XAT 2027 introduces new exam rules, adds 17 B-schools to associate network

XLRI Jamshedpur has introduced changes to the XAT 2027 examination rules, increased the seat intake for its Human Resource Management program, and expanded the list of participating management institutes.

The revisions are aimed at providing candidates with greater flexibility in the entrance examination and additional options for management admissions.

Under the revised examination guidelines, candidates can leave up to 12 questions unanswered in Part 1 without facing any penalty. The earlier limit allowed candidates to skip only eight questions without losing marks.

However, candidates will face a penalty of 0.10 marks for each unanswered question beyond the revised limit of 12. The change increases the number of questions candidates can leave unattempted without attracting negative marking.

XAT 2027: XLRI increases HRM program seats

Along with the examination changes, XLRI Jamshedpur has increased the intake capacity of its Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management (PGDM-HRM) programme from 180 to 240 seats.

The expansion represents a 33.3% increase in the number of available seats, providing more admission opportunities to candidates seeking to pursue postgraduate management education in human resources.

XAT 2027 adds 17 new associate institutes

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2027 has also expanded its network of associate institutes by including 17 additional business schools, according to the official statement.

The newly added institutions include Mahindra University, Masters’ Union University, Narayana Business School, RV University, Sparsh Global Business School, Arun Jaitley National Institute of Financial Management, and ACCMAN Institute of Management, among others.

With these additions, the examination's participating institute network extends beyond XLRI Jamshedpur, allowing candidates to explore more management admission opportunities across different cities and academic programs.

The expanded network is expected to provide aspirants with a wider range of institutions and programs to consider while applying for management education through XAT 2027.

XAT 2027: Free previous-year question papers for early applicants

As part of a special preparation initiative, XAT authorities will provide previous-year examination papers to candidates who complete their registration by November 11, 2026.

Eligible applicants will receive the XAT 2025 and XAT 2026 question papers, along with their respective answer keys. The initiative is intended to help candidates familiarize themselves with the examination pattern and practice using previous examination questions.

XAT 2027: What officials said about the changes

Dr. Rahul K. Shukla, Professor, General Management Area, and Convenor, XAT and Admissions, said the announcements are aimed at providing aspirants with greater flexibility during the examination and expanding their opportunities to pursue management education.

The changes cover examination rules, admission capacity, participating institutions, and preparation support for candidates appearing for the upcoming entrance test.

XAT 2027 Registration deadline and exam date

The XAT 2027 registration process will close on Dec 6, 2026. Candidates interested in appearing for the management entrance examination can complete their applications through the official website, xatonline.in.

The entrance examination is scheduled to take place on Jan 3, 2027. Aspirants should complete the registration process before the deadline to avoid missing the opportunity to appear for the examination.