XAT Exam Dates

The XAT Exam (Xavier Aptitude Test) is a national-level MBA entrance examination conducted annually by XLRI, Jamshedpur, on behalf of the Xavier Association of Management Institutes (XAMI). The XAT 2026 is expected to be held on 4th January 2026, continuing its legacy of providing a gateway to top B-schools in India.

XAT 2026 Exam Dates: Key Highlights

Understanding the XAT Exam Dates is not just important; it's crucial for aspirants. It allows you to effectively plan your XAT Admission journey, giving you a sense of control and preparedness. The official notification for XAT 2026 is anticipated to be released in July 2025. Keep a close eye on the critical events related to XAT Registration, admit card download, exam schedule, result declaration, and counseling.

• XAT Registration Starts: 10th July 2025

• Last Date for XAT Application: 5th December 2025

• Admit Card Release: 20th December 2025

• XAT 2026 Exam Date: 4th January 2026

• XAT Result Declaration: Third week of January 2026

• Shortlisting & GD/PI Rounds: February–March 2026

These XAT Exam Dates are tentatively based on past trends and may vary slightly, so it is essential to stay updated through the official website.

XAT Application Process and Eligibility

The XAT Application Process is entirely online. Aspirants must create an account on the official XAT website, fill in academic and personal details, upload documents, and pay the exam fee. The essential XAT eligibility requirement is a valid bachelor’s degree (minimum three years) from a recognized university. There is no age limit, making it accessible to a broader range of candidates.

XAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus

To optimize their XAT Exam Preparation, candidates must understand the exam structure. The XAT Entrance Exam consists of four main sections:

1. Verbal and Logical Ability

2. Decision Making

3. Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation

4. General Knowledge

Unlike other MBA exams, the XAT emphasizes Decision-Making, a unique section that assesses real-life judgment skills. Familiarity with the XAT Syllabus ensures strategic preparation and boosts performance.

XAT Online Coaching and Study Resources

With the rise in digital education, many candidates opt for XAT Online Coaching. This preparation mode provides flexible study plans, live sessions, doubt-solving forums, and mock tests, accommodating your schedule and making your preparation journey more comfortable. These resources are vital in streamlining XAT Exam Preparation, especially for working professionals.

XAT Result and Cut-off

After the exam, the XAT Result is declared within 2–3 weeks. The scorecard includes overall percentile and sectional scores, which carry the weight of your performance. Top institutes like XLRI, SPJIMR, XIMB, and IMT Ghaziabad use XAT Cut-off scores to shortlist candidates. The cut-offs generally range from 90 to 95 percentile for top B-schools, underlining the significance of your performance in the exam.

XAT MBA Admission Process

Once shortlisted, candidates go through GD, WAT, and PI rounds as part of the XAT MBA Admission process. Each institute has its own selection criteria, which combine XAT Score, academic background, work experience, and personal interview performance.

Final Thoughts

Being well-informed about the XAT Exam Dates helps in timely planning and effective XAT Exam Preparation. Whether understanding the XAT Application Process, meeting the XAT Eligibility, or accessing the right XAT Online Coaching, a structured approach can significantly enhance your chances of success. With top management institutes accepting XAT 2026 scores, this entrance exam remains a pivotal milestone for MBA aspirants in India.