XAT Exam 2027

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is the second most popular MBA entrance exam in India, after CAT, for MBA admission in top B-schools. XAT is conducted annually in January, around 1.5 to 2 months after CAT, by XLRI – Xavier School of Management.

The XAT score is accepted by leading institutes such as XIM University (XIMB), IMT Ghaziabad, Great Lakes Institute of Management, and TAPMI.

What sets XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test) apart from CAT is its unique Decision Making section, along with Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability, and General Knowledge, making XAT a true test of managerial and analytical thinking.

Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 Eligibility Criteria: Qualification, Minimum Marks & Age Limit

You must have a Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years) in any discipline from a recognized university or institution, or an equivalent qualification.

 Educational Qualification

• Bachelor’s Degree: Minimum 3-year duration (or equivalent) from a recognized university.
• Final Year / Awaiting Result: Candidates in the final year are eligible, provided all examinations and requirements are completed by June 10, 2026.

Minimum Marks Required in Graduation for XAT 2026

• XAT Exam: No minimum percentage is prescribed by XLRI for appearing in XAT.
• Participating B-schools: May prescribe their own minimum marks (commonly 50% for General/OBC and 45% for SC/ST/PwD).

Age Limit for XAT 2026

• No age limit. Candidates of any age can apply if other criteria are met.
  
  

Special Qualifications

• Candidates with professional qualifications such as CA, CS, or ICWA are eligible, subject to meeting graduation equivalency requirements.

Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 Exam Pattern, Sections & Marking Scheme

The XAT 2026 exam is structured to test aptitude, decision-making, and accuracy. Unlike CAT, XAT also penalizes excessive unattempted questions. The total test duration is 180 minutes (3 hours).

XAT 2026 Question Types & Marking

The exam consists of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) only.

XAT 2026 Exam Pattern: Section-Wise Questions & Time

The exam is divided into two parts.

 It must be noted that the XAT score is based only on the VALR, DM, and QA & DI sections. The GK section score is used only at the final merit list stage by the colleges, along with the academic profile, work experience, and diversity points, particularly by XLRI.

XAT Exam Selection Process: Step-by-Step Admission Procedure

Round 1: Colleges shortlist candidates for the admission process based on either the XAT score alone or a composite score, which is calculated on the basis of the following:

• XAT Score: Only the VALR, DM, and QA & DI sections are considered for percentile calculation and shortlisting. The GK section is not used for shortlisting.
• Academic Profile: Marks in Class 10, Class 12, and graduation are assigned predefined weightage.
• Work Experience: Points are awarded based on the duration and relevance of work experience.
• Diversity Factors: Academic background and gender diversity may carry additional weightage, depending on the institute.

Each institute assigns different weightage to these components while calculating the composite score.

Round 2: GD / WAT / PI Process

Shortlisted candidates are called for Round 2, which may include GD, WAT, and PI, or PI only, depending on the institute. Performance in these stages is evaluated along with the academic profile, work experience, and diversity factors.

• GK Score Usage: The GK section score is used here at the final merit list stage, not for shortlisting. This is especially applicable in the case of XLRI.

Based on XAT score, GD/WAT/PI performance, GK score, academic profile, work experience, and diversity points, a final composite score is prepared, and the merit list is announced.