The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 has announced that its official mock test window will be open from October 29, 2025 (12:00 PM) to November 1, 2025 (12:00 PM). Designed to help aspirants familiarise themselves with the test format and improve exam-day readiness, the mock test replicates the actual XAT exam experience in both structure and timing. During this period, candidates will be able to access multiple mock tests to practice extensively.
To participate, applicants must submit their XAT 2026 application by October 26, 2025. Candidates who meet this deadline can log in to their dashboards on the official website — www.xatonline.in — click on the “Mock Test” tab, and select “Sign In” to begin.
“With the upcoming mock test window, aspirants will get the opportunity to evaluate their preparation, strengthen their performance strategies, help candidates gauge their readiness, manage time effectively, and gain confidence before the actual exam.” shared Dr. Rahul Shukla, Convenor for XAT and Admissions at XLRI Jamshedpur.
As per the XAT 2026 exam structure, the mock test comprises four core sections — Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning (VALR), Decision Making (DM), Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation (QA & DI) and General Knowledge (GK). The total duration of the mock test is three hours, mirroring the actual exam format. Each question carries one mark, with 95 questions expected. For every incorrect answer, 0.25 marks will be deducted. The General Knowledge section, however, does not have negative marking. Additionally, negative marks awarded for each un-attempted question after 8 un-attempted questions: -0.10 marks
The mock test serves as an essential preparation tool, offering multiple advantages for candidates aiming to excel in XAT 2026:
- Familiarity with Exam Pattern: Understands question types, difficulty levels, and section-wise weightage
- Self-Assessment: Helps identify strong and weak areas for targeted improvement
- Time Management Practice: Builds pacing strategies to balance accuracy with speed
- Confidence Boost: Simulates real-time test conditions to reduce exam anxiety
- Decision-Making Focus: Enhances judgment skills essential for XAT’s unique Decision-Making section
Candidates applying for XAT 2026 must hold a Bachelor’s degree of at least three years’ duration in any discipline. Students currently in their final year of graduation are also eligible, provided they complete their final examinations by June 12, 2026. There is no minimum percentage requirement to appear for the test.
Application Process for XAT 2026
The XAT 2026 application process is entirely online through www.xatonline.in.
Steps to Register:
- Visit the website and register as a new user by entering your name, email address, and mobile number
- Receive your User ID and password on your registered email and mobile
- Log in using these credentials to complete the application form, fill in academic and work experience details, select preferred test cities, and upload a photograph, signature, and valid ID proof
- Pay the application fee online to complete the process and save the confirmation page for future reference
The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT), conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur on behalf of XAMI members for over 75 years, is one of India’s most trusted national-level entrance exams for admission to MBA/PGDM programs. With its distinctive emphasis on decision-making, analytical reasoning, and real-world problem-solving, XAT identifies future business leaders who go beyond academic excellence. The exam is accepted by over 250 premier B-Schools and conducted in 100+ test cities across India, making it one of the country’s most comprehensive and accessible management entrance tests.
For more information, visit – https://www.xatonline.in
