Executive Summary
XAT 2026 has one of the most inclusive eligibility criteria among MBA entrance exams — any graduate from any discipline can apply, with no minimum percentage requirement. Final-year students can also register. The exam is conducted on the first Sunday of January every year.
Eligibility Requirements
A bachelor's degree in any discipline (Arts, Science, Commerce, Engineering, Medicine, Law) from a recognized university is required. There is no restriction on the stream.
XAT does not specify any minimum percentage in graduation. This makes it accessible to all graduates, unlike some other MBA exams that require 50% or 60%.
Students in their final year of graduation are eligible to register for XAT. However, if shortlisted, they must complete their degree before joining the MBA programme.
There is no upper or lower age limit to appear for XAT. Working professionals of any age can register.
Foreign nationals with an equivalent bachelor's degree from a recognized international institution may apply. XLRI also considers GMAT scores for international applicants.
Important Dates 2026
| Event | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Opens | July 2025 | Closed |
| Last Date to Register | November 30, 2025 | Closed |
| Admit Card Download | December 20, 2025 | Available |
| XAT 2026 Exam Date | January 4, 2026 | Completed |
| Result Declaration | January 31, 2026 | Declared |
| XLRI Shortlist Release | February 2026 | Upcoming |
XAT vs CAT Eligibility
Both XAT and CAT have similar eligibility — any graduate can apply with no minimum percentage. The key difference: XAT is conducted once a year (January) while CAT is in November. Most serious MBA aspirants appear for both. XAT scores are accepted by 160+ B-schools including XLRI, SPJIMR, and IMT.