Updated on Feb 01, 2025
Gaurav Chaurasia
As per the latest XAT 2025 Exam Pattern, the question paper is divided into two parts. The first part of the XAT 2025 question paper comprised Decision-Making, Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, with a time duration of 170 minutes. The second part consisted of a GK section, allotted 10 minutes. The total duration of the exam was 180 minutes. Candidates were required to complete Part 1 before proceeding to Part 2; however, they could move between sections/questions within Part 1.
XAT Exam Pattern 2025: Highlights
Here are the key highlights of the latest XAT exam pattern 2025:
| XAT Exam Structure | XAT Exam Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Sections | Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning (VALR), Decision Making (DM), Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation (QA & DI), General Knowledge (GK) |
| XAT Time Limit | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
| Number of Questions | 95 |
| Total Marks | 95 |
| Number of Answer Choices | Five |
| Mode of Examination | Online |
XAT Exam Pattern 2025: Section-wise Question Distribution
The XAT question paper had MCQ-format questions spread across four main sections. The Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation (QA & DI) section had the maximum weightage. However, it was not necessary to attempt all the questions; candidates were advised to attempt about two-thirds of the total test to achieve a good overall score. Check below the section-wise break-up of questions and marks allotted to each section of XAT:
| Section | Number of Questions | Total Marks | Time (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning (VALR) | 26 | 26 | 170 |
| Decision Making (DM) | 21 | 21 | |
| Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation (QA & DI) | 28 | 28 | |
| General Knowledge (GK) | 20 | 29 | 10 |
| Total | 95 | 95 | 180 |
XAT 2025 Marking Scheme
The XAT 2025 exam follows a structured marking scheme that rewards correct answers and penalises incorrect responses and excessive skipping of questions. Understanding the nuances of this marking scheme can help you formulate a strategy to maximise your score.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Marks per Question | Each question carries 1 mark, with 95 questions expected |
| Negative Marking for Incorrect Answers | 0.25 marks will be deducted for every incorrect answer |
| Penalty for Skipping Questions | Up to 8 questions can be skipped without penalty For each question skipped after the 8th, a penalty of 0.1 marks per question will be applied No negative marking in the GK section |
XAT Syllabus 2025: Highlights
Check the table below for key topics of the XAT syllabus 2025. Your main focus should be on the following topics during XAT 2025 preparation, as the question paper will be dominated by these topics.
| Part | Section | Important Topics |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning | Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Analogy, Parajumble, Grammar, Critical Reasoning, Fill in the Blanks, etc. |
| Decision Making | Data Arrangement, Conditioning, Grouping, Complex Arrangement, Caselets, Assumptions, Premises, Conclusions, etc. | |
| Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation | Arithmetic, Geometry, Mensuration, Percentage, Surds and Indices, Algebra, Mensuration, Bar Diagrams, Pie Charts, Tables, Data Interpretation, etc. | |
| 2 | General Knowledge | Current Affairs and Static GK (Science, Economy, Business, Politics, Static GK, Sports, Prize and Award, World, Government, Constitution of India, etc.) |
XAT Exam Analysis 2025
The overall difficulty level of the XAT 2025 paper ranged from moderate to high. The Decision Making and GK sections were relatively less demanding compared to VALR and QA & DI, which posed significant challenges. With no sectional time limits in Part 1, many candidates faced challenges in distributing their time effectively across sections. QA & DI, in particular, consumed more time, impacting the performance in other sections. Below is the detailed section-wise analysis of the XAT 2025 exam:
- Decision Making (DM): The Decision Making section presented 21 situational questions, challenging candidates' ability to evaluate complex scenarios and choose the most ethical and effective options. The section demanded logical reasoning and strong decision-making skills, with moderate difficulty overall.
- Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning (VALR): The VALR section had 26 questions, including reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and vocabulary-based items. The reading comprehension passages were slightly lengthy but straightforward in terms of comprehension, while the critical reasoning questions required deeper analysis. The difficulty level was moderate to high.
- Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation (QA & DI): This section, with 28 questions, was the most time-consuming. The questions covered algebra, arithmetic, geometry, and DI sets. While the DI sets were manageable, some quantitative questions required advanced conceptual understanding. The overall difficulty level was high.
