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BSNL SET 2026, stop searching random PDFs and half information. What you really need is a clear, stream-wise breakdown of the BSNL Senior Executive Trainee (SET) syllabus and exam pattern — in simple words.
This guide gives you exactly that.
No confusion. No fluff. Just structured preparation clarity.
About BSNL
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is a government-owned telecom company providing mobile, broadband, and enterprise communication services across India.
A Senior Executive Trainee post in BSNL means managerial-level technical responsibility — not entry-level field work.
BSNL SET 2026 Exam Pattern
Before jumping into subjects, understand how the paper is structured.
Duration:
Approximately 2–3 Hours
Question Type:
Objective (MCQ based)
Negative Marking:
Likely applicable (check official notice)
The majority weightage is technical. If your core concepts are weak, aptitude alone won’t save you.Expected Exam Structure
| Section | Subject | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Part 1 | Engineering Stream Subjects | 100 |
| Part 2 | General Aptitude | 50 |
| Total | — | 150 |
BSNL SET 2026 Syllabus – Stream Wise Breakdown
The syllabus depends on the engineering stream you apply for.
1. Telecom / Electronics Stream
Core Subjects:
- Analog & Digital Communication
- Signals & Systems
- Electromagnetic Theory
- Electronic Devices
- Network Theory
- Control Systems
- Digital Circuits
- Microprocessors
Focus Area: Communication systems and signal processing usually carry higher weightage.
2. Electrical Engineering Stream
Core Subjects:
- Electrical Machines
- Power Systems
- Power Electronics
- Control Systems
- Circuit Theory
- Measurements & Instrumentation
Focus Area: Numerical-based questions from machines and power systems.
3. Civil Engineering Stream
Core Subjects:
- Structural Engineering
- Geotechnical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Transportation Engineering
- Engineering Mathematics
Focus Area: Concept + formula clarity. Civil papers are calculation-heavy.
4. IT / Computer Science Stream
Core Subjects:
- Data Structures
- Operating Systems
- DBMS
- Computer Networks
- Software Engineering
- Algorithms
Focus Area: Conceptual clarity and practical application-based MCQs.
General Aptitude Section
This section is common for all streams.
Includes:
- Quantitative Aptitude
- Logical Reasoning
- English Language
- General Awareness (Telecom/Technical related)
Don’t ignore this section. Many candidates lose rank here due to overconfidence.
Preparation Strategy for BSNL SET 2026
Let’s be realistic.
BSNL SET is competitive but crackable with structured preparation.
What You Should Do:
Revise core engineering subjects
Practice previous PSU-level questions
Solve mock tests weekly
Strengthen weak technical areas
Practice aptitude daily (20–30 mins)
Consistency beats last-minute study.
Difficulty Level – What to Expect?
- Technical section: Moderate to High
- Aptitude section: Moderate
- Overall level: Comparable to PSU exams
If you have prepared for GATE or other PSU exams, your base is already strong.
Why BSNL SET Is a Good Career Option?
- Government-backed organization
- Managerial-level position
- Good pay structure
- Stable career growth
- Technical + administrative exposure
If you want long-term stability in telecom or technical management, this is a serious opportunity.
Final Words
The BSNL SET Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2026 is heavily technical. Success depends on your core engineering strength, not shortcuts.
Start early. Prepare smart. Revise repeatedly.
FAQ Schema Section (Add to Bottom of Blog)
Q1. What is the exam pattern for BSNL SET 2026?
The BSNL SET 2026 exam consists of objective-type questions divided into technical subjects and general aptitude. Total marks are expected around 150 with possible negative marking.
Q2. Is there negative marking in BSNL SET 2026?
Negative marking is generally applicable in PSU-style exams. Candidates should check the official notification for confirmation.
Q3. What subjects are included in BSNL SET syllabus?
The syllabus includes core engineering subjects based on the chosen stream such as Electronics, Electrical, Civil, IT along with General Aptitude.
Q4. Is BSNL SET tougher than GATE?
BSNL SET is competitive but usually slightly easier than GATE. However, strong technical fundamentals are required.
Q5. What is the salary of BSNL Senior Executive Trainee?
BSNL Senior Executive Trainees receive pay as per government pay scale with allowances and career growth benefits.