The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 registration window is officially open, inviting MBA and PGDM aspirants to apply for one of the most prestigious management entrance exams in India. Conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur, XAT is widely accepted by over 160+ B-schools across the country.
This year, XLRI has introduced exclusive benefits for early (Day-1) registrants, making it more rewarding to register sooner rather than later. If you’re planning to apply, here’s a complete guide with important dates, eligibility, registration process, exam pattern, preparation tips, and more.
XAT 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Start Date | July 10, 2025 |
| Registration End Date | December 5, 2025 |
| Admit Card Download | December 20, 2025 (tentative) |
| XAT Exam Date | January 4, 2026 |
| Result Declaration | Last week of January 2026 (expected) |
XAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
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Education: A Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years) in any discipline from a recognized university.
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Final-year students: Eligible to apply, provided they complete their degree by June 2026.
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No minimum percentage required in graduation.
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Age limit: No upper age limit for XAT.
XAT 2026 Registration Fee
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General Candidates: ₹2,200
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XLRI Programmes (additional fee): ₹200 per program
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NRI/Foreign Candidates (via GMAT/GRE): ₹5,000
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Mode of Payment: Online (Credit Card, Debit Card, Net Banking, UPI, Wallets).
Step-by-Step Registration Process
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Visit xatonline.in
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Click on New Registration
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Enter your Name, Email ID, Mobile Number → Verify via OTP
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Create your password and login
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Fill in personal, academic, and work experience details
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Select XLRI program(s) and test city preference
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Upload scanned photo & signature (as per guidelines)
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Pay the application fee online
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Submit and save your confirmation page
Documents Required for XAT 2026 Registration
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Passport-size photograph (recent, clear background)
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Signature scan (black ink on white paper)
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Valid photo ID proof (Aadhar, PAN, Passport, Driving License, Voter ID)
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Academic certificates (10th, 12th, Graduation)
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Work experience certificates (if applicable)
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Payment details for online fee submission
Exam Pattern: What to Expect in XAT 2026
The XAT exam is known for its unique structure, designed to test analytical ability, decision-making, and time management.
| Section | No. of Questions | Time Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Verbal & Logical Ability | 26 | |
| Decision Making | 22 | |
| Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation | 28 | |
| General Knowledge | 25 | |
| Essay Writing | 1 | |
| Total | 100 MCQs + 1 essay | 210 minutes |
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Marking scheme: +1 for correct, –0.25 for incorrect answers.
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Additional penalty: –0.10 marks for every 8 consecutive unattempted questions.
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Essay: Evaluated only if shortlisted for XLRI interview.
Syllabus Highlights
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Verbal & Logical Ability: RC passages, grammar, para jumbles, critical reasoning.
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Decision Making: Case studies on business, ethics, and real-life scenarios.
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Quant & DI: Algebra, Arithmetic, Geometry, Number System, Probability, Data Tables, Charts.
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GK: Current affairs (past 6–8 months), static GK, economics, business awareness.
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Essay Writing: Opinion-based abstract or business-related topics.
Why Register Early? Day-1 Benefits
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Interactive Q&A Sessions: Early applicants get exclusive invites to interact with the XAT Convenor, team, and XLRI students.
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Telegram Mentorship Group: Only 100 Day-1 registrants join a private group with expert guidance and peer learning.
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Motivational Edge: Being among the first ensures structured planning and less last-minute stress.
Preparation Tips for XAT 2026
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Start early: Dedicate at least 6–8 months for consistent prep.
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Focus on Decision Making: This section is unique to XAT and often the game-changer.
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Strengthen Quant basics: Arithmetic and Algebra dominate.
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Read daily: Helps with RC, essay, and GK.
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Practice mocks: Analyze performance, focus on time management.
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Stay updated with current affairs: Business news, global events, and government policies.
FAQs about XAT 2026
Q1. Is work experience mandatory for XAT?
No. Freshers can apply. Work experience is considered during admissions, but not mandatory.
Q2. Can I apply for multiple XLRI programs?
Yes, but you must pay an additional ₹200 per program.
Q3. How many times is XAT conducted in a year?
Once a year, usually in January.
Q4. Does XAT have sectional cut-offs?
Yes, XLRI and some other institutes consider sectional cut-offs during shortlisting.
Q5. Which colleges accept XAT scores?
Apart from XLRI Jamshedpur, 160+ B-schools like SPJIMR, IMT Ghaziabad, XIMB, TAPMI, MICA, FORE, etc. accept XAT scores.
Final Thoughts
If you’re aiming for top-tier management institutes like XLRI, registering early for XAT 2026 is a smart move. Not only do you secure your application well in advance, but you also unlock exclusive benefits like mentorship sessions and guided preparation support.
