From 89.9%ile On CAT 2022 To 99.07%ile On XAT 2023: Shantanu's Journey To XLRI Jamshedpur

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After my graduation ended, I decided to take the Common Admission Test (CAT) while continuing my freelance work which I had started a while back. Recognizing the importance of guidance and structured preparation, I enrolled in an online coaching program in September 2022. Joining the program was a significant step towards understanding the intricacies of the exam format and developing effective strategies for success. Daily classes, comprehensive study materials, and regular practice sessions formed the backbone of my CAT preparation.

In my first few mocks I was scoring marks between 40-50, I was actually disappointed in myself, thinking that I should do better as a physics student.VARC was my only saving grace at this point. I later realised the exam is less about how advanced math you can solve but rather how fast you can think and calculate the basic concepts. A week before the exam I was scoring marks between 80-95.

On the day of the CAT exam, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. However, despite my best efforts, I performed below my expectations. While disappointed, I refused to let this setback define my journey. Instead, I pledged to work even harder for the other upcoming exams.

I gave the IIFT exam, the SNAP paper, and the XAT exam. Though all these exams have the core subjects in common, each has a different flavour and expectations. While awaiting the official CAT results, I received encouraging news from SIBM Pune—I scored 99.6 percentile securing my way into the Interview process. When the CAT results were declared, I got a mere 89.9 percentile and failed to qualify for the minimum cutoffs for most IIMs. At this point, XLRI was my best shot at getting into one of the best B-schools in India.

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Armed with my good scores in SNAP, XAT and IIFT, I embarked on thorough preparation, seeking guidance from online resources, YouTube videos, and mock interviews. The interview at SIBM Pune provided a platform for me to showcase my dedication and commitment to the MBA program. Navigating the interview and group exercise rounds proved to be both challenging and exhilarating. It gave me a preview of what was to come next.

I had set the date for my XLRI Interview on 15th March 2023, the Ides of March, as an internal joke. When the time came for my XLRI interview, I was filled with a mix of nervousness and excitement. The interview was a comprehensive assessment, delving into various aspects of my journey and motivations. From my statement of purpose (SOP) to my academic background, the interview panel sought to understand my genuine drive to pursue an MBA. It was a transformative experience that allowed me to reflect on my journey and articulate my goals.

The period of waiting for the XLRI results was filled with a mix of anticipation and uncertainty. I was on a trip to Tirumala, Tirupati with my extended family- while going from the railway station to the hotel, I got a bunch of notifications on my phone. I had been accepted into XLRI. But, I was accepted at XLRI Delhi and waitlisted for Jamshedpur. The journey had been anxiety-inducing, but the waitlist eventually moved, solidifying my place at XLRI Jamshedpur at last.

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My MBA journey has been a transformative adventure, defined by determination, adaptability, and the ability to seize opportunities. The lessons learned, friendships forged, and personal growth experienced during this journey have provided me with a solid foundation for life. As I embark on the next chapter of my career, I carry with me the invaluable experiences and skills gained from my MBA journey—a testament to the power of resilience and the endless possibilities that lie ahead.

As of now i have converted my calls for SIBM Pune, XLRI Delhi and Jamshedpur and MICA.

Me at the Consulting Club of Dyal Singh College.