XAT Exam Day Guidelines 2026, Dress Code, Shift Timing, Do’s & Don’ts

XAT Exam Day Guidelines 2026: The XAT 2026 is scheduled for January 4 from 2 pm to 5 pm. Those who are aiming for this exam should review the XAT exam day guidelines. This helps them maintain decorum and appropriate behaviour in the exam hall. They should also check the XAT dress code and shift timing. This will help them avoid any last-minute rush and ensure smooth entry into the test centre. XAT 2026 is a computer-based test, comprising 95 questions with an exam duration of 180 minutes. Read ahead to know the XAT exam day guidelines, dress code, and other relevant details.

Join this free whatsApp group to get the latest information about XAT exam along with the strategies by CAT experts

XAT Exam Day Guidelines 2026

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is organised by XLRI Jamshedpur on behalf of XAMI members. It is one of India’s most trusted entrance tests for admission to MBA/PGDM programs. The XAT question paper is typically divided into two time-bound parts. Part 1 focuses on Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation, Decision Making and Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning. Paper 2 is based on General Knowledge. There shall also be negative marking in the test. As the exam is near, candidates should download their admit card and stay updated with the XAT exam day guidelines. They should also check the list of items prohibited inside the exam premises. If they are found with any of the restricted items, they may face disqualification of their candidature. In this article, we have discussed XAT dress code guidelines, shift timing, exam day instructions, and more.

XAT Shift Timing 2026

The XAT 2026 will be conducted on January 4 in a single shift. Candidates should arrive only at the allocated exam centre on time. This helps them finish their verification formalities and enter the test centre without any restrictions. Below is the XAT Shift Timing 2026 for your reference:

Exam Date	Shift Timing	Gate Closure Time	Exam Duration
January 4, 2026	2.00 pm to 5.00 pm	01:50 PM	3 hours (180 minutes)

XAT Dress Code Guidelines

Eligible aspirants should thoroughly check the XAT Dress Code Guidelines before appearing in the test. This helps them avoid any restrictions while entering the exam hall. There is no particular dress code for XAT. But aspirants should keep certain points in mind for hassle-free verification at the test centre. Some of the XAT dress code guidelines are shared below:

• Simple dressing with plain cardigans/sweaters is recommended.
• You must wear simple outfits without large pockets.
• You must avoid wearing ornaments or jewellery on the exam day. It helps you prevent issues during security checks.
• Your outfit should not have any metallic accessories.
• Jackets are strictly prohibited inside the test centre premises. 

XAT Exam Day Guidelines 2026: Do’s and Don’ts

Aspirants should be familiar with the dos and don’ts on the XAT exam day. It helps them stay stress-free and avoid any last-minute confusion. Those who fail to maintain the decorum of the exam hall may face cancellation of their candidature. That’s why you must know the XAT exam day guidelines before arriving at the test centre.

• Candidates should reach the XAT exam centre at least 40 minutes before the gate closure time. This will help them avoid traffic issues and complete verification formalities on time. They will not be permitted to enter the exam centre after the gate closure time (01:50 PM).
• It is mandatory to bring your admit card and original ID card to the exam centre.
• Use of electronic devices/jewellery/jackets/calculators/watches or metallic items is strictly prohibited.
• You will have to undergo a mandatory frisking activity at the test centre entry. If you are found with any objectionable item, you will be requested to leave it behind before entering the exam centre.
• Candidates will be permitted to log in to their respective systems 10 minutes before the exam commencement. They can read the instructions during this time.
• Your Guardians/relatives/friends are not permitted inside the test centre.
• You must carry your pen/pencil. However, sheets will be given to you for any rough work.
• You will have to submit the admit card and rough sheets to the invigilator after the test.
• All exam labs are under video surveillance to closely monitor all activities. Engaging in unfair practices will result in the cancellation of your candidature.

XAT Exam Day Guidelines 2026: Do’s

Candidates should read the instructions to know about the things/documents required on the exam day. If they fail to bring any of these documents, they may not be allowed to enter the exam. Check below the XAT exam day guidelines in terms of Do’s:

• XAT Admit Card 2026
• Valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar Card/Voter ID Card/PAN Card/Valid college ID Card/Passport/Driving License/Employee ID Card)
•  One recent passport-size photograph

XAT Exam Day Guidelines 2026: Don’ts

Candidates should avoid carrying any items that are prohibited inside the exam premises. If they are found with any of those items, they will be requested to leave them behind. Those who will show non-cooperation will not be allowed to appear in the test. Refer to the list below to know items allowed and not allowed in the exam hall.

Items	Allowed/Not Allowed
Mobile Phones	Not Allowed
Electronic / Bluetooth Devices	Not Allowed
Books / Papers	Not Allowed
Calculators	Not Allowed
Transparent Water Bottle	Allowed
Pen / Pencil	Allowed
Mask	Not Allowed
Shoes	Allowed
Belt	Allowed
Wallet	Allowed
Coins / Cash / ATM Cards	Allowed
Ornaments	Not Allowed
Metallic Items	Not Allowed
Religious Items	Allowed
Normal Keys	Allowed
Electronic Keys	Not Allowed
Analog Watches	Not Allowed
Digital / Smart Watches	Not Allowed

XAT Exam Day Guidelines 2026 FAQs