Parul University MBA Admissions 2025
Registrations Deadline- 05th July | India's youngest NAAC A++ accredited University | NIRF rank band 151-200 | 2200 Recruiters | 45.98 Lakhs Highest Package
XAT Syllabus 2026: Section-Wise Topics, Exam Pattern, PDF Download & Best Books
Edited By Himanshu Shekhar | Updated on Jun 13, 2025 03:33 PM IST | #XAT
XAT 2026 Syllabus: Aspirants who are preparing for the XAT 2026 should learn about the XAT 2026 syllabus. Over the years, the XAT syllabus has covered subjects like Verbal and Logical Ability, Analytical Reasoning, Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge. To secure a good score in the XAT exam, candidates need to go through all the topics of the XAT syllabus 2026 PDF. However, last year, the XAT 2025 syllabus witnessed a slight change. The XAT syllabus removed the essay writing session from the XAT exam pattern. Instead, Analytical Essay Writing will be done only in the GD-PI round. One could expect the same unless any changes is declared on XAT official website for the XAT 2026 syllabus.
This Story also Contains
- What is the XAT Syllabus and Exam Pattern?
- XAT Syllabus 2026: Overview and Important Topics
- XAT Syllabus 2026 in Detail
- XLRI XAT Syllabus 2026 (VA & LR)
- XLRI XAT Syllabus 2026: QA and DI
- XAT Syllabus 2026 PDF
- XAT Exam Strategy
What is the XAT Syllabus and Exam Pattern?
The XAT syllabus pdf consists of three parts. Looking into the past years' official XLRI XAT syllabus notification mentions the following five sections.
- Part 1 for 170 minutes: Questions on VA &LR, Decision Making and QA & DI
- Part 2 for 10 min: GK Session
Download the official XAT syllabus pdf.
NOTE: XAT scores will consider only marks obtained in Verbal and Logical Ability, Decision Making and Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge. Essay writing will be evaluated only for candidates shortlisted for GD and PI
XAT Syllabus 2026: Overview and Important Topics
| XAT Sections | XAT Topics |
|---|---|
Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning (VA & LR) | Critical & analytical reasoning, reading comprehension (including poems & passages), vocabulary, English grammar |
Decision Making (DM) | Critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and Informed decision making |
Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation (QA & DI) | Quantitative aptitude, arithmetic, algebra, geometry, mensuration, modern maths |
Mock Keyboard Testing | Candidates will be asked to type, " The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog." |
General Knowledge* (GK) | 8 questions from static GK and 12 questions from current affairs |
Analytical Essay Writing* (AEW) | One Essay of 250 words. 3 topics will be given. Candidates need to pick 1. The essay writing will be carried out only in the GD round in XAT 2026. |
XAT Preparation: Resources
XAT 2026: Sample Paper, Section wise Questions
Download latest XAT sample papers with detailed solution for the XAT 2026 examination preparation based on latest exam pattern, Topics and their weightage, difficulty level.
Download EBookIs the XAT exam tougher than the CAT?
Both exams are moderate to difficult and depend on the preparation of the candidates. The syllabus is mostly similar to. So, candidates who prepare for CAT can easily attempt the XAT exam too. A timetable to prepare for XAT and CAT together is an ideal tool to prepare for both exams.
Is there Maths in XAT?
Well, some sections in the XAT syllabus for the MBA exam do have Maths. However, if one looks at the XAT exam syllabus, it will be clear that the Maths sections are of a high school level and can be easily practised.
XAT Syllabus 2026 in Detail
There are 5 XAT sections in the XAT exam. In addition, the XAT syllabus for each section is different. Candidates can know the section-wise syllabus for the XAT exam below.
