What is the syllabus for SET?

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.

Is there negative marking in the SET exam?

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.

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

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 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.

What should I solve previous year's SET question papers?

Solving the SET question paper is very important from preparation point of view. Since SET is a speed based test where candidates have to read long passages, tables and charts, do multiple calculations and solve tricky puzzles, one needs to have prior practice of the same. The SET mock tests serve this purpose. However, to know what type of passages and puzzles are there in the SET exam, you need to solve previous years' question papers. Some of the benefits of solving previous years' SET question paper are: With the help of previous year's SET question paper, you can understand the latest SET exam pattern and marking scheme Practicing SET question papers improves speed and accuracy in solving the questions Practicing SET question papers improves time management skills as you would get to know which type of questions take how much time. When you practice SET question papers, you gain confidence that you can solve all types of SET questions. This confidence helps in performing better in the exam.

Will the SET BBA exam be conducted in double shifts?

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.

What is a good score in SET exam?

Previously, the SET exam had 150 questions. They were reduced to 60 multiple-choice questions in the year 2021, and the duration of the exam was also reduced proportionally. Check out the table below to know what can be considered a good score in SET exam according to the previous years' analysis: Section Total Marks Good Score General English 16 12-14 Quantitative Aptitude 16 10-12 General Awareness 16 11-12 Analytical and Logical Reasoning 12 9-10

Does SIU provide mock test for SET?

Yes, Symbiosis International University (SIU) typically provides mock tests for the SET (Symbiosis Entrance Test) on its official website. These mock tests are valuable resources for candidates preparing for the SET exam. Here are a few key points to consider regarding SET mock tests: SET mock tests are designed to simulate the actual examination experience and are based on the current exam pattern and syllabus. These mock tests are typically available for free. Candidates can access them to practice and become familiar with the types of questions, exam structure, and time management. SIU provides mock tests for different programmes, allowing candidates to practice based on the specific programme they are applying for. This ensures that the mock test content aligns with the chosen programme. After taking the mock tests, candidates may receive their scores and performance feedback. This can help them identify areas where they need improvement. Practicing with SET mock tests can be instrumental in improving your confidence and performance on the actual SET exam. It allows you to identify your strengths and weaknesses, refine your test-taking strategies, and reduce exam-related stress. Candidates preparing for the SET exam must take mock tests. These practice tests are excellent tools for effective preparation and can contribute to a higher level of confidence and performance on exam day.

What is the ideal time to prepare for SET exam?

Aspirants should start preparing for the SET exam at least six months before the test date. SET preparation requires planning thus one must start early. They can also join coaching institutes for focused preparation. Starting early will also help you assess that whether you need to join a coaching institute or not. Divide your preparation into three phases - 1. Covering the syllabus 2. Practicing mock tests, sample questions and 3. Revision. The SET syllabus includes the following topics: General English: Parajumbles, Sentence Completion, Grammar, Comprehension Passages, Synonyms and Antonyms, etc. Logical Reasoning: Tables, Graphs, Pie Charts, Blood Relation, Seating Arrangement, Strong and Weak Arguments, and Syllogism Quantitative Aptitude: Geometry, Algebra Number System Arithmetic, Mensuration etc. General Awareness: Companies and Founders, Awards, Books and Authors, Sports, Politics, Current Affairs, etc. You can read the following SET books for exam preparation: A New Approach to Reasoning by BS Sijawali Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for the CAT by Nishit K Sinha Multi-Dimensional Reasoning by Mishra Kumar and Dr Lal Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis High School English Grammar and Composition by Wren & Martin How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for the CAT by Arun Sharma Class 9 and Class 10 NCERT Mathematics books Quantitative Aptitude by R. S Aggarwal Manorama Year Book

Is Symbiosis entrance test (BBA) difficult for non maths students?

