XAT Application Form 2026 (July): Release Date, Exam Fees & How to Apply

Overview: The XAT 2025 exam is scheduled for January 4, 2026. You can complete the XAT application form from 15 July 2025 to November 30, 2025. Read on to know the steps of the XAT registration process, exam fees and the important XAT form last date and time!

Preparing for the XAT 2026 exam begins with a single significant step: registration. The registration process officially began on July 10, 2025, and missing deadlines can mean losing your chance to secure a spot in top management programs.

Knowing exactly how to fill the form and what documents you need can save you a lot of stress later.

Download Free Study Material for XAT Exam 2026 by Supergrads

What's New for XAT 2026?

• There is no sectional time limit in the XAT 2026 exam. You can now move freely between sections during the exam.
• The number of XAT test cities has increased to 109 this year.
• You can choose two preferred test cities when you fill out your application.
• The application fee for XAT remains the same.

Scroll down to learn all about the process of filling out the XAT Online application form 2026, XAT form last date and time, exam fees, important dates and a direct link to fill out the XAT exam registration form!

Also Read | XAT Exam Analysis 2025: Check Difficulty Level

XAT Application Form 2026: Highlights 

The registration process for the XAT exam 2026 will begin on July 15, 2025. The XAT 2026 application form can be filled out until November 30, 2025.

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is an all-India management entrance examination for the prestigious Xavier School of Management (XLRI) and various other associated management institutes.

Here are the important key points to consider before filling out the XAT 2026 application form. Also, learn the step-by-step process for filling out the XAT Online Application form!

XAT 2026 Registration Out- Apply with Direct Link

XAT Application Form 2026 - Important Dates & Schedule

Here are the important XAT 2026 application form dates that you should consider before registering for it:

XAT Exam Application Dates 2026
Start Date	10th July 2025
XAT Form Last Date	5th July 2025
XAT Application form 2026 Correction Window	Last week of November to the first week of December 2025
XAT Exam Admit Card Download	20th December 2025
XAT Exam Date 2025	4th January 2026
XAT Response Sheet + Provisional Answer Key	January – Week 2 (Tentatively)
XAT Exam Result Date	Last week of January (Tentatively)

Check Your Skills | Attempt a Free XAT Mock Test Here!

Important Dates for XAT 2026 Registration and Exam

• Registration Start Date: July 10, 2025 (Registration already started)
• Registration End Date: December 5, 2025
• Admit Card Download: Tentatively from December 20, 2025
• Exam Date: January 4, 2026 (First Sunday of January), from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM

You have ample time to complete your registration and form submission before the deadline. However, it is advisable to start early to avoid last-minute hassles and to avail some exclusive opportunities if you register on the first day.

Documents You Must Keep Handy Before Filling the XAT Application Form 2026: 

To ensure a smooth and error-free form-filling experience, keep the following documents ready:

• 10th Marksheet
• 12th Marksheet
• Graduation Degree or Semester-wise Mark Sheets (for current students)
• Scanned Signature Image
• Recent Passport Size Photograph
• Identity Proof (Aadhaar, Driving License, PAN Card, etc.)

Note: It is best to scan your signature, photograph, and identity proof in the recommended formats and sizes beforehand. This will make uploading easier and faster during the form-filling process.

Specifications for Uploading Images

• Signature: Maximum 1 MB, format JPG, JPEG, or PNG
• Passport Size Photograph: Maximum 1 MB, format JPG, JPEG, or PNG
• Identity Proof: Maximum 1 MB, format PDF, JPG, JPEG, or PNG

Make sure your passport-size photo is recent and professionally taken with a clear, wide background. Use the same photo for other application forms, such as college forms, to save time later.

