Martha Divakar · August 30, 2025 
Introduction
For engineering aspirants in Maharashtra, the Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MHT CET) is one of the most crucial exams. Every year, lakhs of students apply for this entrance test to secure admission in top government and private engineering colleges across the state. Hence, staying informed about the MHT CET 2026 engineering notification and eligibility criteria becomes essential for students planning their careers in technical fields. With timely updates and clear strategies, aspirants can ensure they are fully prepared for the challenge ahead.
MHT CET 2026 Notification – Expected Timeline
Although the official MHT CET 2026 notification is yet to be released, analyzing previous years gives a clear idea of the likely timeline:
- Notification Release: January 2026
- Application Form Start Date: January 2026
- Last Date to Apply: February 2026
- Admit Card Release: April 2026
- Exam Date: April–May 2026
- Result Declaration: June 2026
- Counselling & Admission: July–August 2026
These dates are tentative and students must regularly check updates to avoid missing deadlines.
MHT CET 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Expected Date |
| Notification Release | January 2026 |
| Application Start | January 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | February 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | April 2026 |
| Exam Dates | April–May 2026 |
| Results | June 2026 |
| Counselling | July–August 2026 |
Eligibility Criteria for Engineering Aspirants
To apply for MHT CET 2026 engineering entrance exam, students must fulfill certain eligibility conditions:
- Nationality – The candidate must be an Indian citizen.
- Age Limit – There is no specific upper age limit. However, candidates should have passed Class 12 or equivalent examination.
- Academic Qualifications –
- Must have passed Class 12 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- Minimum 45% marks (for General category) and 40% marks (for reserved categories).
- Category-wise Reservation – Maharashtra follows a detailed reservation policy for SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and other categories.
- Domicile Rules – Candidates must be domicile of Maharashtra to claim state-level quota. All India category students can also apply, but seats are limited.
MHT CET 2026 Application Process
The MHT CET 2026 application form will be available online. Students must follow these steps:
- Registration: Visit the official portal and create an account with basic details.
- Form Filling: Enter personal, academic, and communication details.
- Upload Documents: Passport-size photo, signature, and category certificate (if applicable).
- Fee Payment: Pay the application fee online.
- Confirmation: Download and save the application confirmation page.
Exam Pattern & Syllabus Overview
The MHT CET exam pattern 2026 is as follows:
- Mode of Exam: Online (CBT)
- Duration: 3 hours
- Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics
- Marking Scheme:
- Physics & Chemistry: 1 mark each
- Mathematics: 2 marks each
- No negative marking
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
| Physics | 50 | 50 |
| Chemistry | 50 | 50 |
| Mathematics | 50 | 100 |
| Total | 150 | 200 |
Syllabus:
- Based on Maharashtra State Board Class 11 and 12 curriculum.
- 20% weightage from Class 11 and 80% from Class 12.
Preparation Guidelines for MHT CET 2026
To excel in MHT CET 2026, aspirants should:
- Understand the Syllabus: Focus more on Class 12 topics while revising Class 11 basics.
- Time Management: Make a realistic timetable covering all subjects.
- Use Mock Tests: Attempt regular mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
- Practice PYQs: Solve previous year papers to understand exam trends.
- Balance JEE & CET Prep: Since the syllabus overlaps with JEE Main, prepare in a way that helps in both exams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is MHT CET tougher than JEE Main?
MHT CET is generally considered easier than JEE Main because it focuses more on the state board syllabus.
Q2. How many attempts are allowed for MHT CET?
There is no limit on the number of attempts as long as eligibility is fulfilled.
Q3. Can students from outside Maharashtra apply?
Yes, students from all states can apply under the All-India quota, but seats are limited.
Q4. What is the minimum percentage required in Class 12?
General category candidates need at least 45% marks, while reserved category candidates need 40%.
Q5. Does MHT CET have negative marking?
No, there is no negative marking in MHT CET.
Q6. What is the mode of the exam?
The exam will be conducted in online computer-based mode.
Q7. What happens if I make a mistake in the application form?
The authority usually provides a correction window to fix errors.
Q8. Is the MHT CET syllabus the same as JEE Main?
Both exams cover Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, but CET emphasizes the state board syllabus.
Q9. Are mock tests important for CET preparation?
Yes, mock tests help in improving speed, accuracy, and confidence.
Q10. When will the counselling process start?
Counselling is expected to begin in July 2026 after result declaration.
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Conclusion
The MHT CET 2026 engineering notification will set the stage for one of the most competitive state-level entrance exams in India. By knowing the eligibility criteria, syllabus, exam pattern, and preparation strategies in advance, students can plan effectively and boost their chances of securing admission into top engineering colleges in Maharashtra.
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