XAT Syllabus 2026 PDF Download Section-Wise Syllabus and Important Topics here

Overview: The XAT syllabus 2026 PDF encompasses all major topics, including sections such as Verbal and Logical Ability, Data Interpretation, Quantitative Ability, and General Knowledge. Scroll down to get the complete XAT exam syllabus for 2026!

• The XAT or Xavier Aptitude Test 2026 will be conducted on January 4th, 2026, across various cities in the country. 
• The XAT 2026 registration start date is July 10, 2025, and the last date to apply is December 5, 2025.

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.

Please continue reading to know the XAT pattern and XAT syllabus 2026 with us!

Also Read | XAT Application Form 2026 (Released)

XAT 2026 Syllabus Overview 

The XAT syllabus 2026 will comprise four major sections: Verbal and Logical Ability, Decision Making, Quantitative Ability, and Data Interpretation and General Knowledge. Check out the table given below, mentioning the key topics of the different sections of the XAT Exam Syllabus:

XAT 2026 Sections	XAT 2026 Topics Covered
Verbal & Logical Reasoning	Reading Comprehension, Verbal Reasoning, Analogy, Parajumble, Grammar, Critical Reasoning, Fill in the Blanks, etc.
Decision Making	Data Arrangement, Conditioning, Grouping, Complex Arrangement, Caselets, Assumptions, Premises, Conclusions, etc.
Quantitative, Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency	Arithmetic, Geometry, Mensuration, Percentage, Surds and Indices, Algebra, Bar Diagrams, Pie Charts, Tables, Data Interpretation, etc.
General Knowledge	Science, Economy, Business, Politics, Static GK, Sports, Prize and Award, World, Government, Constitution of India, etc.

XAT Syllabus 2026 PDF: Section-wise 

The recent changes in the XAT syllabus 2026 reduced the number of sections to four. Each section of the XAT exam syllabus comprises specific topics that are essential to understand in order to boost your XAT 2026 preparation accordingly. Let's uncover the detailed  XAT exam syllabus for each section:

XAT 2026 Syllabus for VARC

This section of the XAT exam syllabus assesses a candidate's proficiency in English language comprehension, grammar, and logical reasoning. A comprehensive understanding of grammar rules and logical reasoning principles is imperative to excel in the XAT VARC syllabus.

Key topics include:

• Reading comprehension 
• Grammar 
• Vocabulary 
• Critical Reasoning 
• Inference-based Questions.

Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning	Vocabulary & Word Usage Synonyms & Antonyms Sentence Completion Contextual Meaning of Words Jumbled Paragraphs Paragraph Completion Fill in the blanks Error Correction in Sentences
Reading Comprehension	Inferential Skill-based Question Author’s Perspective-Based Question The Main Theme and Message of the Passage Information-Based Question Explanation Of Words/Phrases True/False Statements
Logical Reasoning	Fact, Inference & Judgement Analogy Seating Arrangement: Round Table, Square Table Blood Relations/Family Tree Assumption, Premise & Conclusion Logical Sequences: Words, Alphabets & Numbers Clocks & Calendars

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

Download DILR VARC Study Plan

XAT 2026 Syllabus for Decision Making 

The Decision-Making (DM) section of the XAT syllabus evaluates a candidate's ability to analyze complex situations and make sound judgments. Aspirants must hone their decision-making skills by practising case studies and developing a strategic approach to tackle diverse scenarios effectively. 

Scenarios presented in this section often revolve around

• Ethical dilemmas 
• Business decisions 
• Situational analyses 

Sections	Topics Covered
Decision Making	Analytical Reasoning
	Logical Reasoning
	Complex Arrangement
	Data Arrangement
	Caselets
	Conditions and Grouping
	Situations
	Assumptions
	Decision Making

Also Read | Best Tips to Prepare XAT Exam 

Use SuperGrads Free Resources 2025 Strategically

XAT Mock Test 2026	Attempt a Free Mock test
XAT Prep Videos 2026	Watch Now
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XAT 2026 Syllabus for QA & DI 

Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation form the bedrock of analytical prowess in the XAT exam syllabus and pattern. Proficiency in mathematical concepts, coupled with adeptness in data interpretation, is indispensable for excelling in this section of the XAT exam syllabus. Topics encompass: 