Step-by-Step XAT 2026 Registration Process

The entire registration and form filling process is divided into the following steps:

1. Register on the Official Website: Enter your correct name, email address, mobile number, state, city, and captcha. Verify your email through the link.
2. Login to Dashboard: After verification, log in to start your application form.
3. Fill Application Form: Complete the four main sections:
   • Basic Details
   • Academic Details
   • Work Experience or Program Details
   • Test City and Interview City Preferences
4. Upload Required Documents: Upload scanned images of your photograph, signature, and identity proof.
5. Payment of Application Fee: Pay the fee online via debit/credit card, net banking, or UPI.
6. Submit the Application Form: Review and submit your completed form.

XAT Application Form 2026: Detailed Breakdown of Form Sections

1. Basic Details

• Choose your title (Mr./Ms./Mrs.)
• Enter your full name, email ID, and mobile number (ensure accuracy)
• Provide an alternate email and mobile number (optional but recommended)
• Enter your date of birth, gender, nationality, marital status, and blood group
• Select your category (General, PWD, Kashmiri Migrant/Non-Migrant)
• Fill in parent or guardian details, including name, occupation, annual income, and mobile number
• Enter your communication address with correct city, state, country, and pin code

2. Academic Details

Fill in details for your 10th, 12th, and graduation levels:

• 10th Details: State, city, institute name, board, year of passing, marking scheme (percentage or CGPA), maximum marks, and obtained marks. Convert CGPA to percentage if applicable (e.g., multiply CBSE CGPA by 9.5).
• 12th or Diploma Details: Similar details as 10th level, including stream and board type.
• Graduation Details: Specify degree type (single, dual, integrated), stream (commerce, management, engineering, etc.), university, college name, year of passing, result status (completed or appearing), marking scheme, maximum and obtained marks. Calculate aggregate marks if you have semester-wise or yearly mark sheets.
• Postgraduate Degree: Indicate if you have any postgraduate degree.

3. Work Experience Details

• Enter only full-time work experience after graduation till March 31, 2026.
• Exclude internships, part-time jobs, projects, or articleships done during graduation.
• Provide details if currently employed, including job type, organization name, industry, company address, contact number, joining and leaving dates.
• You can add multiple work experiences if applicable.

4. Program and Test City Preferences

• Select if you want to apply for XLRI’s flagship programs such as Business Management (BAM) and Human Resource Management (HRM). Each program attracts a separate fee of ₹200 on top of the exam fee ₹2200.
• Choose your first preference among selected programs.
• Note that your application will be considered for both XLRI Delhi and Jamshedpur campuses for BAM without filling separate forms.
• Choose up to six cities for your exam center. The allotment will be based on your preferences.
• For HRM and BAM programs, select two preferred cities for interview locations.

XAT Application Form 2026: Uploading Documents and Final Submission

After filling in all details, upload your scanned photograph, signature, and identity proof. You can use Aadhaar, Driving License, PAN Card, or any valid government-issued photo ID. Double-check all details before final submission.

You will then be prompted to verify a declaration confirming that all information provided is true and accurate. After this, review your payment details based on the number of programs selected and proceed to pay the application fee.

Payment Options

• Debit Card
• Credit Card
• Net Banking (HDFC and other banks)
• UPI

XAT Application Form 2026: Exclusive Opportunities for Early Registrants

If you complete your registration and payment on the very first day (July 10, 2025), you become eligible for some special advantages:

• Participation in an interactive Q&A session with XLRI students and the XAT team. About 200 students will be randomly selected for this session, held in the last week of July or first week of August.
• Access to a private Telegram group moderated by XLRI students and the XAT team. This group will be active twice in August, providing live doubt clearing and tips from XAT toppers.

XAT Application Form 2026: Additional Preparation Support and Resources

Alongside registration, consider joining fast-track batches starting July 14, 2025, to boost your CAT and XAT preparation. Use the coupon code SGCAT15 for a flat 15% discount. Also, subscribe to Telegram channels and Instagram pages dedicated to MBA entrance exam updates and preparation tips.

Engage actively with the community to clarify doubts related to exams, college applications, and strategy. This will help you stay on track and confident throughout your MBA entrance journey.

