XAT Admit Card 2026: Release Date, Download Link, Important Documents, Cut-offs
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XAT Admit Card 2026: Release Date, Download Link, Important Documents, Cut-offs

19 Dec 2025

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is one of India's most prestigious national-level entrance examinations for MBA and PGDM programs. Conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur on behalf of XAMI (Xavier Association of Management Institutes) members, the XAT exam opens doors to over 250 top business schools across India. For XAT 2026 aspirants, the XAT admit card serves as the most critical document required to appear for the examination. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the XAT admit card 2026, including release dates, download procedures, required documents, preparation strategies, and college admission insights.

XAT Admit Card 2026: Release Date and Important Dates

The XAT admit card 2026 is scheduled to be released on December 20, 2025, and will remain accessible for download until the examination day. Candidates must ensure they download their XAT admit card promptly after the release to avoid any last-minute technical issues or complications.

Key Dates for XAT 2026:

EventDate
XAT 2026 Registration Last DateDecember 11, 2025 (Extended)
XAT Admit Card Release DateDecember 20, 2025
XAT 2026 Exam DateJanuary 4, 2026 (Sunday)
XAT Exam Timing2:00 PM to 5:00 PM (IST)
Last Date to Download XAT Admit CardJanuary 4, 2026
XAT 2026 Answer Key ReleaseSecond week of January 2026
XAT 2026 Result DeclarationThird week of January 2026
XLRI Personal Interview RoundsMarch-April 2026

The XAT 2026 examination will be conducted in a single afternoon slot across 70+ cities in India through a computer-based test (CBT) format. Every year, XAT receives more than one lakh registrations from MBA aspirants throughout the country, making early XAT admit card download essential to ensure smooth exam day proceedings.

How to Download XAT Admit Card 2026: 

The XAT admit card 2026 will be available exclusively through the official XAT website. The download process is straightforward, but candidates must have their login credentials ready. Here's a comprehensive step-by-step guide to download your XAT admit card:

  • Step 1: Visit the official XAT website at xatonline.in
  • Step 2: Locate and click on the "Download Admit Card" or "Login" button on the homepage
  • Step 3: Enter your XAT User ID and Date of Birth in DD/MM/YYYY format in the required fields
  • Step 4: Click on the "Login" button to access your personalised dashboard
  • Step 5: Navigate to the "XAT Admit Card" tab or section within your account
  • Step 6: Click on the download option when your XAT admit card appears on the screen
  • Step 7: Save the XAT admit card as a PDF document on your computer or mobile device
  • Step 8: Take printouts of at least 2-3 clear copies of your XAT admit card on standard A4-size paper
  • Step 9: Affix a recent passport-size photograph (preferably with white background) that matches the one uploaded during application.
  • Step 10: Verify all details printed on your XAT admit card carefully for accuracy

The XAT admit card download window remains open from December 20, 2025, until the exam day on January 4, 2026. However, it is strongly recommended that candidates download their XAT admit card as soon as it becomes available to avoid last-minute server congestion or technical glitches. Digital copies of the XAT admit card will not be accepted at examination centers, making printed copies mandatory.

Details Mentioned on XAT Admit Card 2026

Each candidate's XAT admit card 2026 will contain comprehensive information necessary for identification and examination center verification. Before heading to the exam center, candidates must thoroughly verify the following details printed on their XAT admit card:

  • Candidate's Full Name (as per registration)

  • Recent Colored Photograph

  • Candidate's Signature

  • Date of Birth

  • Category (General/SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwD)

  • XAT User ID

  • XAT Password (in some cases)

  • XAT 2026 Examination Date

  • Examination Time Slot

  • Examination Center/Venue Address

  • Reporting Time at Examination Center

  • Important Instructions and Guidelines

  • Exam Day Protocols

Candidates must bring two copies of the XAT admit card to the examination center. One copy will be submitted to the invigilator at the beginning of the examination, while the second copy (which will be signed and stamped by the invigilator) must be retained by the candidate for future reference during the admission process. Any discrepancies or errors in the XAT admit card should be immediately reported to the XAT authorities using the contact details provided later in this article.

Required Documents for XAT 2026 Exam Day

Beyond the XAT admit card, candidates must carry specific documents and identification proofs to the examination center. Failure to present these mandatory documents may result in denial of entry to the examination hall.

