More than 1.42 lakh candidates registered for XAT 2026. This is the highest registration XAT has ever seen in the exam’s history. This record registration highlights the growing interest in XAT for the MBA programs across India.
- The registration period for the XAT 2026 exam lasted nearly five months, leading to a large number of registrations.
- More than 250 colleges accept XAT scores, which has significantly increased registration.
- Increase in registrations for XAT will impact the competition level and may increase the cutoff percentile for the institutions. Cutoff percentile for XLRI is expected to increase by 2-5 percentiles.
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Key Summary
- XAT 2026 recorded 1.42+ lakh registrations, the highest ever.
- The registration window lasted nearly five months, boosting participation.
- 250+ MBA colleges accept XAT scores nationwide.
- Competition for XLRI’s BM and HRM programs will intensify sharply.
- Experts expect XLRI cutoffs to rise by 2–5 percentiles.
Registration Trends for XAT
- The registration numbers for XAT 2026 have set a new high since the beginning of the XAT exam.
- XAT 2026 registered candidates are more than 1.42 lakh. It is more than the XAT 2025 session.
| Year | Total XAT registration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| XAT 2026 | 1.42+ Lakh | New record for XAT registrations |
| XAT 2025 | 142235 | Record registration till then with a 5.36% increase |
| XAT 2024 | 135,000 | Strong since previous years, with a 38% increase |
| XAT 2023 | 98,242 | 23% increase from the previous year |
Also Read: Check XAT Rank vs College Predictor
Ques. How many people register for XAT every year?
Ans. XAT registration varies every year; mostly, it has grown over the years. XAT 2025 saw registration of 142,235.
Reason Behind the Surge in XAT Registration
- The main reason for the popularity of XAT is XLRI’s prestige and its famous programs. XLRI offers the best programs both in Business Management and in HR.
- Post-pandemic, most students are chasing an MBA because of more career opportunities and leadership roles.
Another reason for the Surge in XAT registration is that many aspirants use XAT as a strategic alternative to CAT due to slot-wise normalisation risks.
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Institute Reputation | XLRI’s strong placement records and global ranking draw more applicants |
| Economic opportunities | MBA degrees often lead to higher salaries and leadership roles |
| Online Accessibility | User-friendly and easy online application process |
| Long Registration window | The XAT 2026 registration window was around 5 months. |
| Marketing efforts | Social media and webinars boosted awareness about XAT |
Also Read: What to carry with the XAT admit card on exam day?
Ques. What makes XAT registration so popular now?
Ans. Better career opportunities, awareness campaigns of XAT, and the best BM and HRM programs from XLRI.
Impact on Competition for XLRI MBA Aspirants
- With over 1.42+ lakh registrations, competition will be tougher for XLRI. There are approximately 600 seats available for both HRM and BM programs combined.
- High registration is expected to increase the cutoff percentile for both XLRI programs. Candidates will face high competition across sections.
| Area of Impact | Expected Changes |
|---|---|
| Cutoff Percentile | Likely to rise 2-5 points across sections due to high registrations |
| Diversity in Applicants | Increased participation from various regions and backgrounds |
| Overall Acceptance Rate | Slight decrease in acceptance rate as seats remain fixed. |
| Selection Process | The selection process will be more competitive due to the large number of candidates. |
Check:Section-wise marks, number of questions, and good percentile for XAT 2026
Ques. What are the chances of getting a call from XLRI if my XAT score is average?
Ans. It's tougher with high registration. Aim for a 96+ percentile to improve the chances, along with building your profile.
Last-Minute Preparation Strategies Amid Raising XAT Registrations
- Due to the high registration for XAT 2026, the competition will be higher. A small change of just one or two marks can significantly change the percentiles.
- In the last few days, which are left for the exam, focus on the revision rather than learning new topics. Prioritise accuracy over attempts.
- At high competition levels, a 1-mark difference can shift a percentile by 1-1.5 points, making accuracy more critical than attempts.
| Preparation Area | Key Tips |
|---|---|
| Mock Tests | Take 1-2 mocks daily until 2 days before the exam; analyse mistakes thoroughly. |
| Revision Focus | Go over notes, formulas, and high-weightage topics; no new concepts. |
| Decision Making | Practice 10-15 past cases; focus on ethical, balanced responses. |
| Verbal Ability | Read editorials daily; revise RC strategies and critical reasoning. |
| Quant & DI | Quick revision of arithmetic, algebra, and solving easy-moderate sets. |
| General Knowledge | Skim current affairs from the last 6-12 months; no deep study needed. |
| Exam Day | Reach early, carry admit card/ID; stay positive and manage time wisely. |
Also, Check: How many colleges accept XAT 2026 in India?
The XAT 2026 stands out for the highest registration in XAT history. Over 1.42 lakh candidates applied for XAT this year, which shows the increasing popularity of XAT in India for MBA opportunities.
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