The Andhra Pradesh Polytechnic Common Entrance Test (AP POLYCET) 2026 notification has been released for students who want to pursue diploma courses in engineering and non-engineering fields after Class 10. The entrance exam is conducted every year by the State Board of Technical Education and Training (SBTET), Andhra Pradesh.
Through this exam, students can get admission into various government and private polytechnic colleges across Andhra Pradesh. Candidates who qualify for the exam will receive a rank based on their performance and will be eligible for counselling and seat allotment in diploma programs.
What is AP POLYCET?
AP POLYCET (Andhra Pradesh Polytechnic Common Entrance Test) is a state-level entrance examination conducted for admission into diploma courses offered by polytechnic institutions in Andhra Pradesh.
The exam helps students who have completed their 10th class (SSC) to join technical education programs such as engineering diplomas. After completing a diploma, students can also pursue lateral entry into B.Tech engineering courses, which makes it a popular career path for technical students.
Eligibility Criteria for AP POLYCET 2026
Candidates must satisfy the following eligibility conditions before applying for the exam:
Educational Qualification and Other Conditions
- Candidate must have passed SSC (Class 10) or equivalent examination from a recognized board.
- Candidates should secure at least 35% marks in SSC.
- Candidates should be Indian citizens and preferably residents of Andhra Pradesh.
- Students appearing for the SSC exam in the same year are also eligible to apply.
- There is no age limit to appear for the exam.
Diploma Courses Offered in Polytechnics
Through AP POLYCET, students can get admission into multiple diploma programs including:
Engineering Diploma Courses
- Diploma in Civil Engineering
- Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
- Diploma in Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE)
- Diploma in Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE)
- Diploma in Computer Engineering
- Diploma in Automobile Engineering
Non-Engineering Diploma Courses
- Diploma in Pharmacy
- Diploma in Commercial and Computer Practice
- Diploma in Garment Technology
- Diploma in Agriculture Engineering
These diploma programs usually have a duration of 3 years.
Important Dates for AP POLYCET 2026
The official schedule for AP POLYCET 2026 is expected as follows and these dates may change slightly based on official announcements. Click here for AP POLYCET 2026 Official Notification
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 3 March 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 4 April 2026 |
| Hall Ticket Release | 18 April 2026 |
| AP POLYCET Exam Date | 25 April 2026 |
| Result Announcement | 10 May 2026 |
AP POLYCET 2026 Application Fee
Candidates must pay the following application fee while submitting the form, the fee can be paid through AP Online centers, MeeSeva centers, or online payment methods.
General / OBC: ₹400
SC / ST: ₹200 (approximate concession)
AP POLYCET 2026 Exam Pattern
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 50 | 50 |
| Physics | 40 | 40 |
| Chemistry | 30 | 30 |
- Total Questions: 120 MCQs
- Total Marks: 120
- Duration: 2 hours
- Exam Mode: Offline (OMR based)
- Negative Marking: No negative marking
The syllabus is based mainly on Class 10 Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry topics.
How to Apply for AP POLYCET 2026
Candidates can apply for the exam through the official website by following these steps:
- Visit the official AP POLYCET website.
- Click on “Apply for POLYCET 2026.”
- Enter details such as SSC Hall Ticket Number, Date of Birth, and year of passing.
- Fill in personal and educational details.
- Upload the required photograph.
- Pay the application fee through online payment or AP Online/MeeSeva centers.
- Submit the form and download the confirmation copy for reference.
Selection Process
Admission into polytechnic colleges will be based on:
- AP POLYCET rank obtained by the candidate
- Online counselling process
- Choice of colleges and diploma courses
Candidates who qualify will be able to participate in the web counselling process for seat allotment.
Why Choose Polytechnic After 10th?
Choosing a polytechnic diploma has several benefits:
- Early entry into technical education
- Lower cost compared to engineering degree
- Opportunity for lateral entry into B.Tech second year
- High demand in engineering and technical industries
- check out best course in Polytechnic
For many students, it is a fast and practical route to build technical skills and secure employment.