Conclusion

Filling the XAT 2026 application form might seem daunting, but with the right guidance and preparation, it becomes a straightforward process. Ensure you have all your documents ready, fill every detail carefully, and double-check before submitting. Early registration not only gives you peace of mind but also unlocks exclusive opportunities to interact with experts and toppers.

If you have any doubts or need assistance during the form filling process, feel free to reach out through comments or official support channels. Stay updated, stay prepared, and all the best for your XAT 2026 journey!

The Stepwise Registration Process is given below:

• Register Yourself on the official website (xatonline.in)
• Verify your Email ID
• Fill out the XAT exam application form Online 
• Upload Required Documents for XAT 2026
• Select the Programs you want to apply for at XLRI in the Application Form.
• Select the Preferred cities for the XAT Exam in the correct order of preference.
• Pay XAT Form Fees
• Review your XAT Form
• Submit Your XAT Applicant Form

Also Read | XAT Exam Eligibility 2026: Registration & Many more

Download CAT Preparation Tips for QA [Free PDF]

How To Fill XAT Application Form 2026?

Candidates should take extra care when filling out the form, as they cannot change or edit it once it is submitted.

If important details like Name/Parent’s Name are not provided, candidates might not be able to appear for the exam as their verification at the entrance would fail. The Stepwise Process for filling out the Application Form as per the XAT guidelines is listed below:

Also Read | Best Tips to Prepare XAT Exam 

XAT Application Form 2026: Payment of Fees

It is to be noted that the XAT 2026 application form fees are non-refundable. An additional INR 200 is charged for those who want to apply for XLRI Jamshedpur through the XAT exam 2026.

Here are the XAT application form fees for both reserved and un-reserved category

Steps	XAT Online Application Form Filling Process	Description
Step 1:	Registration	Visit the official website, xatonline.in and click on the registration link. To create your account, provide basic details such as name, email ID, and phone number.
Step 2:	Email Verification	After registration, receive a verification email. Click on the link in the email to verify your account and ensure registration validity.
Step 3:	Filling the Application Form	After verification, log in to your account and complete the application form with accurate personal, educational, and work experience details.
Step 4:	Uploading Documents	Upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature as per website specifications. Include any other required documents, such as caste certificates, if applicable.
Step 5:	Payment of Application Fee	Pay the application fee of INR 2200 (plus an additional INR 200 for XLRI programs) using available payment methods. Verify successful payment before proceeding.
Step 6:	Submission of Application Form	Please review all entered details carefully before submission. No changes can be made after payment and submission of the form.

XAT 2026 Fee Type	Amount
XAT Registration Fee for all candidates	INR 2200/-
Additional Fee for Each XLRI Programme	INR 200/- each

Download Free PDF on How to Prepare for CAT GDPI

Important Instruction Regarding Fees 

• After paying the fee, download or print your application form with fee details.
• Use the integrated payment gateway in the XAT form to pay via debit/credit cards, internet banking, IMPS, cash cards, or mobile wallets.
• Wait for server confirmation after submitting payment details; avoid refreshing to prevent double payment.
• Upon successful payment, an e-receipt is generated. If not, retry using your registered email and password.
• Print the e-receipt and keep a copy of the online XAT form. Note, that non-Indian credit card charges will be converted to your local currency.

Also Read | State Wise XAT Exam Centers in India

XAT Application Form 2026: Documents Required for Filling the Application Form

Here is the key list of the important documents while filling the XAT 2026 application form:

• Email ID and mobile phone number
• Class 10-mark sheet
• Class 12 mark sheet
• Graduation mark sheet
• Date of Birth proof
• Address proof
• Aadhaar card
• Category certificate (if applicable)
• Scanned digital photograph of the size between 20kb and 50kb
• Scanned signature of the size between 20kb and 50kb
• UPI/Debit Card/Credit Card for XAT 2026 Application Form Fee payment

Also Read | List of Top Colleges Accepting XAT Score

XAT Application Form 2026: Instructions for Photograph

The instructions for the XAT 2026 Application Form are listed below:

• The photograph must be a recent passport-size colour picture.
• If the picture is taken on a sunny day, have the sun behind you, or place yourself in the shade so that you are not squinting and there are no harsh shadows.
• Look straight at the camera with a relaxed face.
• If you must use flash, ensure there's no "red-eye".
• If you wear glasses, ensure no reflections and your eyes can be seen.
• Caps, hats, and dark glasses are not acceptable. Religious headwear is allowed, but it must not cover the face.
• Ensure that the size of the scanned image is between 20 KB and 50 KB. If the file size is more than 50KB, adjust the scanner settings, such as the DPI resolution, number of colours, etc., during the scanning process.

