XAT Eligibility 2026: Check Age Limit & Education Qualification

Overview: What are the XAT exam eligibility criteria?  The XAT exam score is accepted by over 160 XAT colleges besides XLRI Jamshedpur. Let's check the XAT eligibility criteria so you can target these top B-schools!

XAT 2026 registration has already begun today, July 10th 2025. You can now find the application form online. If you meet the XAT eligibility 2026 requirements, you'll need to fill out this form to take the exam.

The XAT 2026 exam is scheduled for January 4, 2026. It will be a computer-based test held at various centers throughout India.

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.

Learn About | XAT Exam Date for 2026

Key Things to Know About the XAT Exam 2026

The exam will have 95 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). These questions cover:

• Decision Making
• Verbal & Logical Ability
• Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation
• General Knowledge

XAT is known for being a difficult exam. You'll likely need to prepare for at least 6 to 9 months.

XAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria: Things to Consider

Before appearing for the Xavier Aptitude Test, you must go through the XAT eligibility criteria 2026. Here are the key points that candidates must note before applying for the XAT exam: 

Eligibility Condition	Eligibility Criteria
Education	Completed 3 years of a bachelor’s degree from any recognized institute, or are currently in the last year of their bachelor’s degree.
Age	No age limit
Nationality	Indian students from abroad may apply to XLRI courses through GMAT scores.
Number of Attempts	No limit.

Check |  XAT Exam Previous Year Papers

XAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria

The XAT eligibility criteria 2026 for admission to XAMI member institutes and other top B-schools that accept XAT scores include the following:

• The candidates who wish to apply to the XAT exam 2026 must hold a three-year bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognized university.
• Aspirants in their final year of graduation or those awaiting their XAT results can also apply to take the XAT exam.
• It is important to note that the final-year candidates must submit their bachelor’s degree certificate and mark sheet by the end of the admission year.
• Some colleges that accept XAT scores may require a minimum of 50% in graduation (or 45% for candidates from reserved categories).

Practice: Important XAT Exam Questions with Answers

XAT Eligibility 2026 for Foreign and NRI Candidates

Foreign and NRI candidates can apply for the Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) through two primary routes: either by taking the XAT exam or by using their valid GMAT scores. This offers flexibility, especially for those who are not in India during the XAT exam period.

The basic academic eligibility for all candidates, including foreign and NRI applicants, is to hold a bachelor's degree of a minimum of three years' duration in any discipline from a recognized university. Candidates in their final year of graduation are also eligible to apply, provided they complete their degree by the specified deadline. There is no age limit for the XAT exam.

XAT Eligibility 2026: Work Experience Requirement

For most XAT-accepting programs, there is no work experience requirement. Fresh graduates and final-year students are fully eligible to apply for the XAT exam.

However, certain specialized programs offered by XLRI and other management institutes have specific work experience requirements. The most notable example is XLRI's General Management Programme (PGDM-GM), which requires a minimum of five years of relevant post-graduation work experience in a managerial or supervisory role.

Key Points on Work Experience

• General Eligibility: The standard XAT eligibility criteria are a bachelor's degree of at least three years, with no mention of work experience. This means the vast majority of XAT applicants do not need any professional experience to sit for the exam.
• Specific Programs: Work experience is a mandatory prerequisite only for certain programs, such as XLRI's one-year Executive MBA program (PGDM-GM).
• Application Advantage: While not mandatory, having relevant work experience can significantly strengthen an applicant's profile during the selection process for many institutes, particularly for flagship two-year MBA programs (like XLRI's PGDM-BM and PGDM-HRM), as it demonstrates practical skills and maturity.

Work Experience and the Selection Process for XAT 2026

For programs where work experience is not a formal requirement, it is often a significant component of the final admission process. Colleges consider a candidate's profile holistically, and work experience is evaluated during the Personal Interview and Group Discussion rounds.

