Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is the second most popular test to take MBA in India after CAT. The scores of the exam are used for admission into MBA and PGDM programs by more than 1, 300 B-schools in India. XAT 2026 was conducted on January 4, 2026, and the scorecards have been published. Since the XLRI shortlist for WAT & PI is anticipated to start from the first week of February, the candidates are now contemplating which institutes fit well to their highest percentile, career goals, and long-term growth.
1. XLRI - Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur
XLRI is certainly amongst the best B-schools in India. It possesses a discriminatory admission policy, has good placement options, and its courses have high XAT requirements. The school is a favourite among top recruiters from various sectors and also happens to be the organizer of the XAT exam.
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Feature |
Details |
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Location |
Jamshedpur |
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Average Placement |
INR 31.08 lakhs per annum |
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Fee |
₹ 30.6 L |
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Programmes |
PGDM (Business Management & HRM) |
2. XIM University, Bhubaneswar
XIMB is an ideal option for the XAT candidates who view the combination of academic excellence and practical learning as a major advantage.
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Feature |
Details |
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Location |
Bhubaneswar |
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XAT Cutoff |
~91–93% |
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Average Package (2024) |
INR 19.53 lakhs per annum |
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Fee |
₹25.40 L |
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Strengths |
Balanced curriculum, strong business & HR programs |
3. Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management, New Delhi.
LBSIM is among the best schools of management in India with a 30+ years old history. It offers programs that are very high in return of investment, has strong connections with the industry, and provides excellent placements. It is a very good choice for XAT aspirants who are aiming at career growth and top-tier corporate opportunities.
Last Date to Apply 31st January 2026.
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Feature |
Details |
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Established |
1995 — 30+ Years Legacy |
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Location |
Delhi |
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Recognition |
Among India’s premium private B‑schools |
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Faculty / Alumni / Corporates |
55+ PhD Faculty • 6000+ Alumni • 100+ Corporate Partners |
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Eligibility |
Bachelor’s (50%+) + XAT 2026 / CAT / GMAT |
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Selection |
GD, Extempore & PI (Online/Offline) |
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CAT Percentile |
|
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Total Recruiters |
148+ |
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Highest Salary |
₹20.00 LPA |
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Average Salary |
₹12.25 LPA |
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Number of PPOs |
40 |
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Programmes |
PGDM (General, Finance and Business Analytics, AI & DS) |
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Application Deadline |
31st Jan 2026 |
4. MICA, Ahmedabad
MICA is the most popular marketing, communications, and branding institute in India. It suits the XAT aspirants looking at creative and communication oriented careers with good placements and exposure to industries.
Last Date to Apply 30th January 2026.
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Feature |
Details |
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Location |
Ahmedabad |
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XAT Cutoff |
~85–91% |
| Fee |
₹28 L |
|
Average Package |
₹19.22 LPA |
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Specialization |
Marketing, Communications, Branding |
5. IMT Ghaziabad
IMT Ghaziabad is seen to be among the best management colleges in the north of India. It boasts of an active campus of industry professionals due to the good rapport between faculty and students in IMT Ghaziabad and the corporate world. More than anything, IMT is known for its amazing placement support. The college offers specializations in Marketing, Finance, and Analytics only.
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Feature |
Details |
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Location |
Ghaziabad |
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XAT Cutoff |
~90–92% |
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Average Package |
₹18.9 LPA |
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Fees |
₹23 L |
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Focus Areas |
Marketing, Finance, Analytics |
Conclusion
Choosing the most appropriate B school is a significant choice when it comes to career. While institutes like XLRI, XIMB, IMT, and MICA are known for their academic excellence and industry relevance, LBSIM Delhi stands out as a well-rounded management institute in Delhi. Each offers a unique learning environment, specialized programs, and valuable industry exposure. Ultimately, selecting the right institute depends on individual career goals, program fit, and long-term growth opportunities.
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