XAT Syllabus 2026 for  Quantitative Ability	Algebra Percentages Geometry Number System Simple and Compound Interest Profit and Loss Averages Ratio and Proportion Venn Diagrams Progressions Permutation and Combination Inequalities Trigonometry Speed, Time, and Distance Time and Work Mensuration Linear Equations Logarithm Binomial Theorem Probability Functions Surds and Indices
XAT Syllabus 2026 for  Data Interpretation	Pie Charts Graphs Bar Diagrams Data Tables Data Analysis and Comparison Data Charts

Also Read | State Wise XAT Exam Centers in India

XAT 2026 Syllabus for GK

The General Knowledge section of the XAT syllabus assesses a candidate's knowledge of current affairs, business, economics, politics, and other relevant topics.

Regularly reading newspapers, magazines, and online resources is crucial for staying informed about recent developments and scoring maximum marks in this section of the XAT exam syllabus.

Additionally, referring to XAT GK syllabus resources and practising XAT mock tests can significantly augment one's GK proficiency. Some of the topics that can be highlighted are as follows: 

• Business, Finance, and Economics 
• The Indian Constitution and Laws 
• Famous Personalities 
• Current Affairs of National and International Importance 
• Books and Authors 
• Awards and Winners 
• History and Geography 

Section	Key-Topics
Current Affairs (General Knowledge)	National & International Affairs: Politics, business, economy, and recent events. Static GK: History, geography, science, sports, awards and winners, books and authors, and the Constitution of India. Business & Economy: Company profiles, logos, economic policies, and financial news.

Also Read | XAT Exam Analysis: Check Difficulty Level

XAT 2026 Syllabus for Essay Writing

Since the XAT 2025 exam, there has been a change in the XAT exam pattern. The XAT essay is no longer a part of the main exam; instead, it is now being asked during the interview session.

While the main XAT 2026 exam does not have a dedicated essay writing section, XLRI and other associated B-schools often use a Writing Ability Test (WAT) or an essay round as part of their final selection process (GD/PI rounds). Therefore, it is still crucial to practice essay writing on a variety of topics.

Here are some good topics for essay writing, categorized by theme, that are frequently seen in B-school admissions processes and align with the kind of themes XAT has historically explored:

1. Abstract/Philosophical Topics

These topics require you to think creatively and present a multi-faceted perspective.

• The journey matters more than the destination.
• Is silence sometimes the loudest scream?
• Perception is more powerful than reality.
• Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
• Risk is the essential need of the soul.
• Listening is a dying art. We hardly listen to understand; we only listen to refute or reply.

2. Socio-Political and Economic Issues

These topics test your awareness of current events and your ability to form a well-reasoned argument on complex issues.

• Is social media eroding real human connection?
• The paradox of choice in a free world.
• Globalization vs. Jingoism: Do they always coexist?
• Can ethics survive in a competitive world?
• The growing influence of social media on political discourse.
• Is a universal basic income a sustainable idea?

3. Business & Technology

These topics assess your understanding of modern business challenges and the impact of technology.

• Can artificial intelligence replace human intelligence?
• Technology and nature are natural enemies.
• Ethical practices and sustainability: Do they coexist?
• The gig economy: a boon or a bane for India's youth?
• The role of ethics in business: a trend or a necessity?
• Evaluating Narayana Murthy's proposal for a 70-hour workweek.

