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The Kerala SET Exam (State Eligibility Test) is the qualifying test for Higher Secondary School Teachers (HSST) and Non-Vocational Teachers in Vocational Higher Secondary Education in Kerala. It is conducted by the LBS Centre for Science and Technology on behalf of the Government of Kerala, usually twice a year. The July 2026 session exam was held on 20 September 2026, and the next session notification is expected on the official LBS website.
This guide explains Kerala SET Exam eligibility, exam pattern, qualifying marks, fees and preparation tips.
Kerala SET Exam – Key Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducted by | LBS Centre for Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram |
| Purpose | Eligibility for HSST / NVT (VHSE) posts in Kerala |
| Frequency | Usually twice a year |
| Latest exam | 20 September 2026 (July 2026 session) |
| Mode | Offline, OMR based |
| Negative marking | None |
| Official website | lbscentre.kerala.gov.in |
Eligibility for the Kerala SET Exam
- A Master’s degree with at least 50% marks (relaxation for SC/ST/PwD as per rules) in the subject.
- B.Ed from a recognised university. B.Ed is not required for some subjects, such as Commerce, Sociology and Music, as per the prospectus.
- No upper age limit.
- Final-year PG and B.Ed students can apply if they pass within the period allowed in the prospectus.
Exam Pattern
| Paper | Content | Questions | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | General Knowledge and Aptitude in Teaching | 120 | 2 hours |
| Paper II | Subject specialisation | 120 (80 for Maths & Statistics) | 2 hours |
There is no negative marking in the Kerala SET Exam.
Qualifying Marks
| Category | Each paper | Aggregate |
|---|---|---|
| General | 40% | 48% |
| OBC (Non-creamy layer) | 35% | 45% |
| SC / ST / Differently abled | 35% | 40% |
Application Fee (July 2026 Session)
- General / OBC: ₹1,300
- SC / ST / Differently abled: ₹750
Fees may change for each session; check the prospectus.
How to Apply
- Visit lbscentre.kerala.gov.in and open the SET section when a new session is announced.
- Read the prospectus for eligibility and subject codes.
- Register online, upload photo and signature, and pay the fee.
- Print the confirmation page.
- Download the admit card when released and appear for the exam.
Preparation Tips
- Paper I: General knowledge, Kerala history, Indian Constitution, current affairs, teaching aptitude and educational psychology.
- Paper II: Follow the official SET syllabus for your subject; revise PG-level core topics.
- Practise previous Kerala SET question papers available from the LBS Centre and reliable sources.
- Since there is no negative marking, attempt every question.
Kerala SET vs UGC NET
| Exam | Use |
|---|---|
| Kerala SET | HSST / NVT eligibility in Kerala schools |
| UGC NET | Assistant Professor / JRF eligibility nationwide |
Read our UGC NET December 2026 guide if you want college teaching jobs.
Kerala SET Exam: Quick Checklist for Candidates
Use this simple checklist to stay on track with Kerala SET Exam updates and avoid last-minute problems.
- Bookmark the official website and check it regularly instead of relying on forwarded messages.
- Keep your registration number, password and date of birth details safe.
- Download admit cards, results and notices as soon as they are released and keep a printed copy.
- Carry an original photo ID and the documents listed in the official notice on exam or verification day.
- Continue preparation for the next stage while waiting for results.
Staying organised in this way helps you make the most of Kerala SET Exam and move confidently to the next stage.
We review and update this Kerala SET Exam guide whenever official notices or rules change. Bookmark this page, share it with friends who need it, and always confirm the latest details on the official website before you take any step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who conducts the Kerala SET Exam?
The LBS Centre for Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram.
Is B.Ed compulsory for Kerala SET?
Yes for most subjects, with exemptions for some subjects listed in the prospectus.
Is there negative marking?
No.
What are the qualifying marks for general candidates?
40% in each paper and 48% aggregate.
Related: Kerala Government Teaching Jobs | Teaching Jobs
Disclaimer: Kerala Job News is not affiliated with any government department, recruiting body or employer mentioned here. This article is compiled from LBS Centre information on Kerala SET for general information only. Details can change, so always confirm on the official website before you apply or pay any fee. Kerala Job News never charges money for job information.
