Abstract: 【Objective】 By identifying and evaluating the salt tolerance of upland cotton germplasm resources during the germination stage, this research can select good salt-tolerance germplasms.Based on this evaluation, the indicators of salt tolerance identification can be clarified, which provides theoretical support for the breeding improvement of upland cotton. 【Methods】 In this study, 197 varieties of upland cotton from both domestic and international sources were used as experimental materials.Salt stress treatments were administered at sodium chloride (NaCl) concentrations of 0 (as the control), 150, and 200 mmol/L.Nine parameters, including germination potential, rate, root length, and their relative measurements, were evaluated for the control and treatment groups.To assess the salt tolerance of these cotton varieties, a membership function method was applied, utilizing a comprehensive D-value for evaluation. 【Results】 The results indicated that a concentration of 150 mmol/L is ideal for determining salt tolerance in upland cotton during the germination stage.The coefficient of variation in the treatment group was consistently higher compared to the control group.A significant positive correlation was observed between the comprehensive D-value and the various traits of the treated plants.The comprehensive D-value as the primary factor.Based on a thorough evaluation, 4 materials were classified as highly salt-tolerant, 39 materials as salt-tolerant, 65 materials as moderately salt-tolerant, and 89 materials as salt-sensitive. 【Conclusion】 The study indicated that nine metrics, such as germination potential, germination rate, root length, and their respective relative values, are effective indicators for assessing salt tolerance.Among the tested materials, forty-three, including varieties 20N705 and C6524, demonstrated notably strong salt tolerance.