Hey there, future MBA and MCA aspirants! If you’ve been dreaming of pursuing a professional postgraduate degree in the beautiful state of Andhra Pradesh, then you’ve probably heard about the AP ICET. But in case you haven’t, no worries—AUBSP is here to walk you through everything you need to know about the Andhra Pradesh Integrated Common Entrance Test (AP ICET) for the year 2026.
AP ICET 2026 (Andhra Pradesh Integrated Common Entrance Test) is a state-level entrance exam conducted by a designated university on behalf of APSCHE for admission into MBA and MCA programs offered by universities and affiliated colleges across Andhra Pradesh. Eligible candidates must hold a recognized bachelor’s degree (with mathematics for MCA aspirants) and meet specific aggregate score criteria—50% for general and 45% for reserved categories.
The computer-based test includes 200 questions across three sections: Analytical, Communication, and Mathematical Ability. AUBSP emphasizes that candidates should regularly check official updates, follow the prescribed syllabus, and prepare thoroughly to secure admission in reputed institutions like Andhra University, Sri Venkateswara University, and JNTU campuses. AUBSP.com remains your trusted source for timely AP ICET guidance and preparation support.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Exam Name | Andhra Pradesh Integrated Common Entrance Test (AP ICET) |
Conducting Body | To be announced (on behalf of APSCHE) |
Exam Year | 2026 |
Purpose | Admission to MBA and MCA programs in Andhra Pradesh |
Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) – Online |
Medium of Exam | Sections A & C: English and Telugu; Section B: English only |
Exam Duration | 150 minutes (2.5 hours) |
Total Questions | 200 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
Total Marks | 200 Marks (1 mark per question) |
Negative Marking | No negative marking |
Sections in Exam | 3 (Analytical Ability, Communication Ability, Mathematical Ability) |
Eligibility – Nationality | Indian citizen with local/non-local status as per AP Govt. rules |
Eligibility – Educational Qualification | For MBA: Any Degree; For MCA: Degree with Mathematics (Inter or Degree) |
Minimum Qualifying Marks | General: 50%; SC/ST/BC: 45% |
One Sitting Degree Eligibility | Not eligible |
Distance Education Criteria | Degree must be recognized by UGC/AICTE/DEC/DEB |
Official Website | https://cets.apsche.ap.gov.in (subject to update) |
Application Mode | Online |
Application Fee (Expected) | OC: ₹650, BC: ₹600, SC/ST: ₹550 (may vary) |
Tentative Notification Date | March 2026 |
Application Start Date | Mid-March 2026 |
Last Date Without Late Fee | Early April 2026 |
Admit Card Release | Late April 2026 |
Exam Date | First Week of May 2026 |
Result Declaration | Late May 2026 |
Minimum Qualifying Marks (Ranking) | 25% (50 out of 200); No minimum for SC/ST |
Tie-breaking Criteria | Section A Marks > Section B Marks > Age (elder gets preference) |
Counselling Phases | Multiple (Web-based option entry, document verification, seat allotment) |
Participating Universities | Andhra University, SVU, JNTU, ANU, SKU, BRAU, AKNU & affiliated colleges |
Documents Required for Counselling | Rank Card, Hall Ticket, Degree Marksheets, Caste Certificate (if any), Local Status Proof |
Contact for Help | APSCHE Helpline (to be provided on official website) |
📌 Pro Tip from AUBSP: Always check the official AP ICET website for updated dates and instructions. Start early with practice tests and previous year papers to boost your chances of success!
Andhra Pradesh MBA MCA 2026: Crack AP ICET for Top Colleges
The Andhra Pradesh Integrated Common Entrance Test (AP ICET) is a state-level entrance examination conducted for admission into Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Computer Applications (MCA) programs offered by various universities and their affiliated colleges in the state of Andhra Pradesh. This examination serves as a crucial step for aspiring management and computer applications professionals to pursue their postgraduate studies in the state.
Conducting Body: The AP ICET is conducted annually by a designated university on behalf of the Andhra Pradesh State Council of Higher Education (APSCHE). For the 2025 examination, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, was the conducting body.
