Set Exam Syllabus 2025 – Complete Section‑Wise Breakdown & Pattern
Discover the latest SET Exam Syllabus 2025 with detailed section-wise topics: General English, Quantitative Aptitude, General Awareness & Analytical Reasoning. Learn exam structure, number of questions, marking scheme, and expert tips to prepare efficiently.
The State Eligibility Test (SET) is a state-level examination conducted to determine the eligibility of candidates for the post of Assistant Professor in state universities and colleges. Each state conducts its own SET, such as MH-SET, APSET, KSET, WBSET, etc. The syllabus is generally aligned with UGC NET standards.
Overview of the SET Exam
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | State Eligibility Test (SET) |
| Conducted By | Respective State Authorities (e.g., SPPU, KSET) |
| Posts | Assistant Professor |
| Level | State-Level |
| Mode | Offline (Pen & Paper) |
| Papers | Paper I (General) + Paper II (Subject-Specific) |
| Duration | 3 Hours (1 Hour + 2 Hours) |
| Total Marks | 300 |
| Question Type | Objective MCQs |
| Negative Marking | No |
SET Exam Pattern
| Paper | Subject | No. of Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Teaching & Research Aptitude | 50 | 100 | 1 hour |
| Paper II | Subject-Specific | 100 | 200 | 2 hours |
| Total | 150 | 300 | 3 hours |
SET Paper I Syllabus – General Aptitude
Paper I is common for all candidates and assesses general teaching and research aptitude.
| Unit No. | Topic | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Teaching Aptitude | Nature, learner characteristics, teaching methods, evaluation systems |
| 2 | Research Aptitude | Research methods, ethics, sampling, thesis writing |
| 3 | Comprehension | Reading passages and answering related questions |
| 4 | Communication | Verbal and non-verbal communication, barriers, classroom communication |
| 5 | Mathematical Reasoning | Number series, codes, relationships, binary logic |
| 6 | Logical Reasoning | Syllogism, analogies, deductive/inductive logic |
| 7 | Data Interpretation | Charts, graphs, tables, and statistical data analysis |
| 8 | ICT | Basics of computers, internet, e-resources, MS Office |
| 9 | People & Environment | Environmental issues, natural resources, human interaction |
| 10 | Higher Education System | UGC, AICTE, policies, university structure |
SET Paper II Syllabus – Subject Wise Topics
Paper II is based on the subject selected by the candidate. Below are sample syllabi for popular subjects:
Political Science
- Political Theory and Thought
- Indian Government and Politics
- Comparative Politics
- Public Administration
- International Relations
- Political Ideologies
- Governance in India
- Indian & Western Thinkers
- Global Politics
History
- Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian History
- World History
- Historical Methodology
- National Movement
- Post-Independence Developments
English Literature
- British, American & Indian English Literature
- Drama, Poetry, Prose
- Literary Criticism and Theory
- Linguistics and Language
Economics
- Micro and Macro Economics
- Public Finance
- Indian Economy
- Development and Planning
- Money and Banking
- International Economics
Science Subjects (e.g., Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
- Fundamental Theories and Concepts
- Practical and Laboratory Applications
- Problem Solving Techniques
- Modern Discoveries
- Experimental Methods
SET Syllabus PDF Download
Follow these steps to download the official SET syllabus PDF:
- Visit the official website of the respective state SET exam (e.g., MH-SET)
- Click on “Syllabus” or “Information Bulletin”
- Select your subject from the list
- Download the syllabus PDF
Recommended Books for SET Preparation
| Paper | Recommended Books |
|---|---|
| Paper I | Arihant UGC NET/SET Paper I, KVS Madaan, Trueman’s Guide |
| Political Science | Laxmikant, Trueman’s Political Science |
| History | Bipin Chandra, Spectrum, NCERTs |
| English | William J. Long, Trueman’s English Literature |
| Economics | Ramesh Singh, Sandeep Garg, UGC NET Economics Guide |
SET Exam Preparation Strategy
- Analyze the Syllabus: Understand each unit thoroughly.
- Make a Study Plan: Allocate time for both papers daily.
- Prepare Notes: Create summaries and revision charts.
- Practice PYQs: Solve previous year papers and mock tests.
- Revise Weekly: Keep track of your progress and revise often.
- Join Online Communities: For discussions, tips, and updates.
Career Opportunities After SET
| Role | Description |
|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | Eligible for permanent/guest faculty roles in universities |
| Ph.D. Admissions | Qualify for doctoral programs in Indian universities |
| Researcher | Work in state/national academic research bodies |
| Content Developer | Develop educational content for publishing or ed-tech |
Conclusion
The SET exam is a gateway to a respected academic career. Whether you’re targeting teaching positions or planning to pursue a Ph.D., qualifying SET can provide a solid foundation. Stay consistent with your preparation, refer to the syllabus, use quality books, and practice regularly.
Have a specific subject in mind? Ask below and get the full topic-wise syllabus PDF and preparation strategy for your subject!
