SET Exam Pattern 2025 (Available): Check Latest Pattern, Marking Scheme & Exam Duration

Symbiosis Entrance Test 2025 ( SET )

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Admit Card: 25 Apr '25

This exam is conducted for courses given below:
Saumya Jain

Saumya JainAssistant Manager- Content

Updated on Dec 17, 2024 15:13 IST

SET exam pattern: Symbiosis International (Deemed University) prescribes the exam pattern for the SET exam. SET exam 2025 will be held on May 5, 2025, and May 11, 2025, in computer-based test mode (CBT). The SET exam will be conducted across various exam centres in the country. The nature and structure of the SET exam have not changed in the past few years. The SET is usually conducted in the morning shift. The SET question paper 2025 will have four sections with multiple-choice questions. The weightage of sections varies. The Analytical and Logical Reasoning section carries the least number of questions. Candidates appearing for the exam can check the SET exam pattern mentioning question paper details such as subjects, marks, sectional weightage and other test details here.

Q:   What is the sectional weightage of SET exam?

A:

SET exam has four sections having multiple-choice questions. The sectional weightage of each section of the SET question paper is different. The General English, Quantitative Aptitude and General Knowledge sections have 16 questions. Each question carries one mark. The Analytical and Logical Reasoning section of the SET question paper has12 multiple-choice questions and each question carries one mark. For incorrect answers, there is no negative marking. The detailed SET sectional weightage is given below:

Subject

Questions

Marks

General English

16

16

Quantitative

16

16

General Awareness

16

16

Analytical and Logical Reasoning

12

12

Total

60

60

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Q:   Is SET exam difficult?

A:

SET is a speed-based test which is designed to assess a candidate's analytical aptitude, logical reasoning skills, Quantitative Aptitude and English comprehension. It may sound tough, but these are the skills which we are taught in school so there is nothing new to learn. What is required is to brush on these subjects and topics. All you will need is to brush up on the basics and practice the concepts on advance level problems. Students should solve previous years question papers, attempt an ample number of mock tests and be consistent to score well in the SET exam. Having said that, the preparation for the SET exam requires focus, dedication, discipline and diligence. If you can do that, despite being an average student, you can crack the SET exam. SET is one of the easiest BBA entrance exams and a good preparation strategy can help you crack the SET exam with a good score. Generally, the toughest section of the SET question paper is Quantitative Aptitude. But with daily practice and focusing on understanding the fundamentals, this section of the SET exam can be handled easily.

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Q:   Will the SET BBA exam be conducted in double shifts?

A:

No, the SET 2024 exam will be conducted in a single shift. However, in 2020, the SET exam was conducted in the remote-proctored mode in order to follow the social distancing guidelines for COVID-19, and the students had the option to choose the exam slot according to their preference and convenience. SET exam pattern was also changed after 2020. SET exam is usually conducted in single shift for one hour, i. e. from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. The exam was however conducted on two days, i. e. May 6 and May 14 in 2023.

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SET Exam Pattern 2025

Get an overview of the SET exam pattern 2025 in the table below.

Features 

Details 

Exam mode

Computer-Based Test mode

Test duration

60 minutes

Sessions 

One

Exam timings

9:00 AM to 10:00 AM

Type of questions

Objective-type question with four options each

Marks per question

1 mark

Negative marking 

There will be no negative marking in case of wrong attempts

The candidates must note that they cannot carry a calculator or electronic gadget to the exam centre. Since the SET exam is an online entrance exam, the candidates will have to key in or select the right answer on the computer screen. Thus, it is important for them to practice at home and familiarise themselves with the online examination mode. Candidates will be provided with rough sheet for calculations. 

Also Read:

SET exam pattern

SET exam pattern

Q:   What is the syllabus for SET?

A:
SET syllabus includes all the important topics of subjects that are relevant for business and general aptitude. For the SET exam, candidates have to study, English Quantitative Aptitude General Knowledge and Analytical Reasoning. Given below are the key topics included in the SET syllabus: - The General English section of the SET exam syllabus includes various topics of Grammar, Word Meaning, Vocabulary, Para jumbles, Fill in the Blanks, Sentence Completion, Synonyms and Antonyms, Reading Comprehension, etc. - The Quantitative Aptitude section of the SET syllabus includes all the topics of Mathematics from Class 9 to 10 such as Arithmetic, Geometry, Algebra Trigonometry Modern Math, Number Systems and Mensuration. - The General Knowledge section of the SET exam syllabus includes topics on Current Affairs politics, sports Science, people and personalities, global news, awards and accolades, etc. - The Analytical and Logical Reasoning syllabus of SET exam includes topics that require analytical interpretation of data presented in the form of Puzzles, Pie Charts, Venn Diagrams, Tables and Bar Graphs.
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Q:   Which section of the SET exam has the least weightage?

