XAT 2026 registration is underway since July 10; deadline Dec 5. Exam on Jan 4, 2026. Apply early for XLRI & top B-schools. Check eligibility, fees & apply at xatonline.in.

The journey for MBA aspirants targeting admission to XLRI Jamshedpur and over 160 other top B-schools across India has officially begun! The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 registration window opened on July 10, 2025, and is currently in full swing, inviting prospective management students to take the first step towards their postgraduate dreams.

Conducted annually by XLRI Jamshedpur on behalf of the Xavier Association of Management Institutes (XAMI), XAT is one of the most comprehensive and challenging management entrance examinations, known for its unique 'Decision Making' section.

Key Dates for XAT 2026:

While registration has been active for several weeks, aspirants still have ample time to complete their applications. However, applying early is always advisable to avoid last-minute technical hitches and to focus solely on preparation as the exam date draws closer.

Here are the crucial dates for XAT 2026:

• Online Registration Start Date: July 10, 2025
• Online Registration Last Date: December 5, 2025
• Admit Card Download (Tentative): December 20, 2025 onwards
• XAT 2026 Exam Date: Sunday, January 4, 2026 (from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM)

Eligibility and Application Process:

The XAT exam is open to a wide array of candidates. The primary eligibility criterion is a Bachelor's degree of a minimum of three years' duration in any discipline from a recognized university. Notably, final-year students who are expecting to complete their degree by June 2026 are also eligible to apply. There is no minimum percentage requirement for graduation or any age limit specified by XLRI for appearing in XAT.

The application process is entirely online via the official XAT website: xatonline.in. Candidates need to register, fill in their personal, academic, and work experience details (if any), upload required documents (photograph and signature), and pay the requisite application fee.

• The XAT 2026 registration fee is INR 2200.
• Candidates applying to XLRI programs will need to pay an additional INR 200 per program.

Why Apply Early?

While the deadline is still months away, "early birds" are often encouraged to apply. Completing the registration process well in advance provides mental peace, allowing aspirants to fully concentrate on their preparation strategy for the demanding exam. It also helps avoid any potential website congestion or payment issues that can arise closer to the deadline. Moreover, some B-schools (not XLRI directly through XAT, but other institutes) might have early application benefits or preferred admission cycles that align with earlier XAT registration.

Exam Pattern Overview:

The XAT exam typically assesses candidates across multiple sections, including:

• Verbal and Logical Ability
• Decision Making (a unique section to XAT)
• Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation
• General Knowledge

The exam also includes an Essay Writing section, though its role in final scoring can vary. It's a challenging test designed to identify candidates with strong analytical, critical thinking, and decision-making skills.

Preparing for XAT 2026:

With the registration window open and the exam date set for early January, aspirants should now focus on:

• Understanding the Syllabus: Familiarize themselves thoroughly with the unique XAT syllabus, especially the Decision Making section.
• Consistent Practice: Regular practice of mock tests and previous year's papers is crucial for improving speed and accuracy.
• Strategic Time Management: Develop a strong strategy for time allocation across the various sections during the exam.

The XAT 2026 offers a gateway to some of the most esteemed MBA and PGDM programs. By registering early and preparing diligently, aspirants can significantly boost their chances of success.