Mandatory Documents to Carry

1. XAT Admit Card 2026 (Printed Copies)

Candidates must bring at least two clear printouts of their XAT admit card on A4-size paper with a recent passport-size photograph affixed to each copy. The photograph must be identical to the one uploaded during the XAT 2026 application process.

2. Valid Government-Issued Photo ID Proof

Candidates must carry one valid, original photo identification document along with a photocopy. Acceptable photo ID proofs include:

  • Aadhaar Card (UIDAI-issued)

  • PAN Card (Permanent Account Number)

  • Passport (Valid)

  • Voter ID Card (Election Commission-issued)

  • Driving License (Government-issued)

  • College/University ID Card (with proper documentation from the institution)

  • Employer ID Card (for working professionals, with official letter)

The name and date of birth on the photo ID must match exactly with the details printed on the XAT admit card.

3. Recent Passport-Sized Photographs

Bring 2-3 additional recent passport-size photographs (same as uploaded during application) with a white background for verification and documentation purposes.

4. Signature Specimen

Candidates should carry a signature specimen on white paper with black ink, matching the signature on their XAT admit card.

Additional Documents (If Applicable)

For Candidates with Special Needs:

  • Authorisation Form issued by XAT authorities (if requesting scribe or other accommodations)

  • Medical Certificate from authorised medical board (for candidates with disabilities)

  • Scribe Affidavit (notarised, if using scribe services)

  • PwD Certificate issued by a competent medical authority

Items Strictly Prohibited at XAT Exam Centres

To maintain examination integrity and security standards, the following items are strictly prohibited inside XAT examination centres:

  • Mobile phones, smartphones, or any communication devices

  • Smartwatches, fitness bands, or any wearable electronic devices

  • Calculators (electronic or manual)

  • Study materials, notes, books, or guides

  • Bluetooth devices, earphones, or headphones

  • Cameras or recording devices

  • Wallets, purses, or bags (except small transparent pouches)

  • Stationery items (provided by the examination centre)

  • Food items or water bottles (may be allowed in designated areas)

Candidates found with any prohibited items will be disqualified from the examination. It is advisable to avoid bringing valuable items to the examination centre altogether.

XAT Admit Card 2026: Error Correction Process

The XAT conducting authorities provide a dedicated correction window for candidates who identify errors or discrepancies in their application details. For XAT 2026, the correction window was available from November 25, 2025 (9:00 AM) to November 27, 2025 (9:00 AM). This two-day window allowed candidates to rectify mistakes in their registration forms before final admit card generation.

Editable Fields During Correction Window

During the XAT correction window, candidates could modify the following details:

  • Academic marks and educational qualifications

  • Work experience details

  • Photograph and signature uploads

  • Examination city/center preferences

  • Personal information verification

How to Correct Errors in XAT Application

If candidates identify errors during the correction window, they should follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Visit the official XAT website at xatonline.in
  • Step 2: Click on "Login" under the applicant section
  • Step 3: Enter your registered email ID and password
  • Step 4: Navigate to the designated correction section
  • Step 5: Make necessary changes to incorrect information
  • Step 6: Recheck all updated information carefully
  • Step 7: Save and submit the changes before the deadline
  • Step 8: Take a confirmation screenshot for your records

What to Do If Errors Appear on XAT Admit Card

If candidates discover errors on their downloaded XAT admit card after the correction window has closed, they should immediately contact XAT authorities through the following channels:

Email Support:

Telephone Support:

  • Toll-Free Number: 1800 209 0835 (operational daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM)

  • Direct Phone: +91-657-665-3203 / 3204 / 3205

Fax Support:

  • +91-657-2227814

When reporting errors, candidates should include their XAT User ID, complete details of the discrepancy, and supporting documents (if applicable). The XAT administration team typically responds within 24-48 hours and provides guidance on rectification procedures.

XAT 2026 Exam Preparation Tips: How to Crack XAT

With the XAT admit card release approaching, candidates should focus on strategic preparation to maximize their examination performance. XAT is known for its unique Decision Making section and comprehensive assessment across multiple domains.

