The Indian state governments administer the State Eligibility Test (SET) to determine which candidates are qualified for Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) positions at government universities and colleges located throughout their respective states. It is a state-level eligibility examination conducted by various states in India.
The primary objective of the SET exam is to ensure that candidates have the necessary knowledge, skills, and aptitude to teach and conduct research at the higher education level. Notably, every state or organization administers the SET exam differently, customizing its features and parameters to meet regional needs and academic standards.
Purpose of SET:
- To determine the eligibility of candidates for teaching positions at the university level.
- To ensure, that teachers possess the necessary knowledge and skills to impart quality education.
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SET Exam Application Process
The State Eligibility Test (SET) exam application process is a crucial step towards becoming eligible for sitting for the examination. The application process varies by state, but this guide provides a general overview of the steps involved.
- Visit the official website of your respective state’s organizing body which is responsible for conducting the SET Exam.
- Complete the online registration process by entering personal information, educational qualifications, and any other required details.
- After successful registration proceed to fill out the SET application form and upload scanned copies of your documents, as specified.
- After completing the application form, proceed to pay the application fee.
- Now submit your application and take a printout for future reference.
SET Exam 2025 Exam Dates
The State Eligibility Test (SET) exam 2025 tentative dates haven’t been officially announced yet. One can check the official website of the conducting authority for the required state to get the latest information on the same. Typically, the exam conducting authorities release notifications and exam schedules on their websites.
SET Exam Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the SET exam, candidates must satisfy the criteria mentioned below:
| Educational Qualification | General: 55% Aggregate MarksOther Categories: 50% Aggregate Marks |
| Ph.D. Holders | State-specific exemptions and relaxation |
| Age Limit | No upper age limit |
| Number of Attempts | There is no limit until you meet other eligibility criteria. |
| The subject of Postgraduate Study | The subject chosen by the candidates should be in their postgraduate study |
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SET Exam Syllabus
The SET exam is usually conducted in two papers:
- Paper I: General Aptitude Test (GAT) -1 Hour
- Paper II: Subject-specific paper -2 Hour
Paper-1 is a general exam for all the students and Paper-2 is a subject-oriented exam of the candidate’s preferred field. The syllabus for Paper 1 is as follows:
| Teaching and Research Aptitude | Teaching skills, Research abilities, Communication, Critical thinking and comprehension |
| Logical Reasoning | Verbal and Nonverbal Reasoning |
| Data Interpretation | Basics of Data Interpretation |
| Reading Comprehension | Advanced Reading Strategies, Comprehension Skills |
| Communication | Verbal and Nonverbal Communication Skills |
Candidates can visit their respective state’s official website for a detailed SET Paper-II syllabus.
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SET Exam Pattern
It is very important to know about the exam pattern of any exam that you are appearing for. It gives you the liberty to prepare well for the exam. Here is the exam pattern for the SET exam:
- The format is MCQ: Multiple Choice Question type.
- Paper 1 is the General Paper on Teaching and Research Aptitude (1 hour)
- Paper 2 is subject-specific owing to post graduation (2 hours)
- The mode can be online or offline based on the organizing body.
- There is no negative marking.
- Minimum qualifying marks – For general category: 40%, For SC/ST/OBC (NCL)/PWD Category: 35%
Conclusion
The SET exam is administered by various state governments, hence the format, syllabus, and eligibility criteria may differ. For the most recent information and updates, candidates can visit the official website of the state government that is conducting the SET exam. Please visit the state-specific SET Exam pages or go straight to the official websites of the relevant state agencies for further information about the specifics of each state’s SET Exam.
State authorities around India use the State Eligibility Test Exam as a vital tool to evaluate applicants for assistant professor and junior research fellowship jobs in colleges and universities. It enhances candidates’ academic career possibilities, allowing them to embark on a road of excellence and advancement.
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FAQs
The full form of the SET exam is the State Eligibility Test.
It serves as a qualifying examination for candidates aspiring to become Assistant Professors in universities and colleges across the country.
One of the most effective ways to prepare for the SET exam is by reviewing the previous year’s question papers and sample papers. This can help you have more understanding of the exam pattern and gain a deeper knowledge of the types of questions that may appear on the test.
40,000 to 50,000 per month. This amount may vary slightly depending on the location of the posting and other factors, ensuring that candidates receive a competitive and rewarding package.
SET exams are conducted in various states across India, including Madhya Pradesh, NE-SLET (comprising all North Eastern states and Sikkim), Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Karnataka, Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Telangana, Punjab, Kerala, Odisha, and Chattisgarh.
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Prachi, a student pursuing bachelor’s in English and Philosophy from University of Delhi is a knowledge-driven, hardworking individual. Having interest in content writing, research and still exploring other domains, she has a knack for learning.
