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XAT 2026 - Exam Dates, Registrations, Eligibility, Syllabus & more

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XAT-2026 or Xavier Aptitude Test-2026 is a tough test people take to get to do a management course at XLRI Jamshedpur. With this test, you get to go on to get into MBA/ PGDM. This XAT 2026 is like a door to the XLRI and the ten best business schools of XAMI and more than a thousand business schools in India use XAT scores to admit people into their classes. The date of the XAT 2026 test is January 4, 2026 and the sign up will start in July 2025 and will be done in November 2025.
The XAT 2026 as a test has 95 multiple choice questions on things like Decision Making, Verbal & Logical Ability, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation and General Knowledge. To achieve high scores in XAT 2026, students have to study the overall exam syllabus, take mock tests, and have to adhere to the well-planned study routine. XAT scores are considered in premier B-schools such as XLRI Jamshedpur, XLRI Delhi, XIMB Bhubaneswar, SPJIMR Mumbai, and many more with a cut off percentile.
Exam Registration Starts Registration Ends Exam Date Registration Fee Section Considered What Tarkashastra Provides
XAT 2026
10th July 2025
5th December 2025
4th Jan 2026
  • Rs. 2,200/- for Indian candidates
  • Rs. 5,000/- for NRI candidates
  1. Verbal and Logical Ability
  2. Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation
  3. Decision Making
  4. General Knowledge


  • Hybrid Coaching


  • Recorded Videos


  • Exhaustive Learning Material


  • Mocks
    1 to 1 mentoring

 

What is the XAT Exam?

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is a test for admission to management courses in India. The test is run by XLRI, Jamshedpur, for its MBA/PGDM course. A total of over 1000 business schools, including the other nine XAMI member institutes, give exams like MBA, PGDM, and Executive MBA by using XAT scores. The XAT 2026 exam will have 95 MCQs covering Decision Making, Verbal & Logical Ability, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge. The past cut-off for XLRI’s PGDM-BM has been around the 95th percentile for men and the 92nd percentile for women, making XAT 2026 very tough.

XAT 2026 Exam Fees

  1. The XAT 2026 application fee is INR 2,200 for all candidates, with no concessions for reserved categories. Candidates selecting XLRI in their application must pay an additional INR 200, bringing the total to INR 2,400.

    Payment must be completed online using debit/credit cards, cash cards, mobile wallets, or net banking before the registration deadline. The fee structure for XAT 2026 is non-refundable, emphasizing the importance of accurate form submission to avoid additional payments.

    XAT 2026 Fee Structure:

    • Application Fee: INR 2,200 (additional INR 200 for XLRI selection)
    • Payment Methods: Debit/Credit card, cash card, mobile wallets, net-banking
    • Non-Refundable: Ensure accuracy to avoid re-submission and re-payment

Eligibility Criteria for the XAT 2026 Exam

To qualify for XAT 2026, candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree of minimum three years’ duration or equivalent from a UGC-recognized university. There’s no minimum marks requirement for graduation eligibility. Final-year students and those awaiting graduation results are eligible for XAT 2026.

Working professionals and candidates with professional qualifications (CA/CS/ICWAI) can also appear for XAT 2026. The exam has no maximum age limit, making it accessible to candidates across different age groups.

XAT 2026 Eligibility Highlights:

  • Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years) from recognized university
  • No minimum percentage requirement
  • Final-year students eligible
  • Professional degree holders (CA/CS/ICWAI) eligible
  • No age limit restriction

Important Note: Colleges accepting XAT scores typically require minimum 50% in graduation (45% for reserved categories), so XAT 2026 aspirants should consider this threshold during preparation

XAT 2026 Important Dates

The crucial dates and timeline for XAT 2026, including registration commencement, application deadline, scheduled exam date, and anticipated result announcement, are outlined below:
XAT 2026 Important Dates
Registration Starts
10 July, 2024
Registration Ends
5 December, 2025
Exam Date
January 04, 2026 2:00pm to 5:30pm
Results
Expected January 2026

XAT 2026 Registration Process

XAT 2026 registration will commence in July 2025 through the official XATONLINE website. Candidates must complete online registration and fee payment before the deadline. 

The XAT 2026 application process involves three essential steps: online registration, comprehensive form filling, and fee payment. All steps must be completed before the deadline for XAT 2026 eligibility.