XLRI XAT Syllabus 2026 (VA & LR)
Looking into the past trends, about 26 questions are asked in the Verbal and Logical Ability section of the XAT exam. Most of the questions are on Reading Comprehension, while a few come from Verbal Ability/ Verbal Reading topics. The topics and XAT syllabus for VA and LR are
XAT Syllabus 2026- Verbal Ability Topics
Analogy-based on Vocabulary | Fill in the blanks | Critical Reasoning/ Inference |
Sentence Correction | Reading Comprehension | Para Jumble |
Vocabulary | Completion of paragraphs/ sentences | Grammar |
Correct Usage of Words | Poem | Paragraph Formation |
Cloze Test | Synonyms/ Antonyms | Contextual Meaning of Words |
XAT Reading Comprehension – Types of Questions
- Information based
- Inference based
- Author’s view
- True/ False statements
- Explanation of words and phrases
- Purpose and main idea
XAT Syllabus 2026 - Logical Ability Topics
Fact, Inference and Judgment | ||
Logical Sequences | Assumption, Premise and Conclusion | - |
Recommended books for XAT Verbal and Logical Ability
The best books to cover the XAT exam syllabus 2026 for the Verbal and Logical Ability section, as recommended by experts, are
Books | Author |
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension | Ajay singh |
Analytical Reasoning | MK Pandey |
High School English Grammar & Composition | Wren & Martin |
Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis |
A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning | RS Aggarwal |
Also read
XAT Syllabus for Decision-Making
In the Decision-making XAT 2026 section, candidates will have to answer about 21 questions in the Decision-Making section of XAT 2026. Their presence of mind and ability to analyse a situation is tested along with their problem-solving skills. Questions that come in this section cover the following topics
- Complex Arrangement
- Conditioning and Grouping
- Data Arrangement
- Case Lets
- Decision Making
Some common topics that may be asked in the XAT DM section
- Moonlighting
- Leave policy
- Recruitment
- Opening a tea shop
- Sexual harassment
- Free food centre
- Hiring the visually impaired
- Quantitative DM
Best Books for XAT Decision Making
The following books have been recommended by toppers to prepare for the Decision-Making section of the XAT 2026 exam. In addition, past XAT question papers would also help in preparing for this section.
Name | Author |
Jabbing the XAT (with solved papers) | RK Jha |
Target XAT (Past papers and mock tests) | Disha Publication |
Analytical and Logical Reasoning | Arihant Publications |
XLRI XAT Syllabus 2026: QA and DI
Based on past precedence, 28 questions from this XAT portion will be part of the XAT exam pattern. The questions in this section will cover the Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation, which is a part syllabus of XAT, as given below. Logic-based questions, mathematical computations are some areas, candidates need to be strong in to crack this XAT exam section. Check below the XAT quant syllabus and DI topics here.
XAT Syllabus for QA
Complex Numbers | |
Logarithm | |
Binomial Theorem | |
Surds and Indices | |
Geometry | |
Mensuration | Probability Functions |
Pure Math | Set Theory |
Venn diagrams | |
Co-ordinate Geometry |
XAT 2026 Syllabus for DI
Data Tables | Pie charts |
Data charts | Graphs |
Bar diagrams | Data analysis and comparison |
It is ideal if one has the list of books that cover not just the XAT syllabus 2026 but also have practice chapters. A list of such books recommended by experts and toppers are listed below to aid all candidates for their XAT preparation.
Recommended books to cover the XAT QA & DI syllabus
Books | Author |
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examination | Abhijit Guha |
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examination | RS Aggarwal |
Data Interpretation for the CAT | Nishit K Sinha |
How to prepare for Data Interpretation | Arun Sharma |
XAT General Knowledge Syllabus
XLRI has specified in the XAT syllabus and paper pattern 2026 that 8 questions will be asked from static GK and 12 questions from current affairs. Candidates need to be abreast of current affairs and what's happening around in the country and the world, in addition to having the knowledge in topics like History, Economics, Geography, Culture, etc, to name a few. The detailed list of GK topics to learn for the XAT exam is given below.
