The Maharashtra State Eligibility Test (MH SET) is a significant examination conducted for determining the eligibility of candidates for the position of Assistant Professor in universities and colleges in the state of Maharashtra and Goa. Administered by Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), the MH SET is a highly regarded certification that aims to ensure quality teaching standards in higher education institutions. The MH SET exam is structured into two papers, both of which are conducted on the same day. Paper I is designed to assess the teaching and research aptitude of the candidates. It consists of 50 multiple-choice questions, each carrying 2 marks, and covers topics such as reasoning ability, comprehension, divergent thinking, and general awareness. This paper aims to evaluate the candidate's general aptitude and understanding of higher education systems.

Paper II, on the other hand, is subject-specific and consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, each also carrying 2 marks. Candidates can choose from a wide range of subjects that align with their post-graduate qualifications. This paper focuses on assessing the in-depth knowledge of the candidate in their chosen subject area. The total duration for both papers is three hours, with no break in between.

Eligibility criteria for appearing in the MH SET require candidates to have a Master’s degree or equivalent with at least 55% marks (50% for reserved categories) from a recognized university. Candidates who are in the final year of their Master’s program are also eligible to apply, provided they complete their degree within two years from the date of the MH SET result with the requisite marks. The exam is conducted in various cities across Maharashtra and Goa, making it accessible to a broad range of candidates. The mode of examination is offline, requiring candidates to fill in their answers on an OMR sheet. The syllabus for each subject is prescribed by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and is available on the official MH SET website.

To qualify for the MH SET, candidates must secure minimum aggregate marks in both papers: 40% for General category candidates and 35% for candidates from reserved categories. Successful candidates receive an eligibility certificate from the SPPU, which qualifies them to apply for the position of Assistant Professor in the universities and colleges of Maharashtra and Goa. The MH SET is a gateway for aspiring academicians to embark on a teaching career in higher education. It not only evaluates the candidates' academic knowledge and teaching capabilities but also ensures that only competent and qualified individuals are eligible to contribute to the academic landscape of the region.