How to fill the XAT 2026 Application Form

  1. Visit the official XAT 2026 website
  2. Click on ‘Registration’ tab
  3. Enter personal details: name, phone number, email ID, password, and captcha
  4. Receive XAT ID and registration link via email
  5. Verify registration through email link
  6. Login to student dashboard using credentials
  7. Complete XAT 2026 application form with mandatory details
  8. Review and save information carefully
  9. Pay XAT 2026 exam fee through available payment modes
  10. Download application fee payment receipt

Documents Required for XAT 2026 Application

Essential documents needed for completing the XAT 2026 application form:

For Upload:

  • Recent photograph
  • Signature

For Reference (not uploaded):

  • Class 10 marksheet
  • Class 12 marksheet
  • Graduation marksheet
  • Valid email ID and mobile number
  • Date of Birth proof
  • Address proof
  • Aadhaar card
  • Debit/credit card for fee payment

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XAT 2026 Application Form Correction

Candidates should meticulously complete the XAT 2026 form to prevent errors. However, authorities provide a correction window for amending specific details in submitted applications.

XAT 2026 Editable Information:

  • Candidate photograph
  • Signature
  • Test city preferences

Non-editable Information:

  • Candidate name
  • Date of birth
  • Mobile number
  • Email ID
  • State

XAT 2026 Exam Pattern

The comprehensive XAT 2026 exam pattern details:
XAT Exam Structure Details

Mode of Examination

Online

XAT Sections

Part 1: Decision Making, Verbal & Logical Ability, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation 

Part 2: Mock keyboard testing

Part 3: General Knowledge

Duration of Exam

3 hours  (180 Minutes)

Number of Questions

95 questions

Number of Answer Choices

Five

XAT Marking Scheme

  • 1 mark for each correct answer 
  • 0.25 marks deducted for each incorrect answer 
  • 0.10 mark deducted for more than 8 consecutive unattempted questions 
  • No negative marking in the GK section
  • GK scores not considered for XAT percentile calculation
  • GK and Essay Writing sections used exclusively by XLRI for final selection
Candidates should practice with previous XAT question papers to understand the exam pattern, topic weightage, and question types for effective XAT 2026 preparation.

XAT 2026 Syllabus

The XAT 2026 syllabus, outlined by XLRI Jamshedpur, encompasses crucial topics across Verbal & Logical Ability, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge. The unique Decision Making section requires dedicated preparation for XAT 2026 success.

Detailed XAT 2026 Syllabus:
Exam Sections Important Topics
Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning (VA & LR)
Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Analogy, Parajumble, Grammar, Critical Reasoning, Fill in the Blanks, Sentence Completion, Paragraph Completion, Contextual Usage, Antonyms/Synonyms, Error Correction
Decision Making (DM)
Data Arrangement, Assumptions, Complex Arrangement, Conclusions Data Arrangement, Assumptions, Complex Arrangement, Conclusions, Scenarios from personal and professional contexts requiring critical thinking, problem-solving, and prioritization skills
Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation (QA & DI)
Arithmetic, Geometry, Mensuration, Percentage, Algebra, Data Interpretation, Linear Equations, Profit and Loss, Probability, Ratio and Proportion, Inequalities, Averages, Time and Work, Numbers, Speed and Distance, Simple Interest, Trigonometry, Data Analysis
Mock Keyboard Testing
Typing test: “The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog”
General Knowledge (GK)
Science, Economy, Business, Politics, Static GK, Sports, Awards, World Events, Government, Constitution of India, Current Affairs

List of Colleges Accepting XAT 2026 Scores

XAT 2026 scores are widely accepted across India, including XLRI Jamshedpur and Delhi campuses, XAMI member institutions, and over 1,000 MBA institutes. The admission process typically includes Group Discussion/Personal Interview rounds.
XAT 2026 Colleges XAT cut-off percentile Tuition Fee (2yrs) Placement - Average CTC (LPA)
XLRI-Jamshedpur
94-99+
27.04
32.7
XLRI Delhi-NCR
92-99+
27.4
32.7
XIMB-Bhubaneswar
91+
22
19.53
SPJIMR-Mumbai
93.50-95+
25
32
IMT-Ghaziabad
90-92+
20.03 -21.03
16.25
GIM-Goa
85-90+
19.65
14.81
TAPMI-Manipal
80-85+
18.60
13.84
IRMA-Anand
80-85+
13.6
14.14
MICA-Ahmedabad
80-85+
26
19.21
Great Lakes Institute of Management
80-85+
21.63
17.8
LIBA-Chennai
80-85+
18.89
11.2
KJ Somaiya-Mumbai
85-90+
21.34
12.79

XAT 2026 Preparation: Tips and Strategies

XAT 2026 preparation requires strategic planning and consistent effort. As one of India’s most competitive management entrance exams, XAT 2026 demands comprehensive preparation across all sections.

