XAT 2026 Syllabus, Exam Pattern & Preparation Guide
The GK portion is not included in the percentile calculation but contributes significantly towards the final selection by XLRI. For preparation, the candidates must know the syllabus thoroughly, practice mock tests from time to time, enhance decision-making skills and keep themselves aware of current affairs to succeed in XAT 2026.
XAT 2026 Exam Pattern
The XAT 2026 test will be conducted online and will have 95 multiple-choice questions over four core sections. The overall exam time is 180 minutes (3 hours) and the questions will be asked in English. There will also be a mock keyboard testing round in the paper. The table below provides further information about the exam pattern:
An Overview of the Syllabus for the XAT Exam 2026
XAT 2025 Syllabus: Section of General Knowledge
XAT 2025 Syllabus: Section of Verbal and Logical Ability
XAT 2025 Syllabus: Section of Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation
XAT Syllabus: Section of Decision-Making
Strategy for XAT 2026 Preparation
To do well on the XAT 2026 students are encouraged to study for the crucial Verbal Ability, Decision-Making and Quantitative Ability portions. Though the General Knowledge section is not included in your percentile it plays a significant role at the time of admissions so do not neglect it.
Familiarise Yourself with the Exam Pattern & Syllabus: Start by familiarising yourself with the XAT exam pattern and syllabus. Knowing the number of questions that are given in each section will enable you to decide how much time to spend on each topic.
Practice the DM portion consistently: Only the XAT exam has the DM portion. Practice daily based on case studies and previous year's practice questions to realise the type of logic and reasoning needed.
Improve Verbal Skills: Improve your comprehension and reasoning by reading various articles, editorials and books. Regular practice of reading comprehension passages, grammar and logical reasoning questions.
Improve Quant Concepts: Improve your basics in arithmetic, algebra, geometry and other core math concepts. Practice on a daily basis and give timed tests to improve speed and accuracy.
Stay Up-to-Date with GK: Update yourself with the general awareness, current affairs and stay informed in topics like business, economy and international affairs.
Mock Tests are a Necessity: Keep taking mock tests to get accustomed to the pattern of the test. Go through errors after each mock and enhance time management and weak areas.
Take Care of Your Mind: Don't let examination stress overwhelm you. Stay relaxed with an even schedule, insert breaks, hobbies like music or light exercise to stay refreshed.
FAQs
No, GK is not applied for percentile but is taken into account at final selection by XLRI only.
Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary, Critical Reasoning, Para Jumbles and Logical Reasoning.
This section provides brief caselets where candidates need to make logical and moral decisions with no theory required.
Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number systems, data interpretation, modern maths and statistics are the main parts of XAT QA syllabus.
Indeed. For every wrong response 0.25 points are subtracted. Also after 8 unattempted questions, 0.10 marks are deducted for each next question.
