The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026) is a highly competitive MBA entrance exam accepted by XLRI Jamshedpur and more than 160 management institutes across India. After the exam, one of the most common questions among aspirants is: What is a good XAT score in 2026? Many candidates also use tools like the xat score calculator 2026 to estimate their performance and predict college shortlisting.

In this blog, we provide a detailed college-wise analysis of what constitutes a good XAT 2026 score, expected percentiles, and cut-offs for top MBA colleges.

Understanding XAT 2026 Score and Percentile

XAT scores are calculated based on Part 1 sections only:

• Verbal & Logical Ability (VA & LR)
• Decision Making (DM)
• Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation (QA & DI)

Each correct answer carries +1 mark, while 0.25 marks are deducted for incorrect answers. If more than eight questions are left unattempted, an additional penalty of 0.10 marks per question is applied. The raw score is then converted into a percentile through normalization.

What Is Considered a Good XAT Score in 2026?

A “good” XAT score depends on your target college. However, based on previous year trends, the following ranges provide a general idea:

Scoring 35+ marks in XAT 2026 is usually considered very good and keeps you competitive for top-tier MBA colleges.

College-Wise XAT 2026 Score Analysis

XLRI Jamshedpur (BM & HRM)

XLRI is the most prestigious institute accepting XAT scores.

• Expected Overall Percentile: 94–96+
• Expected Score: 34–38 marks
• Sectional Cut-offs:

  • VA & LR: 85–88 percentile

  • Decision Making: 80–85 percentile

  • QA & DI: 75–80 percentile

Decision Making plays a crucial role in XLRI shortlisting.

XIM University, Bhubaneswar (XIMB)

XIMB is a top MBA college known for HR and BM programs.

• Expected Percentile: 90–94
• Expected Score: 30–34 marks
• Sectional Cut-offs: Moderate

IMT Ghaziabad

IMT Ghaziabad accepts XAT scores for its PGDM programs.

• Expected Percentile: 90–93
• Expected Score: 30–33 marks
• Key Focus: Strong overall percentile and academic consistency

SPJIMR Mumbai (PGDM – via XAT)

SPJIMR considers XAT scores along with profile-based shortlisting.

• Expected Percentile: 85–90
• Expected Score: 28–31 marks
• Additional Factors: Work experience, academic background, versatility

Great Lakes Institute of Management

Great Lakes Chennai and Gurgaon accept XAT scores.

• Expected Percentile: 80–85
• Expected Score: 26–29 marks
• Suitable For: Candidates with moderate scores and good profiles

TAPMI Manipal

TAPMI is a well-known Tier-2 MBA college.

• Expected Percentile: 80–85
• Expected Score: 25–28 marks
• Sectional Cut-offs: Usually lower than XLRI

GIM Goa (XAT Accepting Programs)

GIM accepts XAT for selected programs.

• Expected Percentile: 80–85
• Expected Score: 25–28 marks
• Selection Process: XAT score + profile evaluation

Sectional Cut-Offs: Why They Matter

Even with a high overall score, failing to meet sectional cut-offs can reduce your chances at top colleges. XLRI, in particular, places high importance on Decision Making and Verbal Ability sections.

Is a Low XAT Score Still Useful?

Yes. Candidates scoring 20–25 marks (70–80 percentile) can still secure admission in Tier-2 and Tier-3 MBA colleges. With a strong academic background, work experience, and interview performance, your chances improve significantly.

Factors That Influence Final Selection

A good XAT score alone does not guarantee admission. Colleges also consider:

• Academic record (10th, 12th, graduation)
• Work experience
• Diversity factors
• GD/PI performance
• Essay Writing and GK (for final evaluation in some colleges)

Also Read: xat exam date 2026

Final Thoughts

A good XAT score in 2026 varies depending on the institute you are targeting. For top colleges like XLRI, aim for 35+ marks and 95+ percentile. For other reputed MBA colleges, a score between 25 and 32 marks can still open many opportunities.

Understanding score trends and college-wise cut-offs will help you set realistic goals and plan your MBA admission strategy effectively.

1. What is considered a good XAT score in 2026?

A score of 35+ marks in XAT 2026 is considered very good and may correspond to a 95+ percentile, which is suitable for top MBA colleges like XLRI.

2. What XAT score is required for XLRI Jamshedpur in 2026?

For XLRI Jamshedpur, candidates generally need 34–38 marks with an overall percentile of 94–96+, along with clearing sectional cut-offs.

3. Is 30 marks a good score in XAT 2026?

Yes, scoring 30 marks is considered good and usually falls in the 90–94 percentile range, making candidates eligible for many Tier-1 and Tier-2 MBA colleges.

4. What XAT score is required for IMT Ghaziabad?

IMT Ghaziabad typically shortlists candidates with a percentile of 90+, which usually translates to a score of 30–33 marks.

5. Can I get an MBA college with a 25 XAT score in 2026?

Yes, a score of 25 marks (around 80–85 percentile) can help you secure admission in reputed Tier-2 MBA colleges such as TAPMI, GIM, and Great Lakes.

6. Does XLRI have sectional cut-offs in XAT 2026?

Yes, XLRI applies sectional as well as overall cut-offs, especially for Decision Making, Verbal Ability, and Quantitative Ability sections.

7. Is XAT percentile more important than raw score?

Yes, MBA colleges mainly consider the XAT percentile, not the raw score, as percentile reflects your performance compared to other candidates.

8. Can candidates with low XAT scores still get admission?

Yes, candidates with 70–80 percentile can still get admission to several good MBA colleges, especially with a strong academic profile and interview performance.

9. Do work experience and academics affect XAT-based admission?

Yes, most colleges consider work experience, academic consistency, diversity, and GD/PI performance along with the XAT score.

10. Is XAT 2026 score alone enough for final selection?

No, XAT score is only the first step. Final selection depends on GD/PI, essay writing, GK performance, academic background, and overall profile.

11. What is a safe XAT score for top MBA colleges in 2026?

A safe XAT score for top MBA colleges like XLRI is 35+ marks, which usually corresponds to a 95+ percentile.

12. Is 28 marks a good score in XAT 2026?

Yes, 28 marks is considered a decent score and may fall in the 85–90 percentile range, making candidates eligible for many Tier-2 MBA colleges.

13. Which colleges can I get with a 90 percentile in XAT 2026?

With a 90 percentile, candidates can expect calls from colleges like XIMB, IMT Ghaziabad, SPJIMR (profile-based), and other reputed institutes.

14. Does Decision Making section affect XLRI selection?

Yes, Decision Making is a crucial section for XLRI, and candidates must clear its sectional cut-off to be shortlisted.

15. Can I get admission with a low XAT score but a strong profile?

Yes, candidates with a moderate XAT score can improve their chances through strong academics, relevant work experience, and excellent GD/PI performance.