The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is one of the most sought-after management entrance exams in India. Conducted by XLRI, the exam paves the way for admissions to some of the top business schools in the country. For candidates who appeared in XAT 2025, the release of the provisional answer key is a crucial milestone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to downloading the answer key, raising objections, and understanding its implications for your XAT journey.
Key Highlights of XAT Answer Key 2025
- Exam Conducted By: XLRI (Xavier School of Management)
- Exam Date: January 7, 2025
- Answer Key Release Date: January 12, 2025
- Official Website: xatonline.in
- Purpose: To allow candidates to verify their responses and estimate their scores.
Steps to Download the XAT 2025 Answer Key
Downloading the XAT 2025 provisional answer key is a straightforward process. Follow these steps:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to xatonline.in.
- Log in with Your Credentials: Use your XAT ID and password created during registration.
- Access the Answer Key Link: Click on the link titled “XAT 2025 Provisional Answer Key” on the dashboard.
- Download the PDF: View the answer key and download the PDF for your reference.
- Compare Your Answers: Use the answer key to cross-check your responses with the official ones.
How to Raise Objections
If you find discrepancies in the answer key, XLRI allows candidates to challenge it. Here’s how:
- Log In: Access your account on the XAT official portal.
- Locate the Objection Form: Find the link for raising objections under the “Answer Key” section.
- Provide Details: Clearly mention the question number, your selected answer, and the reason for objection. Attach supporting documents if necessary.
- Pay the Fee: Submit the required fee for each objection raised. The amount will be mentioned on the website.
- Submit Your Objection: Ensure you complete the process before the deadline, likely within 2-3 days after the key’s release.
Why is the Answer Key Important?
The provisional answer key serves multiple purposes:
- Estimate Scores: Candidates can calculate their approximate scores using the marking scheme.
- Identify Discrepancies: It allows test-takers to spot potential errors in the official answers.
- Understand Cut-offs: Analyzing your performance helps in estimating whether you’ll clear the expected cut-offs for top business schools.
Marking Scheme of XAT 2025
Understanding the marking scheme is essential to calculate your estimated scores accurately:
- Correct Answer: +1 mark
- Incorrect Answer: -0.25 marks
- Unattempted Questions Beyond 8: -0.10 marks for each
- Sections Included: Verbal Ability, Decision Making, Quantitative Ability, and General Knowledge (not part of overall percentile calculation).
Expected Cut-Offs for Top Institutes
Based on past trends and exam difficulty, here are the expected percentile cut-offs for some leading institutes:
| Institute | Percentile Cut-Off |
|---|---|
| XLRI (BM Program) | 94+ |
| XLRI (HRM Program) | 92+ |
| SPJIMR | 90+ |
| IMT Ghaziabad | 85+ |
Note: These are tentative and may vary depending on this year’s exam performance.
Key Dates to Remember
| Event | Date |
| XAT Exam Date | January 7, 2025 |
| Provisional Answer Key Release | January 12, 2025 |
| Last Date to Raise Objections | January 15, 2025 |
| Final Answer Key Release | January 20, 2025 |
| Result Declaration | January 25, 2025 |
How to Use the XAT Score
Your XAT score opens doors to over 150 institutes, including XLRI and other top B-schools. Once the results are out:
- Apply to Institutes: Check individual institute cut-offs and apply accordingly.
- Prepare for GD-PI Rounds: Shortlisted candidates will need to participate in Group Discussions, Personal Interviews, and Written Ability Tests.
- Finalize Your College Choice: Use your XAT percentile and other parameters to choose the best-fit college for your career goals.
Preparation Tips for Next Steps
- Stay Updated: Monitor the official website for updates on the final answer key and results.
- Practice for GD-PI: Focus on current affairs, industry trends, and your subject knowledge.
- Plan Ahead: Shortlist institutes and understand their selection criteria.
The release of the XAT 2025 provisional answer key marks a significant step in the journey of thousands of MBA aspirants. Use this opportunity to evaluate your performance and prepare for the next phase of the selection process. Stay proactive in raising objections if needed and keep an eye on important dates for results and further steps.
For more information and updates, visit the official XAT website. Best of luck to all the aspirants for a successful MBA admission journey!