AP ECET (Andhra Pradesh Engineering Common Entrance Test) is a state-level entrance exam for diploma holders and B.Sc (Mathematics) graduates seeking direct lateral entry into the second year of B.E./B.Tech/B.Pharmacy programmes across Andhra Pradesh. JNTU Anantapur conducts the AP ECET exam on behalf of the Andhra Pradesh State Council of Higher Education (APSCHE).
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In this article we will discuss the complete details about AP ECET 2026, eligibility, exam pattern, and admission procedure.
AP ECET 2026 Eligibility Criteria
To attend for AP ECET 2026 exam, candidates must meet the following conditions:
- Must hold a 3-year Diploma in Engineering, or Pharmacy — or a B.Sc degree with Mathematics — from a recognised board or university.
- Minimum 45% marks in the qualifying exam (relaxed to 40% for SC/ST/BC candidates).
- Final-year diploma students awaiting results can also apply.
AP ECET 2026 – Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Official Notification | December 22, 2025 |
| Application Form Opens | February 4, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply (No Late Fee) | March 2, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply (With Late Fee) | March 18, 2026 |
| Correction Window | March 20, 2026 |
| Hall Ticket Release | April 9, 2026 |
| Exam Date | April 23, 2026 |
| Preliminary Answer Key | April 27, 2026 |
| Answer Key Objection Deadline | April 29, 2026 |
| Result & Rank Card | May 7, 2026 (Expected) |
| Counselling | June 2026 |
AP ECET 2026 Exam Pattern
AP ECET question paper is prepared based on Diploma / Degree syllabus.
- Total Questions: 200
- Question Type: Multiple Choice Questions
Subjects Included
- Engineering subjects related to the branch
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
How To Apply For AP ECET 2026
- Go to the official AP ECET portal: cets.apsche.ap.gov.in/ECET
- Click on the Eligibility Criteria and Fee Payment link.
- Enter your personal and academic details to complete basic registration ,then click on proceed to pay.
- Pay the application fee via Debit/Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI.
- Fill in the full application form and upload required documents, photo, and signature. all the documents should be wit in 100kb.
- Review your application details carefully before submitting.
- Save a printed copy of the confirmation page for your records.
AP ECET Application Fee
Application fee Varies for different categories as :
- OC and EWS category: ₹600
- BC category: ₹550
- SC/ST category: ₹500
AP ECET Result & Rank Card
After the ECET exam is completed. The university will releases the Preliminary Answer Key on April 27, 2026 and students who have objections can raise their objections before the Answer Key Objection Deadline of April 29, 2026. After that university will release ap ecet 2026 results & rank card on May 7, 2026.
- Results are released online
- Rank card is mandatory for counselling
- Admission is based purely on ECET rank
Only qualified candidates are allowed to participate in counselling.
AP ECET Counselling Process
After results are declared, qualified candidates go through an online counselling process that includes the following stages:
- Counselling registration
- Document verification
- Choice filling (preferred colleges and branches)
- Seat allotment
- Reporting to the allotted college
Counselling is expected to begin in June 2026. Seat allotment depends on rank, category, and availability of seats.
AP ECET 2026 FAQs
Who can apply for AP ECET 2026?
Diploma holders and B.Sc (Mathematics) qualified candidates.
Is there negative marking in AP ECET?
No, there is no negative marking.
When will AP ECET 2026 notification be released?
Notification released in february 2026.
What is AP ECET used for?
For lateral entry admission into B.Tech / B.E courses.
When is the last date for AP ECET 2026?
March 2, 2026 is the last date to apply for AP ECET
Conclusion
AP ECET 2026 is the main entrance exam for diploma students who want to continue their education in engineering degree courses. Candidates should apply online carefully and follow official instructions.