Preparation for any section of the SET exam can be tackled easily with practice and revision. Preparing for the QA section of the SET exam requires a strategic approach. Although the difficulty level of the QA section in SET exam is relatively higher, the section can still be aced with enough practice and conceptual clarity. 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. With consistent practice and a structured study plan with a positive mindset, one can excel in the QA section of the SET exam and enhance their prospects of success, irrespective of their academics.

How to avoid mistakes in the SET exam?

Some of the ways to avoid common mistakes in the SET exam are: Students should try to develop a strategic approach by allocating specific time slots to each section during the SET preparation and give priority to the easier questions. Students should not underestimate SET mock tests. Students should take regular mock tests as they stimulate actual exam environment and help them familiarize with exam pattern, type of questions, etc. Relying solely on rote learning and ignoring the conceptual clarity can hinder your performance in the SET exam. Students should ensure they have a strong understanding of the fundamental concepts in Mathematics and English. Do not overlook sectional preparation. Students should focus on identifying their strengths and weaknesses in each section and allocate enough study time accordingly to achieve a balanced preparation.

How can I crack SET in 3 months?

One can easily crack SET in three months. Here are a few tips: Time Management: Calculate the estimate time you are giving for preparations and divide it equally as per the syllabus. Adjust your time and try to solve each question within the prescribed timing. Make a suitable time-table for preparation as per your routine and include short breaks between the longer study periods. Divide the preparation in several steps and complete them one by one. Prepare as per Syllabus: Firstly, gather all the information about the officially prescribed syllabus for SET Exam. Each question paper of this exam will contain different sections. Include every single topic of the syllabus in your preparation as per the courses opted. Study Material and Previous Year Question Papers: Students can prepare for this exam through the study materials available in the book stores or Internet. Mock tests are also a good way for preparations of the exam. Students can practice the mock test and work on their difficult points. Students can also practice the previous year question papers of this exam. This will help students to understand the type of questions, question weightage and pattern of the exam. Maintain Health: A good health is an important thing which is required for a good exam preparation. A healthy mind and body will help you to concentrate on your studies. Take a nutritious diet in preparation time. Include fresh fruits and veggies in your diet and avoid oily and junk food. Practice Yoga and Meditation this will help students to concentrate better in the studies.

How can I crack SET in 6 months?

SET can be cracked in six months if time is managed wisely. Here are few tips to crack the examination provided time: Set your plan agile and keep buffer time for revision and solving mock test papers. Start with your verbal and quantitative practice in parallel. Six months can make or change the game, time management is very important at every single point of time till the final day and even on the day. Keep positive! Maintain a good balance between your accuracy and solving time. Be focused and calm. For the last month keep all the formulas and tricks handy and revise on a daily basis. Remember: - Make daily/weekly targets and pen down each - Revise the syllabus as per study plan - Solve previous year questions as per time frame guidelines of actual exam. This will give you a look and feel of actual exam - Manage your time well - Keep calm and stay cool

How to avoid mistakes in the SET exam?

Some of the ways to avoid common mistakes in the SET exam are: Students should try to develop a strategic approach by allocating specific time slots to each section during the SET preparation and give priority to the easier questions. Students should not underestimate SET mock tests. Students should take regular mock tests as they stimulate actual exam environment and help them familiarize with exam pattern, type of questions, etc. Relying solely on rote learning and ignoring the conceptual clarity can hinder your performance in the SET exam. Students should ensure they have a strong understanding of the fundamental concepts in Mathematics and English. Do not overlook sectional preparation. Students should focus on identifying their strengths and weaknesses in each section and allocate enough study time accordingly to achieve a balanced preparation.

Is IPMAT more difficult than SET (Symbiosis Entrance Test)?

