XAT 2026 Registration Process: Online Form, Fees and Eligibility
The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 is a prestigious national-level entrance exam for admission into top MBA and PGDM programs in India, including XLRI Jamshedpur, XIMB, IMT, TAPMI, and other leading business schools. Understanding the XAT application process is crucial for a smooth registration experience and timely submission of your application.
This guide covers everything from registration, document uploads, payment, correction window, and post-submission steps.
Table of Contents
Important Dates for XAT 2026 Application
| Event | Tentative Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 10 July 2025 |
| Application Last Date (Original) | 5 December 2025 |
| Extended Deadline | Early December 2025 |
| Application Correction Window | Mid-October 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | 20 December 2025 |
| XAT Exam Date | 4 January 2026 (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM) |
Candidates should apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues and ensure ample time for corrections if needed.
Step-by-Step XAT 2026 Application Process
Step 1: Registration
Visit the official XAT portal.
Click on “Register” or “New Registration”.
Enter basic personal details: Full Name, Email Address, and Mobile Number.
After registration, you will receive a login ID and password via email/SMS. These credentials are necessary for all subsequent steps.
Step 2: Logging In and Filling the Application Form
Use the login credentials to access your application form.
Fill in details in the following sections:
Personal Details: Name, Date of Birth, Contact Information, Address
Academic Details: Class 10, Class 12, and Graduation information, including marks and institution names
Work Experience Details (if applicable)
Preferred Exam Cities (up to six options)
Important Tips:
Enter your name exactly as in official documents.
Verify all details before moving to document uploads.
Step 3: Uploading Required Documents
| Document | Specification |
|---|---|
| Photograph | Recent passport-size photo |
| Signature | Black ink signature on white paper |
| Identity Proof | Aadhar, Passport, or other government-issued ID |
Ensure scanned copies meet size and format specifications to prevent rejection.
Step 4: Reviewing the Application
Click the “Preview” or “Review” option before submission.
Verify every detail, including personal information, academic records, uploaded documents, and selected exam centers.
Editing may not be allowed after final submission, except during the correction window.
Step 5: Payment of Application Fee
| Category | Fee (INR) |
|---|---|
| XAT Registration | 2,200 |
| Additional XLRI Programs | 200 per program |
| Indian candidates via GMAT/GRE | 2,500 |
| NRI/Foreign candidates via GMAT | 5,000 |
Payment Methods: Debit/Credit Card, Net Banking, UPI, IMPS, or Mobile Wallets.
Ensure a payment confirmation is generated and saved for future reference.
Step 6: Final Submission
After successful payment, a confirmation page will appear.
Download and save the confirmation page and fee receipt.
Keep a copy for future reference during admission and counselling processes.
Application Correction Window
After submitting the XAT 2026 application, a limited-duration correction window is provided to make necessary updates.
Key Points:
Editable Fields: Academic details (graduation marks, institution name), contact information, and preferred exam cities.
Non-Editable Fields: Date of birth, category, and payment details.
Tips: Carefully check your documents before making changes. Save a copy of the corrected application for reference.
This window is the final chance to correct errors before admit card processing begins.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure a smooth application process, avoid these common mistakes:
Late Submission: Applying at the last minute may cause technical issues or missed deadlines.
Incorrect Document Uploads: Ensure the photograph, signature, and ID proof meet the specified format and size.
Wrong Personal or Academic Details: Double-check names, marks, and contact information.
Not Saving Confirmation or Receipt: Always download and keep the confirmation page and payment receipt.
Ignoring the Correction Window: Use it promptly if errors are noticed after submission.
Post-Application Steps
After completing the application, candidates should:
Download Admit Card: Available in December. Verify all details, including exam center and personal information.
Prepare for the Exam: Focus on mock tests, previous year papers, and section-wise practice.
Organize Documents: Keep academic certificates, photo ID, and application confirmation ready for counselling or admission.
Stay Updated: Check the official portal for announcements regarding exam updates and instructions.
These steps help ensure a smooth transition from application to exam day.
XAT FAQs
Candidates need a recent passport-size photograph, signature, and a valid photo ID proof (Aadhar, Passport, or other government-issued ID).
The standard application fee is ₹2,200, with additional charges for extra XLRI programs or candidates applying via GMAT/GRE. Fees can be paid online using debit/credit cards, net banking, or UPI.
Yes, a limited correction window is provided to update certain fields like academic details and exam city preferences. However, some fields like date of birth or category cannot be changed.
No, work experience is not required to apply, but it may be considered by some institutes during shortlisting.
You can apply online through the official XAT portal by completing the registration, filling the application form, uploading required documents, and paying the application fee.