AP POLYCET 2026, also known as the Andhra Pradesh Polytechnic Common Entrance Test 2026, marks a significant opportunity for students aspiring to pursue diploma courses in engineering and non-engineering fields within Andhra Pradesh. The State Board of Technical Education and Training (SBTET), Andhra Pradesh, organizes this state-level entrance examination to facilitate admissions into various polytechnic institutions across the state. With online registration now open and the exam scheduled for 25th April 2026, students should familiarize themselves with the application process, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and other relevant details to ensure a smooth admission journey.
AP POLYCET 2026 Overview
This section provides an essential summary of the AP POLYCET 2026 examination, highlighting crucial dates, purpose, and application details.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Andhra Pradesh Polytechnic Common Entrance Test (POLYCET) 2026 |
| Conducting Authority | State Board of Technical Education and Training (SBTET), Andhra Pradesh |
| Exam Level | State Level |
| Purpose | Admission to Polytechnic Diploma Courses |
| Application Mode | Online via official website |
| Registration Start Date | 3 March 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 4 April 2026 |
| Exam Date | 25 April 2026 (11 AM to 1 PM) |
| Result Date (Tentative) | 10 May 2026 |
Important Dates & Timeline
Staying aware of the key dates ensures timely application and preparation for the AP POLYCET 2026 exam. Below are the critical milestones:
- Registration Start Date: 3 March 2026
- Last Date to Apply: 4 April 2026
- Exam Date: 25 April 2026, from 11 AM to 1 PM
- Result Announcement: 10 May 2026 (Tentative)
AP POLYCET 2026 Application Fee
Applicants are required to pay a non-refundable fee at the time of registration. The fee varies based on categories:
| Category | Fee (INR) |
|---|---|
| OC / BC | ₹400 |
| SC / ST | ₹100 |
The fee can be paid online through debit/credit card, net banking, or other electronic payment options during the registration process.
How to Register for AP POLYCET 2026
Registering for AP POLYCET 2026 involves a few straightforward steps. Ensure you follow each step carefully to complete your application successfully:
Step-by-step guide:
- Visit the official website: polycetap.ap.gov.in
- Click on the “POLYCET 2026 Online Application” link on the homepage.
- Fill in the required personal details: SSC Hall Ticket number, year of passing, date of birth, etc.
- Choose your preferred examination centre from the options provided.
- Upload scanned images of your photograph and signature in the specified format and size (refer to the instructions on the site).
- Pay the application fee via available online payment methods.
- Review your filled application and submit.
- Print the confirmation receipt or application form for future reference.
Eligibility Criteria for AP POLYCET 2026
Prospective candidates must meet certain academic and age-related criteria to qualify for the exam:
Nationality & Residency
Applicants must be Indian citizens and meet Andhra Pradesh’s local/non-local status requirements, as established by state rules.
Educational Qualifications
Candidates should have:
- Passed or are appearing for SSC (Class 10) or equivalent examinations from recognized boards such as:
- Board of Secondary Education, Andhra Pradesh/Telangana
- CBSE
- ICSE
- NIOS
- APOSS
Subject Requirements
Mathematics must be a compulsory subject in the qualifying exam. For NIOS or APOSS candidates, a minimum of 35% aggregate in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry is required.
Age Limit
There is no age restriction for appearing in the AP POLYCET 2026 exam, making it accessible to all eligible students who meet the academic criteria.
AP POLYCET 2026 Exam Pattern
The examination is designed to assess knowledge based on the SSC syllabus, with objective-type questions focused on core science and mathematics subjects.
Overview
| Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Mode | Offline (OMR-based) |
| Duration | 2 Hours (120 minutes) |
| Total Questions | 120 |
| Total Marks | 120 |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Negative Marking | None |
Subject-wise Distribution
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 50 | 50 |
| Physics | 40 | 40 |
| Chemistry | 30 | 30 |
| Total | 120 | 120 |
Minimum Qualifying Marks & Cut-off
To qualify for admission, candidates must meet the following marks criteria:
- General/OC/BC Candidates: Score at least 30 marks out of 120, i.e., 25%.
- SC/ST Candidates: No minimum marks are prescribed; eligibility depends on seat availability and reservations.
Ranking & Tie-breaking Rules
If multiple candidates secure the same marks, rankings are determined based on the following criteria:
- Higher marks obtained in Mathematics.
- Higher marks in Physics (if needed).
- Age—older candidates are given priority.
- Higher marks in the SSC/equivalent exam.
Diploma Courses Offered
AP POLYCET provides access to a wide range of diploma courses. Some of the popular engineering and non-engineering options include:
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical and Electronics Engineering
- Electronics and Communication Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Automobile Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Architecture Assistantship
- Many more diploma programs
Scholarship & Financial Aid Opportunities
Candidates admitted through AP POLYCET can avail several scholarships and schemes, especially aimed at promoting equitable access to technical education:
Available Schemes:
| Scheme Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Pragati Scholarship | For girls enrolled in AICTE-approved polytechnic institutions. |
| Saksham Scholarship | For specially-abled students, providing up to ₹50,000 annually. |
| SWANATH Scheme | Support for orphans, COVID-affected students, or wards of martyrs. |
Applications for scholarships are typically made after admission, based on the respective scheme’s criteria.
Result & Admit Card
The results of AP POLYCET 2026 are expected to be declared around 10 May 2026 on the official website. Candidates can download their rank cards using their hall ticket number and registration details.
Prior to the exam, admit cards will be issued online. It is mandatory for candidates to download and carry the admit card along with valid ID proof to the examination centre.
For detailed information and updates, visit the official AP POLYCET 2026 page: AP POLYCET Official Website.
Additional Resources
To facilitate better preparation, candidates can access free mock tests and practice papers, which are often provided on the official website or through coaching centers.
For a comprehensive understanding of the entire process and detailed instructions, candidates are encouraged to review the official brochure available here: AP POLYCET 2026 Brochure & Syllabus.
Preparing well in advance by thoroughly understanding the syllabus, practicing mock tests, and reviewing past papers can greatly enhance your chances of success in AP POLYCET 2026. Stay updated with official notifications to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines or updates.