Courses Offered: The AP ICET is the gateway for admissions into the first year of full-time, part-time, evening, and distance mode MBA and MCA courses across participating universities and their affiliated colleges in Andhra Pradesh.
Event Name | Tentative Date (2026) |
---|---|
Official Notification Release | March 12, 2026 (Expected) |
Start of Online Application | March 14, 2026 |
Last Date to Apply (without Late Fee) | April 10, 2026 |
Last Date to Apply (with ₹1000 Late Fee) | April 20, 2026 |
Application Form Correction Window | April 22–24, 2026 |
Release of Admit Card (Hall Ticket) | May 2, 2026 |
AP ICET 2026 Examination Date | May 6, 2026 (Two Shifts Expected) |
Preliminary Answer Key & Response Sheet | May 9, 2026 |
Last Date to Submit Objections on Answer Key | May 11, 2026 |
Final Answer Key + Results + Rank Card Release | May 20, 2026 |
Start of Web Counselling Registration | July 2026 (Expected) |
Seat Allotment & Reporting to Colleges | July–August 2026 (Phased) |
AP ICET 2026 – Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Andhra Pradesh Integrated Common Entrance Test (AP ICET) 2026 for admission into MBA and MCA programs, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
1. Nationality and Domicile
Criteria | Details |
---|---|
Nationality | Must be an Indian citizen |
Domicile | Must satisfy local/non-local status as laid down by the Andhra Pradesh State Government rules (for the academic year 2026–27) |
2. Educational Qualifications
Course | Qualification Requirement |
---|---|
MBA | A 3-year or 4-year Bachelor’s Degree from any recognized university or equivalent |
MCA | A 3-year or 4-year Bachelor’s Degree with Mathematics as a subject at Intermediate (10+2) or Degree level |
3. Minimum Qualifying Marks
Category | Minimum Required Percentage in Qualifying Degree |
---|---|
General (OC) | 50% aggregate marks |
SC/ST/BC | 45% aggregate marks |
📌 Note from AUBSP: Marks are calculated considering the entire duration of the qualifying degree program, not just the final year.
4. Important Eligibility Clauses
Clause | Explanation |
---|---|
One-Sitting Degree | Candidates who passed all subjects in a single sitting (e.g., open university exams without regular study) are NOT eligible |
Distance Mode Degrees | Acceptable ONLY if the degree is recognized by the Joint Committee of UGC, AICTE, and DEC/DEB |
Final-Year Students | Eligible to apply, provided they complete their degree before the admission process concludes |
✨ AUBSP Advice: If you’re unsure whether your degree is valid or whether your category qualifies for reservation, it’s always best to refer to the official notification or consult the helpdesk once the application portal opens.
AP ICET 2026 – Exam Pattern
The Andhra Pradesh Integrated Common Entrance Test (AP ICET) 2026 is designed to assess your aptitude for business management and computer applications. Here’s everything you need to know about the exam format:
Mode of Exam
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) – Online |
Duration | 150 Minutes (2 hours 30 minutes) |
Total Questions | 200 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
Total Marks | 200 Marks |
Question Type | Objective (Each question has 4 options) |
Language Medium | Sections A & C: English and TeluguSection B: English only |
Section-wise Structure
Section | Topics Covered | No. of Questions | Marks |
---|---|---|---|
Section A: Analytical Ability | Data Sufficiency & Problem Solving | 75 | 75 |
— Data Sufficiency | – | 20 | |
— Problem Solving | – Sequences, Series, Coding-Decoding, Puzzles etc. | 55 | |
Section B: Communication Ability | Vocabulary, Functional Grammar, Reading Comprehension, Business and Computer Terminology | 70 | 70 |
— Vocabulary | Synonyms, Antonyms, Usage, Idioms | 15 | |
— Business/Computer Terms | Commonly used terms | 15 | |
— Functional Grammar | Parts of speech, tenses, prepositions etc. | 20 | |
— Reading Comprehension | Passages with questions | 20 | |
Section C: Mathematical Ability | Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Statistics | 55 | 55 |
— Arithmetic Ability | Percentages, Profit & Loss, Time & Work etc. | 35 | |
— Algebra & Geometry | Equations, Geometry concepts | 10 | |
— Statistical Ability | Mean, Median, Probability, Data Interpretation | 10 | |
Total | 200 | 200 |
Marking Scheme
Type of Answer | Marks Awarded |
---|---|
Correct Answer | +1 |
Incorrect Answer | 0 (No negative marking) |
Unanswered Question | 0 |
AUBSP Tips: Time Management is key! With 200 questions in 150 minutes, you get less than 1 minute per question. Focus on your strengths first. For example, if you’re good at Arithmetic, start with Section C. Practice previous papers to get used to the exam’s pace and style.
