The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 is one of the most prominent MBA entrance exams conducted by XLRI, Jamshedpur. It is accepted by over 160 B-schools across India. If you are planning to apply to top management institutes like XLRI, XIMB, or IMT, this guide offers comprehensive information including the XAT 2026 notification release date, syllabus, exam pattern, fees, eligibility, and preparation strategy.
XAT 2026 Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Exam Name | Xavier Aptitude Test (ΧΑΤ) 2026 |
| Conducting Body | XLRI, Jamshedpur |
| Mode of Examination | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Frequency | Once a year |
| Exam Duration | 210 minutes |
| Notification Release Date | Likely in July 2024 |
| Tentative Exam Date | First Sunday of January 2025 |
XAT 2025 Syllabus
XAT tests candidates on analytical, verbal, and decision-making skills. The syllabus is divided into four major sections:
- Verbal and Logical Ability (VLA)
- Reading Comprehension
- Sentence Correction
- Grammar and Vocabulary
- Logical Completion of Ideas
- Critical Reasoning
- Decision Making (DM)
- Ethical Dilemmas
- Business Scenarios
- Case-based Reasoning
- Analytical Decision Making
- Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation (QA & DI)
- Arithmetic and Algebra
- Geometry and Mensuration
- Modern Math (P&C, Probability)
- DI Sets (Graphs, Charts, Tables)
- General Knowledge (GK)
- Current Affairs
- Business & Economy
- National & International Events
- Awards, Books, Sports
Preparation Tip: Focus on case-based decision making, brush up on basic math, and read newspapers daily for GK.
XAT 2026 Exam Fees
| Category | Application Fee |
| All Candidates | ₹2,100 (without XLRI programs) |
| XLRI Program Add-on | ₹200 per program |
XAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria MBA entrance exams
- Must hold a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline
- Final year students can also apply
- No age limit or attempt restrictions
XAT 2026 Exam Pattern
| Section | No. of Questions | Time Allotted |
| Verbal & Logical Ability | 26 | Part of 175 minutes |
| Decision Making | 22 | Part of 175 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude & DI | 28 | Part of 175 minutes |
| General Knowledge | 25 | 30 minutes |
| Essay Writing | 1 (Evaluated in Interview Stage) | Part of 30 minutes |
Marking Scheme:
+1 for each correct answer
-0.25 for each incorrect answer
-0.10 for more than 8 unattempted questions
Best Books for XAT 2026 Preparation
| Section | Recommended Books |
| VLA | How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension by Arun Sharma |
| DM | Analytical and Logical Reasoning by Arihant Publications |
| QA & DI | Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams by R.S. Aggarwal |
| GK | Manorama Yearbook, newspapers, and current affairs magazines |
Final Thoughts
XAT 2026 is a challenging exam with unique sections like Decision Making and GK, setting it apart from CAT. With a focused preparation plan and timely mock tests, you can increase your chances of making it to top-tier B-schools. Keep an eye on the official XAT website for the release of the notification and application details.
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