XAT 2026 Overview
Key Highlights
What is XAT?
The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is India's second-largest management entrance examination after CAT, conducted annually by XLRI Jamshedpur. This prestigious exam serves as the primary gateway for admission to XLRI and over 160 other top-tier business schools across India.
Known for its unique Decision Making section and challenging question patterns, XAT evaluates candidates' analytical thinking, verbal abilities, and quantitative skills. Success in XAT opens doors to premier MBA programs at institutions like XLRI, XIMB, IMT, IMI, and other leading B-schools.
Exam Schedule
XAT is conducted once annually by XLRI Jamshedpur. The examination consists of four distinct sections:
- • Verbal & Logical Reasoning
- • Decision Making
- • Quantitative Aptitude & DI
- • General Knowledge
Who Can Apply?
Academic Requirement:
Bachelor's degree in any field from a recognized university.
Age Criteria:
No upper age limit for XAT examination.
Premier XAT Accepting Institutions
XLRI Jamshedpur
Rank 1
XIMB Bhubaneswar
Rank 2
IMT Ghaziabad
Rank 3
IMI Delhi
Rank 4
About Xavier Aptitude Test
The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) stands as one of India's most challenging and respected management entrance examinations. Organized by XLRI Jamshedpur since 1950, this annual assessment evaluates candidates' aptitude for management education and business leadership.
XAT scores are accepted by more than 160 prestigious business schools across India, offering excellent MBA programs with strong industry connections and placement opportunities. The exam's unique Decision Making section sets it apart from other management entrance tests, testing candidates' ability to handle real-world business scenarios and ethical dilemmas.
With its rigorous evaluation process and acceptance by top-tier institutions, XAT serves as a comprehensive assessment tool for identifying future business leaders and management professionals capable of driving organizational success.
XAT Eligibility Criteria 2026
Educational Qualification
A bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university or educational institution.
Note: Final year students are also eligible to apply.
Age Limit
Age Criteria
No Restriction
Special Cases
Final Year Allowed
There are no age restrictions for appearing in the XAT examination.
Nationality
Both Indian and international candidates are eligible to apply for XAT.
Selection Process
Complete XAT admission procedure and evaluation stages
XAT Written Test
Computer Based Examination
Online entrance test with multiple sections
Duration: 180 minutes
Group Discussion
GD Round
Team discussion on business case studies
Duration: 20-30 minutes
Personal Interview
PI Round
Individual interview with panel
Duration: 15-20 minutes
Final Merit List
Admission Offer
Selection based on overall performance
Duration: Varies
XAT Application Process 2026
Step 1: Online Registration
Visit the official XAT website and create your account with valid email and contact details.
Step 2: Fill Application Form
Complete the application form with personal information, educational background, and program preferences.
Step 3: Upload Documents
Upload your recent photograph, signature, and other required documents as per specifications.
Step 4: Pay Application Fee
Submit the application fee of ₹2,000 for General category (₹1,000 for reserved categories) through online payment.
Step 5: Submit & Confirm
Review all information, submit the application, and save the confirmation for future reference.
Important Dates
Key timelines and deadlines for XAT 2026 examination
✅ Completed
⏳ Upcoming
Selection Timeline
- • Written Test: January 2026
- • GD/PI Rounds: February-March 2026
- • Final Results: April 2026
- • Academic Session: June 2026
XAT Exam Pattern 2026
Detailed structure and marking scheme for Xavier Aptitude Test
| Section | Questions | Time (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|
| Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning | 26 | 165 |
| Decision Making | 21 | 165 |
| Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation | 27 | 165 |
| General Knowledge | 25 | 165 |
| Total | 99 | 180 |
Detailed Syllabus
Comprehensive topic coverage for XAT preparation
Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning
Reading comprehension passages, Vocabulary building, Grammar concepts, Critical reasoning problems, Analogy questions, and Verbal logic puzzles.
Decision Making
Business case studies, Ethical dilemmas, Situational judgment, Management decision scenarios, and Problem-solving exercises.
Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation
Mathematical calculations, Algebraic equations, Geometric theorems, Statistical data analysis, Charts and graphs interpretation, and Numerical problem-solving.
General Knowledge
Current affairs, Business news, Economic developments, Political events, Awards and recognitions, Sports updates, and Static general knowledge.
XAT Admit Card 2026
📅 Release Schedule
XAT admit cards are typically released 10-15 days before the examination date through the official XLRI website.
How to Download Admit Card
Visit the official XAT website at xlri.ac.in
Log in using your registration credentials
Download and print your admit card
Important Instructions
- • Carry a valid photo ID along with admit card
- • Reach exam center at least 1 hour before reporting time
- • Check exam date, time, and venue mentioned on admit card
- • Keep multiple copies of your admit card
XAT Preparation Tips 2026
Study Plan Strategy
Daily Routine
- • 6-8 hours daily study schedule
- • 2 hours practice test sessions
- • 1 hour revision and analysis
- • Weekly full-length mock exams
Section-wise Focus
- • Decision Making: 25-30% preparation time
- • Quantitative Aptitude: 30-35% focus
- • Verbal Ability: 20-25% emphasis
- • General Knowledge: 15-20% coverage
Key Preparation Areas
Verbal Skills
- • Reading comprehension practice
- • Vocabulary building
- • Grammar fundamentals
- • Critical reasoning
Decision Making
- • Case study analysis
- • Ethical dilemma solving
- • Business scenarios
- • Situation judgment
Quant & DI
- • Mathematical concepts
- • Data interpretation
- • Logical calculations
- • Problem-solving techniques
Last Minute Preparation Tips
- • Focus on Decision Making section practice
- • Take timed mock tests regularly
- • Review important formulas and concepts
- • Stay updated with current affairs
- • Practice time management techniques
Important Links
All XAT exam resources and information
All Important Links
Quick access to all XAT exam resources and official documents