XAT GK syllabus 2026
Static GK Topics | |
Science & Technology | Economics |
Important dates | Ecosystem and Diversity |
Currencies | Constitution of India and Laws |
Films | Capitals |
Books & Authors | Famous Personalities |
Culture | Geography |
History | Heritage, monuments |
XAT syllabus for Current Affairs | |
Current Affairs | Film & Television |
National Issues | Politics |
Sports | Business |
Apart from above mentioned General Knowledge topics, candidates can also include the following newspapers or magazines while preparing for XAT 2026. They can hone their knowledge of current affairs- both international and national if they habituate themselves with reading the newspapers.
XAT Preparation for GK - List of Newspapers and Magazines
Economic Times | Manorama Year Book |
The Financial Times | Competition Success Review |
Business Today | Business World |
Hindu Business Line | The Hindu |
Wall Street Journal | Financial Express |
XAT Syllabus 2026 PDF
Careers360 has compiled a downloadable XAT syllabus pdf. Candidates can click the given syllabus for the XAT exam link to download the free XAT syllabus PDF. This ebook is an online version that can be referred to anytime at any place - on the desktop, on the mobile, thereby aiding students in preparing for the XAT 2026 exam anywhere.
Must read
- For working professionals - How to prepare for XAT while working?
- XAT Preparation Tips - Topper Tips and Strategies
B-Schools Accepting XAT Score - Location-Wise
XAT Exam Strategy
- Check the XAT syllabus for MBA 2026
- Understand the XAT exam pattern
- Prepare a timetable and start studying
- Cement the XAT 2026 preparation using the XAT mock test and sample papers of XAT
- Analyse performance and improve in weak areas.
- Practice with XAT previous year question papers
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many questions will be asked in XAT 2025?
The total number of questions varies every year, but as per past year trends, there will be a total of 95 MCQ questions.
2. Is there negative marking in XAT?
Yes, -0.25 marks will be deducted for every wrong answer.
3. What is the duration of the XAT exam?
Candidates will get a total of 180 minutes (3 hours) to solve the entire question paper of XAT 2025.
Articles
Certifications By Top Providers
Accounting with Tally ERP9
Via NIIT Digital Banking Business Model
Via State Bank of India Digital Skills Artificial Intelligence
Via Accenture Thinking Critically
Via Harappa Banking 101 A Guide for Beginners in the Banking Sector
Via EduBridge Business Analytics Foundations
Via PW Skills Explore Top Universities Across Globe
University of Essex, Colchester
Wivenhoe Park Colchester CO4 3SQOxford Brookes University, Oxford
Headington Campus Oxford OX3 0BP UKNorthumbria University, Newcastle City Campus
Sutherland Building, Northumberland Road, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 8STCardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff
Llandaff Campus, Western Avenue, Cardiff, CF5 2YBUniversity of Reading, Reading
Whiteknights PO Box 217 Reading Berkshire RG6 6AHBristol Baptist College, Bristol
The Promenade, Clifton Down, Bristol BS8 3NJDuolingo Exam Pattern 2025 (Section Wise): Test Format, Duration, Mode
10 min ⋆ Mar 10, 2025 06:03 AM ISTDuolingo English Test 2025: Dates, Registration, Fees, Score, Validity
11 min ⋆ Jun 07, 2025 06:06 AM ISTTop MBA Colleges in UK for Indian Students 2025
5 min ⋆ Jun 17, 2025 06:06 AM ISTUS Bill Threatens to end OPT Work Visa; Indian Students Worried
6 min ⋆ Jun 17, 2025 05:06 AM ISTBest Courses to Study Abroad for a High Salary in 2025
9 min ⋆ Jun 17, 2025 05:06 AM ISTPTE Exam Dates 2025: Month-wise Test Booking Schedule
14 min ⋆ Jun 17, 2025 05:06 AM ISTPopular Courses and Specializations
List of colleges accepting XAT
Browse Bschool Colleges by State
Questions related to XAT
Have a question related to XAT ?