A:

Three out of the four sections of the SET exam namely, General English, Quantitative Aptitude and General Knowledge, have equal weightage. Each question carries one mark for correct attempt. There is neither a negative marking for incorrectly marked answers nor there is marks deduction for unanswered question. The last section of the SET exam, i.e. Analytical and Logical Reasoning carries the least weightage. There are only 12 questions in this section which carry one mark each. The marking scheme of all the four sections is the same. Given below is the sectional weightage of SET exam.

  1. General English: 16 questions, 16 marks
  2. General Knowledge: 16 questions, 16 marks
  3. Quantitative Aptitude: 16 questions, 16 marks
  4. Analytical and Logical Reasoning: 12 questions, 12 marks

One should prepare well for all the sections of the SET exam. If you will score equally well in every section, only then will your overall score will be good. Also, many colleges consider sectional scores as well for admission shortlist so it is important to perform equally well in all sections of SET.

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Q:   What is the marking scheme of SET test?

A:
SET has a total of 60 questions. The General English Quantitative Aptitude and General Awareness sections carry 16 questions and the Analytical and Logical Reasoning section carries 12 questions. For each correct attempt, one mark is awarded and one mark is deducted for an incorrect attempt. There is no deduction of marks for unanswered questions. Therefore, the total marks of SET is 60. The sectional marking scheme for SET is given below: 1. General English 16 2. Analytical and Logical Reasoning: 12 3. Quantitative Ability: 16 4. General Knowledge: 16 Candidates must choose the questions to solve very carefully and smartly as they will not be awarded marks for incorrect answers. If they are not sure of the correct answer, they should leave the question instead of taking a chance.
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SET Marking Scheme 2025

The SET question paper will be divided into four sections. Refer to the table below to know the sectional weightage of the question paper.

Subject

Questions

Marks

General English

16

16

Quantitative

16

16

General Awareness

16

16

Analytical and Logical Reasoning

12

12

Total

60

60

Also Read:

Q:   How to prepare for the Quantitative Aptitude section of SET?

A:

Preparing for the QA section of the SET exam requires a strategic approach. Begin the preparation by understanding the pattern adn syllabus of the exam. To build a strong foundation revisit fundamental mathematical concepts. Regular practice is the cornerstone of success in the QA section. Solve a wide variety of math problems, progressing from simple to complex. Explore previous year's question papers and mock tests to apply your knowledge. Develop a problem solving techniques, including shortcuts and formulae to tackle questions of all kinds of difficulty levels. 

Time management is vital during both practice and the actual exam. Time yourself for each set of questions to enhance your time management skills and accuracy too. Taking full length mock tests simulates the exam environment and helps you assess your progress. Keep analysing your performance after each practice session. Identify the weak and strong areas and work upon them. 

With consistent practice and a structured study plan with a positive mindset, you can excel in the QA section of the SET exam and enhance your prospects of success.

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Q:   What are the important topics of the Analytical and Logical Reasoning section in SET question paper?

A:
The Analytical and Logical Reasoning section of the SET question paper is considered the toughest of all the sections of the SET exam. This section of the exam mainly consists of topics from Analytical Reasoning and Critical Reasoning. Some of the important topics of the Analytical and Logical Reasoning that the students should not miss include: 1. Syllogisms 2. Critical Reasoning 3. Cause and Effect 4. Statement and Conclusion 5. Strong and Weak Arguments 6. Coding and Decoding 7. Statement and Inference 8. Data Sufficiency 9. Data Interpretation 10. Arrangements 11. Blood Relations 12. Course of Action.
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Q:   Which are the best books for the General English section of the SET question paper?

A:

The General English section of the SET exam is usually easier than the other two sections. This section of the SET question paper is based on English usage and Grammar. The General English section aims to assess the candidate’s hold on language comprehension, grammar and vocabulary. The section examines the candidates on how well they comprehend the given data, analyse the question, vocabulary, grammar, etc.

Name of the BookAuthor/ Publication

Word Power Made Easy

Norman Lewis

High School English Grammar and Composition

Wren and Martin

Pearson Guide to IIM Indore-IPM Entrance Examination

Pearson

Objective General English 

SP Bakshi
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SET 2025 Exam Pattern: Key Points

Given below are some key points for the SET exam pattern 2025:

  • Since the SET exam is a computer-based test, the candidates are not required to keep any stationery items on the exam day.