Understanding XAT 2026 Exam Pattern

The XAT 2026 examination comprises two parts with a total duration of 180 minutes (3 hours):

Part A (170 minutes):

  • Verbal & Logical Ability (VALR): 26 questions

  • Decision Making (DM): 22 questions

  • Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation (QADI): 28 questions

  • Total Part A: 76 questions, 75 marks

Part B (10 minutes):

  • General Knowledge (GK): 20 questions, 20 marks

Marking Scheme:

  • Correct Answer: +1 mark

  • Incorrect Answer: -0.25 marks (negative marking)

  • Unattempted Questions: -0.10 marks (penalty applies after 8 unattempted questions)

Section-Wise XAT Preparation Strategy

Verbal & Logical Ability (VALR) Preparation

The VALR section typically dominates the XAT question paper with Reading Comprehension forming the major component. To excel in this section:

  • Read Daily: Dedicate time to reading business articles, editorials from reputed publications, and occasionally poems to develop better comprehension skills and vocabulary

  • Grammar Mastery: Focus on articles, subject-verb agreement, conjunctions, and sentence correction fundamentals

  • Vocabulary Building: Use flashcards, mobile applications, or systematic word lists to learn 10-15 new words daily

  • Critical Reasoning Practice: Develop skills to recognize assumptions, strengthen/weaken arguments, and identify logical flaws

  • Target Attempts: Aim for 16-18 questions with 70% accuracy for competitive scores

Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation (QADI) Preparation

The QADI section is consistently reported as the most challenging section in XAT examinations. Key preparation strategies include:

  • Core Topics Focus: Strengthen fundamentals in Number System, Arithmetic (percentages, profit-loss, time-speed-distance), Algebra, Geometry, and Mensuration

  • Data Interpretation Practice: Work extensively on calculation-heavy DI sets including graphs, pie charts, tables, and caselets

  • Time Management: This section demands excellent time allocation skills due to complex calculations and lengthy problems

  • Formula Mastery: Create formula sheets for quick revision and memorize essential mathematical formulas

  • Selective Attempts: Given the high difficulty level, attempt questions strategically rather than attempting all questions

Decision Making (DM) Preparation

Decision Making is XAT's unique differentiator and often the highest-scoring section for well-prepared candidates:

  • Case Study Practice: Regularly solve decision-making case studies involving ethical dilemmas, business scenarios, and moral reasoning

  • Previous Year Analysis: Study XAT previous year DM questions to understand question patterns and expected reasoning frameworks

  • Logical Approach: Develop a structured approach to analyze situations, evaluate alternatives, and select the most appropriate decision

  • Moderate Difficulty: DM questions range from easy to moderate, making this section highly scoring with proper practice

General Knowledge (GK) Preparation

The GK section offers a significant advantage as it carries no negative marking:

  • Current Affairs Coverage: Focus on events from the last 6-12 months, including business news, sports, awards, politics, and international affairs

  • Static GK: Cover important topics like Indian Constitution, geography, historical events, and general science

  • Daily Reading: Spend 20-30 minutes daily reading newspapers and current affairs compilations

  • Attempt All Questions: Since there's no negative marking in GK, attempt every question to maximize your score

General XAT Preparation Guidelines

Foundation Building (4-6 Months Before Exam):

  • Complete comprehensive syllabus coverage across all sections

  • Build strong conceptual foundations in quantitative topics

  • Develop reading habits for verbal ability enhancement

  • Take diagnostic tests to identify strengths and weaknesses

  • Gather quality study materials and XAT preparation books

Advanced Preparation (2-4 Months Before Exam):

  • Intensive practice on decision-making case studies

  • Speed building exercises for Quant and VALR sections

  • Regular mock test practice (bi-weekly comprehensive tests)

  • Current affairs compilation for GK preparation

  • Join online study groups or coaching programs

Final Phase Preparation (Last Month Before Exam):

  • Daily Mock Tests: Take full-length XAT mock tests under real examination conditions

  • Revision Focus: Prioritize revision of formulas, concepts, and strategies over learning new topics

  • Vocabulary Enhancement: Continue adding 10-15 new words to your vocabulary daily

  • Decision Making Refinement: Practice DM questions extensively, as this is XAT's signature section

  • Avoid New Topics: Refrain from starting new chapters or concepts in the last 15 days

  • Stress Management: Maintain adequate sleep, engage in light physical activities, and stay calm​

XAT Exam Day Strategy and Do's & Don'ts

Do's for XAT Exam Day:

  • Report to the examination center at least 60 minutes before the scheduled exam time

  • Carry all mandatory documents including XAT admit card and valid photo ID proof

  • Read all instructions on the question paper carefully before starting

  • Maintain confidence and stay calm throughout the examination

  • Double-check answers before final submission, especially for negative marking sections

  • Use the flexibility of non-sectional time limits strategically based on your strengths

  • Attempt GK section questions even if unsure (no negative marking)

