AP SET 2026 Notification, Exam Date, Eligibility & Application Form

Andhra Pradesh State Eligibility Test (AP SET) 2026 is one of the most important state-level examinations for postgraduate candidates aspiring to pursue a career in higher education as Assistant Professors or Lecturers in colleges and universities in the state of Andhra Pradesh. Conducted annually by Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, on behalf of the Andhra Pradesh State Council of Higher Education (APSCHE), AP SET follows a pattern similar to the national level UGC-NET exam.

Although the official AP SET 2026 notification PDF has not yet been officially published on the exam’s official portal at the time of writing, key details such as tentative dates, eligibility criteria, application procedures and expected exam structures have already been shared through credible exam trackers and educational websites.

AP SET 2026 Important Dates (Tentative)

Based on information published by trusted exam information websites, the following tentative schedule has been suggested for AP SET 2026:

AP SET 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Before filling the application form, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements mentioned in the notification. AP SET generally follows the standard eligibility approach used for eligibility tests:

Educational Qualification

You usually need:

• A Master’s degree (PG) in a relevant subject from a recognized university (or equivalent). APSET 2025

Minimum Marks (Common Rule Pattern)

Most eligibility tests including APSET typically require:

• General/EWS: 55% marks in PG
• SC/ST/PwD/OBC/BC: 50% marks in PG

(Always verify the exact % and category definitions in the AP SET 2026 notification once released, because rules can vary slightly by cycle.)

Age Limit

AP SET is an eligibility test, so it generally does not have an upper age limit (confirm from the official notification for the 2026 cycle).

AP SET 2026 Application Form: How to Apply Online

AP SET registration is conducted in online mode through the official portal.

Step-by-step AP SET 2026 Online Application Process

1. Visit the official APSET website and open the Apply Online link.
2. Register using basic details (name, mobile number, email ID).
3. Fill the application form: personal details, qualification details, subject selection, exam center preference, etc.
4. Upload scanned documents (photo/signature and any required certificates).
5. Pay the application fee online.
6. Submit the form and download/print the confirmation page.

Application Fees (Expected)

Although the official fee structure for 2026 is not yet released, last data suggests fee slabs like:

• General Category: ₹1200
• BC Category: ₹1000
• SC/ST/PwD/Transgender: ₹700
  (Plus an institute fee for every selection)

Documents typically required

• Recent passport photo and signature (as per size/format rules)
• PG marks memo / degree details
• Category certificate (if applicable)
• PwD certificate (if applicable)
• Valid ID proof details.

AP SET 2026 Exam Pattern

AP SET is commonly conducted as a Computer Based Test (CBT) with two papers:

Paper 1 (General Paper – Teaching/Research Aptitude)

• Tests teaching aptitude, research aptitude, reasoning, comprehension, communication, data interpretation, and general awareness-type areas.

Paper 2 (Subject Paper)

• Questions are from your chosen subject and are designed to test conceptual clarity and application.

Preparation Strategy & Tips

While AP SET is a qualifying exam (not a recruitment selection test), it is highly competitive. Here’s how aspirants can prepare effectively:

Paper I

• Focus on teaching aptitude, reasoning, general awareness, communication skills, ICT and research aptitude.
• Solve previous year papers and mock tests.

Paper II

• Thorough knowledge of your subject syllabus (similar to UGC-NET syllabus for your discipline).
• Concept clarity and regular practice of MCQs.

Revision, time management, and consistent practice are key to clearing this exam.