State Eligibility Test (SET) 2026 – Complete Guide, Eligibility, Syllabus, Important Dates & Online Application Process
The State Eligibility Test (SET) 2026 is one of the most important examinations for candidates aspiring to become Assistant Professors in universities and colleges across the North Eastern region of India. The exam is conducted by the State Level Eligibility Test Commission, Assam (N.E. Region) and follows guidelines similar to the UGC-NET conducted nationally by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
This detailed article provides complete information regarding the SET 2026 notification, eligibility criteria, exam structure, syllabus, exam centres, application fee, online application process, important dates, and frequently asked questions. Furthermore, the article also covers relevant points that candidates must know before applying for the exam. This comprehensive guide has been prepared to ensure that aspirants receive all necessary information in one place.
What is the State Eligibility Test (SET)?
The State Eligibility Test, commonly known as SET or SLET (State Level Eligibility Test), is an eligibility-based examination designed to determine the qualifications of candidates who wish to apply for the post of Assistant Professor in recognized universities and colleges within the participating states. The exam is conducted specifically for the states of the North Eastern Region, which include:
- Assam
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Mizoram
- Manipur
- Meghalaya
- Nagaland
- Sikkim
- Tripura
The primary objective of the exam is to build a pool of qualified and eligible Assistant Professors for higher education institutions in these states. Unlike recruitment exams, SET does not directly offer employment. Instead, it provides eligibility, which is mandatory for applying to Assistant Professor posts in government and private colleges in the region.
Overview of State Eligibility Test (SET) 2026
The SET 2026 examination will be conducted in accordance with the standard guidelines followed by the SLET Commission. An overview of the exam is presented below:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name of Exam | State Eligibility Test (SET) 2026 |
| Conducting Authority | SLET Commission Assam (N.E. Region) |
| Exam Category | Eligibility Test for Assistant Professor |
| Exam Type | Written, Objective-Type |
| Exam Mode | Offline (Pen and Paper Mode) |
| Papers | Paper I and Paper II |
| Total Marks | 300 |
| Total Questions | 150 |
| Date of Examination | 15th March 2026 (Sunday) |
| Official Website | www.sletne.org |
Purpose and Importance of SET Exam
The SET exam holds significant importance for candidates who wish to pursue a teaching career in higher education. The exam:
- Ensures that only qualified candidates are eligible to apply for Assistant Professorship.
- Maintains academic standards in universities and colleges.
- Encourages professional growth and research aptitude.
- Acts as an equivalent qualification to UGC-NET for recruitment within NE Region.
Candidates who qualify the SET exam receive an official certificate from the SLET Commission, which remains valid for lifetime unless notified otherwise.
Eligibility Criteria for SET 2026
Before applying for the exam, candidates must carefully review the eligibility criteria to avoid disqualification at any stage.
1. Educational Qualification
The minimum educational qualification required to appear for the SET 2026 examination is a Master’s degree from a UGC-recognised university or institution.
The required percentage varies by category:
General / Unreserved / General-EWS:
- Must have secured at least 55% marks (without rounding off) in Master’s degree or equivalent examination.
OBC-NCL / SC / ST / Persons with Disability (PwD):
- Must have secured at least 50% marks (without rounding off) in a Master’s degree or equivalent examination.
Candidates Appearing for Final Year Exams:
- Candidates who are appearing or have appeared in the final qualifying Master’s examination and whose results are awaited may also apply.
- Such candidates must complete their qualifying criteria within the stipulated time; otherwise, their candidature may be cancelled.
2. Age Limit
The most significant advantage of the SET examination is that there is no upper age limit for appearing in the exam.
Candidates of all age groups who fulfil the educational criteria may appear for SET 2026.
Registration and Application Fee for SET 2026
Applicants must pay the following fees depending on their category:
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General / UR | ₹1300 |
| OBC-NCL | ₹1150 |
| EWS | ₹1150 |
| SC / ST | ₹1100 |
| PWD | ₹900 |
Candidates can pay the fee online using debit card, credit card or net banking. Once the payment is completed, the application form can be submitted.
How to Apply Online for SET 2026 – Step-by-Step Guide
The online application process for SET 2026 is completely digital, user-friendly, and secure. Candidates must follow the steps below to submit their application:
Step 1: Visit the official website
Go to the official portal of SLET Commission:
www.sletne.org
Step 2: Go to Important Web-Links
Scroll down to reach the Important Web-Links section.
Step 3: Click on “Online Application Form”
Start your registration process by clicking the “Online Application” button.
Step 4: Complete your Registration
Enter your personal details such as name, mobile number, email ID, and create a password.
Step 5: Login and Fill out the Application Form
After registration, click on the “Login” button and access the form.
