To provide accurate and up-to-date information for the SET Exam 2026, I will adapt the provided text to reflect the upcoming year. It is important to note that while the general eligibility criteria for the SET exam tend to remain consistent year-on-year, specific dates for application, admit card release, and exam days will be announced by Symbiosis International (Deemed University) closer to the time.
Here’s a breakdown of the likely eligibility criteria for the Symbiosis Entrance Test (SET) in 2026, based on the established patterns:
The Symbiosis Entrance Test (SET) is a crucial first step towards joining some of India’s most prestigious undergraduate programs offered by Symbiosis International (Deemed University). If you’re looking to apply for the SET exam in 2026, being well-informed about the eligibility criteria is essential. This includes academic qualifications, age limits, and any relevant category-based reservations.
What is the SET Exam?
The Symbiosis Entrance Test (SET) is a national-level undergraduate exam conducted annually by Symbiosis International (Deemed University). It serves as the gateway for various courses such as BBA, BCA, BA (Mass Communication), and BA (Liberal Arts), among others. The test evaluates candidates’ proficiency in English, Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and General Awareness.
To participate in the admission process, you must first meet the eligibility requirements set by the university. Failure to meet these requirements could result in disqualification, even if you score well on the test.
General Eligibility Criteria for SET Exam 2026
Here is an overview of the basic requirements you’ll likely need to meet to apply for the SET exam successfully:
- Educational Qualification
- Candidates must have completed Class 12 (10+2) or an equivalent exam from a recognized board.
- General category candidates must secure at least 50% aggregate marks, while candidates from the SC/ST categories require at least 45% marks.
- Students currently in Class 12 or awaiting their results can apply provisionally. Still, they must present proof of passing at the time of admission.
- Age Limit
- Unlike other competitive exams, the SET generally has no defined upper age limit. Candidates must, however, be at least 17 years old before appearing for the test.
- Foreign Board Applicants
- Candidates who have completed high school from a foreign board must secure an equivalence certificate from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) to confirm their eligibility.
- Course-Specific Criteria
- While general requirements apply to all applicants, specific programs may have unique eligibility qualifications. These are detailed below.
Program-Specific Eligibility Criteria for SET 2026
Each undergraduate course has its tailored eligibility requirements. Here’s a detailed breakdown of some of the most sought-after programs under SET 2026:
| Program | Eligibility Requirements |
| BBA & BBA (IT) | 10+2 from a recognized board (Minimum 50% marks for general category; 45% for SC/ST candidates) |
| B.Sc. (Economics Honours) | 10+2 with at least 50% marks (general category), 45% (SC/ST) (Candidates awaiting results may apply provisionally) |
| BA Mass Communication | 10+2 with a minimum of 50% (general) or 45% (SC/ST) (Includes eligibility for candidates with a 10+3 diploma approved by the State Board of Technical Education) |
| B.A. (Liberal Arts) | 10+2 from a recognized board with a minimum of 50% (45% for SC/ST) |
| BCA | 10+2 with 50% for general category; 45% for SC/ST candidates |
Category-Based Reservation
Symbiosis International (Deemed University) follows a reservation policy based on UGC guidelines. Here’s how seats are typically distributed for various categories within the sanctioned intake of each program:
| Category | Reservation |
| Scheduled Caste (SC) | 15% |
| Scheduled Tribe (ST) | 7.5% |
| Differently-abled Candidates | 3% |
| Kashmiri Migrants | 2 seats per program |
| International Students | 15% |
Students under the “Children/Wards of Defense Personnel” category are also eligible for specific seat reservations under select programs such as SICSR and SLS.
Key Points to Remember
- If you belong to a reserved category, ensure you can provide the required documentation during the Personal Interview (PI) or Written Ability Test (WAT).
- Candidates applying under foreign board equivalency must ensure all certifications are in place before admission.
- Incorrect information or falsified documents may result in disqualification.
Steps to Apply for the SET Exam 2026
To register for the SET exam, ensure you follow these steps carefully (tentative process, actual dates will be released closer to the time):
- Visit the Official Website
- Go to set-test.org and look for the registration link for SET 2026.
- Fill Out the Application Form
- Provide accurate personal and academic details during registration.
- Pay the Application Fee
- Securely pay the fee using credit/debit cards, net banking, or UPI.
- Choose Test Centers
- Select up to three test cities as your exam location preferences.
- Submit the Form
- Review your application and submit it. Download and print your application form for future reference.
Why Does Eligibility Matter?
Meeting eligibility criteria is not merely a formality—it ensures a fair and manageable admissions process for all candidates. Furthermore, understanding these criteria in advance allows you to focus on preparing for the test rather than worrying about whether or not you qualify.
Your Next Step
Now that you’re equipped with the likely eligibility details, it’s time to focus on preparing for the SET exam. A great place to start is researching study techniques, practicing with mock tests, and brushing up on the test syllabus.
FAQs for SET Exam 2026
What Are the Eligibility Requirements for the SET Exam in 2026?
To be eligible for the SET Exam 2026, candidates must have completed Class 12 (10+2) or an equivalent examination from a recognized board. General category applicants must achieve at least 50% aggregate marks, while candidates from SC/ST categories must secure at least 45%. Students currently appearing for their Class 12 exams may apply provisionally but must provide proof of passing at admission.
Are There Specific Academic Qualifications Needed to Apply for the SET Exam?
Yes, candidates must have completed 10+2 or an equivalent recognized qualification. The minimum percentage varies by category (50% for general and 45% for SC/ST). Additionally, some courses require specific qualifications detailed under program-specific eligibility criteria.
What Age Criteria Must Be Met for SET Exam Eligibility?
There is generally no upper age limit for appearing for the SET exam. However, candidates must be at least 17 years old when taking the test.
Can International Students Apply for the SET Exam, and What Are the Requirements?
Yes, international students can apply for the SET Exam. Candidates with a high school diploma from a foreign education board must obtain an equivalence certificate from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) to confirm their eligibility.
Are there any specific percentages or grade requirements for eligibility for the SET exam?
Yes, the percentage requirements depend on the candidate’s category and program. For general category candidates, the minimum requirement is 50% aggregate marks, while SC/ST candidates require 45%. Program-specific eligibility percentages may vary slightly and are mentioned under the detailed program criteria.
What Are the Eligibility Criteria for Different Categories (e.g., Reserved Categories) for the SET Exam?
Symbiosis International (Deemed University) follows a reservation policy as per UGC guidelines. The categories and corresponding seat reservations are typically as follows:
- Scheduled Caste (SC): 15%
- Scheduled Tribe (ST): 7.5%
- Differently-abled Candidates: 3%
- Kashmiri Migrants: 2 seats per program
- International Students: 15% Candidates within these categories must submit valid documentation during the admission process. Special reservations are also available for children/wards of defense personnel under select programs such as SICSR and and SLS.
Meeting these criteria ensures compliance with the university’s policies, setting a strong foundation for your application process for SET 2026.
