Didn’t Do Well in CAT? Here’s Why XAT Could Be Your Next Chance

Introduction

What happens when months of hard work for CAT don’t translate into the score you expected? For thousands of MBA aspirants each year, this scenario feels like the end of the journey. But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be.

CAT may be the most popular MBA entrance exam, but it is not the only one. The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT), conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur, offers another prestigious pathway to top B-schools in India. In 2025, over 1 lakh candidates are expected to appear for XAT, many of whom didn’t get their dream CAT score.

So the big question is—should you apply to XAT if you didn’t do well in CAT? This blog will break down the differences between the two exams, why XAT can be a second chance, whether it’s harder or easier than CAT, and how you can pivot your preparation effectively.

Understanding CAT vs XAT

Before deciding, it’s essential to understand how these two exams compare.

Key takeaway: CAT emphasizes speed, while XAT adds a unique Decision-Making (DM) section and an essay, making it a different ball game.

Why Consider XAT After CAT?

A Second Chance to Prove Yourself

CAT didn’t go as you planned? XAT gives you another opportunity just a month later. Many students who underperformed in CAT have bounced back in XAT, simply because it tested a slightly different skill set.

Think of it like cricket—sometimes you struggle on a fast pitch (CAT), but then adapt brilliantly on a turning pitch (XAT).

A Different Skill Testing Approach

While CAT favors students strong in quantitative speed and logical problem-solving under time pressure, XAT rewards those who can:

• Tackle complex, real-world dilemmas (Decision-Making).
• Think analytically and evaluate multiple viewpoints.
• Showcase communication through essay writing.

This broader lens allows students who may not excel in CAT’s rigid structure to shine in XAT.

Gateway to XLRI and Top Institutes

Applying to XAT gives you entry to highly reputed colleges, including:

• XLRI Jamshedpur (flagship HRM and BM programs, consistently top-ranked)
• XIMB (Xavier Institute of Management, Bhubaneswar)
• IMT Ghaziabad
• TAPMI Manipal
• GIM Goa
• Great Lakes Institute of Management

These colleges have impressive placement records and diverse programs, making XAT absolutely worth considering.

Is XAT Harder or Easier Than CAT?

This is the most common doubt aspirants have.

• CAT: Known for its unpredictability and extremely competitive percentile cutoffs (99+ required for top IIMs).
• XAT: Considered slightly more “lengthy” due to additional sections but less about speed.
• For detailed information about CAT[Click here]
• For detailed information about XAT[Click here]

Which one is tougher?

• If Quant is your weak point but you’re good at reasoning, ethics, and writing, XAT might feel easier.
• If you rely heavily on quick calculations and dislike subjective-style reasoning, CAT might suit you better.

In short, difficulty is subjective. XAT is not necessarily harder—it’s just different.

How to Pivot Your Prep From CAT to XAT

The best news? CAT preparation already covers 70% of XAT. You only need to adapt to the unique parts.

Step1: Reuse CAT Prep for Quant & VARC

Your CAT Quant and Verbal practice will directly benefit XAT. Continue solving sectional tests and practicing RC passages.

Step2: Build Decision-Making Skills

Solve previous-year XAT DM caselets. These are business-like scenarios about ethical dilemmas, people management, or organizational trade-offs. The more you practice, the more intuitive these answers become.

Step3: Get Ready for GK

Unlike CAT, GK matters in XAT (though it is not counted in percentiles, it plays a role in final selection). Start revising:

• Current affairs (last 6–9 months).
• Static GK topics: Geography, business awareness, Indian polity.

Step4: Practice Essay Writing

XLRI reintroduced the essay as part of the interview shortlist process. Focus on:

• Structuring an argument in 200–250 words.
• Using examples from current affairs.
• Staying concise and logical.

Suggested Timeline (6 weeks to XAT):

• Weeks 1–2: Continue VARC + QA revision with CAT material.
• Weeks 3–4: Practice DM sets daily + GK notes.
• Weeks 5–6: Mock tests + essay writing practice once a week.

Who Should Definitely Apply for XAT?

Still confused whether to go for it? XAT is highly recommended if you are:

• Targeting top HR or niche programs: XLRI HRM, XIMB RM, sustainability-focused MBA.
• Good at reasoning but slower at speed math: Students who struggle in CAT’s DI-LR but shine in analytical case scenarios.
• Decent mock performers who underdelivered in CAT: If you were consistently scoring 90+ in mocks, XAT could reflect your true potential.
• Working professionals: XAT evaluates decision-making, which closely mirrors real workplace challenges.

How Career Plan B Helps?

We understand that deciding “what next after CAT” can feel overwhelming. That’s where Career Plan B helps you navigate with clarity:

• Personalized Career Counselling: Helping you decide if XAT aligns with your strengths.
• Psycheintel and Career Assessment Tests: To gauge if your aptitude matches XAT’s decision-making focus.
• Admission and Academic Profile Guidance: From XLRI to IMT Ghaziabad, get guidance on which B-schools to target based on your profile.
• Career Roadmapping: A step-by-step strategy to balance XAT prep, applications, and interviews.

With structured guidance, your CAT setback can genuinely turn into an XAT opportunity.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.Is XAT tougher than CAT?
Not necessarily. It depends on your strengths. CAT demands speed and precision, while XAT values analytical decision-making and essay skills.

2.Can a poor CAT percentile still lead to XLRI through XAT?
Yes, XAT is completely independent. Many aspirants perform poorly in CAT but excel in XAT and secure XLRI admission.

3.What is a safe XAT score for XLRI admission?
A 95–96 percentile is usually required for XLRI BM, while 92–94 percentile can suffice for HRM.

4.Do I need separate coaching for XAT?
Not unless you want structured essays and DM practice. Self-study using past papers is often sufficient.

5.Does XAT GK matter a lot?
While GK doesn’t count in percentile, it impacts shortlisting and interview rounds. Ignoring it can be costly.

Conclusion

A disappointing CAT score doesn’t have to close doors on your MBA journey. With its unique structure and prestigious institutes, XAT offers a real second chance. By reusing much of your CAT prep and focusing on a few additional areas, you can maximize your chances at colleges like XLRI, XIMB, and IMT.

Remember—one exam score doesn’t define your career. With determination, smart planning, and the right guidance, you can turn a CAT setback into an XAT success story.

So, if CAT didn’t go well—don’t give up. Apply for XAT, re-strategize, and give yourself the chance to shine.