AP ICET 2026 – Complete Syllabus
The AP ICET syllabus is designed to assess your analytical, mathematical, and communication skills—key areas for MBA and MCA aspirants. AUBSP has categorized the syllabus section-wise for your easy reference:
Section A: Analytical Ability (Total: 75 Questions)
This section tests your logical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Data Sufficiency (20 Questions)
- Basics of reasoning
- Questions with two statements: Decide if the data is sufficient to answer a given question
- Problem Solving (55 Questions)
- Sequences and Series (Number, Alphabet, Figure)
- Coding-Decoding
- Date, Time & Arrangement Problems
- Venn Diagrams, Blood Relations
- Directions and Distances
- Puzzle Problems (Seating Arrangements, Condition-based)
- Missing Numbers
- Data Analysis using Tables, Graphs, Bar Charts, and Pie Charts
Section B: Communication Ability (Total: 70 Questions)
This section evaluates your command over English and business-related terminology.
- Vocabulary (15 Questions)
- Synonyms & Antonyms
- Idioms and Phrases
- Word Usage and Meanings
- Fill in the Blanks (using contextual vocabulary)
- Business and Computer Terminology (15 Questions)
- Basic terms from Management, Marketing, HR, IT, and Computers
- Commonly used business jargons
- Functional Grammar (20 Questions)
- Parts of Speech (Nouns, Pronouns, Verbs, Adjectives, etc.)
- Tenses and Sentence Structure
- Prepositions, Conjunctions, Articles
- Error Identification and Correction
- Reading Comprehension (20 Questions)
- Reading Passages followed by questions to assess understanding, inference, tone, and vocabulary
Section C: Mathematical Ability (Total: 55 Questions)
This section checks your numerical aptitude and quantitative reasoning.
- Arithmetical Ability (35 Questions)
- Numbers and Divisibility
- LCM and HCF
- Percentages, Profit & Loss
- Simple and Compound Interest
- Time, Speed & Distance
- Time and Work
- Ratio and Proportion
- Averages, Mixtures & Alligations
- Surds and Indices
- Mensuration (Areas and Volumes)
- Algebraical and Geometrical Ability (10 Questions)
- Algebraic Expressions and Equations
- Progressions (Arithmetic & Geometric)
- Binomial Theorem
- Geometry (Lines, Angles, Triangles, Circles)
- Statistical Ability (10 Questions)
- Frequency Distributions
- Measures of Central Tendency (Mean, Median, Mode)
- Standard Deviation and Variance
- Correlation and Regression
- Probability
📌 AUBSP Exam Readiness Tip:
- ✔ Start with sections you’re comfortable with and then gradually build skills in weaker areas
- ✔ Use NCERT math books (Class 9–12) for fundamental math concepts
- ✔ Practice comprehension and grammar daily—this can drastically boost your Section B performance
- ✔ Solve previous year AP ICET papers and mock tests regularly
AP ICET 2026 – Application Process
Applying for AP ICET 2026 is completely online. Below is a detailed breakdown to help you complete the process without confusion or errors.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step | Action | AUBSP’s Tip |
---|---|---|
1 | Visit the official website of AP ICET 2026 (https://cets.apsche.ap.gov.in) | Use only the official site to avoid scams or fake portals |
2 | Click on “Fee Payment” link and pay your application fee | Keep debit/credit card or UPI ready for smooth payment |
3 | After successful payment, note down the Payment Reference ID | You’ll need this ID to start the application form |
4 | Click on “Fill Application” and log in using Payment ID, Mobile Number, and DOB | Fill all fields carefully, especially educational qualifications and category |
5 | Upload scanned photograph and signature (as per specifications) | Use a recent passport-size photo (max 50 KB) and sign on white paper (max 30 KB) |
6 | Preview the form and verify all details | AUBSP recommends checking spelling of your name, date of birth, etc. twice |
7 | Submit the application form | After submission, no edits can be made unless correction window opens |
8 | Download & Print the filled-in application form for future reference | Keep at least 2 printouts for exam day and counselling |
Application Fee Details (Expected)
Category | Fee (₹ INR) |
---|---|
General (OC) | ₹ 650 |
BC | ₹ 600 |
SC/ST | ₹ 550 |
💡 AUBSP Checklist Before You Apply:
✅ Valid email ID and mobile number
✅ Scanned photo and signature in proper format
✅ Degree/Intermediate marksheets for academic info
✅ Debit/credit card/UPI/Net banking for fee payment
🛠 Correction Window:
- Dates: Expected in late April 2026
- Mode: Online only
- Allowed Edits: Only selected fields (e.g., local area status, category, gender, etc.)
