The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 is a national-level MBA entrance exam conducted by XLRI, Jamshedpur, for admission into XLRI and over 160 other B-schools across India. For MBA aspirants aiming at top-tier management institutes beyond IIMs, XAT 2026 is a critical exam. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know: syllabus, pattern, fees, eligibility, and preparation resources.
XAT 2026 Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Exam Name | Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 |
| Conducting Body | XLRI – Xavier School of Management |
| Mode of Examination | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Frequency | Once a year |
| Exam Duration | 190 minutes (3 hours 10 minutes) |
| Tentative Exam Date | First Sunday of January 2026 |
XAT 2026 Syllabus
XAT 2026 consists of four main sections, with a unique addition of Decision Making and General Knowledge, setting it apart from exams like CAT:
1. Verbal and Logical Ability (VLA)
- Reading Comprehension
- Grammar & Sentence Correction
- Vocabulary-based Questions
- Critical Reasoning
- Para Jumbles
2. Decision Making (DM)
- Ethical Dilemma Scenarios
- Business Decision Cases
- Analytical Reasoning
- Situational Judgment
3. Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation (QA & DI)
- Arithmetic (Percentages, TSD, Profit & Loss)
- Algebra & Number Systems
- Geometry & Mensuration
- Data Tables, Graphs, and Charts
4. General Knowledge (GK)
- Static GK (History, Geography, Polity)
- Current Affairs (Last 12–18 months)
- Business, Economy, Sports, Awards
Preparation Tip: Pay special attention to the Decision Making section with daily practice. Read editorials and business journals for GK and VLA.
XAT 2026 Exam Fees
| Category | Application Fee |
| All Categories | ₹2,100 (Without XLRI Program) |
| XLRI Program Add-on | ₹200 per additional program |
XAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
To apply for XAT 2026, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Must hold a Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years duration) in any discipline
- Final year graduation students are eligible
- No minimum percentage required in graduation
- No age limit or restrictions on the number of attempts
XAT 2026 Exam Pattern
| Section | No. of Questions | Time Allotted |
| Verbal & Logical Ability | ~26 | |
| Decision Making | ~22 | |
| Quantitative Ability & DI | ~28 | 165 minutes (Total) |
| General Knowledge (Part 2) | ~25 | 15 minutes |
| Essay Writing (Part 3) | 1 descriptive topic | Included in GK time |
- Total Duration: 190 minutes
- Marking Scheme: +1 for correct, -0.25 for wrong (no negative for GK or Essay)
- Essay is evaluated only during interview shortlisting
Best Books for XAT 2026 Preparation
| Section | Recommended Books |
| VLA | Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis, How to Prepare for VARC by Arun Sharma |
| Decision Making | Target XAT Decision Making by Disha Experts, Previous Year XAT Papers |
| QA & DI | Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Arun Sharma, Data Interpretation for XAT by Nishit K. Sinha |
| GK | Manorama Year Book, Lucent’s GK, Reading newspapers and monthly current affairs capsules |
Final Thoughts
XAT 2026 is known for testing candidates beyond academic aptitude, especially with its Decision Making and Essay sections. Begin your preparation early, emphasize solving previous years’ papers, and stay consistent with mocks. A focused approach across all sections can help you secure admission to top colleges like XLRI, XIMB, IMT, and SPJIMR.
For latest XAT 2026 registration dates, admit card release, and result updates, visit the official website of career mantra
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