Hii,
No, not all MBA programs require these tests. These are merely entrance exams that are accepted by a lot of universities. Depending on the college you wish to attend, you can take any of them (such as MAH CET, MAT, XAT, GMAT, CMAT, or ATMA).
Additionally, some universities have entrance exams of their own. Therefore, for the majority of MBA admissions, you only need to take one appropriate exam. To find out which tests the college accepts, always visit their website.
Saurabh Yadav 27 May,2025
Yes, it is definitely possible for you to get an interview call from Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai for their PGDM program, even with a 73 percentile in XAT 2025. While the typical cutoff for XAT may be higher, around 85 percentile, Great Lakes considers a variety of factors in their selection process, including academic performance, work experience, and diversity in the class.
Since you are a non-engineer female candidate, that diversity is seen as a positive aspect. Even with your XAT score, if you have a strong academic record, relevant work experience, and a clear passion for management, you can still stand out in the application process.
To increase your chances:
Prepare thoroughly for the interview by focusing on your experiences, what drives you, and how you align with the program’s values.
Highlight your unique background and any leadership roles you’ve had.
Show how Great Lakes fits with your career goals.
While the competition can be tough, if you present a well-rounded application and give your best in the interview, you can definitely convert the call into an offer.
Poral Siddartha (siddu) 05 February,2025
With a 74 percentile in the XAT 2025 exam, you are eligible to apply to several reputable MBA colleges in India. Some of the top institutions that typically accept candidates within the 70-80 percentile range include KIIT School of Management (KSOM), Bhubaneswar; Jaipuria Institute of Management (multiple campuses); Welingkar Institute of Management (WeSchool), Bangalore; Woxsen University, Hyderabad; IFMR Graduate School of Business at KREA University, Sri City; BIM Trichy (Bharathidasan Institute of Management), Tiruchirappalli; and XIME Bangalore (Xavier Institute of Management and Entrepreneurship).
To proceed, research each institution's application deadlines and procedures and ensure you submit all required documents promptly. Be prepared for further selection stages such as group discussions, personal interviews, and written ability tests. Evaluate each program's curriculum, faculty, placement records, and campus culture to determine the best fit for your career goals. While your XAT percentile is significant, remember that your overall profile, including academic records, work experience, and extracurricular activities, also plays a crucial role in the selection process.
Nikhil Anjikhane 24 January,2025
Admission to MICA's PGDM and PGDM-C programs involves a multi-stage selection process. The final composite score is calculated with the following weightage:
- CAT/ XAT/ GMAT - 35%
- MICAT - 25%
- GE (Group Exercise) - 10%
- PI - 20%
- Academic performance (10th, 12th, Graduation) - 5%
- Extra- curricular - 5%
Your XAT score is 73, performing exceptionally well in MICAT can enhance your chances of being shortlisted for the GE and PI rounds. Specific score requirements for MICAT are not publicly disclosed, focusing on thorough preparation and aiming for high performance in each section will strengthen your application.
vinayak kansal 18 January,2025
Hi,
Based on the previous year analysis, According to your XAT percentile some of the colleges in which there is chances to get a seat are the following
- NSB Academy, Bangalore
- Presidency college, Bangalore
- Myra School of Business, Mysore
- International School of Management Science, Bangalore
- Amrita School of Business, Coimbatore
- Dhruva college of Management, Hyderabad
There are many other colleges and Institute thay offer admission with 43 percentile in XAT. You can predict the colleges using the XAT college predictor tool.
Hope this information will help you
Devraj 18 January,2025
Explore Career Options (By Industry)
Marketing Director
A career as Marketing Director is also known as a marketing expert who is responsible for the overall marketing aspect of the company. He or she oversees plans and develops the company's budget. The marketing Director collaborates with the business team to plan and develop the marketing and branding strategies for the company's products or services.
4 Jobs Available
Business Development Executive
A Business Development Executive identifies and pursues new business opportunities to drive company growth. They generate leads, build client relationships, develop sales strategies, and analyse market trends. Collaborating with internal teams, they aim to meet sales targets. With experience, they can advance to managerial roles, playing a key role in expanding the company’s market presence and revenue.