- Not Editable: Name, date of birth, qualifying exam hall ticket number (in most cases)
📌 Note from AUBSP: Always double-check before submission. You won’t be allowed to change key information once the correction period ends.
AP ICET 2026 Admit Card (Hall Ticket)
The Admit Card is your entry pass to the AP ICET 2026 exam. Issued by the official exam authority, it contains all the essential details about your test center, time, and personal credentials. AUBSP strongly advises every candidate to download and verify it well in advance.
- 🗓️ Expected Release Date: May 2, 2026
- 🌐 Official Website: https://cets.apsche.ap.gov.in
Steps to Download AP ICET 2026 Admit Card
Step | Action |
---|---|
1 | Visit the official AP ICET 2026 website |
2 | Click on “Download Hall Ticket” link on the homepage |
3 | Enter your Registration Number, Date of Birth (DOB), and Qualifying Exam Hall Ticket No. |
4 | Click on “Submit” and your admit card will be displayed |
5 | Download the PDF and print at least two copies |
Details Mentioned on the Admit Card
AUBSP recommends checking the following information carefully:
- Candidate’s Name and Photograph
- AP ICET 2026 Hall Ticket Number
- Registration Number
- Date and Time of the Exam
- Reporting Time
- Name and Address of the Exam Centre
- Exam Instructions (including COVID-19 guidelines if applicable)
- Signature and Photograph uploaded by candidate
- QR code for verification
📌 Important Instructions (as advised by AUBSP)
- ✅ Carry a valid photo ID proof along with the hall ticket (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Driving License, Passport, etc.)
- ✅ Do not tamper with any details printed on the admit card
- ✅ Arrive at least 60 minutes before the reporting time
- ✅ No electronic gadgets, calculators, or study materials allowed
- ✅ Follow the dress code and safety instructions, if any, specified on the admit card
🛠 Trouble Downloading?
In case of technical issues or forgotten credentials, contact AP ICET helpdesk immediately. Keep your application number and payment receipt handy when reaching out.
☎️ AP ICET Helpdesk (Tentative)
Email: helpdesk.apicet2026@gmail.com
Phone: Will be provided in the official brochure
🔐 AUBSP Pro Tip: Don’t wait till the last day! Download your admit card early to avoid website crashes or server delays.
AP ICET 2026 Results and Ranking:
The AP ICET results are announced on the official website. Candidates can check their scores and ranks by entering their registration number, hall ticket number, and date of birth. A merit list is prepared based on the marks obtained in the entrance test.
- Qualifying Marks: Candidates from the General category must secure at least 25% marks (50 out of 200) to qualify for a rank. There are no minimum qualifying marks prescribed for SC and ST category candidates.
- Tie-Breaking: In case of a tie in marks, the tie is resolved by considering the marks in Section-A, followed by marks in Section-B. If the tie still persists, the older candidate is given priority.
AP ICET 2026 Counselling and Seat Allotment:
Qualified candidates are eligible to participate in the counselling process conducted by APSCHE. The counselling is typically conducted in multiple phases and involves:
- Registration: Candidates register for counselling online and pay the counselling fee.
