XAT 2026 notification release date
XAT 2026 notification release date Notification, Syllabus, Fees, Eligibility & More The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is one of India's leading MBA entrance examinations. Conducted by XLRI – Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur, XAT scores are accepted by XLRI and numerous other management institutes across India.
If you are planning to appear for XAT 2026, understanding the exam syllabus, eligibility, fees, pattern, marking scheme and preparation strategy is essential. This guide covers the important details you need to know before starting your XAT preparation.
XAT 2026 Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 |
| Conducting Body | XLRI, Jamshedpur |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Frequency | Once a year |
| Exam Duration | Approximately 180 minutes |
| Major Sections | VA & LR, Decision Making, QA & DI, General Knowledge |
| Exam Date | January 2026* |
*XAT 2026 was conducted in January 2026. Candidates preparing for the next XAT cycle should check the official XAT website for the latest notification and dates.
XAT 2026 Syllabus
The XAT syllabus is divided into four major areas:
1. Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning
This section tests English language skills, comprehension and logical reasoning.
Important topics include:
- Reading Comprehension
- Vocabulary
- Grammar
- Para Jumbles
- Sentence Correction
- Critical Reasoning
- Logical Completion of Ideas
- Inference-based questions
Preparation Tip: Read newspapers, editorials and quality articles regularly. Practise RC passages and reasoning questions under timed conditions.
2. Decision Making
Decision Making is one of the most distinctive sections of XAT. Questions are generally based on business, social and ethical situations.
Important areas include:
- Business caselets
- Ethical dilemmas
- Situational judgement
- Analytical decision making
- Data-based decisions
- Stakeholder-based problems
Preparation Tip: Practise previous XAT Decision Making questions because this section requires judgement and logical interpretation rather than simple formula-based preparation.
3. Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation
QA & DI evaluates mathematical ability and data-analysis skills.
Important topics include:
- Percentages
- Profit and Loss
- Ratio and Proportion
- Averages
- Time and Work
- Time, Speed and Distance
- Algebra
- Equations
- Geometry
- Mensuration
- Number System
- Probability
- Permutation and Combination
- Tables
- Graphs
- Charts
- Data Interpretation sets
4. General Knowledge
The GK section generally covers both current and static general knowledge.
Important areas include:
- Current Affairs
- Business and Economy
- National and International Events
- Government and Policies
- Awards
- Sports
- Books and Authors
- Important Organisations
- Science and Technology
Preparation Tip: Follow reliable news sources and revise current affairs regularly.
XAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates generally need to meet the following eligibility requirements:
- A recognised Bachelor's degree in any discipline.
- Final-year undergraduate students may also apply, subject to the applicable conditions.
- There is generally no upper age limit for XAT.
- There is no prescribed limit on the number of attempts.
Candidates should check the official notification for programme-specific requirements.
XAT 2026 Exam Pattern
The XAT pattern has evolved over time, so candidates should rely on the latest official notification rather than older exam articles.
The examination consists of:
| Section | Approx. Questions |
|---|---|
| Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning | 26 |
| Decision Making | 21 |
| Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation | 28 |
| General Knowledge | 20 |
| Total | 95 |
The exact number of questions and timing should always be confirmed from the official XAT 2026 information for the relevant admission cycle.
XAT Marking Scheme
The commonly followed XAT marking structure includes:
- +1 mark for every correct answer
- -0.25 mark for an incorrect answer
- A penalty may apply for excessive unanswered questions
- General Knowledge is used differently from the sections contributing to the main percentile calculation
Candidates should verify the final marking rules in the official notification because the exam structure can change.
XAT 2026 notification release date Application Fees
The XAT application fee is notified by XLRI for each examination cycle. Fees may vary depending on whether candidates select XLRI programmes or other options.
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| XAT Registration | As notified by XLRI |
| Additional XLRI Programme | Additional programme fee may apply |
Always check the official XAT registration portal for the latest fee before submitting the application.
Best Books for XAT Preparation
| Section | Recommended Resources |
|---|---|
| VA & LR | Arun Sharma – VARC preparation books |
| Decision Making | Previous XAT papers and Decision Making practice sets |
| QA & DI | Arun Sharma – Quantitative Aptitude for CAT |
| GK | Manorama Yearbook, newspapers and current-affairs resources |
Previous-year XAT papers are particularly important because they help candidates understand the unique style of Decision Making questions.
XAT 2026 Preparation Strategy
A strong preparation plan should focus on all four sections.
Build Strong Fundamentals
Start with basic concepts in QA, VARC and Logical Reasoning before moving to advanced questions.
Practise Decision Making
Give special attention to DM because it is one of the most distinctive features of XAT.
Improve Reading Skills
Regular reading can improve comprehension, vocabulary and critical reasoning.
Follow Current Affairs
Spend some time every day reading national, international, business and economic news.
Take Mock Tests
Start with sectional tests and gradually move to full-length XAT mocks.
Analyse Your Mistakes
After every mock, identify:
- Conceptual mistakes
- Calculation errors
- Time-management problems
- Incorrect question selection
- Weak topics
XAT vs CAT
Both XAT and CAT are highly competitive MBA entrance exams, but their structures differ.
| Feature | CAT | XAT |
|---|---|---|
| Conducting Body | IIMs | XLRI |
| Major Difference | DILR section | Decision Making + GK |
| Mode | Computer-Based | Computer-Based |
| Major Target Institutes | IIMs and CAT-accepting B-schools | XLRI and XAT-accepting B-schools |
Students interested in XLRI and other XAT-accepting institutes should consider taking XAT even if they are already preparing for CAT.
Final Thoughts
The XAT 2026 exam requires a balanced preparation strategy because it tests verbal ability, logical reasoning, quantitative aptitude, data interpretation, decision making and general knowledge.
Start your preparation with strong fundamentals, practise previous-year papers, focus on Decision Making, stay updated with current affairs and take regular mock tests. Most importantly, analyse your performance and improve your question-selection and time-management skills.
A strong XAT score can help you compete for admission to leading management institutes, including XLRI and other reputed XAT-accepting B-schools.
Before applying or planning for the next XAT cycle, always verify the latest notification, registration dates, fees, eligibility criteria, exam pattern and admission requirements through the official XAT/XLRI website.