  • Keep a backup plan for unexpected technical issues or time management challenges

Don'ts for XAT Exam Day:

  • Don't carry any prohibited electronic devices or gadgets to the examination center​

  • Avoid studying new topics or concepts on exam day

  • Don't panic if you find certain sections difficult; focus on your strong areas first

  • Avoid random guessing in sections with negative marking

  • Don't waste excessive time on difficult questions; move forward strategically

  • Avoid unnecessary stress or anxiety; trust your preparation

XAT Previous Year Papers and Difficulty Level Analysis

Analyzing XAT previous year papers provides crucial insights into examination trends, difficulty patterns, and question types. Here's a comprehensive analysis of recent XAT examinations:

XAT 2025 Exam Analysis

Overall Difficulty Level: Moderate

The XAT 2025 examination showed significant changes in paper pattern compared to previous years, with moderately balanced difficulty across sections.

Section-Wise Difficulty Assessment:

Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning (VALR):

  • Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

  • Key Features: Dominated by Reading Comprehension passages with more doable questions than previous years

  • RC Topics: Arts, psychology, business, and social issues

  • Other Questions: Para-jumbles (moderate), critical reasoning, vocabulary-based questions

  • Good Attempts: 16-18 questions with high accuracy

Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation (QADI):

  • Difficulty Level: High (Most challenging section)

  • Key Features: Number System dominated, calculation-heavy Data Interpretation sets

  • Topics: Number System (majority), Arithmetic (reduced), Geometry, Mensuration

  • DI Sets: 4 sets with 3 questions each, requiring significant calculation time

  • Challenge: Time management was critical due to lengthy and complex problems

Decision Making (DM):

  • Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

  • Key Features: Straightforward scenarios, logical and ethical dilemmas

  • Scoring Potential: Highest scoring section for well-prepared candidates

  • Strategy: Most students found this section time-efficient and manageable

General Knowledge (GK):

  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to High

  • Topics: Geography, polity, science & technology, current affairs, sports, awards

  • Advantage: No negative marking, allowing all questions to be attempted

XAT Historical Difficulty Trends (2021-2024)

XAT 2024 Difficulty Analysis:

  • Overall: Moderate to Difficult

  • VALR: Easy to Moderate (RC passages were manageable)

  • QADI: Difficult (high complexity in Quant section)

  • DM: Moderate

  • Good Score Range: 36-37 marks for 95+ percentile

XAT 2022 Difficulty Analysis:

  • Overall: Moderate to High

  • QADI: High difficulty with 28 questions dominated by DI (4 sets with 12 questions)

  • Number System: 7 questions of moderate difficulty

  • Overall doability was challenging for average candidates

XAT 2021 Difficulty Analysis:

  • Overall: Moderate to Difficult

  • QADI: Most difficult section (22 Quant questions, 6 DI questions)

  • VALR: Difficulty level increased from previous year

  • DM: Easiest section to solve

  • Data Interpretation: Lengthy questions required extra time

XAT 2017 Difficulty Analysis:

  • Overall: Moderate to High difficulty level

  • VALR: Low to Moderate (26 questions)

  • DM & Analytical Reasoning: Moderate to High (22 questions)

  • QADI: High difficulty (27 questions)

  • GK: Moderate (25 questions)

  • Quantitative Ability was comparatively harder while Verbal was slightly easier

Key Takeaways from Previous Year Analysis

  1. QADI Consistently Challenging: The Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation section has consistently been the most difficult across multiple years

  2. VALR Relatively Manageable: Verbal and Logical Ability sections, especially Reading Comprehension, remain moderately accessible with proper preparation

  3. Decision Making - XAT's Strength: The unique Decision Making section offers scoring opportunities for candidates who practice systematically

  4. Time Management Critical: With 180 minutes for Part A and variable difficulty levels, strategic time allocation is essential

  5. Sectional Balance Required: Candidates must maintain minimum sectional cutoffs alongside overall scores for top B-school admissions

XAT Score vs Percentile Analysis 2025

Understanding the relationship between raw scores and percentile rankings is crucial for setting realistic targets and planning college applications. The XAT score vs percentile analysis helps candidates assess their performance and admission prospects at various B-schools.