Here are some topics you can prepare for essay writing in the XAT 2026 exam

Download CAT QA Section Daily Study Plan

XAT Syllabus 2026: Changes Over the Years

Here are the changes observed over the years 

Exam Year	Total Number of Questions	Section-wise number of questions	XAT Marking Scheme
XAT 2025	95	VARC: 26 DM: 21 QA & DI: 28 GK: 20	+1 for each correct answer -0.25 for each wrong answer -0.10 for more than 8 unanswered questions
XAT 2024	101	VARC: 26 DM: 21 QA & DI: 28 GK: 25 Essay: 1	+1 mark for a correct answer - 0.25 marks for incorrect answer - 0.10 marks for more than 8 un-attempted consecutive questions No XAT negative marking scheme in the GK section
XAT 2023	100	VARC: 26 DM: 21 QA & DI: 28 GK: 25 Essay: 1 (to be evaluated upon shortlisting)	+1 for each right answer -0.25 for each wrong answer -0.10 for more than 8 unanswered questions
XAT 2022	100	VARC: 26 DM: 21 QA & DI: 28 GK: 25 Essay: 1 (to be evaluated upon shortlisting)	+1 for each right answer -0.25 for each wrong answer -0.10 for more than 8 unanswered questions
XAT 2021	100	VARC: 26 DM: 21 QA & DI: 28 GK: 25	+1 for each right answer -0.25 for each wrong answer -0.10 for more than 8 unanswered questions
XAT 2020	100	VARC: 26 DM: 21 QA & DI: 28 GK: 25	+1 for each right answer -0.25 for each wrong answer -0.10 for more than 8 unanswered questions
XAT 2019	99	VARC: 26 DM: 21 QA & DI: 27 GK: 25	+1 for each right answer -0.25 for each wrong answer -0.5 for more than 8 unanswered questions
XAT 2018	97	VARC: 24 DM: 21 QA & DI: 27 GK: 25 One essay topic	+1 for each right answer -0.25 for each wrong answer; -0.5 for more than 12 unanswered questions

Preparation Tips for XAT Syllabus 2026

Preparation Tips Based on XAT Exam Syllabus

Cracking the XAT exam requires a smart and month wise strategic approach, especially since its structure and syllabus differ from those of other MBA entrance tests. The key is to dedicate sufficient time to each of the four sections while also focusing on your strengths and weaknesses.

Section-wise Preparation Tips

1. Verbal & Logical Ability (VLA)

This section is a blend of verbal and logical skills. A significant portion of this section is dedicated to Reading Comprehension (RC), which may include passages and even poems. To excel here, you should:

• Read regularly: Cultivate a habit of reading newspapers, magazines, and various forms of literature to improve your reading speed, vocabulary, and comprehension. This will also help you with the Critical Reasoning questions that are a major part of this section.
• Strengthen fundamentals: Brush up on your grammar and vocabulary. Tools like "Word Power Made Easy" are often recommended for building a strong vocabulary.
• Practice with past papers: Logical Reasoning questions in XAT often involve critical reasoning, so practicing with XAT previous years' questions is crucial to familiarize yourself with the question types.

2. Decision Making (DM)

This section is unique to XAT and is considered its most challenging part. It tests your ability to make logical and ethical decisions in various business and personal scenarios. There's no specific textbook for this section, so your preparation should focus on:

• Case study analysis: Solve as many caselets and decision-making scenarios as possible from past papers and mock tests. This will help you develop a framework for thinking through complex situations.
• Apply ethical reasoning: The questions often present ethical dilemmas, and you need to choose the most sound and well-reasoned option.
• Look for premises and conclusions: Practice identifying the underlying assumptions, premises, and conclusions in a given situation to arrive at the most logical answer.

3. Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation (QA & DI)

This section is designed to test your mathematical and analytical skills. The topics are similar to other management entrance exams but often have a higher difficulty level.

• Focus on core concepts: Prioritize topics like Arithmetic (percentages, profit & loss, time and work), Algebra, and Geometry. These topics usually have a higher weightage.
• Improve calculation speed: Practice with shortcut methods and Vedic math to improve your calculation speed and accuracy, as this section often involves lengthy calculations.
• Practice DI sets: Data Interpretation questions are usually presented in sets of 3-4 questions based on graphs, charts, and tables. Practice with a variety of these to get comfortable with interpreting and analyzing data under time pressure.

4. General Knowledge (GK)

The GK section doesn't contribute to your overall percentile, but your score is considered during the final selection process. The questions are a mix of static GK and current affairs.

• Stay updated: Regularly read newspapers and business magazines to stay informed about national and international current affairs, especially those related to business and economics.
• Study static GK: Brush up on topics like history, geography, science, and politics.
• Take quizzes: Regularly taking online quizzes can be an effective way to revise and retain information.

Best books for XAT Syllabus Coverage: Quantitative Aptitude

The XAT 2026 aspirants should refer to the important books and resources to boost their preparation for the XAT 2026 exam.

