TS POLYCET 2026 Application Guide: How to Apply Online Without Errors

The TS POLYCET 2026 application window opened on February 2nd, and thousands of students across Telangana are rushing to secure their spot in polytechnic colleges. But here’s what most don’t realize: nearly 30% of applications end up in “Hold” status due to simple, avoidable mistakes—especially with photo and signature uploads.

This isn’t just another generic guide. We’ll walk you through the exact technical specifications your images need to meet, the common payment errors that freeze applications, and a foolproof step-by-step process to ensure your hall ticket generates the moment you hit submit.

Critical Dates at a Glance:

Official website: polycet.sbtet.telangana.gov.in

Prerequisites: Keep These 5 Documents Ready

Starting your application without these documents is the fastest way to trigger a “Session Expired” error. Have everything lined up before you even open the website:

1. SSC Hall Ticket Number
If you’re appearing for 10th class exams in March 2026, keep your board roll number handy. The system auto-fetches your name and date of birth from the SSC database, so even one wrong digit will cause a mismatch.

2. Aadhar Card
You’ll need this to verify the exact spelling of your name. Any variation (like “Mohammed” vs “Mohammad”) will create problems during seat allocation.

3. Caste Certificate Number (MeeSeva)
Mandatory for SC/ST/BC students claiming fee concession. Without the certificate number, you’ll be charged the full ₹500 fee.

4. Income Certificate Number
This is where most students slip up. If you plan to claim fee reimbursement later, your income certificate must be issued on or after January 1, 2026. Old certificates will be rejected outright.

5. Active Mobile Number
The OTP (One Time Password) arrives within seconds, but if your number is inactive or someone else is using it for their application, you’re locked out.

The “Rejection-Proof” Photo & Signature Guide

This is where 80% of rejections happen. The upload interface doesn’t give clear error messages—it just silently flags your application. Follow these specifications to the letter:

Passport-Size Photograph

• Format: .jpg or .jpeg only (PNG and PDF will be rejected)
• File Size: Less than 50 KB (This is a hard limit—51 KB won’t pass)
• Dimensions: 3.5 cm width × 4.5 cm height
• Background: White or light-colored. Avoid busy patterns or school uniform backgrounds if possible, though clear uniform photos are generally accepted.
• Face Visibility: Your entire face must be visible. No sunglasses, no caps, no filters.

Signature

• Format: .jpg or .jpeg
• File Size: Less than 30 KB
• How to prepare: Sign with a black pen on clean white paper. Don’t use blue ink (it photographs poorly). Take a photo in good daylight or scan it—just make sure there are no shadows.

Quick Tool Tip:
Most phone photos are 200-500 KB. Use the free “Paint” app on Windows (Resize > Pixels > Save as JPEG with lower quality) or online tools like TinyJPG to compress your images. Test the file size by right-clicking the image and selecting “Properties” before uploading.

Step-by-Step Application Process for TS POLYCET 2026

Step 1: Registration & Fee Payment

1. Go to polycet.sbtet.telangana.gov.in
2. Click the “File Application” button on the homepage
3. Enter your 10th Hall Ticket Number, Date of Birth, and Mobile Number
4. Choose your payment method (Credit/Debit Card, Net Banking, or UPI)
5. Pay the application fee:
   • ₹500 for General/OBC candidates
   • ₹250 for SC/ST candidates

Critical Warning: After payment, wait for the screen to redirect back to the SBTET portal. Do not close the browser or hit the back button. If you do, your payment will show as “Pending” even though the money was deducted. You’ll then have to wait 24-48 hours for reconciliation.

Step 2: Filling Personal Details

Once payment is confirmed, you’ll receive a Transaction ID. The system will now auto-populate some fields:

• Verify your Name and Father’s Name carefully. These are pulled from SSC records.
• Exam Center Preference: Select the polytechnic college nearest to your home. You can choose up to 3 centers in order of priority.
• Category Details: If you selected SC/ST/BC during registration, enter your caste certificate number here.

Step 3: Uploading Images

This is the make-or-break moment:

1. Click “Upload Photograph” and select your pre-sized image (<50 KB)
2. Click “Upload Signature” and select your signature file (<30 KB)
3. Wait for the green “Upload Successful” message before proceeding

Real-World Warning: If your face appears blurry in the uploaded photo, the invigilator at the exam center may refuse to let you enter. Always preview the uploaded image on-screen to check clarity.

Step 4: Preview, Save, and Submit

1. Click “Preview Application” (not “Submit” yet)
2. Check every field for typos—especially your mobile number and email
3. If everything looks correct, click “Final Submit”
4. Immediately download the “Filled Application Form” PDF. This is your proof. Save it in multiple places (email it to yourself, keep a screenshot).

Your hall ticket will be generated automatically if there are no errors. You’ll receive it via SMS and can also download it from the website using your application number.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Rejection

The “Back Button” Disaster
Hitting back during payment processing splits your transaction. The bank deducts money, but the SBTET server doesn’t receive confirmation. Result: You’re stuck with “Payment Pending” status.

Category Certificate Mismatch
Selecting “SC” category but entering an invalid or expired certificate number. The system cross-verifies with the MeeSeva database in real-time. Fake numbers are flagged instantly.

The Dark Signature Problem
If you scan your signature on a poorly lit scanner, it comes out as a solid black rectangle. The verification software reads this as “invalid.” Always check the preview before uploading.

Ignoring the Income Certificate Date
Using an income certificate issued in 2025 or earlier. The system requires certificates dated January 1, 2026, or later for the 2026 admission cycle.

FAQs on TS POLYCET 2026 Application

Q: Can I edit my application after submitting?
Usually no. However, SBTET typically opens a “Correction Window” in late April (around April 25-27). You’ll get 48 hours to fix errors. Don’t count on this—apply correctly the first time.

Q: My payment was deducted but the form says “Pending.” What should I do?
Wait 24 hours. Do NOT make another payment immediately. If the status doesn’t update after 48 hours, contact the helpline with your transaction reference number.

Q: I’m from Andhra Pradesh. Can I apply for TS POLYCET?
Yes, under the 15% non-local quota. You’ll need to upload your AP residence proof during counseling if you’re selected.

Q: What if I don’t have an income certificate yet?
You can still apply and pay the full fee. But if you want fee reimbursement later, you must obtain the certificate (dated Jan 1, 2026, or after) before the counseling phase.

Q: Can I use a mobile photo instead of a studio passport photo?
Yes, as long as it meets the technical specs (white background, <50 KB, clear face). Many students use their phone camera—just ensure good lighting and no shadows.

Quick Summary

Final Advice: Don’t wait until April 19th. Server crashes are common on the last day when thousands try to apply simultaneously. Complete your application by mid-April, double-check your photo sizes, and keep your payment confirmation safe. Your polytechnic seat depends on getting these small details right.