Welcome to this simple guide to AP EAMCET 2026 (also known as EAPCET) — your one-stop shop for everything you need to know about this test, including what, when, how, and why. Whether you’re studying for engineering, agriculture, or pharmacy, we’ve got you covered step by step.
Also See: AP EAMCET Syllabus & Exam Pattern
1. What is the AP EAMCET or EAPCET?
- AP EAMCET stands for Andhra Pradesh Engineering, Agriculture, and Medical/Pharmaceutical Common Entrance Test (AP EAPCET).
- It is a state-level entrance exam for undergraduate programs in engineering, agriculture, and pharmacy in colleges throughout Andhra Pradesh.
- The exam is conducted online (computer-based).
2. Key Dates You Should Know
Here’s a rough timeline based on the latest updates:
| Event | Tentative Date / Period |
|---|---|
| Notification release | March 2026 |
| Application start | March 2026 |
| Last date (without late fee) | April 2026 |
| Exams (Engineering / Agri / Pharma) | May 2026 |
| Result / Rank / Counselling | June 2026 onward |
To give context from the previous year: In 2025, the engineering exam took place from May 21 to 27, and the agriculture/pharmacy exam on May 19–20.
3. Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Essentials)
Here are the main eligibility criteria you should consider:
- You must be an Indian citizen (or PIO/OCI).
- You must be a resident of Andhra Pradesh or Telangana (or meet the local/non-local status requirements).
- You must have completed (or be enrolled in) 12th grade (10+2) with Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry (or similar vocational courses).
Age requirements:
- Engineering and pharmacy applicants must be at least 16 years old (as of December 31 of the year of admission). There is usually no upper age limit.
- Agriculture courses require a minimum age of 17 and a maximum age of ~22 years (with a concession for SC/ST to 25).
- To be eligible, you must have received a minimum percentage in relevant topics in your 12th-grade exam (often about 45%, with a minimum of around 40%).
4. Application Process & Fees
Here’s how to apply:
1. Visit the official AP EAPCET portal (cets.apsche.ap.gov.in).
2. Register with your details (name, mobile, email, etc.).
3. Pay the application fee (online).
4. Fill in academic/personal details.
5. Upload scanned photograph & signature (in required format).
6. Submit and take a printout for future reference.
Fee structure (as in 2026):
1. Engineering / Agriculture / Pharmacy: ₹600 (general), with lower fees for BC / SC / ST.
2. If you apply for more than one stream (e.g. Engineering + Agriculture), combined fees apply.
3. Also, there’s usually a correction window after submission, giving you a chance to modify some fields.
5. Exam Pattern & Syllabus
Exam Pattern
- Duration: 3 hours
- Total questions: 160 objective-type (MCQs)
- Mathematics / Biology: 80 questions
- Physics: 40 questions
- Chemistry: 40 questions
- Marking scheme: +1 for correct answer, no negative marking.
- Languages: English and Telugu options.
Syllabus Highlights
Topics are drawn from the 12th standard syllabus of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics / Biology. Key chapters include:
- Physics: Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Electrodynamics, Waves, Modern Physics, etc.
- Chemistry: Atomic structure, Chemical bonding, Thermodynamics, Equilibrium, Organic & Inorganic topics.
- Mathematics / Biology: Core topics as per the 12th syllabus relevant to your stream.
You should also review the model/sample papers and previous years’ question papers to acquire a sense of the exam style.
6. After the exam: Answer Key, Result, and Counselling
- The preliminary answer key is made available shortly after the exam so that candidates can review their responses.
- If you discover inconsistencies, there is generally a window to file objections.
- The official website publishes the final results and rank cards (you will need your hall ticket number or registration number).
- Qualified candidates go through the counselling/seat allotment process when they select their desired universities and branches, submit papers, and secure their seats.
In 2025, approximately 1.89 lakh people passed the engineering test.
7. Tips for Smart Preparation
- Make a study strategy early on and stick to it.
- Solve previous years’ papers under time constraints.
- Use mock tests to imitate the exam setting.
- Do not dismiss weaker themes; instead, develop them into strengths.
- Stay informed about official notices (dates, corrections, and revisions).
- Keep backups of your ID evidence, printouts, and digital copies.
- Stay well and rested; a clear mind works wonders!
8. Common Questions You Might Be Wondering
Q: Are AP EAMCET and AP EAPCET the same?
Yes, they refer to the same exam. Over time, the name has evolved.
Q: Is there a negative marking?
No, there is no negative marking in AP EAPCET.
Q: Can I appear if I’m in the final year of 12th?
Yes, provided you complete 12th with the required subjects, you can apply.
Q: What’s a safe score for a good rank?
Aiming for 140+ out of 160 could position you well for top colleges (depending on competition year).
Conclusion
In your native state, the AP EAMCET or EAPCET serves as your entry point to numerous professional courses. Even if the process might appear intricate, it is completely doable with the correct attitude, persistent work, and some preparation. Periodically check the official portal to ensure you don’t miss any updates.
