The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026, a crucial gateway for admission to numerous prestigious management programs across India, is being conducted today, Saturday, January 4, 2026. The exam is administered by XLRI Jamshedpur on behalf of the Xavier Association of Management Institutes (XAMI). Candidates appearing for this high-stakes test must pay close attention to the designated shift timings, strict reporting schedule, and the comprehensive set of guidelines issued by the authorities.
XAT 2026 Exam Day Schedule and Shift Details
The XAT 2026 exam will be held in multiple shifts across the country. It is imperative for candidates to know their specific shift timing as mentioned on their admit card. Generally, the exam follows a pattern of morning and afternoon sessions. Candidates must report to their allotted exam centre well before the final reporting time. Typically, the gates close 30 minutes prior to the exam's start time. Latecomers risk being denied entry, so planning your journey with ample buffer time for traffic or other unforeseen delays is absolutely critical.
On the day, candidates will need to present their XAT 2026 admit card along with a valid photo ID proof for verification. Acceptable ID proofs include Aadhaar Card, Passport, Driving License, Voter ID, or PAN Card. The exam itself is a computer-based test (CBT) assessing candidates on areas like Verbal and Logical Ability, Decision Making, Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge.
Essential Guidelines and Prohibited Items at the Exam Centre
To ensure a smooth and fair conduct of the examination, XAT authorities have laid down a strict protocol. Candidates must adhere to the following key guidelines:
- Reporting Time: Arrive at the exam centre at least 1 to 1.5 hours before the scheduled exam time for completion of security and verification procedures.
- Mandatory Documents: Carry a printed copy of the XAT 2026 admit card and the original photo ID proof. Without these, entry will not be permitted.
- Dress Code: Avoid wearing items with large buttons, brooches, or elaborate embroidery. Simple attire is recommended to expedite security checks.
- Prohibited Items: Electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, Bluetooth devices, and any communication gadgets are strictly banned inside the examination hall. Personal belongings like bags, wallets, and study material must be deposited at the designated area outside.
Additionally, candidates should carry their own black ballpoint pen for any rough work or administrative signatures. Water in a transparent bottle and a personal hand sanitizer are usually allowed.
Post-Exam Process and Result Expectations
Once the XAT 2026 exam concludes today, the focus will shift to the result declaration. The answer key is typically released within a few days, allowing candidates to challenge discrepancies, if any. The final results and percentile scores are expected to be announced by the third or fourth week of January 2026.
The XAT score is accepted by over 160 management institutes across India, including XLRI, SPJIMR, IMT, XIMB, and TAPMI, among others. A good performance today opens doors to subsequent selection rounds such as Group Discussions, Written Ability Tests, and Personal Interviews conducted by individual member institutes.
For candidates appearing today, the final advice is to stay calm, manage time effectively during the exam, and double-check all instructions on the computer screen before starting. Best of luck to all XAT 2026 aspirants!
