The Xavier School of Management (XLRI) is expected to release the Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026 Provisional Answer Key today, January 9, 2026 . Candidates who appeared for the exam can download this key from the official XAT portal at xatonline.in . The XAT 2026 examination was conducted on January 4, 2026 . It took place across 109 cities throughout the country.
XLRI previously released the XAT 2026 response sheets and activated the objection window on January 6, 2026 . While an official confirmation for the answer key release date is pending, its availability is highly anticipated following the release of the response sheets. The provisional answer key allows candidates to review their marked answers against the official solutions. This enables them to calculate estimated scores before the final results.
Key XAT 2026 Examination Details
The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is a national-level management aptitude test. It serves as a gateway for admissions to management programs. The XAT is conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur on behalf of the XAMI member institutes.
| Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | XAT 2026 Provisional Answer Key Release |
| Exam Name | Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) |
| Conducting Body | Xavier School of Management (XLRI) |
| Academic Session | 2026-27 |
| Official Website | xatonline.in |
| Programs Offered | Postgraduate Management Programmes (Master of Business Administration (MBA), Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM)) |
| Qualification Level | Postgraduate (PG) |
| Examination Mode | Online, Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Exam Date | January 4, 2026 |
| Response Sheet Release Date | January 6, 2026 |
| Exam Duration | 2 PM to 5 PM (3 hours) |
| Required Credentials | XAT ID and Password for login |
How to Download the XAT 2026 Provisional Answer Key
To access and download the provisional answer key, candidates must use their personal login credentials on the official website. This process ensures secure access to individual examination data. Follow these straightforward steps:
- Navigate your web browser to the official XAT website: xatonline.in .
- Locate and click on the dedicated link for ‘XAT 2026 Provisional Answer Key Download’.
- A login page will appear. Enter your unique XAT ID .
- Input your confidential Password into the designated field.
- After successful login, the XAT 2026 provisional answer key will display.
- Review the answer key against your response sheet. Download it for future reference and score calculation.
XAT 2026 Exam Marking Scheme Explained
Understanding the XAT 2026 marking scheme is essential for candidates to accurately estimate their scores. The scheme details how points are awarded and deducted for correct and incorrect answers, respectively. It also outlines penalties for unattempted questions in specific sections. This information is crucial for score estimation.
| Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 95 questions comprise the entire test. |
| Question Format | All questions are Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs), requiring candidates to select one correct option from given choices. |
| Total Sections | The exam is divided into 4 distinct sections. |
| Section Breakdown | Verbal Ability and Logical Reasoning : 26 questions, assessing language skills and logical deduction. |
| Decision Making : 21 questions, evaluating problem-solving and ethical reasoning. | |
| Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation : 28 questions, focusing on numerical ability and data analysis. | |
| General Knowledge : 20 questions, testing awareness of current affairs and static GK. | |
| Marking Scheme (Sections 1-3) | Each correct answer adds +1 mark . Each incorrect answer deducts -0.25 marks . A penalty of -0.10 marks applies for every eight consecutive unattempted questions. |
| Marking Scheme (GK Section) | The General Knowledge section carries no negative marking. Only positive marks are awarded for correct answers. |
Candidate Support and Contact Information
The XAT helpdesk is available for candidates requiring assistance with any aspect of the examination process. This includes queries regarding the answer key, response sheets, or login issues. Support staff are available during specified hours to provide guidance.
- Helpdesk Number : +91-9513630765
- Email Support : xat2026@xlri.ac.in
- Operating Hours : Monday to Saturday, from 9 AM to 6 PM (Indian Standard Time).