The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 is one of the most prestigious MBA entrance exams in India, conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur. It is a gateway to admission in over 160 B-schools, including XLRI, XIMB, IMT, SPJIMR, and more. If you’re planning to appear for XAT 2026, this guide provides detailed information about its syllabus, exam pattern, fees, eligibility, and preparation tips.
XAT 2026 Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Exam Name | Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2025 |
| Conducting Body | XLRI Jamshedpur |
| Mode of Examination | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Frequency | Once a year |
| Exam Duration | 210 minutes |
| Tentative Exam Date | First Sunday of January 2025 |
XAT 2026 Syllabus
The XAT syllabus covers a broad range of topics designed to test aptitude, decision-making, and general awareness. It includes the following sections:
1. Verbal and Logical Ability (VLA)
- Reading Comprehension
- Sentence Correction
- Grammar and Vocabulary
- Para Jumbles
- Critical Reasoning
- Analogies
2. Decision Making (DM)
- Ethical Dilemmas
- Situational Analysis
- Managerial Judgment
- Logical Scenarios
3. Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation (QA & DI)
- Arithmetic (Percentages, Averages, TSD)
- Algebra and Geometry
- Data Tables, Graphs, Charts
- Probability, P&C
- Numbers and Modern Math
4. General Knowledge (GK)
- Business & Economy
- Politics, Sports, Awards
- Static GK and Current Affairs
- National and International Events
Preparation Tip: Focus on ethical reasoning for DM, practice reading dense RCs, and revise current affairs regularly for GK.
XAT Exam Fees
| Category | Application Fee |
| All Categories | ₹2,100 (Additional ₹200 for XLRI program preferences) |
XAT Eligibility Criteria
To appear for XAT , candidates must meet the following conditions:
- Must have a Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years duration) in any discipline
- Final-year students of graduation can also apply
- No minimum percentage requirement in graduation
- No age limit for appearing in XAT
XAT Exam Pattern
| Section | No. of Questions | Time Allotted |
| Verbal and Logical Ability | ~26 | Part of 175 minutes |
| Decision Making | ~21 | |
| Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation | ~28 | |
| General Knowledge | ~25 | 30 minutes |
| Essay Writing | 1 Topic (Evaluated after shortlisting) | Included in 30 minutes |
Marking Scheme:
- +1 for each correct answer
- -0.25 for each incorrect answer (Part 1 only)
- -0.10 penalty for leaving more than 8 questions unanswered
- No negative marking in GK section
Best Books for XAT Preparation
| Section | Recommended Books |
| Verbal & Logical Ability | Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension by Arun Sharma |
| Decision Making | Target XAT Decision Making by Disha Experts, XAT Decision Making Book by Arihant |
| Quant & DI | Quantitative Aptitude for CAT by Arun Sharma |
| General Knowledge | Lucent’s General Knowledge, Manorama Yearbook, current affairs apps/websites |
Final Thoughts
XAT 2026 is a unique exam that tests not only your aptitude but also your ethical and situational judgment. With proper preparation across all four sections, especially the Decision Making and Essay components, you can crack this competitive test. Start early, use mocks to fine-tune your strategy, and keep track of current affairs.
For latest XAT 2026 notifications, visit the official website at Career Mantra
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