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Procedure for Uploading the Photograph

Step 1	Set the scanner resolution to a minimum of 200 dpi (dots per inch). Set Colour to True Colour.
Step 2	Crop the image in the scanner to the edge of the photograph/signature, then use the upload editor to crop the image to the final size (as specified above).
Step 3	The image file should be JPG or JPEG format. Upload the image.

Also Read | XAT Admission: Dates, Registration, & Syllabus 2026

XAT Application Form 2026: Instructions for Signature Image

The instructions for uploading the signature image while filling the XAT Exam Application Form for 2026 are listed below:

• The applicant has to sign on white paper with a Black Ink pen.
• The signature must be signed only by the applicant and not by anyone else.
• The Signature will be used to put on the ADMIT CARD and wherever necessary.
• The Applicant’s signature obtained on the ADMIT CARD and attendance sheet at the time of the examination should match the uploaded signature. In case of a mismatch, the candidate may be disqualified.
• Ensure that the scanned image size should be between 20KB – 50KB.

Check | How to Calculate XAT Score?

Procedure for Uploading Signature for XAT Application Form 2026

Step 1	Click on the respective link "Upload Photograph / Signature".
Step 2	Browse & Select the location where the Scanned Photo/ Signature file has been saved.
Step 3	Select the file by clicking on it.
Step 4	Click on the "Upload" button.

Also Read | XAT Exam Question Paper: Q&A's (Available)

XAT Application Form 2026: Document Scanning Guidelines

While uploading the document during the XAT application process, here are the guidelines to focus on while scanning the documents:

• Camera Resolution: Set the camera resolution to at least 200 dpi (dots per inch).
• Colour Setting: Ensure the colour setting is on 'True colour'.
• Background: Place the document against a light-coloured, preferably white, background.
• Image Cropping: Crop the images to the edge of the photograph or signature.
• File Format: Save images in JPG or JPEG format (e.g., image01.jpg or image01.jpeg).
• Image Size: Adjust the image size using MS Paint or MS Office Picture Manager, ensuring it does not exceed 80kb.
  Utilise the "save as" option to save the scanned images and use cropping or resizing options.

Check | How to Download XAT score card?

XAT Registration Last Date 2026: Additional Points to Consider

• If the candidates cannot complete the application form in one go, they can save the data already entered by choosing “SAVE and Next”.
• Candidates are advised to fill out the XAT Application themselves, as no changes will be possible or entertained after clicking the FINAL SUBMIT BUTTON.
• The Candidate's/Parent’s Name should be spelt correctly as it appears in the certificates/Mark Sheets/Identity Proof. Any change/alteration found may disqualify the candidate.
• The candidate must scan and upload a Photo & Signature per the specifications.
• The candidate must complete the XAT Application form's Academic & Work Experience Details.
• The Candidate should click the Preview tab to preview and verify the Form before clicking the final submit button.
• Modify details, if required, and submit only after ensuring all the details and documents in the Application Form are correct. “Applicant Details can not be changed once the form is submitted after XAT Fees payment.

Check | How to Calculate XAT Negative Marks Percentage?

Conclusion 

The XAT 2026 exam is going to be conducted on 4th January 2026. The candidates can download the XAT exam admit card from 20th December 2025. The last date to download is 5th January 2026. Fill out the XAT application form on the official website xatonline.in with all required documents and fees to appear for the exam.

Check | XAT Cut Off Expected and Previous years