XAT 2025 Registration Begins: Your Guide to XLRI Admission

The XAT 2025 registration window is now open, a pivotal moment for every management aspirant. This guide covers the XAT exam schedule, eligibility, fees, and the step-by-step application process for a successful MBA admission into XLRI and other top B-schools.

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2025 registration has officially commenced, marking the beginning of the MBA admission process for thousands of management aspirants across the country. Conducted by XLRI, the XAT exam is one of the most prestigious management entrance exams in India, serving as a gateway to XLRI's renowned programs and over 160 other affiliated business schools. The XAT 2025 is scheduled for the first Sunday of January 2026, giving aspirants ample time to prepare. For students aiming for a successful career in management, a strong XAT score is indispensable. This comprehensive report will guide you through the registration process, exam pattern, and the importance of the XAT for your higher education.

XAT 2025 Registration: Key Dates and Eligibility

The XAT registration process is entirely online and is a mandatory step for all candidates who wish to apply to XLRI or any other institute accepting the XAT score. The application fee is ₹2,100, and candidates applying to XLRI programs must pay an additional ₹200 per program.

Important dates for XAT 2025:

Registration Start: August 10, 2025
Registration End: November 30, 2025
Admit Card Release: December 20, 2025
XAT Exam Date: January 5, 2026
Result Announcement: Third week of January 2026

The eligibility criteria for the XAT exam are straightforward: a bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university. Final-year students are also eligible to apply. Unlike some other exams, there is no age limit for taking the XAT. For regular updates on all management entrance exams and a successful career in management, follow Only Education News.

Understanding the XAT Exam Pattern and Syllabus

The XAT exam pattern is considered one of the most challenging due to its unique sections and time limits. The exam is a computer-based test with a total duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes, divided into two parts. The XAT syllabus is extensive and requires a thorough preparation strategy.

The two parts of the XAT exam are:

Part 1 (165 minutes): This includes three sections: Verbal and Logical Ability (VA & LR), Decision Making (DM), and Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation (QA & DI). The DM section is unique to the XAT and tests a candidate’s problem-solving skills in various real-life scenarios.
Part 2 (30 minutes): This section comprises General Knowledge (GK) and Essay Writing. The GK section is a non-scoring part for percentile calculation but is considered for shortlisting by many B-schools.

The XAT's difficulty level is known for its complex and thought-provoking questions, demanding a rigorous study plan from every management aspirant. The XAT score is a reflection of a candidate's aptitude and business acumen.

Top Colleges Accepting XAT Scores

A high XAT score is a golden ticket to some of the most prestigious MBA programs in India. While the exam is conducted by XLRI, over 160 other colleges accept the score for their MBA admission process.

Key institutions that accept XAT scores include:

XLRI - Xavier School of Management: The flagship institution, it accepts the score for its Business Management and Human Resource Management programs.
SPJIMR Mumbai: Select programs at SP Jain also consider the XAT score.
MICA Ahmedabad: MICA accepts the XAT for its PGDM program.
IMT Ghaziabad: IMT is a leading institution that accepts the XAT for its flagship PGDM program.
Great Lakes Institute of Management: Great Lakes considers XAT for its PGPM and PGDM programs.

The XAT is a versatile management entrance exam that provides a wide range of career opportunities. By performing well in the exam, students can secure their place in a quality higher education program and begin their journey toward a bright future.