The Andhra Pradesh State Eligibility Test (AP SET) 2026 is a crucial examination for candidates aspiring to become Assistant Professors and Lecturers in universities and colleges across Andhra Pradesh. Conducted by the designated state authority on behalf of the Government of Andhra Pradesh, AP SET determines eligibility for teaching positions in higher education institutions. Before applying, candidates must clearly understand the AP SET Eligibility Criteria 2026, including age limit, educational qualification, and relaxation rules.
This article provides a complete and easy-to-understand overview of the eligibility requirements to help candidates apply confidently.
Table of Contents
Who Can Apply for AP SET 2026?
Candidates who wish to pursue a career in teaching at the undergraduate or postgraduate level in Andhra Pradesh must qualify AP SET. The eligibility criteria are broadly divided into:
Educational Qualification
Age Limit
Category-wise Relaxation
Meeting these conditions is mandatory; otherwise, the application may be rejected at any stage.
AP SET Educational Qualification 2026
Minimum Qualification Required
To be eligible for AP SET 2026, candidates must have completed a Master’s degree from a recognized university.
General category candidates must have secured at least 55% marks in their postgraduate degree.
Candidates belonging to SC, ST, OBC (Non-Creamy Layer), PwD, and Transgender categories are given a relaxation and need only 50% marks.
The qualifying Master’s degree should be in a subject related to the AP SET subject chosen by the candidate.
Accepted Postgraduate Degrees
Candidates with the following degrees are eligible, provided they meet the required percentage:
MA (Arts / Humanities)
MSc (Science subjects)
MCom
MSW
MA in Education
Other equivalent postgraduate degrees recognized by UGC
Final-year postgraduate students are also allowed to apply, provided they complete their degree within the specified time and meet the required marks.
AP SET Subject Matching Requirement
Candidates must choose the AP SET subject that closely matches their postgraduate specialization. Selecting an unrelated subject may lead to disqualification during document verification.
For example:
MA English → AP SET English
MSc Mathematics → AP SET Mathematical Sciences
MCom → AP SET Commerce
AP SET Age Limit 2026
Is There Any Age Limit for AP SET?
One of the biggest advantages of AP SET is that there is no upper age limit to apply for the examination.
Minimum Age: No specific minimum age prescribed
Maximum Age: No upper age limit
This makes AP SET an excellent opportunity for candidates of all age groups, including working professionals and research scholars.
Category-Wise Relaxation
While there is no age restriction, AP SET offers marks relaxation in educational qualification for reserved categories.
Marks Relaxation Details
SC / ST: 5% relaxation
OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 5% relaxation
Persons with Disabilities (PwD): 5% relaxation
Transgender candidates: 5% relaxation
Candidates must possess valid category certificates issued by competent authorities at the time of document verification.
Nationality Criteria
The candidate must be an Indian citizen.
There is no domicile requirement, but AP SET qualification is mainly applicable to teaching positions in Andhra Pradesh.
Important Points to Remember
AP SET qualification does not guarantee a job; it only makes candidates eligible to apply for Assistant Professor posts.
Clearing AP SET is not mandatory for PhD admission, but it is beneficial.
Candidates can appear for AP SET any number of times as there is no age restriction.
One candidate can apply for only one subject in a single examination cycle.
Who Is Not Eligible for AP SET 2026?
Candidates will be considered ineligible if:
They do not possess a Master’s degree or equivalent qualification.
They fail to meet the minimum percentage requirement.
Their subject choice does not align with their postgraduate qualification.
They submit false or incorrect information.
Why Understanding Eligibility Is Important
Knowing the AP SET Eligibility Criteria 2026 helps candidates:
Avoid rejection of application forms
Choose the correct subject
Prepare documents in advance
Plan their academic and teaching career effectively
Conclusion
The AP SET Eligibility Criteria 2026 are designed to be inclusive and accessible, especially with no age limit and reasonable academic requirements. Candidates with a recognized postgraduate degree and the required marks can confidently apply for the exam. With proper preparation and a clear understanding of eligibility norms, aspirants can take a strong step toward a rewarding teaching career in Andhra Pradesh’s higher education system.
