XAT Exam 2026: Important Dates, Eligibility, Syllabus, Preparation Tips

Thousands of students with MBA aspirations have witnessed another exciting news with the announcement of XAT Exam 2026. Yes, the organizer of XAT exam, XLRI (Xavier School of Management) has announced all the important dates for the XAT exam 2026. So, fasten up your belt and gear up to take your career to the next level through one of the most prestigious MBA entrance exams in India for admission in MBA or PGDM Programs. If your ambitions go beyond just earning a degree, it revolves around the well-rounded career growth, personal development, and global business exposure then this post is for you. As in the content below, we are going to discuss everything you need to know about the XAT exam 2026. So, let’s get started.

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XAT EXAM 2026 – Important Dates

Staying updated on the dates is the first step towards planning, setting goals, preparation, and staying ahead in your XAT journey. To ensure you get the most out of your preparation time and avoid any last-minute surprises, we have compiled a complete schedule of important XAT 2026 dates, including registration, admit card release, exam day, and result announcement.

As XAT is one of the premier entrance exams for admission into postgraduate management programs in India, it is highly advisable to register and book your exam slot well in advance. Early registration not only helps you avoid the last-minute rush but also allows you to select a convenient exam centre in your preferred city.

To register, visit the official XAT website: https://xatonline.in

The registration process involves creating an account using your personal details such as email address, mobile number, and academic information. After completing the form and successfully paying the application fee, you will receive a confirmation email with important details about your exam schedule and centre.

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XAT Exam Fee – Application Fee, Rescheduling, Cancellation Fee

Being confident about the exam is one thing, but being careful and mindful is another. This means you should check all the details related to the XAT exam carefully, including the fee, to avoid any unnecessary issues. It is also important to be cautious about the fee before registration, as once you book your exam date, you will not be allowed to reschedule it. Additionally, in case of cancellation, there will be no refund. Find more details below.

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XAT Exam Eligibility – Required Academic Scores

While a bachelor's degree from any recognized university is mandatory to appear for the XAT exam, XLRI has not specified a minimum academic score. However, it is advisable to have at least a 50% score in your bachelor's degree, as many top business schools in India consider this as a basic eligibility criterion for admission. Moreover, there is no age limit or work experience required to appear for the XAT exam.

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XAT Exam Syllabus – Important Subjects

Subjects like math, science, general knowledge, and essay writing have always been at the centrepiece of the XAT Exam. But to develop and enhance the critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving ability, you need to go deeper and practise these subtopics to improve your chances of success:

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XAT Exam Structure & Pattern - Important Topics, Number of Questions, Marks

Understanding the XAT exam structure is key to clearing it with flying colours. Students who are proficient in core areas are more likely to perform better in the exam, as the XAT structure includes a strategic balance of Verbal and Logical Ability, Decision Making, Quantitative Ability, Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge. If you are weak in any of these sections, it is important to work on them, as the exam also includes negative marking. For each incorrect answer, 0.25 marks are deducted, and for every eight unanswered questions, 0.10 marks are deducted. However, no negative marking is applicable for general knowledge. Below is the complete breakdown of the XAT exam structure:

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Preparation Tips for XAT Exam 2026

XAT is one of the most prestigious exams in India for admission in top management schools. As it is accepted by the more than 250 best MBA colleges across the nation, it is considered as a gateway to reach the pinnacle of the career in the corporate world. Hence, the preparation for the XAT exam is crucial and requires a focused approach along with strategic and disciplined planning. To help you success in your first attempt, we have listed the tried and tested preparation tips for XAT exam 2026:

Self-Study With Dedication: Nothing can beat the idea of self-study with dedication not just because it is cost-effective, but because it builds self-discipline, deeper understanding, and long-term retention of concepts.

Join a Coaching Centre: While self-study with focus on core subjects is the key, the significance of a coaching centre lies in the structured guidance, experienced mentorship, and regular mock tests it offers.

Review and Solve Previous Year Papers: The best study strategy to clear the test includes reading books and newspapers for general knowledge, but reviewing and solving previous years’ XAT papers can significantly enhance your preparation.

Practise Extensively as Many Mock Tests as Possible: Mock tests are the key when it comes to clearing the entrance exam. The more mock tests you take, the more confident and exam-ready you become. Regular practice helps you build accuracy, speed, and stamina—crucial for a time-bound test like XAT.

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Top Business Schools Accepting XAT Scores for MBA/PGDM in India

Having a good score in the XAT exam can be the cornerstone of both your academic and professional life. Whether you're looking to start a new career in the corporate world or aiming to add wings to your career after gaining work experience, the XAT exam can give you the much-needed edge in today’s cut-throat competitive business world. The XAT score is accepted by many top business schools in India, including:

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Writen By:

Pawan Rawat

Pawan Rawat is a full-stack content writer with expertise in crafting research-based educational blogs and articles, paying close attention to detail. He has mastered the art of creating SEO-optimized content for websites. When he's not working to pay the bills, he spends his time lifting weights at the gym, clicking random photos, reading books, or planning his next adventure.