The AP SET 2026 Notification has officially been released on 2 January 2026, bringing important news for postgraduate candidates aspiring to become Assistant Professors and Lecturers in colleges and universities across Andhra Pradesh. The Andhra Pradesh State Eligibility Test (AP SET) is a prestigious state-level examination that determines the eligibility of candidates for teaching positions in higher education institutions run by the state government.
As per the notification, the online application process will begin on 9 January 2026, and eligible candidates can apply until 9 February 2026 through the official websites. The AP SET 2026 examination will be conducted on 28 and 29 March 2026 in online (CBT) mode.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of AP SET 2026, including important dates, eligibility criteria, application process, fees, exam pattern, syllabus overview, selection process, exam centres, and FAQs—explained in a clear and expert manner.
About AP SET 2026
The Andhra Pradesh State Eligibility Test (AP SET) is conducted to assess the eligibility of candidates for the post of Assistant Professor and Lecturer in universities and colleges of Andhra Pradesh.
On behalf of the Government of Andhra Pradesh, Andhra University is responsible for conducting the AP SET examination. The exam is held once a year and follows the guidelines prescribed by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
AP SET 2026 Exam Overview
Here is a quick snapshot of the AP SET 2026 examination:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Andhra Pradesh State Eligibility Test (AP SET 2026) |
| Conducting Authority | Andhra University, Visakhapatnam |
| Exam Level | State Level |
| Exam Frequency | Once a Year |
| Exam Mode | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Language of Exam | English & Telugu |
| Purpose | Eligibility for Assistant Professor / Lecturer |
| Official Websites | https://apset.net.in / www.andhrauniversity.edu.in |
AP SET 2026 Important Dates
Candidates planning to apply for AP SET 2026 must keep track of the following important dates:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 2 January 2026 |
| Online Application Start Date | 9 January 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 9 February 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 9 February 2026 |
| Application with ₹2,000 Late Fee | 25 February 2026 |
| Application with ₹5,000 Late Fee | 5 March 2026 |
| Hall Ticket Release | 19 March 2026 |
| AP SET 2026 Exam Dates | 28 & 29 March 2026 |
Candidates are advised to submit their applications early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
AP SET 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility requirements prescribed in the official notification.
Educational Qualification
- Candidates must have completed a Postgraduate / Master’s degree in a relevant subject from a recognized university.
- Minimum Marks Required:
- General Category: 55%
- SC / ST / BC / PWD Categories: 50%
Candidates who are in the final year of their postgraduate degree may also apply, subject to fulfilling eligibility conditions at the time of document verification.
Age Limit
- There is no age limit to appear for the AP SET examination.
AP SET 2026 Application Form
The AP SET 2026 application form will be available online from 9 January 2026. Applications will be accepted only in online mode.
Candidates must fill in all details carefully, as incorrect or incomplete information may lead to rejection of the application.
Steps to Apply Online for AP SET 2026
Follow the step-by-step process given below to apply successfully:
- Visit the official website: https://apset.net.in
- Click on the “Register” link on the homepage.
- Enter personal details such as name, date of birth, category, email ID, and mobile number.
- Complete the registration and proceed to the fee payment section.
- Pay the application fee using online payment modes.
- Login with registered credentials.
- Fill in educational and other required details.
- Upload scanned copies of photograph, signature, and certificates (JPEG format only).
- Submit the application form.
- Download and print the confirmation page for future reference.
AP SET 2026 Application Fee
The application fee varies by category and is non-refundable.
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General | ₹1600 |
| BC / EWS | ₹1300 |
| SC / ST / PWD / Transgender | ₹900 |
Late fees are applicable for applications submitted after the regular deadline.
AP SET 2026 Selection Process
The AP SET 2026 selection process consists of two stages:
- Written Examination (Paper I & Paper II)
- Document Verification
Only candidates who qualify in the written examination will be called for document verification.
AP SET 2026 Exam Pattern
Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation.
Paper I (Common for All Candidates)
- Number of Questions: 50
- Total Marks: 100
- Duration: 1 Hour
- Question Type: Objective (MCQs)
- Marks per Question: 2
- Negative Marking: None
- Language: English & Telugu
Paper I tests teaching aptitude, research aptitude, comprehension, reasoning, and general awareness.
Paper II (Subject-Specific)
- Number of Questions: 100
- Total Marks: 200
- Duration: 2 Hours
- Question Type: Objective (MCQs)
- Subjects Offered: 30
Paper II focuses on in-depth knowledge of the subject chosen by the candidate.
AP SET 2026 Syllabus (Overview)
- Paper I: Teaching Aptitude, Research Aptitude, Reading Comprehension, Communication, Reasoning, Data Interpretation, ICT, People & Environment, Higher Education System.
- Paper II: Subject-wise syllabus as prescribed in the official notification.
Candidates should download the official syllabus PDF for detailed topic-wise preparation.
AP SET 2026 Exam Centres
The examination will be conducted at various centres across Andhra Pradesh:
| Code | Exam Centre |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visakhapatnam |
| 2 | Rajahmundry |
| 3 | Guntur |
| 4 | Nellore |
| 5 | Ananthapur |
| 6 | Tirupati |
| 7 | Kadapa |
| 8 | Kurnool |
The final exam centre will be allotted based on candidate preference and availability.
AP SET 2026 Hall Ticket
The AP SET 2026 hall ticket will be released on 19 March 2026. Candidates must download it from the official website and carry a printed copy along with a valid photo ID to the exam centre.
AP SET 2026 FAQs
Q1. Is AP SET 2026 Notification released?
Yes, the AP SET 2026 notification was released on 2 January 2026.
Q2. When will AP SET 2026 applications start?
The application process starts on 9 January 2026.
Q3. Is there any age limit for AP SET 2026?
No, there is no age restriction.
Q4. What is the full form of AP SET?
AP SET stands for Andhra Pradesh State Eligibility Test.
Conclusion
The AP SET 2026 is a crucial examination for candidates aspiring to build a career in higher education teaching within Andhra Pradesh. With a clear understanding of the eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and application process, candidates can plan their preparation effectively.
Applicants are advised to apply early, prepare according to the latest syllabus, and regularly check the official website for updates. With focused preparation and timely action, AP SET 2026 can be a significant step toward a successful academic career.