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XAT 2026 Response Sheet and Answer Key Released: How to Download, Score Calculation & Next Steps
The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2026, conducted by XLRI Jamshedpur in January 2026, is one of the most important MBA entrance examinations in India. After the successful completion of the exam, XLRI has released the XAT 2026 response sheet and answer key, allowing candidates to evaluate their performance before the official results are announced.
The response sheet and answer key help candidates understand how they performed in the exam, estimate their expected score, and plan their next steps in the MBA admission process.
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What Is the XAT 2026 Response Sheet?
The XAT response sheet is an official document released by XLRI that displays:
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All the questions asked in the exam
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The answers selected by the candidate
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Questions left unattempted
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Section-wise response details
This document allows candidates to review their performance in each section and identify mistakes or incorrect attempts.
What Is the XAT 2026 Answer Key?
The XAT answer key contains the official correct answers for all questions asked in the exam. By comparing the answer key with the response sheet, candidates can calculate their tentative raw score using the official marking scheme.
Initially, a provisional answer key is released. After reviewing objections (if any), the final answer key is published, which is used for result preparation.
How to Download XAT 2026 Response Sheet and Answer Key
Candidates can download the response sheet and answer key by following these steps:
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Visit the official XAT candidate login portal
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Log in using your XAT ID and password
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Click on the option for Response Sheet or Answer Key
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Download and save the PDF for future reference
Candidates are advised to download the documents as soon as they are available, as the access window may be limited.
Details Mentioned in the XAT 2026 Response Sheet
The response sheet typically includes:
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Candidate name and XAT ID
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Question numbers and question text
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Options selected by the candidate
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Status of attempted and unattempted questions
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Section-wise response summary
This detailed breakdown helps candidates analyze their performance accurately.
XAT 2026 Marking Scheme Used for Score Calculation
Candidates should use the official XAT marking scheme to calculate their tentative score:
Part 1 (VA & LR, Decision Making, QA & DI)
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Correct answer: +1 mark
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Incorrect answer: –0.25 mark
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More than 8 unattempted questions: –0.10 mark per extra unattempted question
Part 2 (General Knowledge)
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Correct answer: +1 mark
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No negative marking
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GK score is not included in percentile calculation but is considered during final selection by institutes like XLRI
How to Calculate Your XAT 2026 Tentative Score
Follow these steps:
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Count the number of correct answers using the answer key
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Multiply correct answers by 1
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Count incorrect answers and multiply by 0.25
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Check if unattempted questions exceed the allowed limit and apply penalty if applicable
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Subtract total penalties from total correct marks
This will give you your estimated raw score.
What to Do After Checking Your XAT Score
Once you have calculated your tentative score, the next steps should include:
Check Expected Cut-Offs
Compare your score with expected cut-offs of top XAT-accepting institutes to assess shortlisting chances.
Prepare for GD-PI-WAT Rounds
Most institutes begin their selection process soon after the declaration of results. Early preparation for interviews and group discussions is recommended.
Analyze Section-Wise Performance
Use the response sheet to understand weak areas and improve strategy for future exams if needed.
XAT 2026 Result Timeline (Expected)
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XAT 2026 Exam conducted on 4th January
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Response sheet and answer key released shortly after the exam
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XAT 2026 result expected in mid to late January
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Interview and selection rounds expected from February onwards
Exact dates are announced officially by XLRI.
Conclusion
The release of the XAT 2026 response sheet and answer key is a crucial milestone for MBA aspirants. It allows candidates to evaluate their performance, calculate tentative scores, and prepare strategically for the next stages of the admission process. Candidates are advised to carefully review their response sheet, apply the correct marking scheme, and stay updated with result announcements and interview schedules.
This step-by-step evaluation helps candidates make informed decisions and stay ahead in their MBA admission journey.
Frequently asked questions
1. When will the XAT 2026 response sheet be released?
The XAT response sheet is usually released a few days after the exam on the official portal.
2. Where can I download the XAT 2026 answer key?
The official answer key is made available on the XAT login dashboard.
3. How can I calculate my XAT 2026 score using the answer key?
Compare your responses with the answer key and apply the XAT marking scheme to estimate your score.
4. Can I challenge the XAT 2026 answer key?
Yes. Candidates are given a limited window to raise objections against the provisional answer key.
5. Does the response sheet show sectional performance?
The response sheet shows your marked answers, which can be used to analyse section-wise performance.
6. When will the XAT 2026 results be declared?
XAT results are generally announced within a few weeks after the answer key release.
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