XAT 2026 Exam Set for January 4; Registration Underway

Staff Writer: Sweata Maiti

Last Updated: November 20, 2025

Synopsis: The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 is scheduled for Sunday, January 4, 2026, with registration open until December 5, 2025. Conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur on behalf of the XAT Association (XAMI), it remains one of India’s chief MBA entrance exams, accepted by over 800 business schools.

The upcoming XAT 2026 exam is now officially scheduled for January 4, 2026. Candidates are advised to complete their registration by December 5, 2025, to be eligible.

Registration & Key Dates

• Registrations opened on July 10, 2025 and must be completed by December 5, 2025.
• A form-correction window will be available from November 25 to November 27, 2025, allowing edits to academic details, work experience and test-city preferences.
• Official mock tests for registered candidates are scheduled around mid-November.

Exam Structure & Recognition

XAT will be conducted in computer-based mode across more than 70 cities. The exam format includes 95 MCQs spanning four major sections:

• Decision Making
• Verbal & Logical Ability
• Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation
• General Knowledge

The application fee remains at ₹2,200, with an additional charge of ₹200 if applying to XLRI programmes. 

Eligibility & Scope

A bachelor’s degree (minimum three years) from a recognised university is required; final-year students may also apply. There is no age limit or restriction based on academic stream. The XAT score is valid for admissions to over 800 MBA/PGDM programmes in India, including XLRI and other prominent institutes. 

Implications for Aspirants

With several weeks still available before the exam, candidates are advised to:

• Finalise registration and pay the fee at the earliest.
• Participate in the official mock tests to familiarise themselves with the latest format.
• Note the correction window for any updates in detail.
• Prioritise preparation for the unique Decision-Making section, which often differentiates XAT from other MBA entrances.

With the exam date firm and timelines specified, aspirants can now structure both registration and preparation efforts more effectively for XAT 2026.