The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the official notification for the SWAYAM January 2026 exam in online mode. Candidates willing to apply for the NTA SWAYAM exam must check the SWAYAM eligibility criteria beforehand to avoid any mistakes. According to the latest SWAYAM eligibility criteria, only those candidates are eligible for NTA SWAYAM January 2026 exam who have enrolled in one of the 900 courses for which exam will be conducted.
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SWAYAM is the government initiative to make skill-based courses accessible to everyone in an online mode. These SWAYAM courses are offered by top institutes of India, such as IITs, IIMs, Central Universities, and others. After the completion of SWAYAM courses, candidates have to qualify for the final exam conducted by NTA. To know all about the eligibility criteria of SWAYAM courses and the NTA SWAYAM exam, read the article below.
NTA SWAYAM eligibility criteria vary depending on the type of course chosen by the candidate. Check some of the generic eligibility criteria for SWAYAM below.
| Course Level | Eligibility Criteria | Who Can Apply |
|---|---|---|
School Courses (Class 9–12) | Enrolled in a recognised school board (CBSE, ICSE, state boards) | Students in Class 9, 10, 11, and 12 |
Undergraduate Courses | Must have completed 10+2 or equivalent qualification | Students entering or pursuing Bachelor’s studies, professionals without prior exposure to the subject |
Postgraduate Courses | Bachelor’s degree in relevant subject | College graduates, working professionals seeking advanced knowledge |
Diploma & Professional Certifications | Varies by course; may require UG/PG degree or work experience | Teachers, government employees, industry professionals, skill learners |
Candidates have to enroll in the SWAYAM semester exam conducted by NTA after the completion of the course. Students must check the SWATAM exam eligibility criteria below.
Many students mistakenly believe that anyone can take the SWAYAM exam without prerequisites.
Candidates meeting the NTA SWAYAM eligibility criteria can complete the SWAYAM registration for January 2026 semester in online mode on the official website. For the SWAYAM January 2026 exam, the registration was open from April 15, 2026, to May 13, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, students from Class 9 onwards can take school-level courses.
No, learners of all ages are eligible for SWAYAM exams.
Yes, a bachelor’s degree in the relevant field is required.
Absolutely, professionals often join SWAYAM courses for upskilling or earning certifications.
Yes, they are recognised by UGC, AICTE, and many universities and companies.
Generally, exams are held twice a year, in January and July sessions.
On Question asked by student community
Dear Student,
Check SWAYAM question paper for June 18, 2026 exam here: NTA SWAYAM Question Paper 2026 (June 18): Download Shift 1 & 2 Solutions PDF