The Xavier School of Management (XLRI) Jamshedpur released the XAT 2026 provisional answer key on January 7, 2026 . Candidates who appeared for the Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 can download the key from the official website, xatonline.in. The objection window for the answer key is also open until January 10, 2026 .
Accessing the XAT 2026 Answer Key
Candidates must log in to the official XAT portal to download the answer key. This requires entering their XAT ID and password. The downloaded key provides candidate responses alongside the officially released correct answers for each question.
The answer key allows candidates to cross-verify their marked answers with the correct solutions. This process helps estimate a preliminary score before official results are declared.
Raising Objections to the Answer Key
XLRI has activated an online objection window for candidates to challenge any perceived discrepancies in the provisional answer key. Candidates must submit objections through the official portal, xatonline.in.
To submit an objection, candidates need to log in using their XAT ID and password, the same credentials used for their admit card. The portal guides users through the objection process.
Candidates must provide clear justification and supporting evidence for each challenged question. The online portal allows uploading relevant documents or references. A non-refundable processing fee of INR 500 per question applies for submitting objections. This fee is refunded only if the objection is found valid by the expert committee. The deadline for submitting objections is January 10, 2026 , by 5:00 PM. No challenges will be accepted after this date.
XAT 2026: An Overview
The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is a national-level management aptitude test. XLRI Jamshedpur conducts the examination annually. It serves as a gateway for admission to MBA and Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) programs. Over 160 business schools across India accept XAT scores for their admission processes. The XAT 2026 exam took place on January 5, 2026 .
The test evaluates candidates on various parameters. These include Verbal and Logical Ability, Decision Making, Quantitative Ability and Data Interpretation, and General Knowledge. An essay component is also part of the examination structure.
Post-Objection Process and Results
After the objection window closes on January 10, 2026 , a panel of subject matter experts will review all submitted challenges. This review process ensures fairness and accuracy. XLRI will then release a final answer key, incorporating any validated changes. The final answer key serves as the definitive basis for calculating candidate scores. No further challenges against the final answer key are accepted once released.
The XAT 2026 results are expected by January 31, 2026 . Candidates can download their XAT scorecard from xatonline.in using their login credentials. The scorecard details sectional and overall scores, along with percentile ranks.
Important Dates for XAT 2026
Candidates should note the following key dates related to the XAT 2026 examination and admission process:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| XAT 2026 Exam Date | January 5, 2026 |
| Provisional Answer Key Release | January 7, 2026 |
| Objection Window Closes | January 10, 2026 |
| Final Answer Key Release | January 17, 2026 (Expected) |
| XAT 2026 Result Declaration | January 31, 2026 (Expected) |
| Scorecard Download | February 1, 2026 – March 31, 2026 (Expected) |
| Admission Interviews (GD/PI) | February – March 2026 (Tentative) |
| Final Admission Offers | April 2026 (Tentative) |
Next Steps for Qualified Candidates
Candidates who meet the sectional and overall cut-offs will be shortlisted for the subsequent selection rounds. These rounds typically include a Group Discussion (GD), Personal Interview (PI), and Essay Writing. Each participating institution sets its own cut-off scores for shortlisting.
Candidates should monitor the official XAT website and individual B-school websites for updates on selection rounds. Preparation for these rounds is critical for securing admission into preferred management programs.