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The GK section in XAT 2026 may not affect your percentile but plays a vital role in interviews, GDs, and final selection. Learn why General Knowledge matters, what to prepare, and how it impacts MBA admissions through XAT.
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The Role of General Knowledge in XAT Exam Success The XAT entrance exam is one of the most competitive MBA admission tests in India. While most aspirants focus heavily on Verbal Ability, Decision Making, and Quantitative Aptitude, the General Knowledge (GK) section often receives less attention. Despite this, GK can make a key difference between an average performance and a standout score, especially during the final selection process. If preparing for XAT 2026, understanding the importance of General Knowledge is crucial for success. Why General Knowledge Matters in the XAT Exam The GK section does not contribute to percentile calculation or the initial cuto? by XLRI and many other XAT-accepting institutes. However, it carries significant weight during the Personal Interview (PI) and Group Discussion (GD) stages in many colleges. A good GK score reflects your awareness of current events, business trends, and global issues, all vital qualities for a future manager. High performance in GK can help you stand out among candidates who may have similar scores in other sections. What the GK Section Covers The GK section in XAT 2026 consists of 20 questions, broadly divided into: Current A?airs: National and international news, awards, sports, government schemes, and policies (around 12 questions) Static GK: Geography, history, polity, economy, science and technology, important organizations, books and authors, and awards (around 8 questions) Business and Economy: Corporate updates, mergers, acquisitions, and financial news Science and Technology: Innovations, discoveries, and industry advancements Consistent preparation across these areas helps candidates confidently attempt a wide variety of questions. How GK Influences Final Admission Though GK scores do not impact the initial percentile or cuto?s, they become crucial in further stages of selection. Premier institutes like XLRI, XIMB, IMT, and others consider GK scores during GD, PI, and essay rounds. A solid GK foundation helps candidates perform well in case discussions, group exercises, and interviews. It also demonstrates that the candidate is well-informed, articulate, and capable of contributing meaningfully to discussions. Preparation Tips for GK in XAT 2026 Preparation requires regular and consistent e?ort, focusing on memory and recall rather than formulas. Read daily business newspapers such as The Economic Times or Business Standard.
Follow monthly current affairs magazines and yearly GK compilations. Utilize apps and online platforms for quick daily updates. Regularly revise facts to ensure retention. Practice previous years' GK questions from XAT to understand question patterns. GK Advantage for Working Professionals Working professionals often have an advantage in the GK section due to exposure to corporate life, industry trends, and business news, which makes this section relatively easier compared to fresh graduates. Final Word Ignoring General Knowledge is one of the most common mistakes XAT aspirants make. While it doesn't affect your percentile directly, it plays a vital role in your overall admission success. With over 250 colleges accepting XAT scores, good GK preparation ensures you stay ahead in interviews and group discussions. For the complete list of XAT exam colleges, visit: XAT Associate Institutes Register for XAT 2026 today and prepare smartly, because every section, including GK, counts in your journey to an MBA.