The Xavier Aptitude Test XAT 2026 is one of the most prominent entrance exams for admission to top B-schools in India, including XLRI, XIMB, IMT, and other prestigious institutes. If you’re targeting MBA admissions through XAT 2026, this guide gives you a comprehensive overview of the latest syllabus, exam pattern, fees, eligibility, and preparation resources.
XAT 2026 Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Exam Name | Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 |
| Conducting Body | XLRI, Jamshedpur |
| Mode of Examination | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Frequency | Once a year |
| Exam Duration | 210 minutes (including essay writing) |
| Tentative Exam Date | First Sunday of January 2026 |
XAT 2026 Syllabus
The XAT exam is known for its unique structure and includes an essay writing section, unlike CAT. The exam comprises four main sections:
-
Verbal and Logical Ability (VLA)
- Reading Comprehension
- Grammar and Vocabulary
- Critical Reasoning
- Para Completion
- Sentence Rearrangement
-
Decision Making (DM)
- Ethical Dilemmas
- Business Decision Scenarios
- Logical Analysis
- Analytical Reasoning
-
Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation (QA & DI)
- Arithmetic (Time-Speed-Distance, Percentages)
- Algebra & Geometry
- Numbers and Modern Math
- Data Interpretation sets (Graphs, Charts, Tables)
-
General Knowledge (GK)
- Current Affairs
- Business & Economy
- Politics, History, Geography
- Awards, Books, International Relations
Essay Writing:
Candidates are required to write a brief essay on a given abstract or opinion-based topic. It is evaluated only during the interview shortlisting phase.
Preparation Tip: Focus on solving past XAT DM caselets, strengthen GK through daily news reading, and practice essay writing for clarity and structure.
XAT 2026 Exam Fees
| Category | Application Fee |
| All Candidates | ₹2,100 (without XLRI programs) |
| Additional XLRI Program Fee | ₹200 per program |
XAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
To appear for XAT 2026, candidates must satisfy the following conditions:
- Must hold a Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years) in any discipline from a recognized university
- Final-year students can also apply
- No minimum percentage or age limit is specified
XAT 2026 Exam Pattern
| Section | No. of Questions | Time Allotted |
| Verbal & Logical Ability | ~26 | Included in Part 1 |
| Decision Making | ~21 | Included in Part 1 |
| Quantitative Aptitude & DI | ~28 | Included in Part 1 |
| General Knowledge | ~25 | Part 2 – 25 minutes |
| Essay Writing | 1 Topic | Part 3 – 10 minutes |
- Total Duration: 210 minutes
- Marking Scheme: +1 for correct answer, -0.25 for incorrect answer
- Negative Marking for Unattempted Questions: After 8 unanswered questions, 0.10 marks deducted per question
Best Books for XAT 2026 Preparation
| Section | Recommended Books |
| VLA | How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and RC for CAT by Arun Sharma, Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis |
| DM | Decision Making for XAT by Arun Sharma & Nitish Sinha |
| QA & DI | Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Arun Sharma |
| GK | Manorama Year Book, Monthly Current Affairs magazines, GK Today app |
| Essay | Wren & Martin’s English Composition, Editorials from The Hindu or Indian Express |
Final Thoughts
XAT 2026 challenges aspirants with its decision-making section and essay component, making it unique among MBA entrance tests. A focused study plan, combined with ample practice and mock tests, can help you crack XAT with confidence. Keep your GK updated, solve past papers regularly, and strengthen logical and ethical reasoning.
For the latest updates on registration, admit cards, and results, visit the official website of XLRI.
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