Overall XAT Score vs Percentile Mapping

Based on historical trends and XAT 2025 analysis, here's the expected score-to-percentile conversion:

XAT Raw ScoreExpected Percentile
47 and above99+ percentile
42-4696-98 percentile
40-4294-95 percentile
38-4090-93 percentile
36-3885-89 percentile
32-3680-84 percentile
28-3275-79 percentile
24-2870-74 percentile

Key Insights:

  • A score of 38-40 marks typically translates to 99 percentile

  • Scoring 36+ marks generally results in 85+ percentile

  • Top 1% performers (99+ percentile) usually score 47+ marks

Sectional Score vs Percentile Analysis

Beyond overall scores, sectional performance significantly impacts B-school shortlisting, especially for premier institutes like XLRI.

Verbal & Logical Ability (VALR) Section:

VALR ScorePercentile
18+99.9
16-1899.5
14-1699
11-1495
9-1190
8-985
7-880

Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation (QADI) Section:

QADI ScorePercentile
21+99.9
19-2199.5
15-1999
11-1595
9-1190
8-985
7-880

Decision Making (DM) Section:

DM ScorePercentile
18+99.9
16-1899.5
14-1699
10-1495
9-1090
8-985
7-880

Factors Influencing Score vs Percentile

Several factors determine the final score-to-percentile conversion in XAT:

  1. Exam Difficulty Level: Higher difficulty generally results in lower cutoffs and more favorable percentile conversions

  2. Total Number of Test Takers: With over 1.35 lakh candidates, competition intensity affects percentile distributions

  3. Score Normalization: XAT employs normalization procedures to ensure fairness across examination sessions

  4. Sectional Performance: Balanced sectional scores are valued more than extreme variations

  5. Previous Year Percentile Trends: Historical data provides guidance for expected conversions

Top B-Schools Accepting XAT Scores: Tier-Wise Classification

Over 1000 business schools across India accept XAT scores for MBA/PGDM admissions. This section provides a comprehensive tier-wise analysis of top colleges, including cutoffs, fees, placement statistics, and key differentiators.

Tier 1 XAT Colleges (95-98 Percentile Required)

Tier 1 institutions represent India's premier business schools with exceptional academic rigor, outstanding placement records, and strong industry connections.

1. XLRI - Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur

ParameterDetails
NIRF Ranking 202510
XAT Cutoff Range95-98 percentile (30-33 marks)
BM Program Cutoff (Male Engineers)96 percentile
BM Program Cutoff (Female Engineers)91 percentile
HRM Program Cutoff (Male)95 percentile
HRM Program Cutoff (Female)90 percentile
Total Course Fees₹23.15-25.80 Lakh
Average Package₹29.89-32.70 LPA
Highest Package₹75.00 LPA
Median Package₹28-29 LPA
Placement Rate100%

XLRI Jamshedpur is India's most prestigious XAT-accepting institution and among the top 10 MBA colleges nationally. The institute maintains distinct sectional cutoffs for Business Management and Human Resource Management programs, with gender-based and academic background-based variations.

XLRI Sectional Cutoffs for Business Management (Male Engineers):

  • Verbal Ability: 75+ percentile

  • Decision Making: 90+ percentile

  • Quantitative Ability: 85+ percentile

  • Overall: 96 percentile

2. XLRI Delhi-NCR Campus

ParameterDetails
XAT Cutoff80+ percentile
Total Course FeesSimilar to Jamshedpur campus
Average Package₹27.04 LPA
Highest Package₹32.70 LPA

The Delhi-NCR campus offers similar academic quality with slightly different cutoff patterns.

3. XIM University (formerly XIMB), Bhubaneswar

ParameterDetails
NIRF Ranking 202571.5
XAT Cutoff Range91-95 percentile
Total Course Fees₹9.90-22.00 Lakh
Average Package₹19.53-20.03 LPA
Highest Package₹30.00 LPA
Key StrengthEthics, sustainability, and inclusive leadership focus

XIM University has rapidly emerged as a top contender in business education with excellent placement outcomes and a values-driven curriculum.

4. IMT Ghaziabad - Institute of Management Technology

ParameterDetails
NIRF Ranking 202534-35
XAT Cutoff Range90-92 percentile
PGDM Total Fees₹20.30-21.53 Lakh
Average Package (2025)₹16.25-17.35 LPA
Highest Package (2025)₹41.55 LPA
Placement Rate100%
Total Recruiters90+ companies

IMT Ghaziabad offers exceptional return on investment with consistently strong placement records and comprehensive industry exposure.