Comparing the difficulty level of IPMAT and SET can be subjective and depends on various factors such as individual strengths, preparation, and familiarity with the exam pattern. IPMAT, conducted by IIM Indore, is specifically designed for admission to the five-year Integrated Program in Management (IPM). It assesses a candidate's aptitude and proficiency in areas such as Quantitative Aptitude and Verbal Ability. The exam is known for its challenging and analytical nature, testing the candidate's problem-solving skills, logical reasoning, and time management abilities. Also, the QA section is a slightly tricker than the QA section of the SET exam. On the other hand, the Symbiosis Entrance Test (SET) is conducted by Symbiosis International (Deemed University) for admission to various undergraduate programmes offered by different institutes under the Symbiosis umbrella. The difficulty level of SET can vary depending on the specific programme the student is applying for. The exam generally focuses on testing a candidate's mathematical knowledge, logical reasoning, analytical ability, and general awareness. Both IPMAT and SET have their unique exam patterns, sections, and syllabi. The difficulty level of these BBA entrance exams can vary based on the individual's strengths and weaknesses in different subjects. Some candidates may find IPMAT more challenging due to its analytical and problem-solving nature, while others may find SET more difficult based on the specific sections and topics covered.

Where can I find the SET mock test and how can I book the slot?

To understand the exam pattern and SET question paper, SET mock test is conducted before the SET exam. The mock test will be available on the SET official website at least two days before the exam date. Candidates must know that it is mandatory for the registered candidates planning to appear for the SET exam to take the SET mock test. To know how to appear for the SET mock test follow the steps mentioned below: Visit the official website of SET In the topmost bar, click on Mock Test button Candidates will be redirected to a new webpage Login using the email ID and password which the candidates used to register themselves for the SET exam After login, candidates will be redirected to a new window where they will have a set of instructions that they need to follow Click on the tab indicating Mock Test after reading the instructions carefully and take the test.

SET 2025 Question Papers, Previous Year Papers (2024, 2023, 2022, 2021): Download PDF

217 Students Q&A

Result - 22 May '25

This exam is conducted for courses given below:

BCA BA Mass Communication BSc Eco/Eco (H)BBA

Updated on May 5, 2025 10:28 IST

By Saumya Jain, Assistant Manager- Content

SET exam question paper and SET model practice papers give aspirants an understanding of the SET exam pattern 2025. They give students an insight into the type of questions, topics, and difficulty level of the SET question paper 2025. Symbiosis Entrance Test 2025 (SET exam 2025) was conducted on May 5, 2025, for test 01. The test 02 was conducted on May 11, 2025.

Solving the SET previous year's question papers is important as it helps the students understand the SET test pattern. They also help in assessing the difficulty level of the questions in the SET question papers over the years. SET exam question paper is divided into four sections and all the sections are to be completed within an hour. SET question papers are usually easy to moderate in terms of difficulty level. Candidates can download SET exam preparation guides which will give them a detailed insight into the questions asked in the past years and how to prepare for every topic of the SET exam. The SET mock test 2025 is available online. Read below to know more about the SET question paper.

Q: Is SET exam difficult?

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.

Q: What are the common mistakes to avoid in SET?

Students aspiring to take admission to the UG programmes at Symbiosis International University (SIU), SET exam is a crucial step. Achieveing success in the SET exam requires a thorough preparation and avoiding common pitfalls. The commong mistakes to avoid in the SET exam include:

Poor Time Management
Neglecting Planning
Procrastination
Lack of Conceptual Clarity
Overlooking Sectional Preparation
Ignoring Previous Years' SET Question Papers

Q: Can I use IPMAT preparation books for SET exam preparation?

Yes, IPMAT books can be used for the SET exam preparation as both are BBA entrance exams. Candidates can use the same books for preparing for topics such as Quantitative Aptitude and General English. However, the difficulty level of the SET exam is much easier as compared to that of the IPMAT exam. To prepare for other sections of the SET exam such as Analytical and Logical Reasoning and General Knowledge, candidates should refer to the subject-specific preparation books.

To prepare well of the SET exam, candidates must also solve previous years' question papers and sample papers in order to know the important topics in the exam, structure, weightage of the topics, etc.

Q: What is the SET exam duration and exam slot?

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.

Q: What is the medium and structure of the SET question paper?

