XAT Exam 2026

XAT Exam 2026: Overview, Dates, Eligibility, Application, Pattern & Syllabus

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 is one of the most prestigious national-level MBA entrance exams in India. Conducted annually by XLRI Jamshedpur on behalf of the Xavier Association of Management Institutes (XAMI), XAT is accepted by over 800 B-schools for MBA/PGDM admissions across India.

Unlike other MBA entrance tests, XAT includes a unique Decision Making section and a diverse range of questions that test analytical, logical, and verbal ability. Candidates aiming for top-tier management institutes such as XLRI, IMT Ghaziabad, TAPMI, XIMB, GIM, and others must prioritize XAT in their exam strategy.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to the XAT 2026 Exam, including its important dates, eligibility, application process, exam pattern, and syllabus.

XAT Exam 2026 Overview

• Exam Name: Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT)
• Conducting Body: XLRI Jamshedpur
• Exam Level: National
• Exam Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
• Frequency: Once a year
• Accepting Colleges: XLRI and 800+ other B-schools
• Exam Duration: 3 hours (180 minutes)
• Medium: English
• Official Website: xatonline.in

The XAT exam evaluates candidates across various domains including verbal ability, quantitative aptitude, decision-making skills, general knowledge. It’s designed to assess the managerial and leadership potential of students.

XAT 2026 Exam Dates (Tentative)

Note: All dates are tentative and subject to official confirmation from XLRI.

XAT Eligibility Criteria

To appear for XAT 2026, candidates must fulfill the following eligibility requirements:

Academic Qualification:

• A Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years duration) in any discipline from a recognized university.
• Candidates appearing in the final year of their graduation can also apply.

Age Limit:

• There is no upper age limit to appear for the XAT exam.

Additional Notes:

• NRI/Foreign candidates can apply using GMAT scores (except for Dubai and Kathmandu test centers where XAT is applicable).

XAT Application Process 2026

Candidates must complete the online application on the official website: xatonline.in. Here are the steps:

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Registration:

• • Visit the official site and click on “Register”.
  • Provide basic details such as name, email ID, mobile number, and create a login password.

1. Application Form:

• • Fill in academic qualifications, personal and communication details.
  • Select the exam center preferences and XLRI programs (if applicable).

1. Document Upload:

   • Upload scanned images of passport-size photograph and signature in specified format and size.

2. Fee Payment:

   • Pay the XAT application fee online via debit card, credit card, net banking, UPI, or wallet.

XAT Application Fee 2026:

• XAT Exam Fee: ₹2100

• Additional Fee per XLRI Program: ₹200

Note: Fees are non-refundable.

XAT Exam Pattern 2026

The XAT exam is conducted in online mode and comprises four sections.

Marking Scheme:

• +1 for each correct answer
• –0.25 for each wrong answer
• –0.10 for more than 8 unattempted questions
• No negative marking in GK

XAT Syllabus 2026

XLRI does not officially prescribe the XAT syllabus, but based on previous years’ trends, the following topics are covered:

1. Verbal and Logical Ability

• Reading Comprehension (Short & Long Passages)
• Grammar & Vocabulary
• Para-jumbles
• Critical Reasoning
• Sentence Completion & Correction
• Analogy-based Questions
• Logical Reasoning (basic puzzles, arrangements)

2. Decision Making

• Ethical Dilemma Cases
• Situational Judgment Questions
• Analytical Reasoning
• Business Decision Scenarios
• Data-based Caselets
• Logical Evaluation of Scenarios

3. Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation

• Arithmetic: Time & Work, Time-Speed-Distance, Profit & Loss, Averages, Ratios
• Algebra: Equations, Inequalities
• Geometry & Mensuration
• Number System
• Modern Math: Permutation & Combination, Probability, Set Theory
• Data Interpretation: Bar Graphs, Line Charts, Tables, Caselets, Pie Charts

4. General Knowledge

• Static GK (History, Geography, Science, Polity)
• Current Affairs (National & International)
• Business & Economy
• Books & Authors
• Important Organizations
• Awards & Honours
• Sports Events

Conclusion

The XAT 2026 exam is a critical pathway for students aiming to pursue an MBA in premier B-schools across India. Its unique structure, especially the Decision Making, sets it apart from other exams like CAT and NMAT.

Students are advised to start their preparation early, strengthen conceptual clarity, and regularly practice with mocks and previous year papers.

At The Prayas India, we offer structured courses for XAT 2026 aspirants, including live classes, mock test series, personalized mentorship, and expert-led doubt-solving sessions to ensure a strategic and effective preparation journey.

FAQs

Q1. Are there any sectional time limits in XAT 2026?

Ans. No, there are only overall time limits. There are no sectional time limits.

Q2. Will an on-screen calculator be provided during the exam?

Ans. Yes, a scientific calculator will be available within the exam interface.

Q3. Can candidates choose the order of sections during the exam?

Ans. Yes, candidates may begin with any section of their choice.

Q4. Can candidates switch between sections during the exam?

Ans. Yes, all sections will be accessible throughout the exam.

Click Here to Register for the XAT Exam 2026