• For Freshers: The focus is on a strong academic record, extracurricular activities, and a clear understanding of career goals.
• For Experienced Candidates: The evaluation centers on their professional achievements, leadership potential, and how their work experience aligns with the program's objectives.

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XAT Mock Test 2026	Attempt a Free Mock test
XAT Prep Videos 2026	Watch Now
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XAT Eligibility 2026 for Different XLRI Programs

Here are the eligibility criteria for different XLRI Programs:

Program	Academic Qualification	Entrance Exam	Work Experience
PGDM (BM) & PGDM (HRM)	Bachelor's degree of minimum 3 years' duration in any discipline from a recognized university. Final-year students can also apply.	XAT is mandatory. A valid GMAT/GRE score is also accepted for NRI/Foreign candidates.	Not mandatory. A strong academic record is the primary criterion. However, relevant work experience is considered during the selection process and can strengthen the application.
FPM (Fellow Programme in Management)	A Master's degree or a 4-year Bachelor's degree with specific aggregate marks (e.g., 60% for a B.E./B.Tech degree or 55% for a Master's degree). Applicants with professional qualifications like CA, ICWA, or CS are also eligible.	XAT, UGC-JRF/NET, GMAT, GRE, or GATE.	A minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience is required for most applicants.

Download XAT Preparation Tips for QA [Free PDF]

Difference Between XAT Eligibility 2026 and B-School Admission Criteria

Here are the major differences between the XAT eligibility criteria and B-school admission criteria

Parameter	XAT Eligibility Criteria (General)	B-School Admission Criteria (Specific)
Purpose	To be able to register for and appear in the XAT exam.	To be considered for admission to a specific MBA program at a particular business school.
Minimum Academic %	None. A candidate only needs to have a bachelor's degree of at least three years' duration from a recognized university. Final-year students can also apply.	Most top B-schools require a minimum percentage (e.g., 50% or 60%) in graduation. This is a crucial filter that many applicants might overlook.
Work Experience	Not required for the XAT exam itself. Fresh graduates can and do appear for the exam.	A key component of the selection process for many top B-schools, especially for flagship two-year MBA programs and executive programs. While not mandatory for all, relevant work experience is highly valued.
XAT Score	Not applicable. This is the exam that generates the score.	A primary shortlisting criterion. Each B-school sets its own XAT cut-off percentile (overall and often sectional) for its various programs.
Holistic Profile	Not considered. The exam is a standalone test of aptitude.	Extremely important. B-schools evaluate a candidate's entire profile, including their XAT score, academic record, work experience, extracurricular activities, and performance in subsequent rounds (Group Discussion, Personal Interview, Written Ability Test).
Other Factors	No other factors are considered beyond the basic academic qualification.	Includes factors like academic diversity, gender diversity, and essays (Statement of Purpose or SOP) which can significantly influence the final admission decision.

XLRI Eligibility 2026 for PGDM (GMP) – Executive MBA

Eligibility Criteria for PGDM (GMP)

• Academic Qualification: A bachelor's degree of at least three years' duration from a recognized university. There is no minimum percentage requirement, but a consistently good academic record is highly valued.
• Work Experience: This is the most critical requirement for the program. Applicants must have a minimum of 36 months (3 years) of full-time, post-graduation work experience in a managerial or supervisory role by March 31st of the admission year. The program targets candidates with significant professional backgrounds.
• Age: Applicants must be at least 25 years of age by March 31st of the admission year.
• Entrance Exam: A valid XAT, GMAT, or GRE score is required. Indian candidates can apply through XAT, while NRI and foreign candidates can use a valid GMAT or GRE score.

Who Should Not Apply for XAT 2026?

