HP SET 2026 Notification Released: Application Window Now Open
The Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (HPPSC) has officially announced the Himachal Pradesh State Eligibility Test (HP SET) for 2026. Candidates aspiring to become assistant professors in universities and colleges across the state can now submit their applications online. The registration process begins today, 3 January 2026, and will remain open until 30 January 2026 through the commission’s official website.
Understanding HP SET 2026
HP SET serves as a qualifying examination rather than a direct recruitment drive. Successful candidates become eligible to apply for assistant professor positions in higher education institutions throughout Himachal Pradesh. This examination is crucial for those seeking academic careers in the state’s university system and affiliated colleges.
Subjects Covered in the Examination
The eligibility test will be conducted across 22 distinct subjects, offering candidates a wide range of academic disciplines to choose from. The complete list of subjects includes:
- Chemical Sciences
- English
- Life Sciences
- Commerce
- Economics
- Geography
- Hindi
- History
- Mathematical Sciences
- Music
- Physical Sciences
- Physical Education
- Sociology
- Sanskrit
- Political Science
- Public Administration
- Computer Science and Applications
- Tourism Administration and Management
- Mass Communication and Journalism
- Psychology
- Education
- Environmental Science
Application Fee Structure
All applicants must pay a non-refundable examination fee during the online application process. The fee varies according to the candidate’s category, with payments made exclusively through online modes. The detailed fee structure is as follows:
- General category candidates: ₹1,150
- General-EWS / OBC-NCL (Himachal Pradesh domicile): ₹600
- SC, ST, Below Poverty Line, and Persons with Disabilities (Himachal Pradesh): ₹325
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
Candidates must hold a master’s degree from a university recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) to be considered eligible. The minimum percentage requirements vary by category:
- General / UR / General-EWS candidates: Minimum 55% marks in the master’s degree
- SC / ST / OBC / Persons with Disabilities: Minimum 50% marks in the master’s degree
Students currently in the final year of their master’s programme may also apply provisionally. Additionally, individuals who completed their PhD prior to 19 September 1991 will receive a relaxation of 5% in the minimum qualifying marks.
Prospective applicants are advised to review all eligibility requirements carefully before submitting their applications. The online application portal will accept submissions throughout the designated period, and candidates should ensure they complete the process well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical difficulties.