5. MICA - Mudra Institute of Communications, Ahmedabad

ParameterDetails
XAT Cutoff Range90-94 percentile
Total PGP Fees₹23.00 Lakh
Average Package (2025)₹19.22 LPA
Highest Package (2025)₹40.91 LPA
Median Package₹18.00 LPA
Placement Rate100%
Total Recruiters (2025)92 companies
SpecializationStrategic Marketing & Communications

MICA is India's premier institute for marketing and communications education, offering unparalleled expertise in strategic brand management.

6. KJ Somaiya Institute of Management, Mumbai

ParameterDetails
NIRF Ranking 202551
XAT Cutoff Range83-89 percentile (XAT: 70-73)
Total MBA Fees₹14.14-22.32 Lakh
Average Package (2025)₹12.28-12.79 LPA
Highest Package (2025)₹22.50-27.25 LPA
MBA Intake600 seats
Key AdvantageMumbai location, extensive industry networking

KJ Somaiya offers diverse specializations including Finance, Marketing, HR, Operations, IT, Healthcare, and Sports Management with excellent Mumbai-based placement opportunities.

7. IMI Delhi - International Management Institute

ParameterDetails
XAT Cutoff Range90-93 percentile
Total PGDM Fees₹20.19-20.95 Lakh
Average Package₹17.01 LPA
Highest Package₹50.00 LPA
Key StrengthEstablished legacy, strong industry connections

IMI Delhi offers robust MBA programs with exceptional placement support and comprehensive industry mentorship.

Tier 2 XAT Colleges (75-90 Percentile Required)

Tier 2 institutions offer excellent MBA education with strong placements and more accessible cutoffs compared to Tier 1 colleges.

8. TAPMI Manipal - T.A. Pai Management Institute

ParameterDetails
XAT Cutoff80-89 percentile (XAT: 85)
Total PGDM Fees₹8.67-13.99 Lakh
Average Package (2025)₹13.84-13.99 LPA
Highest Package (2025)₹32.02-32.77 LPA
Placement Rate100%
Students Placed (2025)368
Top 50 Students Average₹20+ LPA
Top RecruitersAdani, Airtel, Axis Bank, ITC, Dabur

TAPMI Manipal combines academic excellence with strong industry partnerships, offering exceptional value for investment.

9. GIM Goa - Goa Institute of Management

ParameterDetails
NIRF Ranking 202555
XAT Cutoff85-91 percentile (XAT: 80+)
CAT Cutoff90 percentile
Total PGDM Fees₹12.48 Lakh
Average Package₹14.72 LPA
Highest Package₹55.00 LPA
Unique FeatureBeach campus, tourism & hospitality focus

GIM Goa offers a distinctive learning environment with specialized programs and strong placement outcomes.

10. Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai

ParameterDetails
XAT Cutoff85-92 percentile
Total Fees₹19.95-22.50 Lakh
Average Package₹15.73-17.30 LPA
Highest Package₹37.00 LPA
ProgramsTwo-year PGDM for freshers, One-year PGPM for professionals
Key StrengthWorld-class faculty, global perspectives

Great Lakes offers cutting-edge curriculum with emphasis on leadership, innovation, and international business practices.

11. LIBA Chennai - Loyola Institute of Business Administration

ParameterDetails
XAT Cutoff75-80 percentile
Total Fees₹3.71 Lakh
Key AdvantageLow fees, Jesuit values, strong ethics focus

LIBA offers affordable MBA education with strong placement support and values-driven curriculum.

12. BIMTECH - Birla Institute of Management Technology, Greater Noida

ParameterDetails
NIRF Ranking 202552
XAT Cutoff75-85 percentile
Total PGDM Fees₹14.00 Lakh
Average Package₹11.70 LPA
Highest Package₹23.43 LPA

BIMTECH provides comprehensive management education with strong industry interface.

13. XIME Bangalore - Xavier Institute of Management & Entrepreneurship

ParameterDetails
XAT Cutoff70-83 percentile
Total PGDM Fees₹11.50-12.50 Lakh
Average Package₹10.45 LPA
Highest Package₹16.00 LPA
FocusEntrepreneurship and innovation

XIME emphasizes entrepreneurial thinking alongside management fundamentals.

14. BIM Trichy - Bharathidasan Institute of Management

ParameterDetails
XAT Cutoff75-81 percentile
Total Fees₹12.86-14.50 Lakh
Average Package₹11.40 LPA
Highest Package₹13.50 LPA

BIM Trichy offers quality management education with strong South India placement connections.

