XAT Exam Date and Time 2026: Reporting Time, Start Time, Guidelines

Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is the mandatory exam for MBA admission in XLRI Jamshedpur. XAT exam scores are also accepted by 250+ MBA colleges accepting XAT scores. XAT is India’s second largest MBA entrance exam after CAT. XAT 2026 Exam will be held on January 4, 2026. Check complete details on exam dates below.

Every year, XAT exam is held on first Sunday of January month. XAT exam date 2026 is January 4, 2026. XAT 2026 exam will be conducted in one slot in afternoon only. XAT Exam Time Duration is 180 minutes (3 hours). XAT Exam Time Slot is from 2.00 PM to 5:00 PM. Check more details in table below. 

XAT Exam Day Guideline are important instructions issued by XLRI Jamshedpur for candidates to ensure smooth conduct of the exam. Read and follow the important XAT 2026 exam day instructions below. 
1.    Candidates should bring the admit card along with any one of the following valid photo ID proof. (Aadhaar Card/Voter ID Card/PAN Card/Valid college ID Card/Passport/Driving License/Employee ID Card).
2.    In case of any discrepancy in the photograph, candidate should bring one recent passport size photograph.
3.    The admit card with original ID card as mentioned in point no.1 is valid only on the exam date and time.
4.    Request for change of test center will not be considered.
5.    Candidates will not be allowed to enter the test center after the gate closure time (01:50 PM).
6.    Your candidature for the entrance examination is "PURELY PROVISIONAL". In case, it is found that the candidate does not fulfill the eligibility criteria, candidature of such candidate is liable to be rejected at later stage.
7.    Possession and use of electronic devices/jewelry/jackets/calculators/watch or items containing metal are strictly prohibited inside the test center premises. Simple dressing with plain cardigans/sweaters are recommended.
8.    At test center entry you have to undergo a mandatory frisking activity, objectionable item (if any) is identified, you would be requested to leave it behind before entering the test center. Candidates showing non-cooperation may get barred from appearing for the test.
9.    Candidates will be allowed to login to their respective system 10 minutes prior to the exam commencement. The candidate can go through the instructions during this duration.
10.    Guardians/relatives/friends accompanying the candidates are not allowed inside the test center.
11.    Rough sheet will be provided to the candidates inside the examination lab.
12.    Please submit the admit card, rough sheets to the invigilator after the exam.
13.    Decision of venue officials will be final.

XAT Exam Day Dos and Don’ts are Jamshedpur for candidates to ensure smooth conduct of the exam. Read and follow the important instructions: 
•    Recheck your Admit Card Details
•    Print and Carry XAT Admit Card Hard Copy
•    Keep your Photo ID Ready
•    Visit your XAT Exam Centre Before Exam
•    Choose Correct Dress for XAT Day
•    Arrive at XAT Centre in Time
•    Don’t carry prohibited Items Inside XAT Test Centre
•    Follow XAT Exam Dress Code
Read in-depth article on XAT Exam Day Guidelines to ensure hassle free exam.

If there is any error in your XAT admit card or you require help for the XAT Exam, you can contact XAT help desk on Phone +91 657 665 3203 and +91 657 665 3204. You can also contact on XAT helpline via Email ID [email protected]. 

In conclusion, XAT 2026 Exam will be held on January 4, 2026. XAT 2026 Exam Time is from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Hope this article on XAT Exam Date 2026 was helpful. Check frequently asked questions on XAT exam.