- Document Verification: Candidates attend physical verification of their original documents at designated help centres.
- Web Options Entry: Candidates select their preferred colleges and courses based on their rank and eligibility.
- Seat Allotment: Based on the rank, options entered, and availability of seats, candidates are allotted seats.
- Reporting to College: Allotted candidates report to the respective colleges to complete the admission formalities.
AP ICET 2026 – Participating Universities and Colleges
AP ICET 2026 scores are accepted by a wide range of government and private universities, along with their affiliated colleges, across Andhra Pradesh. These institutions offer MBA and MCA programs in full-time, part-time, evening, and distance modes.
State Universities Accepting AP ICET Scores
S.No | University Name | Location | Popular Programs |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Andhra University (AU) | Visakhapatnam | MBA, MCA |
2 | Sri Venkateswara University (SVU) | Tirupati | MBA, MCA |
3 | Acharya Nagarjuna University (ANU) | Guntur | MBA, MCA |
4 | Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTU), Kakinada | Kakinada | MBA, MCA |
5 | JNTU Anantapur (JNTUA) | Anantapur | MBA, MCA |
6 | JNTU Vizianagaram (JNTUV) | Vizianagaram | MBA, MCA |
7 | Sri Krishnadevaraya University (SKU) | Anantapur | MBA, MCA |
8 | Dr. B. R. Ambedkar University | Srikakulam | MBA, MCA |
9 | Adikavi Nannaya University | Rajamahendravaram | MBA, MCA |
10 | Vikrama Simhapuri University | Nellore | MBA, MCA |
11 | Yogi Vemana University | Kadapa | MBA, MCA |
12 | Krishna University | Machilipatnam | MBA, MCA |
13 | Rayalaseema University | Kurnool | MBA, MCA |
Top Private Colleges (Affiliated to State Universities)
S.No | College Name | City |
---|---|---|
1 | GITAM Institute of Management (affiliated to AU) | Visakhapatnam |
2 | Vignana Jyothi Institute of Management | Guntur |
3 | RVR & JC College of Engineering | Guntur |
4 | KL Business School (KL University) | Vijayawada |
5 | Gayatri Vidya Parishad College of Engineering | Visakhapatnam |
6 | Narasaraopeta Engineering College MBA Department | Narasaraopeta |
7 | Sri Vasavi Engineering College MBA Department | Tadepalligudem |
8 | Vishnu Institute of Technology MBA Wing | Bhimavaram |
9 | MVR College of Engineering and Technology MBA Division | Paritala |
10 | Siddhartha Institute of Computer Application & Management (SICAM) | Vijayawada |
🎯 AUBSP’s Admission Insight:
- All AP ICET 2026 participating universities follow APSCHE’s centralized counselling and seat allotment system.
- Each college has a different intake capacity, reservation criteria, and fee structure.
- Candidates should research placement records, faculty strength, accreditation (like NAAC/NBA), and infrastructure before selecting preferences in web options.
💬 AUBSP Tip: During the counselling process, choose both top-tier government universities and well-reviewed private colleges in your preference list. This helps maximize your chances of admission in Round 1.
The AP ICET is a competitive examination that requires thorough preparation. Aspiring candidates are advised to refer to the official notification and syllabus, practice previous years’ question papers, and consider taking mock tests to enhance their preparation. Success in AP ICET opens doors to promising career opportunities in the fields of management and computer applications.
FAQs on AP ICET 2026
‣ What is AP ICET 2026?
AP ICET (Andhra Pradesh Integrated Common Entrance Test) 2026 is a state-level entrance exam conducted for admission into MBA and MCA programs offered by various universities and their affiliated colleges in Andhra Pradesh.
‣ Who is the conducting body for AP ICET 2026?
AP ICET 2026 is being conducted by Andhra University, Visakhapatnam on behalf of APSCHE (Andhra Pradesh State Council of Higher Education).
‣ Which courses can I apply for through AP ICET?
Through AP ICET, you can apply for first-year admissions into MBA (Master of Business Administration) and MCA (Master of Computer Applications) programs in Andhra Pradesh.
