Published : Saurav Seth | September 14, 2015 | 06:11 PM IST
XAT 2016, the entrance exam organized by Xavier Labour Relation Institute (XLRI), Jamshedpur will be on 3rd January 2016. However XAT is conducted by the Xavier Association of Management Institutes (XAMI) for admission in XLRI and many other top tier management institutes of India. XAT is considered to be one of the toughest MBA entrance exams in India which requires complete awareness.
XAT 2016 will be on 3rd January 2016 from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM. In previous years the duration of the exam was 3 hours. The increased time has been allowed so that students can attempt more questions. Expectation is that this would increase the spread of marks among test takers. This will help in improving the differentiation power of the test. Institutes using XAT score will be more confident about the difference between a good and bad candidate.
The format of XAT would remain pen-paper based.This mode of examination ensures that all candidates are tested on the same set of questions, and not on different.
As per the notification released, there is no change in the exam pattern. The test would be in 2 parts: Aptitude Test and Essay and GK.
XAT as always will have below sections
| Parts | Section Name | Total Time |
| Part A | Verbal and Logical Ability | 180 Mins |
| Decision Making | ||
| Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation | ||
| Part B | General Knowledge. | 30 Mins |
| Essay Writing |
Other changes for XAT 2016
- The negative marking for wrong answer is likely to change. Negative marking may be introduced for un-attempted question. Negative marks for wrong answer and un-attempted question may vary. However, the final decision has yet to be taken on it. This step would further help in differentiation among candidates.
- The application is mobile-friendly and candidates can fill in the form using their smart phones as well.
- XLRI application has been embedded with XAT application. Candidates applying to XLRI do not have to fill up two separate forms.
- Number of questions may come down by 5-10.
Eligible candidates can apply for XAT 2016 till 30th November 2015
Recognized Bachelor’s degree of minimum three years duration or equivalent in any discipline. Those completing their final examination by June 10, 2016 may also apply. All Indian candidates must appear for XAT 2016. However NRI and foreign candidates may apply through GMAT score (except Dubai and Kathmandu wherein candidates have an option of appearing for XAT 2016)