XAT Safe Score 2026: What Is a Good Score for XLRI, XIMB, SPJIMR & Other Top B-Schools?

XAT Safe Score 2026: What Is a Good Score for XLRI, XIMB, SPJIMR & Other Top B-Schools?

Himanshu ShekharUpdated on 11 Dec 2025, 05:15 PM IST

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is one of the most prestigious management entrance exams in India, conducted annually by XLRI Jamshedpur. As candidates gear up for the XAT 2026 exam scheduled to be held on January 4, 2026, one of the most crucial questions that arises is, “What is a safe score in XAT 2026?” Keep reading this article for more information related to XAT safe score, factors affecting XAT safe scores, and much more.

XAT Safe Score 2026: What Is a Good Score for XLRI, XIMB, SPJIMR & Other Top B-Schools?
What is a Safe Score in XAT for MBA Admissions 2026?

A “safe score” refers to a score that is typically high enough to guarantee admission into top B-schools, while also being realistic for a candidate to achieve. While XAT does not have an official “safe score,” understanding the exam’s pattern, past trends, and estimated cutoffs can help you determine the ideal score to aim for.

XAT 2026 Expected Safe Score for Top B-Schools

The XAT cutoff varies across institutes, and each B-school sets its own score requirements based on factors like the number of applicants, difficulty level, and available seats. Below are some estimated safe score ranges for top B-schools, based on previous trends:

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  1. XLRI Jamshedpur (BM & HRM)

    • Safe Score: 95-99 percentile

    • Details: XLRI Jamshedpur is one of the premier institutes in India, and the competition is fierce. A score of 95-99 percentile is generally considered a safe range for securing a call for the Personal Interview (PI) round.

  2. XIMB (Xavier Institute of Management, Bhubaneswar)

    • Safe Score: 85-90 percentile

    • Details: XIMB typically has a slightly lower cutoff than XLRI, but a score above 85 percentile is recommended for good chances of selection.

  3. SPJIMR Mumbai (S. P. Jain Institute of Management and Research)

    • Safe Score: 92-94 percentile

    • Details: SPJIMR considers both XAT scores and other parameters like past academic performance and work experience. A score above 92 percentile will increase your chances of admission.

  4. TAPMI (T.A. Pai Management Institute, Manipal)

    • Safe Score: 80-85 percentile

    • Details: TAPMI usually has a slightly lower cutoff, so scoring in the range of 80-85 percentile would be a safe bet for this B-school.

  5. IMT Ghaziabad (Institute of Management Technology)

    • Safe Score: 85-90 percentile

    • Details: IMT Ghaziabad also gives importance to the overall profile, but a score above 85 percentile ensures a good chance of getting shortlisted.

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Factors That Influence XAT Cutoff Scores

The safe score in XAT 2026 will depend on several factors, including:

  1. Difficulty Level of the Exam: The tougher the paper, the lower the cutoff will generally be. It is crucial to analyze the paper difficulty and adjust expectations accordingly.

  2. Number of Applicants: More applicants tend to increase the cutoff, especially for top institutes like XLRI. If the number of applicants is high, the cutoff could rise.

  3. Performance Trends: The average score for each section plays a significant role in setting the cutoff. If the overall performance is weak, the safe score might decrease.

  4. Section-wise Cutoffs: Each section (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Decision Making, Quantitative Ability, and General Knowledge) has its own cutoff. A balanced score across all sections is recommended for better chances.

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How to Increase Your XAT 2026 Score

While knowing the safe score is important, ensuring you score within this range requires a strong preparation strategy. Here are some expert tips to boost your XAT score:

  1. Understand the Exam Pattern: XAT has a unique pattern, especially with the Decision Making section. Understand the structure and practice past papers to get a feel for the exam.

  2. Focus on Key Sections: The Decision Making section and Quantitative Ability are areas where students often struggle. Devote adequate time to these sections to boost your score.

  3. Take Mock Tests: Regularly taking mock tests will not only help in time management but also build your exam strategy. Simulate exam conditions and work on weak areas.

  4. Revise Regularly: Revision plays a crucial role in retaining concepts and formulas. Make a revision plan that covers all sections of the XAT syllabus.

  5. Stay Calm and Confident: Keep a positive attitude throughout the preparation phase. Manage your stress levels and ensure a balanced study routine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How does the General Knowledge section impact the overall score in XAT?
A:

While the General Knowledge section doesn't carry as much weight as other sections, it is crucial for clearing the cutoff, especially for top institutes like XLRI.

Q: Can I prepare for XAT 2026 without coaching?
A:

Yes, XAT can be prepared for with consistent self-study and using the right study material. Coaching can be helpful but isn't necessary for everyone.

Q: How can I improve my Decision Making section score in XAT?
A:

Practice previous year papers, analyze caselets, and work on decision-making scenarios to improve your performance in this section.

Q: Is a score of 90 percentile considered safe for XAT 2026?
A:

Yes, a score of 90 percentile can be considered safe for most tier-2 B-schools like XIMB, TAPMI, and IMT Ghaziabad.

Q: What is the minimum percentile required to get a call from XLRI?
A:

For XLRI, the expected minimum percentile for the Business Management (BM) and Human Resource Management (HRM) programs is around 95-99 percentile.

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Questions related to XAT

On Question asked by student community

Have a question related to XAT ?

Hi dear candidate,

As per the official cut off list by XISS Ranchi, the cut off for PGDM HRM in XAT exam is 60 percentile for unreserved category (general) which means that your admission is possible there. You follow there official website for admission process.

Know more:

XISS Ranchi: Admission

With a 70 percent in CAT Examination, you can go for various B-Schools or private collages. The S. K. Patel Institute of Management in Gandhinagar is an option for those who score 70-80 percent in their CAT examination or The Gujarat Institute of Management (GIM) in Goa with a cutoff

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

No, it's not mandatory but if you've those score then your option will be vast. Maximum Universities have their own selection process & own exams. If you have those good score they'll prefer you. But as per AICTE rules you have to have one national or state basis entrance exam

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