‣ What is the mode of the AP ICET exam?
AP ICET 2026 is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) conducted in online mode at designated test centers.
‣ What are the eligibility criteria for MBA admission through AP ICET 2026?
Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree (3 or 4 years) from a recognized university with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/BC) in aggregate.
‣ What are the eligibility criteria for MCA admission through AP ICET 2026?
Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree with Mathematics as a subject at 10+2 or degree level, and must secure a minimum of 50% marks (45% for reserved categories).
‣ Is there an age limit to apply for AP ICET?
There is no upper age limit for AP ICET 2026. Candidates of any age can apply if they meet the educational qualifications.
‣ How can I apply for AP ICET 2026?
You can apply online through the official website (https://cets.apsche.ap.gov.in). Fill in the application form, upload documents, and pay the registration fee.
‣ What is the application fee for AP ICET 2026?
The expected application fee is ₹650 for General (OC), ₹600 for BC, and ₹550 for SC/ST candidates.
‣ Can I edit the application form after submission?
Yes, the APSCHE provides a correction window (tentatively in late April 2026) during which you can edit certain fields of the application.
‣ What is the exam pattern of AP ICET 2026?
The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions divided into three sections: Analytical Ability (75), Communication Ability (70), and Mathematical Ability (55). The exam duration is 150 minutes.
‣ Is there negative marking in AP ICET?
No, there is no negative marking in the AP ICET 2026 examination.
‣ What is the syllabus for AP ICET 2026?
The syllabus includes topics in Analytical Ability (data sufficiency, problem solving), Mathematical Ability (arithmetic, algebra, geometry, statistics), and Communication Ability (vocabulary, grammar, comprehension, business terminology).
‣ Can students from outside Andhra Pradesh apply?
Yes, non-local candidates can apply, but they must meet the local/non-local criteria as per the Andhra Pradesh Government’s rules for admissions.
‣ What is the minimum qualifying mark in AP ICET?
Candidates from the General category must score at least 25% marks (i.e., 50 out of 200) to be ranked. There is no minimum qualifying mark for SC and ST candidates.
‣ When will the AP ICET 2026 exam be held?
The exam is tentatively scheduled for May 7, 2026. It will be conducted in two shifts.
‣ When will the admit card be released?
The AP ICET 2026 admit card is expected to be available for download from May 2, 2026.
‣ How can I download my admit card?
You can download the hall ticket from the official AP ICET website by logging in with your registration number, date of birth, and qualifying exam hall ticket number.
‣ How will the AP ICET 2026 result be announced?
Results will be announced on the official website. Candidates can check their score and rank by entering their registration details.
‣ How is the tie-breaker resolved in AP ICET?
In case of a tie, higher marks in Analytical Ability are considered first, followed by marks in Communication Ability. If the tie still exists, the older candidate gets the higher rank.
‣ What is the counselling process for AP ICET?
The counselling involves registration, document verification, web options entry, seat allotment, and reporting to the allotted college.
‣ Which documents are required for AP ICET counselling?
You will need your rank card, hall ticket, degree certificates, SSC & intermediate marksheets, caste certificate (if applicable), income certificate, residence proof, and other relevant documents.
‣ Can I apply for both MBA and MCA through the same AP ICET exam?
Yes, the same exam score can be used to apply for either MBA or MCA courses based on your eligibility and interest.
‣ Are distance education degree holders eligible for AP ICET?
Yes, provided the degree is recognized by the UGC, AICTE, and DEB.
‣ Is AP ICET accepted by private colleges too?
Yes, many reputed private colleges in Andhra Pradesh accept AP ICET scores for MBA and MCA admissions.
‣ Will I receive a physical copy of my rank card?
No, the rank card must be downloaded and printed by the candidate from the official website.
‣ Can I change my exam center after submitting the application?
Generally, changes to the exam center are not allowed after submission. However, you can try to contact the helpline during the correction window.
‣ What happens if I forget my registration number?
You can retrieve it using your payment reference number, mobile number, and date of birth from the official website.
‣ How many times is AP ICET conducted in a year?
AP ICET is conducted only once a year.
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