3 Jobs Available
Content Marketing Specialist
Content Marketing Specialists are also known as Content Specialists. They are responsible for crafting content, editing and developing it to meet the requirements of digital marketing campaigns. To ensure that the material created is consistent with the overall aims of a digital marketing campaign, content marketing specialists work closely with SEO and digital marketing professionals.
3 Jobs Available
Sales Manager
A Sales Manager leads a sales team to meet targets, formulates strategies, analyses performance, and monitors market trends. They typically hold a degree in management or related fields, with an MBA offering added value. The role often demands over 40 hours a week. Strong leadership, planning, and analytical skills are essential for success in this career.
2 Jobs Available
Marketing Manager
A marketing manager is a person who oversees a company or product marketing. He or she can be in charge of multiple programmes or goods or can be in charge of one product. He or she is enthusiastic, organised, and very diligent in meeting financial constraints. He or she works with other team members to produce advertising campaigns and decides if a new product or service is marketable.
A Marketing manager plans and executes marketing initiatives to create demand for goods and services and increase consumer awareness of them. A marketing manager prevents unauthorised statements and informs the public that the business is doing everything to investigate and fix the line of products. Students can pursue an MBA in Marketing Management courses to become marketing managers.
2 Jobs Available
SEO Analyst
An SEO Analyst is a web professional who is proficient in the implementation of SEO strategies to target more keywords to improve the reach of the content on search engines. He or she provides support to acquire the goals and success of the client’s campaigns.
2 Jobs Available
Digital Marketing Executive
Digital marketing is growing, diverse, and is covering a wide variety of career paths. Each job function aids in the development of effective digital marketing strategies and techniques. The aims and objectives of the individuals who opt for a career as a digital marketing executive are similar to those of a marketing professional: to build brand awareness, promote company services or products, and increase conversions. Individuals who opt for a career as Digital Marketing Executives, unlike traditional marketing companies, communicate effectively through suitable technology platforms.
2 Jobs Available
Business Analyst
Individuals who opt for a career as a business analyst look at how a company operates. He or she conducts research and analyses data to improve his or her knowledge about the company. This is required so that an individual can suggest the company strategies for improving their operations and processes.
In a business analyst job role a lot of analysis is done, things are learned from past mistakes and the successful strategies are enhanced further. A business analyst goes through real-world data in order to provide the most feasible solutions to an organisation. Students can pursue Business Analytics to become Business Analysts.
2 Jobs Available
MBA/PGDM Admissions OPEN
Amity University Noida MBA Admissions 2025
ApplyAmongst top 3% universities globally (QS Rankings)
Graphic Era (Deemed to be University) Admissions 2025
ApplyNAAC A+ Grade | Among top 100 universities of India (NIRF 2024) | 40 crore+ scholarships distributed
Shoolini University Admissions 2025
ApplyNAAC A+ Grade | Ranked No.1 Private University in India (QS World University Rankings 2025)
UPES MBA Admissions 2025
ApplyRanked #41 amongst institutions in Management by NIRF | 100% Placement | Last Date to Apply: 23rd June
WUD | MBA- Design Strategy & Management Admissions 2025
ApplyInternational Tie Ups | Project Based Learning | State of the art infrastructure | Applications Closing Soon!
DES University MBA Admissions 2025
ApplyDeadline: 30th May'25 | MBA @ DES Pune University | Top Ranked B-School | 100% Placement Assistance
News and Notifications
January 25, 2025 - 07:15 PM IST
January 17, 2025 - 05:05 PM IST
January 17, 2025 - 04:17 PM IST
January 17, 2025 - 03:22 PM IST
January 12, 2025 - 04:16 PM IST
January 10, 2025 - 05:15 PM IST
January 07, 2025 - 10:28 PM IST
Stay up-to date with XAT News
Back to top