Here are the essential books that cover the XAT 2026 syllabus for QA and DI:

Books for XAT Preparation	Author/Publisher
How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT	Arun Sharma
Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT Common Admission Tests For Admission into IIMs	Sarvesh K Verma
Quantitative Aptitude For Competitive Examinations	Guha Abhijit
Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency	Ananta Ashisha/Arihant

Best books for XAT Syllabus Coverage: Verbal Ability

Verbal ability is another important section that can help you achieve good scores. To ace this section in XAT 2026 exam, here are the following books covering the XAT 2026 syllabus for Verbal ability:

Books for XAT Preparation	Author/Publisher
Word Power Made Easy	Norman Lewis
Objective General English	Dr RS Agarwal and Vikas Agarwal
High School English Grammar	Wren & Martin
The Students' Companion Book	D Best

Best books for XAT Syllabus Coverage: Decision Making

To improve XAT decision-making skills in the XAT 2026 exam, the aspirants can refer to the following books:

Books for XAT Preparation	Author Name/Publisher
Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning	Gautam Puri
Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT	Nishit K. Sinha
Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency	Ananta Ashisha
How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT	Arun Sharma

Best XAT Study Material for General Knowledge

Here are the important books covering the XAT 2026 syllabus for general knowledge:

Newspapers and Journals
The Hindu	Economic Times
Financial Express	Hindu Business Line
Wall Street Journal	The Financial Times
Business Today	Business World
Competition Success Review	Management Compass Career Launcher

Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing for XAT Syllabus

XAT is known for its challenging questions and unique sections. To ace it, you need to be strategic in your preparation and, more importantly, avoid common mistakes that can cost you valuable marks. Here are some key errors to steer clear of:

1. XAT 2206 General Preparation Mistakes

• Not having a structured study plan: Many aspirants study topics randomly without a proper schedule. A disorganized plan can lead to overlooking important topics and poor time management. Create a detailed timetable that allocates sufficient time to each section.
• Neglecting the Decision Making section: Since this section is exclusive to XAT, it's easy to dismiss or underestimate its importance. However, the decision-making section is a crucial differentiator and can significantly impact your percentile.
• Ignoring General Knowledge: While the GK section doesn't count towards your final percentile, it is considered during the final selection process at XLRI. Neglecting it can be a critical mistake. Make it a habit to read newspapers and stay updated on current affairs.
• Over-relying on a single source: No single book or study material can cover everything perfectly for an exam like XAT. Using multiple resources and practicing with a variety of questions will give you a more comprehensive understanding.

2. XAT 2026 Mocks and Time Management Mistakes

• Not taking enough mock tests: Mock tests are essential for understanding the exam pattern, improving time management, and building stamina for the long, three-hour exam. Skipping them means you miss out on a crucial part of your preparation.
• Not analyzing mock tests: Simply taking mocks isn't enough. You must analyze your performance to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Focus on understanding why you got a question wrong, not just the correct answer. This will help you pinpoint repetitive errors.
• Prioritizing speed over accuracy: XAT has negative marking, so careless errors can significantly reduce your score. It's better to solve fewer questions with high accuracy than to attempt many questions with a low success rate.

3. XAT 2026 Exam-Day Mistakes

• Spending too much time on one question: If you get stuck on a difficult question, don't waste precious time on it. The XAT exam has a negative marking for questions you skip consecutively, so it’s important to strike a balance. It's better to move on and come back later if time permits.
• Panicking after skipping questions: Many students start to panic when they have to skip a few questions in a row. Remember, XAT is designed to be tough, and it's perfectly normal to skip questions. Stay calm and focus on the next question.
• Misreading questions or data: In the rush to solve questions, candidates often misread the question or misinterpret data in the Verbal Ability and Data Interpretation sections. Read every question carefully and highlight key details.

Conclusion

The XAT 2026 exam is scheduled for 5 January 2026. Therefore, familiarity with the XAT exam syllabus and section-wise topics is essential to preparing and scoring well.  Thus, keep an eye on preparing for XAT 2026 according to the section-wise syllabus to get a high percentile this year.

A thorough understanding of the XAT syllabus is essential to ace the exam. By focusing on each section systematically and practicing rigorously, aspirants can boost their performance and secure admission to top B-schools

Read More: XAT Score vs Percentile