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XAT 2026: Registration (Ongoing), Exam Dates, Eligibility, Syllabus & Cutoff Trends

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT 2026) is a leading national-level management entrance exam conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur. It opens doors to admission in XLRI’s flagship MBA programs and over 160 top B-schools across India. Known for its unique decision-making section, XAT tests candidates on critical thinking, analytical ability, and general aptitude.

The XAT 2026 registration began on July 10, 2025, and will continue until December 05, 2025. Candidates who have applied can now make corrections through the form correction window, available from October 14 to 18, 2025. The exam is scheduled for January 4, 2026, giving aspirants sufficient time to fine-tune their preparation.

XAT 2026 Registration and Fees

Registration is entirely online via the official XAT portal. Candidates need to create an account, fill in personal and academic information, upload required documents, and pay the examination fee.

• Application Fee: ₹2,200 (for Indian candidates)

• Additional Fee: ₹200 per XLRI program applied to

• International Candidates: Must follow the GMAT-based registration process

The form correction window allows candidates to fix minor errors in their submitted forms, ensuring their application is accurate before admit card release.

XAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must meet the following requirements to appear for XAT 2026:

• Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years) from a recognized university.

• Final Year Students: Eligible, provided they complete their graduation by June 2026.

• Age Limit: No restrictions apply; candidates of any age can appear.

The inclusive eligibility ensures candidates from diverse academic backgrounds can attempt the exam.

XAT 2026 Exam Pattern

XAT is a computer-based test (CBT) lasting 3 hours 30 minutes, consisting of both objective and descriptive questions.

Sections in XAT 2026:

1. Verbal & Logical Ability – Reading comprehension, grammar, and critical reasoning

2. Decision Making – Managerial scenarios and ethical dilemmas unique to XAT

3. Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation – Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data sufficiency

4. General Knowledge – Current affairs and static GK

5. Essay Writing – Short analytical essays on social or business-related topics

• Marking Scheme: +1 per correct answer, -0.25 per incorrect response, and -0.10 for unattempted questions beyond the first 8 left blank

• No sectional time limit; candidates can allocate time strategically

The decision-making section sets XAT apart, testing ethical and managerial judgment in real-life contexts.

XAT 2026 Syllabus Overview

The XAT syllabus 2026 evaluates skills across multiple domains:

• Verbal & Logical Ability: Vocabulary, para jumbles, grammar, and critical reasoning exercises

• Decision Making: Situational judgment, logical decision-making, and ethical scenarios

• Quantitative & DI: Number systems, percentages, ratios, probability, geometry, and data interpretation

• General Knowledge: Business awareness, economics, politics, and current affairs

• Essay Writing: Ability to analyze and express ideas clearly on contemporary topics

Regular practice with previous years’ papers and mock tests is essential to understand patterns and difficulty levels.

XAT 2026 Preparation Tips

1. Understand the Decision-Making Section: This section is unique and requires practice with scenario-based questions.

2. Take Regular Mock Tests: Weekly mocks help improve time management and accuracy.

3. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify challenging sections and revise concepts systematically.

4. Read Extensively: Newspapers and editorials enhance comprehension and general awareness.

5. Time Allocation: Practice balancing speed and accuracy across all sections.

A consistent preparation strategy can significantly increase the chances of achieving a high percentile.

XAT 2026 Cutoff and Selection

The XAT cutoff varies by institute and program:

• XLRI Jamshedpur (BM/HRM): 95–99 percentile

• Other top B-schools: 85–95 percentile

After the exam, candidates are shortlisted based on XAT scores for Group Discussion/Case Study, Written Ability Test (WAT), and Personal Interview (PI) rounds. The final selection is based on a combination of XAT percentile, academic profile, and performance in selection rounds.

Also Read: MBA Colleges Accepting XAT Scores in Karnataka, Admission Process