  • Each applicant will be given a rough paper and pen/pencil for rough work on the exam day.

  • Candidates cannot leave their seats during the exam.

  • There is no negative marking in the exam. 
  • Candidates must not carry any electronic gadget to the exam centre and must not indulge in malpractice of any kind. If caught, they will be disbarred from the exam. 

Read More: 

Q:   Is there negative marking in the SET exam?

A:

No, the SET exam does not have negative markings. Each question in the SET exam carries one mark and if the answer is incorrect no marks will be awarded for that particular question. This means that if the candidate has four incorrect answers, then four marks will be deducted from the SET overall score. If the candidate marks more than one answer for a particular question, the answer will be considered incorrect. To avoid maximum marks deduction, students must attempt the easier question first and then move on to the more difficult ones in that particular section. If the candidate is unsure about a particular question, they can also skip the question. No marks will be deducted or awarded for unanswered questions. 

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Q:   Are there any subjective-type questions in the SET exam?

A:
No, there are no subjective-type or long form answer questions in the SET exam. The SET question paper only has 60 multiple-choice questions that are to be solved in one hour or 60 minutes. Candidates must attempt all the sections keeping in mind that the exam has negative marking. Candidates must note that each question in the SET question paper will have four options. They will be required to choose the correct answer and select the radio button against the answer. If the candidate marks two options for a particular answer, then that answer will be considered incorrect. Each question in the SET carries one mark and one mark will be deducted for every incorrect answer. No marks are awarded or deducted for unattempted questions.
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Q:   What is the SET exam duration and exam slot?

A:
The SET exam is held for only one hour or 60 minutes. There is only one slot for the SET exam. SET exam does not have any sectional time limit as well. However, the candidates need to solve the question paper in 60 minutes and this means that the candidates will have approximately one minute to solve each question. Candidates must take care of saving their answers at every step as the moment 60 minutes will get over, the screen will automatically end the test. The SET exam is conducted in the afternoon shift, I. e. from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Also, there is no provision for changing the exam slot. Candidates must make sure that they reach the SET exam centre by 10:30 AM in order to complete the frisking formalities at the entry GATE. Candidates will not be allowed to enter the exam centre beyond 11:15 AM.
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FAQs on SET Exam Pattern

Check some of the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on SET pattern:

Q:   What is the difficulty level of SET (Symbiosis Entrance Test)?

A:

SET is a national-level entrance exam conducted for admission to various undergraduate courses. SET 2025 will be conducted in the computer-based test mode. The difficulty level of the SET exam is usually easy to moderate. But, a few questions might trick your mind and can be time-consuming. General Knowledge and Analytical and Logical Reasoning are easier than the Quantitative Aptitude section. In 2024, according to the students who appeared for the SET session 1 exam, the SET exam was moderate. The General English section was the easiest of all the four sections. The Quantitative Aptitude section was the toughest and the other two sections were moderate to easy. The overall difficulty level of the SET question paper was moderate. Students who appeared for the SET 2024 session 2 exam said that the overall difficulty level was easy. Again, the General English section was the easiest. In this session, the Analytical and Logical Reasoning section was also easy to moderate. The Quant section was easy to moderate and the General Knowledge section was difficult.

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Q:   How many sections does the SET BBA exam have?

A:
The SET question paper is divided into four sections, I. e, Analytical and Logical Reasoning, General English Quantitative Aptitude and General Awareness. All the sections carry multiple-choice questions and each question carries one mark. There is no negative marking in the SET exam but the students have to complete the exam within one hour. Given below is the number of questions in each section: General English- 16 Quantitative Aptitude- 16 General Knowledge- 16 Analytical and Logical Reasoning- 12 There is a total of 60 questions in the SET question paper which are divided across these four sections.
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Q:   What is the SET exam pattern?