Step 6: Upload Required Documents
You must upload:
- Passport-size photograph
- Signature
- Educational certificates
- Caste/PwD certificate (if applicable)
Step 7: Pay the Application Fee
Choose your payment method and complete the transaction.
Step 8: Submit Your Application
After verifying the details, submit the application form.
Step 9: Print the Form
Take a printout of the submitted form for record and future reference.
Important Dates for SET 2026
Candidates must remember the below important dates:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 21 November 2025 |
| Last Date to Submit Application | 5 January 2026 |
| Date of SLET Exam | 15 March 2026 |
| Result Declaration | To be announced |
Exam Pattern for State Eligibility Test 2026
The SET exam consists of two papers. Both papers include objective-type questions. No negative marking is applied for incorrect answers.
Paper I: General Paper (100 Marks)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Marks | 100 |
| Number of Questions | 50 |
| Duration | 1 hour |
| Timing | 10:00 AM–11:00 AM |
| Type | General Aptitude |
Paper I is designed to test candidates’ aptitude in the following areas:
- General Knowledge
- Reasoning
- Comprehension
- Teaching Aptitude
- Research Aptitude
- Logical Thinking
- Divergent Thinking
Paper II: Subject-Specific Paper (200 Marks)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Marks | 200 |
| Number of Questions | 100 |
| Duration | 2 hours |
| Timing | 11:30 AM–1:30 PM |
| Type | Subject-Oriented |
Paper II consists of 100 multiple-choice questions based on the subject chosen by the candidate. Each question carries 2 marks.
No Negative Marking:
Candidates can attempt all questions without fear of penalty.
Special Provision:
Visually impaired candidates and those with writing disabilities will be given 20 minutes extra time for each paper.
SLET 2026 Subjects and Syllabus
The SLET Commission provides syllabi for all subjects offered under SET. Some of the main subjects include:
- Assamese
- English
- Economics
- Education
- History
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Geography
- Hindi
- Bengali
- Law
- Psychology
- Commerce
- Management
- Chemical Science
- Life Science
- Mathematical Science
- Physical Science
- Computer Science
- Environmental Science
Each subject syllabus is available on the official website.
SLET 2026 Exam Centres
The exam will be conducted in the following centres across the NE Region:
| Exam Centre Name | Code |
|---|---|
| Gauhati University | 01 |
| Dibrugarh University | 02 |
| Tezpur University | 03 |
| Assam University | 04 |
| Manipur University | 05 |
| Rajiv Gandhi Central University (Arunachal Pradesh) | 06 |
| Tripura University | 07 |
| Sikkim (NBBDC) | 08 |
| Mizoram University | 09 |
| NEHU, Shillong | 10 |
| Nagaland University | 11 |
Candidates must choose their exam centre wisely, as changes may not be allowed later.
Important Web-Links (Under Table)
| Web Link | Action |
|---|---|
| Online Application Form (Register) | Click Here |
| Applicant Login | Click Here |
| Official Notification PDF (2026) | Click Here |
| Information Brochure | Click Here |
| SLET Guidebook | Click Here |
| Attestation Form Download | Click Here |
| Subject-Wise Syllabus PDF | Click Here |
| Official SLET Website | www.sletne.org |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – SET 2026
1. What is the purpose of the SLET exam?
The exam determines eligibility for candidates applying for the post of Assistant Professor in colleges and universities of NE states.
2. Is there an age limit for SET 2026?
No. There is no upper age limit to appear in the exam.
3. Can I apply for SLET if I am still pursuing my Master’s degree?
Yes. Final-year post-graduate students are eligible to apply.
4. Is the SET certificate valid for government colleges?
Yes. SLET certificate is mandatory for Assistant Professor posts in government and private colleges in the NE region.
5. Is SET equivalent to NET?
Yes, SET is equivalent to NET but valid only within the participating states.
6. What is the exam date for SET 2026?
The exam will be conducted on 15 March 2026.
7. Is negative marking applicable in the SET exam?
No. There is no negative marking.
8. How many times is SLET conducted in a year?
The exam is conducted once each year.
9. Can candidates from other states apply?
Yes, but eligibility is valid only within the North Eastern states.
10. How long is the SET certificate valid?
The certificate is valid for lifetime, unless updated by authorities.
Conclusion
The State Eligibility Test (SET) 2026 is an excellent opportunity for aspiring academicians to begin their career in the field of higher education. With a structured syllabus, clear eligibility criteria and a transparent exam process, the SLET Commission enables thousands of candidates to prove their capability for Assistant Professor roles.
Candidates must stay updated with notifications, start preparing early, and follow the official website for accurate information. This article is designed to offer complete clarity and guide aspirants through every step of the application and examination process.