- General Knowledge (GK): The GK section had 20 questions, primarily covering static general knowledge and current affairs. Candidates with a habit of reading and staying updated found this section easier. Notably, there was no negative marking in this section.
XAT 2025 Preparation Tips
- Creating an Effective Study Schedule: Plan a study schedule that covers all XAT topics and balances your strengths and weaknesses. Focus more time on challenging areas, like decision-making, and follow the schedule consistently for better results.
- Prioritising Sections Based on Strengths: Identify your strong and weak areas early. Focus on improving weaker sections while maintaining strengths. Practice timed mock tests to manage sections effectively under pressure.
- Taking Breaks and Using Downtime: Short breaks during study sessions refresh your mind. Use downtime wisely by listening to audio lessons or reading General Knowledge articles during commutes.
- Staying Consistent and Avoiding Procrastination: Set realistic goals and stick to them. Avoid last-minute cramming and focus on steady progress. Reward yourself for meeting targets to stay motivated.
- Balancing Speed and Accuracy: Prioritize accuracy while gradually improving speed through timed practice. This ensures you avoid mistakes while completing the exam efficiently.
- Using Time Blocks for Focused Study: Use focused time blocks like the Pomodoro method, with 25–30 minutes of study followed by short breaks. This boosts concentration and productivity.
- Practising Mock Tests: Mock tests are crucial for preparation. Analyze your results to find weak areas, refine strategies, and adjust your study plan effectively.
- Managing Last-Minute Stress: Focus on revision in the final weeks instead of new topics. Review notes, key formulas, and strategies. Stay calm and avoid cramming to perform your best on exam day.
XAT 2025 Exam Pattern FAQs
What is the structure of the XAT 2025 exam pattern?
The XAT 2025 exam pattern has been revised and consists of two parts. Part 1 includes Decision-Making, Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation, with a total duration of 170 minutes. Part 2 focuses on General Knowledge (GK) and is allocated 10 minutes. The exam is conducted online and spans 180 minutes in total.
How many sections are there in the XAT 2025 question paper?
The XAT 2025 question paper is divided into four sections: Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning (VALR), Decision Making (DM), Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation (QA & DI), and General Knowledge (GK). Each section has a specific number of questions and marks assigned.
What are the key changes in the XAT 2025 exam pattern?
One major change in the XAT 2025 pattern is the removal of the essay-writing section from the main exam. Essays will now be part of the XLRI selection process. Additionally, the number of GK questions has been reduced, and GK scores are now considered in the final selection process.
How many questions are there in the XAT 2025 exam?
The XAT 2025 exam contains a total of 95 questions. These questions are distributed across the four sections mentioned, with Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation having the highest weightage.
What is the marking scheme for the XAT 2025 exam?
For each correct answer, 1 mark is awarded. A penalty of 0.25 marks is deducted for every incorrect answer. Candidates can skip up to 8 questions without penalty; however, for every question skipped beyond the 8th, a penalty of 0.1 marks is applied. The GK section does not have negative marking.
How much time is allocated for the XAT 2025 exam?
The total time allocated for the XAT 2025 exam is 180 minutes. Candidates are given 170 minutes to complete Part 1 and an additional 10 minutes for the GK section in Part 2.
What is the significance of the GK section in XAT 2025?
Although the GK section does not carry negative markings, it plays an important role in the final selection process. Candidates are advised to prepare well for this section as it contributes to the overall evaluation during XLRI admissions.
Can candidates switch between sections in the XAT exam?
Candidates are allowed to navigate between sections and questions within Part 1 of the exam. However, they cannot return to Part 1 once they have moved on to Part 2 (GK section).
What strategy should candidates adopt for the XAT 2025 marking scheme?
Given the negative marking and penalty for excessive skipping of questions, candidates should aim to attempt at least two-thirds of the total questions with accuracy. Strategic guessing and avoiding excessive skips can help maximize the score.
Is the XAT 2025 conducted online or offline?
The XAT 2025 exam is conducted entirely online, ensuring a streamlined and efficient testing process for candidates.
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