SET Eligibility Criteria 2026
SET (Symbiosis Entrance Test) is a nationally recognised entrance test for undergraduate courses at the Symbiosis International (Deemed University). This is the test that allows entry into a variety of undergraduate programmes, such as BBA, BCA, BA (Mass Communication), and BSc.(Economics), and different types of related courses offered by all of the institutions of higher education of Symbiosis. The SET 2026 analyses a candidate's academic background and proficiency levels in English, Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and General Knowledge. Practice with SET mock tests to understand the exam structure.
- All candidates must have graduated from Class 12th from an Indian or International institution approved by one of the recognised educational boards of India (i.e. CBSE, ICSE, State Board or International Baccalaureate (IB)).
- All candidates must achieve a minimum overall aggregate percentage of 50% for all general category applicants and 45% for all SC/ST candidates in the final class 12 examination.
In this blog, we will cover the SET Eligibility criteria 2026 which includes its program-wise criteria, its age limit, its educational requirements and its reservation policy for admissions.
SET Program-wise Eligibility Criteria 2026
The following table presents detailed information about SET program-wise eligibility criteria 2026.
Program | Institute | Eligibility Requirement |
BBA | SCMS (Pune, Noida, Nagpur, Bengaluru, Hyderabad) | 50% for General; 45% for SC/ST |
B.A. Mass Communication | SCMC, Pune | 50% for General; 45% for SC/ST |
B.Sc. Economics | SSE, Pune | 50% for General; 45% for SC/ST |
BCA / B.Sc. (IT) | SICSR, Pune | 50% for General; 45% for SC/ST |
B.A. / B.Sc. Liberal Arts | SSLA, Pune | 50% for General; 45% for SC/ST |
SET 2026 Age Limit
Unlike the other entrance tests, SET 2026 has given flexible age limit criteria to the candidates;
Upper Age Limit:
There is no upper age limit for SET 2026. Symbiosis is dedicated to lifelong learning, therefore there is no upper age limit provided and you must have completed the class 12 educational requirements prior to applying.
Minimum Age Required to Enroll:
Generally, candidates must be at least 17 years of age when they enroll, based upon the conventional sequence of 10+2 class.
Read More: SET Exam Pattern 2026, Marking Scheme, Total Questions
SET 2026 Educational Qualification Requirements
The candidates must meet the following educational requirements to get the admissions into the undergraduate programs offered through SET 2026:
Awaiting Results:
If you are currently writing your class 12 examinations in March/April of 2026, you are eligible to apply; you will only receive a provisional admission until we receive your passing certificate from the Board of Education.
Foreign Boards:
If you completed your class 12 from a foreign Board, you will need an Equivalent Certificate from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
Diploma Holders:
Candidates holding a state Board of Technical Education approved 10+3 diploma, for a few programs including B.A. Mass Communication may also apply.
Read More: Free SET Sample Paper 2026 with Practice Tests, Attempt Now
Who can apply for SET 2026?
SET 2026 has some eligibility criteria for potential candidates:
- Be a citizen of India as well as having either Domicile Status or a Non-Indigenous Resident (NRI) Status or OCI/PIO status.
- Completed your high school graduation or are completing high school graduation by taking your final examination this year.
- Achieved at least 50% score in Class 12 Board Examination, whereas candidates in SC/ST category must attain at least 45%
- Candidates must possess adequate levels of English proficiency
- Show interest in pursuing their careers primarily within the disciplines such as Management, Mass Communication, Economics, Computer Applications And Liberal Arts.
SET 2026 Reservation Policy
The SIU adheres to a reservation policy related to admission into undergraduate programs of study through the SET 2026, based on the UGC's guidelines. The following table gives insights about SET 2026 Reservation policy;
Category | Reservation Percentage |
Scheduled Caste (SC) | 15% |
Scheduled Tribe (ST) | 7.5% |
Differently Abled | 3% |
Children/Wards of Defence Personnel | 5% (only in SICSR, Pune - BCA, BBA) |
Kashmiri Migrants | 2 seats per program |
International Students | Maximum of 15% |
SET Eligibility Criteria 2026: Conclusion
The SET Eligibility Criteria 2026 clearly explains the basic requirements for admission into Symbiosis undergraduate courses. It includes details about minimum marks, age limit, educational qualification, and reservation rules. Before applying, students should carefully check the program-wise eligibility to avoid any issues during the admission process. Whether you belong to the general category, SC/ST category, are a diploma holder, or have studied under a foreign board, understanding the eligibility rules is very important.
Before filling out the SET 2026 application form, make sure you meet the required minimum percentage and educational qualifications. There is no upper age limit for SET 2026, and students who are appearing for their Class 12 exams can also apply for provisional admission. Knowing the SET exam eligibility criteria in advance will help you apply with confidence and plan your preparation in a better way.