15. FORE School of Management, Delhi

ParameterDetails
XAT Cutoff86-88 percentile
Total PGDM Fees₹18.27 Lakh
Average Package₹13.50 LPA
Highest Package₹70.00 LPA
Key StrengthDelhi NCR location, strong corporate ties

FORE School provides excellent industry exposure with robust placement outcomes.

16. Welingkar Institute of Management, Mumbai

ParameterDetails
XAT Cutoff75-80 percentile
Total Fees₹7.00 Lakh
Average Package₹12.47 LPA
Highest Package₹24.00 LPA
Key AdvantageAffordable fees, Mumbai advantage

Welingkar offers cost-effective MBA education with strong placement support.

17. KIIT School of Management, Bhubaneswar

ParameterDetails
XAT Cutoff75-76 percentile
Total Fees₹16.90 Lakh
Average Package₹9.00-9.50 LPA

KIIT provides comprehensive management education within a large university ecosystem.

Tier 3 & Low-Cutoff XAT Colleges (60-75 Percentile)

18. IMT Nagpur

  • Cutoff: 73-80 percentile

  • Total Fees: ₹13.80 Lakh

  • Average Package: ₹10.81 LPA

19. IMI Kolkata

  • Cutoff: 74-76 percentile

  • Total Fees: ₹9.75 Lakh

  • Average Package: ₹10.65 LPA

20. Woxsen University

  • Cutoff: 71-73 percentile

  • Total Fees: ₹12.45-13.90 Lakh

  • Average Package: ₹8.60-9.30 LPA

21. XISS Ranchi

  • Cutoff: 70-75 percentile

  • Total Fees: ₹9.65 Lakh

  • Focus: Social values and rural management

22. IFMR GSB, Krea University

  • Cutoff: 75-80 percentile

  • Total Fees: ₹14.50 Lakh

  • Focus: Finance and quantitative management

Low-Fee MBA Colleges Accepting XAT Scores

For candidates seeking affordable MBA education, several quality institutions offer programs under ₹5 lakh:

College NameTotal Fees
School of Management Sciences, Varanasi₹3.48 Lakh
LIBA Chennai₹3.71 Lakh
ITS Ghaziabad₹3.00 Lakh
Abasaheb Garware Institute, Pune₹90,500
Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute₹78,000
Calcutta University₹33,000
Ranchi University₹5,550

Tier-Wise Comparison Summary Table

TierRepresentative CollegesXAT Cutoff RangeFee RangeAverage Package Range
Tier 1XLRI, XIMB, IMT, MICA90-98 percentile₹18-27 Lakh₹15-32 LPA
Tier 2TAPMI, GIM, Great Lakes, LIBA75-90 percentile₹8-20 Lakh₹9-17 LPA
Tier 3IMT Nagpur, IMI Kolkata, XISS60-75 percentile₹6-14 Lakh₹7-11 LPA

XAT 2026 Result and Scorecard Information

After completing the XAT 2026 examination on January 4, 2026, candidates eagerly await their results and scorecards for B-school applications.

XAT Result Declaration Timeline

Expected XAT 2026 Result Date: Third week of January 2026 (tentatively around January 20-25, 2026)

Important Result-Related Dates:

EventTimeline
XAT 2026 Exam DateJanuary 4, 2026
Response Sheet/Answer Key ReleaseSecond week of January 2026
XAT 2026 Result DeclarationThird week of January 2026
Scorecard Download AvailabilityThird week of March 2026 (tentative)
GD-PI-WAT RoundsFebruary-March 2026
XLRI Final SelectionsMarch-April 2026

XLRI and the XAT Secretariat typically announce results two to three weeks after the examination, following answer key release and normalization procedures.

How to Check XAT 2026 Result

Candidates can download their XAT scorecard by following these steps:

  • Step 1: Visit the official website at xatonline.in
  • Step 2: Look for the "XAT 2026 Result" or "Download Scorecard" link
  • Step 3: Click on the result link (usually active from 10:00 AM on result day)
  • Step 4: Enter your XAT User ID and password/date of birth
  • Step 5: Click "Submit" or "Login" to access your result
  • Step 6: View your comprehensive scorecard with section-wise and overall scores
  • Step 7: Download and save the XAT scorecard PDF for future reference
  • Step 8: Take multiple printouts for application submissions to various B-schools

What's Included in XAT Scorecard

The XAT scorecard provides comprehensive performance analysis:

  • Personal Details: Name, Date of Birth, XAT ID, Category

  • Overall Score: Total marks obtained out of 100

  • Overall Percentile: Relative ranking among all test-takers

  • Section-Wise Scores: Individual marks in VALR, DM, QADI, and GK

  • Section-Wise Percentiles: Percentile for each section

  • Validity Period: XAT scores typically valid for current admission cycle only

Important Note: XAT scorecard download windows are time-bound. Candidates must download and save their scorecards during the availability period, as retrieval may not be possible after deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions About XAT Admit Card 2026

Q1: When will the XAT admit card 2026 be released?