A:
SET (Symbiosis Entrance Test) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the Symbiosis International (Deemed University) for admission to BBA and other undergraduate programmes in the ten prestigious Symbiosis Institutes. The syllabus and exam pattern for SET are as follows: Syllabus: The SET exam tests the candidate's aptitude in the following areas: Analytical and Logical Reasoning Skills English Quantitative Skills General Knowledge Exam Pattern: The SET exam is a computer-based test. The duration of the exam is 60 minutes (1 hour). The exam consists of 60 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). The questions are from three different sections, namely Analytical and Logical Reasoning, General English General Knowledge and Quantitative Aptitude. Each correct answer carries one mark, and there is no negative marking for incorrect answers. The total marks for the exam are 60. The detailed section-wise exam pattern is as follows: Section 1: General English This section tests the candidate's English language skills. It consists of 16 MCQs. The section tests the candidate's understanding of topics such as Grammar, Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, etc. Section 2: General Knowledge This section tests the candidate's general awareness of the current happening around the world. Candidates should study Current Affairs Sports, Science, Awards and accolades, Famous Personalities, Events, etc. To ace the section. This section also carries 16 MCQs. Section 3: Quantitative Skills This section tests the candidate's Quantitative Aptitude. It consists of 16 MCQs. The section tests the candidate's knowledge of topics such as Arithmetic, Algebra Geometry, Trigonometry etc. Section 4: Analytical and Logical Reasoning Skills This section tests the candidate's analytical and logical reasoning abilities. It consists of 12 MCQs. The section tests the candidate's knowledge of topics such as Coding-Decoding, Blood Relations, Analogy, etc.
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Q:   How should I prepare for the SET exam?

A:
Cracking an exam is not a cakewalk, and it is not easy to grab a seat in one of the most prestigious private varsities, such as Symbiosis. You need to have a really strong strategy to crack this exam. Be versed with your syllabus Knowing the syllabus for the entrance exam is the first step towards SET preparation. Dividing the time for your exam is only possible if you are thorough with the syllabus. Therefore, you can analyse the area of your strength and then allocate the time required for each section. Understand the exam pattern Going through the previous year question papers and sample papers helps you figure out the exam pattern. Once you become familiar with the type of questions, you will take lesser time to solve questions. There will be clarity in your mind regarding how to crack the SET exam. Time management You have limited time to attempt 4 sections and 60 questions overall. You don't get the time to ponder which section you will attempt or the questions you want to opt-out or attempt last. Therefore knowing the exam pattern adds to your skill of solving the exam faster. Prepare Short Notes Remembering and revising before the exam is crucial for students to perform well. This can be done by preparing short notes. Going through them just a day before the exam will ensure that you remember all that you have prepared, which will boost your confidence in attempting the exam. Practice No exam can be cleared sans practice. Its the most important key for qualifying any exam you want. All the hard work you have put in during months for SET is futile, lest you have practiced sufficiently and are confident about making it to your chosen college and the course.
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SET Exam

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Write here...

Answered a week ago

The SET syllabus is not available for download because the SET exam authority, SIU, does not provide any details other than the exam sections related to the SET syllabus. Aspirants who want to appear in SET can refer to the syllabus of other BBA entrance exams similar to SET to get an idea of the to

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M

Mayank Singh

Beginner-Level 1

Answered 2 weeks ago

Application Window: The application window for SET 2025 opened on December 6, 2024, and will remain open until April 12, 2025.

H

Hemant Kumar Swami

Beginner-Level 3

Answered a month ago

Questions on mathematics in the SET exam are based on Class 10 and Class 12 levels. The SET entrance is a popular BBA exam that the students can take after Class 12. The difficulty level of the SET exam is usually easy. The SET question paper is divided into four sections, i.e. General English, Quan

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14801983
Saumya Jain

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

While a background in mathematics can be beneficial for cracking the SET exam, it is not an absolute requirement. The SET exam assesses candidates on various subjects related to language, general knowledge and reasoning, and mathematics is just one component of the syllabus.

Candidates from various a

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14801983
Saumya Jain

Contributor-Level 10

7 Institutes accepting SET

BBA in Information Technology
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    Infrastructure

    2.9

    Faculty & Course Curriculum

    3.9

    Crowd & Campus Life

    3.4

    Value for Money

    3.3

    Learning Experience

    0.0

    Course Support

    0.0
    (13)
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  • Total Fees: ₹ 8.72 Lakh
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  • 4 years
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  • Full Time
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
  • 4.2

    Placements

    4.0

    Infrastructure

    3.9

    Faculty & Course Curriculum

    4.3

    Crowd & Campus Life

    4.6

    Value for Money

    3.9

    Learning Experience

    0.0

    Course Support

    0.0
    (66)
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  • Total Fees: ₹ 11.52 Lakh
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  • 3 years
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  • Full Time
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) (Hons.)
  • 4.3

    Placements

    4.0

    Infrastructure

    4.3

    Faculty & Course Curriculum

    4.5

    Crowd & Campus Life

    4.4

    Value for Money

    4.1

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    (67)
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  • Total Fees: ₹ 10.50 Lakh
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Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
  • Total Fees: ₹ 14.00 Lakh
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  • 4 years
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