While XAT has very broad and inclusive eligibility criteria, there are a few specific scenarios where a candidate would be considered ineligible to apply for the exam:

• Candidates who have not completed their bachelor's degree: While final-year students are eligible, they must be able to complete their degree and submit the required documents by the admission deadline (typically in June of the admission year). Anyone who cannot meet this deadline should not apply.
• Graduates from unrecognized institutions: The bachelor's degree must be from a university or institution recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) or other appropriate government bodies.
• Graduates with a 2-year bachelor's degree: A bachelor's degree of a minimum of three years' duration is a mandatory requirement.
• Those who fail to pay the registration fees: The application is considered incomplete without the successful payment of the registration fee within the specified deadline.
• Candidates providing false information: Any form of misconduct or misrepresentation of information during the XAT application process can lead to immediate disqualification.
• NRI/Foreign candidates with no GMAT/GRE score: For XLRI and many other B-schools, NRI and foreign candidates (with some exceptions) must apply with a valid GMAT/GRE score. Appearing for the XAT exam is generally an option for Indian nationals.

XAT Eligibility Criteria 2026 for XLRI courses

For Business Management and Human Resource Management:

• To apply, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent three-year degree in any field from a recognized university or institute (approved by the Central or State legislature or AICTE).
• If you’re in your final year, you must complete your last exam by June 10, 2025.

For General Management:

• Candidates must hold a three-year bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university, either in India or abroad.
• You need to be a full-time employee after finishing your bachelor’s degree.
• A minimum of five years of significant managerial experience is required, as of March 31, 2023. This experience can be in any sector: public, private, or non-governmental.

Read more: How to download XAT Admit Card?

XAT Eligibility Criteria 2026: Registration Process

To register for the XAT exam 2026, here are the steps you can follow:  

STEP 1: Register for XAT  

• Visit the official website of the XAT exam "https://xatonline.in/ 
• Now click on 'Registration' and enter your details and the captcha code.
• Next, verify your email to receive a unique XAT ID and registration link.
• Finally, click the link to confirm registration. 

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

STEP 2: Follow these steps after verifying your XAT registration to submit the XAT application form. 

• Go to the XAT website homepage.
• Click on the 'login' button.
• Enter your email ID and password to log in.
• The XAT application form will be displayed.
• Fill in all the required details on the form.
• Double-check all the information you have entered before saving it.
• Choose your preferred payment method - credit/debit card, UPI, or net banking - to pay the application fee.

Learn More | Is CAT Preparation Enough for XAT? 

STEP 3: Payment of XAT Application Fee 

Payment can be made using debit cards (Visa, Mastercard), credit cards, Internet banking, IMPS, cash cards, and mobile wallets. 

Documents Required for XAT Registration 2026

During the XAT exam application form, you'll need to submit the following documents: 

• Class 10, 12 and graduation mark sheets
• Email ID, mobile number, and address proof
• Date of birth proof and Aadhaar card
• Category certificate (if applicable)
• A scanned photo and signature in JPG or JPEG format (20 KB-50 KB)
• Debit/credit card for payment of the application fee.

Check | XAT Exam Total Marks

Importance of Meeting XAT Eligibility Criteria 2026

Ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria is the first step in your XAT journey. Failure to comply with any eligibility requirements may result in disqualification at any stage of the XAT admission process. Here are a few key points to remember:

Verification of Documents: During the XAT admission process, candidates must produce original documents to verify their educational qualifications and work experience (if applicable). Ensure all your documents are in order.
Final Year Students: If you’re in the final year of your graduation, ensure you can provide proof of completion by the specified deadline.

Check | XAT 2026 Exam Pattern

Conclusion

In conclusion, the XAT eligibility criteria are straightforward, encompassing basic educational qualifications and allowing final-year students to apply.

The absence of an age limit makes it an inclusive exam for aspirants from diverse backgrounds. Specific programs at XLRI, such as the General Management Program, have additional work experience requirements, so checking these details carefully is essential.

Meeting the XAT 2026 eligibility criteria is the first step toward your dream of pursuing a management degree from a top-tier institution.

Ensure you fulfil all the requirements before applying, and you'll be well on your way to preparing for one of the most prestigious management entrance exams in India. Good luck with your XAT preparation.