The medium of SET question paper is English . The structure of the SET exam has not changed since the year 2020. The latest SET question paper structure is as follows:

The SET exam is conducted in the computer-based test. The duration of the exam is 60 minutes (1 hour). The exam consists of 60 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) carrying one mark each. The questions are from four different sections, namely General English, Quantitative Aptitude, General Knowledge and Logical Reasoning. 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 hold over the language. The candidates need to prepare for topics such as Grammar, Reading Comprehension, Vocbulary, etc. This section consists 16 MCQs.

Section 2- Quantitative Aptitude: This section tests the candidate's Quantitative Aptitude. It also consists of 16 MCQs. The section tests the candidate's knowledge of topics such as Arithmetic, Algebra Geometry, Trigonometry etc.

Section 3- General Knowledge: The section comprises of 16 multiple choice questions based on topics such as Current Affairs, World, Politics, Sports, Books, Authors, etc.

Section 4- Logical Reasoning: 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.

Table of content

SET Exam Question Paper 2025: Highlights
SET BBA Prep Guides
Why Solving SET Exam Question and Sample Papers is Important?
SET Exam Preparation Tips
SET Exam Previous Year Analysis: Sectional Difficulty Level (Test 01 and 02)
Important FAQs Related to SET Question Paper

SET Exam Question Paper 2025: Highlights

Refer to the table below to know the SET question paper highlights.

Features	Details
Sections	Four sections: 1. General English 2. Quantitative 3. Logical Reasoning 4. General Awareness
Total Number of Questions	60
Time Duration	60 minutes
Marking Scheme	+1 for the correct answer No negative marking
Total Marks	60

Also Read: SET 2025 exam analysis

Download Here SET 2025 Syllabus PDF

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Download previous year SET question papers and sample papers. Use them for practice and improve your speed and accuracy. You can download SET previous year question papers and the preparation guides for free.

SET BBA Prep Guides

Sectionwise Strategies to Prepare for BBA Entrance Exams

Important BBA Entrance Exams You Should Not Miss

Current Affairs 2021

GD PI Guide 2020-21

DILR Questions with Answers for Practice

Quantitative Aptitude Questions with Answers for Practice

VARC Questions with Answers for Practice

How To Prepare for BBA Entrance Exams

Why Solving SET Exam Question and Sample Papers is Important?

Check out the benefits of solving SET questions and sample papers below.

Solving the SET exam question papers and previous years' question papers will help the candidates recognise their strengths and weaknesses. Candidates can work on their weak areas and try to strengthen them.
Candidates will get an insight and understanding into the SET exam pattern.
It will increase the speed and accuracy of candidates which will help them on the exam day.
Candidates will come across different tricks to solve lengthy questions while practising.
Candidates will be able to solve all kinds of questions, easy, difficult and lengthy.
SET exam is heavily reliant on the previous years' question papers, hence, for a good SET exam preparation, solving the previous year's SET exam question papers is crucial.

Also Read: IPMAT vs SET: Which is Tougher

SET Exam Preparation Tips

SET preparation requires an in-depth understanding of the SET exam syllabus. Having a thorough knowledge of the fundamentals and basic concepts is crucial for SET exam preparation. To prepare well for the SET exam, students should inculcate two important practices in their preparation plan, i.e. having access to good books for the SET exam and more importantly practising the previous year's SET exam question papers. Many SET exam toppers and experts suggest that a student must attempt at least the past five years' SET exam question papers to understand the exam better. SET question papers, SET exam model question papers and SET mock tests have a very significant role in the SET preparation strategy. They not only help the students understand the SET exam pattern but also acquaint them with the difficulty level, type of questions, etc. They also help them with time management. Students can look for books which have SET exam question papers with answers or online sources which offer SET exam question papers with answers pdf.

Also Read:

How to Prepare for SET Exam in 3 Months

How to Prepare for SET in 1 Month

SET exam day preparation tips