The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by XLRI, Jamshedpur for admission into top MBA and PGDM programs offered by XLRI and over 160 other B-schools in India. If you are planning to appear for XAT , this guide provides a detailed overview including the latest syllabus, exam pattern, eligibility, fees, 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 | 190 minutes |
| Tentative Exam Date | First Sunday of January 2025 |
XAT 2026 Syllabus
XAT 2025 comprises four main sections. Unlike CAT, XAT also includes a Decision Making section and an Essay Writing component.
1. Verbal & Logical Ability
- Reading Comprehension
- Sentence Completion
- Grammar & Vocabulary
- Critical Reasoning
- Para Jumbles
2. Decision Making
- Ethical Dilemmas
- Situational Judgment
- Analytical Reasoning
- Business Scenarios
- Case-Based Questions
3. Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation
- Arithmetic (Percentages, Time & Work, Profit & Loss)
- Algebra & Geometry
- Number System
- Tables, Graphs, Charts
- Data Sufficiency
4. General Knowledge
- Current Affairs
- Static GK (History, Geography, Economy, Awards, Business)
- International Relations
- Government Schemes
Essay Writing (Evaluated in Interview Round)
- One topic-based essay (250 words approx.)
- Topics typically include abstract, social, or economic themes
Preparation Tip: Prioritize Decision Making practice, read newspapers for GK & essay prep, and strengthen quantitative basics.
XAT 2026 Exam Fees
| Category | Application Fee |
| All Categories (without XLRI program) | ₹2,100 |
| XLRI Program Add-On (per program) | ₹200 extra per program |
XAT Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for XAT , candidates must fulfill the following:
- Must hold a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline (minimum 3 years)
- Final-year graduation students are eligible
- No minimum percentage requirement in graduation
- No age limit or attempt restrictions
Note: XLRI and other participating institutes may have separate eligibility criteria for their programs.
XAT Exam Pattern
| Section | No. of Questions | Time Allotted |
| Verbal & Logical Ability | ~26 | 175 minutes (Part 1) |
| Decision Making | ~21 | |
| Quantitative Ability & DI | ~28 | |
| General Knowledge | ~25 | 15 minutes (Part 2) |
| Essay Writing | 1 Essay | Included in Part 2 |
Marking Scheme:
- +1 for each correct answer
- -0.25 for each incorrect answer (except GK)
- -0.10 for more than 8 unattempted questions
- No negative marking for GK and Essay
Best Books for XAT 2026 Preparation
| Section | Recommended Books |
| Verbal & Logical Ability | How to Prepare for Verbal Ability for CAT by Arun Sharma, Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis |
| Decision Making | Target XAT Decision Making by Disha Experts |
| Quant & DI | Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams by R.S. Aggarwal, Quantum CAT by Sarvesh Verma |
| General Knowledge | Manorama Yearbook, Lucent’s GK, Daily News Reading |
Final Thoughts
XAT 2026 is unique in its inclusion of Decision Making and Essay Writing, making it different from other MBA entrance exams. Focus on mastering critical thinking, ethical analysis, and current affairs along with quant and verbal practice. Start early and solve previous year XAT papers to build confidence and speed.
For updates on registration, admit card release, and result announcements, visit the official website career mantre
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