Updated on 26th March 2024 | 9:22 am | #WhatAfterXAT
After completing the XAT, a key admission test for prominent MBA programs in India, aspirants often find themselves contemplating the crucial question of "What's next after XAT?" This phase marks an important juncture for candidates as they navigate the post-exam process.
The journey doesn't end with the exam; it's just the beginning of an exciting yet challenging admission process. This is a comprehensive guide to help you make the most out of your "After XAT" phase and increase your chances of getting into the B-school of your dreams.
Following the release of the XAT results, XLRI provides the course-specific XAT cutoffs within two to three days, allowing candidates to commence their applications for the GD/PI round. During this stage, approximately eight to ten candidates participate in the selection process.
The first step in your post-XAT journey is receiving your scorecard. This document provides a detailed breakdown of your performance across different sections, allowing you to assess your strengths and weaknesses. Carefully analyze your score, comparing it to the previous year's cut-off marks of your desired colleges. This will give you a realistic indication of your chances of getting shortlisted for the next stage of the selection process.
To have a better understanding of the colleges that accept XAT scores and their cutoffs from the previous year, please refer to the table provided below:
College Name |
Percentile Cut off |
XLRI Jamshedpur |
94-96 |
XIM Bhubaneswar |
90-91 |
IMT Ghaziabad |
90-91 |
IMI New Delhi |
89-90 |
Great Lakes Chennai |
85-90 |
GIM Goa |
85-90 |
FORE New Delhi |
85-86 |
LBSIM New Delhi |
85-86 |
Welingkar Mumbai |
85-86 |
K J Somaiya Mumbai |
84-85 |
MICA Ahmedabad |
80-84 |
TAPMI Manipal |
80-84 |
IRMA Anand |
80-84 |
Great Lakes Gurgaon |
80-84 |
*Last revised in January 2024
Once the XAT results are announced, it's time to shift gears and focus on the next steps. Here's a comprehensive roadmap to guide you:
Carefully analyze your XAT score and compare it to the previous year's cut-offs for your desired B-schools.
This will give you a realistic understanding of your chances of getting shortlisted for the GDPI rounds.
If you find yourself shortlisted for the GDPI rounds, start preparing immediately.
Focus on improving your communication skills, analytical thinking, and general awareness.
Consider enrolling in GDPI preparation courses or seeking guidance from mentors.
While XLRI is the prime destination for XAT aspirants, remember that many other prestigious colleges accept XAT scores. More than 150 business schools accept XAT scores and XLRI, with its 11 member institutes.
If you're not satisfied with your XAT score, consider retaking the exam next year.
This gives you another chance to improve your score and enhance your chances of securing admission to your preferred B-school.
Registration for GDPI after XAT typically happens after the XAT results are declared, which is usually in January-end. Here are some key points about the process:
The Group Discussion (GD) round is a critical hurdle in the XAT selection process, separating aspirants with strong academic credentials from those who possess the essential soft skills. This dynamic, interactive platform assesses your ability to think critically, articulate your thoughts effectively, and collaborate with others in a pressure-cooker environment.
The GD round isn't just about debating a topic; it's a multifaceted assessment tool designed to analyze your:
While the GD round may seem daunting, thorough preparation can empower you to perform confidently and make a positive impression. Here are some essential steps you can take:
The GD round is not just about winning the argument; it's about demonstrating your collaborative spirit and ability to function effectively within a group.
Focus on being an active listener, contributing insightful perspectives, and showcasing your leadership potential.
The Personal Interview (PI) is the ultimate test of your candidacy in the XAT selection process. It's your chance to go beyond your academic achievements and showcase your personality, motivation, and fit for the B-school.
While self-preparation is valuable, seeking professional guidance can significantly enhance your PI performance. Experienced mentors can offer personalized feedback, conduct mock interviews, and help you develop effective communication and presentation skills. This tailored support can boost your confidence and ensure you're well-equipped to handle the PI challenges.
Anticipating and preparing for common PI questions is crucial. These can include:
While having prepared answers for common questions is beneficial, avoid sounding scripted or robotic. Focus on being genuine, authentic, and engaging in your responses. Remember, the PI is a conversation, not an interrogation.
By preparing thoroughly, seeking professional guidance, and focusing on effective communication and presentation skills, you can approach the PI with confidence and make a lasting impression on the admissions committee. Remember, the PI is not just about providing answers; it's about showcasing your potential and demonstrating your fit for the B-school community.
The XAT journey may seem daunting at first, but with careful planning and dedicated preparation, you can overcome the "After XAT" phase and achieve your MBA aspirations. Remember, success doesn't come overnight; it requires consistent effort, commitment, and a positive attitude.
Start GDPI prep immediately after XAT. Stay updated, research B-schools, and practice GDs and PIs. After the results, check the shortlist, register for GDPI, and tailor responses. Be confident, and articulate, and dress professionally.
20 in XAT depends. It's good for the 80+ percentile in Decision Making, but average for Verbal Ability and Quantitative Aptitude. 95+ percentile overall requires 35+ marks. Aim higher for top B-schools.
Yes, XAT has GDPI. While XAT is the entrance exam, most B-schools accepting XAT scores require shortlisted candidates to undergo Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds as part of their selection process.