT, or ATMA).
Additionally, some universities have entrance exams of their own. Therefore, for the majority of MBA admissions, you only need to take one appropriate exam. To find out which tests the college accepts, always visit their website.
Yes, it is definitely possible for you to get an interview call from Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai for their PGDM program, even with a 73 percentile in XAT 2025. While the typical cutoff for XAT may be higher, around 85 percentile, Great Lakes considers a variety of factors in their selection process, including academic performance, work experience, and diversity in the class.
Since you are a non-engineer female candidate, that diversity is seen as a positive aspect. Even with your XAT score, if you have a strong academic record, relevant work experience, and a clear passion for management, you can still stand out in the application process.
To increase your chances:
Prepare thoroughly for the interview by focusing on your experiences, what drives you, and how you align with the program’s values.
Highlight your unique background and any leadership roles you’ve had.
Show how Great Lakes fits with your career goals.
While the competition can be tough, if you present a well-rounded application and give your best in the interview, you can definitely convert the call into an offer.
With a 74 percentile in the XAT 2025 exam, you are eligible to apply to several reputable MBA colleges in India. Some of the top institutions that typically accept candidates within the 70-80 percentile range include KIIT School of Management (KSOM), Bhubaneswar; Jaipuria Institute of Management (multiple campuses); Welingkar Institute of Management (WeSchool), Bangalore; Woxsen University, Hyderabad; IFMR Graduate School of Business at KREA University, Sri City; BIM Trichy (Bharathidasan Institute of Management), Tiruchirappalli; and XIME Bangalore (Xavier Institute of Management and Entrepreneurship).
To proceed, research each institution's application deadlines and procedures and ensure you submit all required documents promptly. Be prepared for further selection stages such as group discussions, personal interviews, and written ability tests. Evaluate each program's curriculum, faculty, placement records, and campus culture to determine the best fit for your career goals. While your XAT percentile is significant, remember that your overall profile, including academic records, work experience, and extracurricular activities, also plays a crucial role in the selection process.
Admission to MICA's PGDM and PGDM-C programs involves a multi-stage selection process. The final composite score is calculated with the following weightage:
- CAT/ XAT/ GMAT - 35%
- MICAT - 25%
- GE (Group Exercise) - 10%
- PI - 20%
- Academic performance (10th, 12th, Graduation) - 5%
- Extra- curricular - 5%
Your XAT score is 73, performing exceptionally well in MICAT can enhance your chances of being shortlisted for the GE and PI rounds. Specific score requirements for MICAT are not publicly disclosed, focusing on thorough preparation and aiming for high performance in each section will strengthen your application.
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