XAT 2026 Registration Started, What's New In the XAT Exam

The XAT 2026 registration process has started. MBA aspirants can apply for the national-level entrance exam from July 10, 2025, to December 5, 2025. The XAT application form 2026 is available on the official website at xatonline.in. To apply, candidates need to create a login ID & complete the registration process. The XAT 2026 exam will be held on January 4, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

The most notable update this year is the removal of the sectional time limit. Unlike previous years, XAT 2026 will have only an overall time limit of 180 minutes, offering more flexibility to attempt the questions. Candidates will also be able to toggle between the sections, which was not allowed earlier due to fixed time blocks.

Another important change is in the test city selection. Now, only two test cities can be selected, as opposed to six last year. Despite these changes, the XAT application fee remains the same at INR 2200.

Applicants should carefully follow the instructions, ensure proper photo upload and save the e-receipt and filled application form for future use. Being aware of these updates and completing the process on time can help candidates prepare more efficiently for XAT 2026.

What’s New in XAT 2026 Exam

1. Candidates can choose only 2 test cities for exam centre allotment
2. There will be no sectional time limit
3. There will be only an overall time limit
4. Candidates will be able to toggle between sections
5. XAT application fee remains unchanged

Last year, the XAT exam had a sectional time limit of 170 minutes and a 10-minute break. The XAT question paper was divided into two parts- Part 1 comprised Decision Making, Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude (170 minutes) and Part 2 comprised a GK section (10 minutes). Due to the sectional time limit, candidates were unable to toggle between Part 1 and Part 2.

Apart from this change in the XAT 2026 Exam Pattern, there is also a change in the test city limit. Earlier, candidates could select six cities for test centre allotment; however, this year, candidates can choose only two test cities in the XAT 2026 application form.

XAT 2026 Registration: Important Instructions

Those planning to appear for the exam must complete the XAT 2026 Registration and application process by December 5, 2025. Check below the key instructions for filling out the XAT registration form:

• The XAT 2026 application form is to be filled out at xatonline.in website
• The XAT fee if INR 2200 is to be paid before the application deadline
• The fee payment can be made using Debit Cards (RuPay / Visa / Master Card / Maestro), Credit Cards, Internet Banking, IMPS, cash cards, or mobile wallets.
• On successful completion of the transaction, an e-Receipt will be generated. Non-generation of 'E-Receipt' indicates PAYMENT FAILURE. Candidates must check if the amount has been debited or not. If not, then candidates are advised to log in again using their registered Email ID and Password and repeat the process of payment process.
• If the amount is deducted, candidates must wait 24 hours for the E-receipt to be generated. If the E-receipt is still not generated, they must contact the XAT helpdesk as well as the bank helpdesk for assistance.
• Candidates must take a printout of the e-Receipt and XAT application form for future reference.
• The passport size photo must be recent and in colour. Ensure the scanned image size is within 1MB. Caps and dark glasses are not allowed. Religious headgear is allowed, but it must not cover the face.

Final Checklist Before Submitting XAT 2026 Form

Before submitting the XAT 2026 application form, ensure the following points are carefully checked:

• Personal Details: Verify that the name, date of birth, contact number, and email ID is correct and match official documents.
• Photograph and Signature: The passport-size photo should be recent, coloured, and clear (file size: not more than 1 MB). Ensure no caps or dark glasses are used. Signature should be in black ink on white paper.
• Test City Selection: Choose only two preferred cities for the exam centre, as allowed in XAT 2026.
• Payment Confirmation: The application fee of INR 2,200 must be successfully paid. Check if the e-Receipt has been generated. In case of issues, please wait 24 hours or contact the help desk.
• Form Review: Carefully review all details before clicking on submit. Make changes if needed using the edit option.
• Download Copies: After submission, download and save the filled form and e-Receipt for future reference

Final Tips

The XAT 2026 registration has officially begun, marking the first step toward one of the most important MBA entrance exams in India. With key changes, including the removal of sectional time limits & the option to toggle between sections, the exam format now offers greater flexibility to candidates. However, the reduced number of test city choices requires careful planning while filling out the application form. Completing the registration on time and following all instructions, especially related to payment & photo upload, is crucial. Staying updated with the official website & preparing according to the revised pattern can boost confidence. Keeping a copy of the filled form and e-receipt is also important for future reference. With smart planning and timely action, applicants can stay ahead in the XAT 2026 journey.