The XAT admit card 2026 will be released on December 20, 2025, and will remain available for download until the exam day on January 4, 2026.

Q2: How can I download my XAT admit card?

Visit xatonline.in, click on "Download Admit Card," enter your XAT User ID and Date of Birth, and download the PDF. Print at least 2 copies on A4 paper.

Q3: What documents do I need to carry along with the XAT admit card?

You must carry the XAT admit card (2 printed copies), a valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License), recent passport-size photographs, and your signature specimen.

Q4: What should I do if there are errors on my XAT admit card?

Immediately contact XAT helpdesk at 1800 209 0835 or email xatadministration@xlri.ac.in with your XAT ID and error details. Provide supporting documents if required.

Q5: Is a digital copy of the XAT admit card acceptable?

No, digital copies of the XAT admit card are not acceptable. You must carry printed copies on A4-size paper.

Q6: Can I edit my XAT application after the admit card is released?

The correction window for XAT 2026 was November 25-27, 2025. After admit card release, contact XAT authorities immediately for critical errors.

Q7: What is the XAT 2026 exam pattern?

XAT 2026 consists of two parts: Part A (170 minutes) with 76 questions covering VALR, DM, and QADI; Part B (10 minutes) with 20 GK questions. Total duration is 180 minutes.

Q8: What is a good score in XAT 2026?

A score of 38-40 marks typically translates to 99 percentile. For admission to XLRI, candidates generally need 30-33 marks (95-98 percentile).

Q9: What is the XAT cutoff for XLRI?

XLRI Jamshedpur's XAT cutoff for Business Management is 96 percentile for male engineers and 91 for female engineers. For HRM, it's 95 percentile for males and 90 for females.

Q10: When will XAT 2026 results be announced?

XAT 2026 results are expected to be declared in the third week of January 2026, approximately 2-3 weeks after the exam.

Q11: Which are the top colleges accepting XAT scores?

Top colleges include XLRI Jamshedpur (NIRF Rank 10), XIM University Bhubaneswar, IMT Ghaziabad (NIRF Rank 35), MICA Ahmedabad, KJ Somaiya Mumbai, and over 1000 other B-schools across India.

Q12: What items are prohibited in the XAT exam center?

Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, study materials, electronic devices, cameras, and bags are strictly prohibited. Candidates found with prohibited items will be disqualified.

Conclusion: Your Roadmap to XAT Success

The XAT admit card is your gateway to one of India's most prestigious MBA entrance examinations and subsequently to top business schools across the country. With the XAT admit card 2026 releasing on December 20, 2025, candidates must ensure timely download, thorough verification of details, and preparation of all mandatory documents.

This comprehensive guide has covered all essential aspects of the XAT admit card, including release dates, download procedures, required documents, exam preparation strategies, previous year analysis, score vs percentile insights, and detailed information about top XAT-accepting colleges. Success in XAT requires a combination of conceptual clarity, strategic preparation, consistent practice, and calm exam execution.

As you approach the XAT 2026 examination, remember to:

  • Download your XAT admit card immediately upon release

  • Verify all details carefully and report any discrepancies promptly

  • Prepare all mandatory documents well in advance

  • Follow section-wise preparation strategies systematically

  • Take regular mock tests to build exam temperament

  • Maintain sectional balance while maximizing overall score

  • Stay updated with current affairs for the GK section

  • Remain calm and confident on exam day

With over 250 top B-schools accepting XAT scores and excellent career prospects awaiting successful candidates, your dedication and strategic preparation will open doors to transformative management education opportunities. Best wishes for your XAT 2026 journey!

Important Reminder: Keep your XAT admit card, valid photo ID, and all necessary documents ready. Report to your examination center 60 minutes before the scheduled time. Stay focused, trust your preparation, and give your best performance!

For the latest updates on XAT admit card, results, and admissions, regularly visit the official website at xatonline.in.

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Last updated: 19 Dec 2025

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