Planet E brings you the latest update on one of India’s most prestigious MBA entrance exams – XAT 2026 (Xavier Aptitude Test). Conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur, XAT is a gateway to XLRI and over 250+ top B-Schools across India. If you are an MBA aspirant aiming for elite management institutes, XAT 2026 is a must-apply exam.

Why XAT 2026 is a Game-Changer for MBA Aspirants

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is not just another MBA entrance test. It is widely recognized for its high academic standards and unique exam pattern. Here’s why you shouldn’t miss this opportunity:

• Accepted by 250+ B-Schools: Apart from XLRI, top institutes like XIMB, IMT Ghaziabad, SPJIMR (for GMP), TAPMI, MICA (through XAT scores), and many others accept XAT scores for MBA/PGDM admissions.

• Diverse Career Opportunities: Programs like Business Management (BM), Human Resource Management (HRM), and General Management at XLRI are ranked among the best in India.

• Balanced Evaluation: XAT focuses on aptitude, decision-making, verbal skills, and general awareness, ensuring a fair chance for candidates from all educational backgrounds.

XAT 2026: Important Dates (Tentative)

✅ Tip by Planet E: Start preparing early to strengthen your decision-making and verbal ability sections.

XAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria

• Educational Qualification: A Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years) in any discipline from a recognized university.

• Final Year Students: Candidates appearing in the final year of graduation (by June 2026) are also eligible.

• No Minimum Marks: Unlike some other exams, there is no minimum percentage required to apply.

XAT 2026 Exam Pattern

The XAT exam stands out because of its Decision-Making section, which tests real-world problem-solving skills.

✅ Planet E Tip: Focus on Decision Making, as this is a scoring and unique section of XAT.

How to Apply for XAT 2026

1. Visit the official XAT website: www.xatonline.in

2. Click on “Register for XAT 2026”.

3. Fill in your personal, academic, and contact details.

4. Upload scanned documents (photo & signature).

5. Pay the application fee online.

Application Fee (Expected):

• XAT Registration: ₹2100/- (Approx)

• XLRI Program(s): ₹200/- per program (Approx)

Top Colleges Accepting XAT 2026

Here are some of the leading institutes where your XAT 2026 score can take you:

• XLRI Jamshedpur

• XIMB Bhubaneswar

• IMT Ghaziabad

• TAPMI Manipal

• GIM Goa

• MICA Ahmedabad (via XAT)

• FORE School of Management, New Delhi

• Great Lakes Institute of Management

• IRMA Anand

Preparation Tips for XAT 2026

Planet E recommends the following strategy to crack XAT with ease:

• Focus on Decision-Making: Practice previous years’ DM questions to understand real-life scenarios.

• Strengthen Quantitative Skills: Brush up on arithmetic, algebra, and DI.

• Improve Vocabulary & Reading Speed: Read newspapers and editorials daily.

• General Knowledge: Stay updated on current affairs and static GK.

• Mock Tests & Analysis: Take regular XAT mock tests and evaluate your weak areas.

Why Choose Planet E for XAT 2026 Preparation?

At Planet E, we provide:

• Comprehensive Study Material aligned with the latest XAT pattern.

• Exclusive Decision-Making Workshops.

• Regular Mock Tests & Doubt Clearing Sessions.

• Expert Faculty Guidance to boost your confidence and score.

Enroll in our XAT 2026 Coaching Programs to secure your seat in India’s top B-Schools!

Key Takeaways

• XAT 2026 is a golden opportunity to join XLRI Jamshedpur and other prestigious management institutes.

• With over 250+ B-Schools accepting XAT scores, the exam opens doors to a wide range of MBA/PGDM programs.

• Start your preparation now with Planet E and increase your chances of success.

FAQs on XAT 2026

Q1. When will XAT 2026 registration begin?
Registration is expected to start in August 2025.

Q2. What is the XAT 2026 exam date?
XAT 2026 will tentatively be held on the first Sunday of January 2026.

Q3. Is there a sectional cutoff in XAT?
Yes, most top B-Schools, including XLRI, have sectional cutoffs.

Q4. Can final-year students apply?
Yes, candidates completing their graduation by June 2026 can apply.