Study Tips for XAT 2026

Daily Routine:

  • Dedicate 6-8 hours daily to XAT 2026 preparation
  • Obtain XAT 2026 syllabus and assess topic-wise strengths/weaknesses
  • Understand exam pattern for time-bound preparation strategy

Study Support:

  • Join online study groups and find mentorship
  • Consider enrolling in MBA coaching institutions
  • Utilize online study materials and XAT 2026 preparation apps

XAT 2026 Exam Strategies

Mock Test Practice:

  • Dedicate final month to XAT 2026 mock tests
  • Practice mental calculations over pen-and-paper methods
  • Focus on accuracy and speed through daily practice
  • Avoid getting stuck on difficult questions

XAT 2026 Preparation Plan

Timeline:

  • Begin preparation 6-9 months in advance (July 2025)
  • Create detailed preparation timetable
  • Solve previous year papers and XAT 2026 mock tests
  • Practice sectional timing without getting overwhelmed
  • Maintain consistent practice focusing on both strengths and weaknesses

Best Books for XAT 2026 Preparation

Recommended books for comprehensive XAT 2026 preparation:
Section Book Title Author/Publication
Decision Making
Jabbing the XAT (with solved papers)
RK Jha
Analytical and Logical Reasoning

Arihant Publications

Quantitative Ability

Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations

RS Aggarwal

Data Interpretation
How to prepare for Data Interpretation
Arun Sharma
Quantitative Ability
Quantitative Aptitude For Competitive Examinations
Abhijit Guha
Data Interpretation
Data Interpretation for the CAT
Nishit K Sinha
Verbal Ability
Word Power Made Easy
Norman Lewis
Verbal Reasoning
A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning
RS Aggarwal
English Grammar
High School English Grammar & Composition
Wren & Martin
Verbal Ability
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension
Ajay Singh
Logical Reasoning
Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation
Nishit K Sinha
XAT 2026 Mock Tests and Practice
Regular XAT 2026 mock test practice is essential for exam success. Begin with 1-2 mock tests to evaluate current standing, then analyze strengths and weaknesses for tailored preparation strategy. After covering the XAT 2026 syllabus, attempt daily mock tests and promptly address identified weaknesses. Quality coaching institutes offer comprehensive XAT 2026 preparation programs with daily mock tests, personalized study plans, and expert guidance.

XAT 2026 Cut-off Expectations

XAT 2026 cut-offs will vary across institutions based on factors like difficulty level, number of applicants, and available seats. Top colleges typically maintain high cut-off percentiles, with XLRI requiring 92-95 percentile for different programs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1.When does XAT 2026 registration begin and end? 
XAT 2026 registration is expected to start in July 2025 and conclude by November 2025.
2. What are the registration fees for XAT 2026?
The registration fee is INR 2,200, with an additional INR 200 for XLRI selection.
3. What is the eligibility criteria for XAT 2026?
 Candidates need a bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years) from a UGC-recognized university. Final-year students and professional degree holders are eligible.
4. How is XAT 2026 structured?
The exam is online, lasting 3 hours 30 minutes, with 95 multiple-choice questions across three main sections.
5.  What sections are included in XAT 2026? A: Part 1: Decision Making, Verbal & Logical
Ability, Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation; Part 2: Mock keyboard testing; Part 3: General Knowledge and Essay Writing.
6.  What is the XAT 2026 marking scheme?
1 mark for correct answers, 0.25 marks deducted for incorrect answers, 0.10 mark deducted for more than 8 consecutive unattempted questions. No negative marking in General Knowledge.
7. Which colleges accept XAT 2026 scores?

Over 1,000 colleges including XLRI, XIMB, SPJIMR, IMT, GIM, TAPMI, IRMA, MICA, and many others accept XAT 2026 scores.

8. Can I correct errors in my XAT 2026 application?

Yes, a correction window allows editing of photograph, signature, and test city preferences. Personal details cannot be modified.

By following this comprehensive guide and maintaining consistent preparation, XAT 2026 aspirants can enhance their chances of success and secure admission to their preferred management institute.

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