HPCET 2026: Himachal Pradesh CET Schedule

Introduction

For students in Himachal Pradesh, the Himachal Pradesh Common Entrance Test (HPCET) is one of the most important exams. Conducted by Himachal Pradesh Technical University (HPTU), this test opens doors to professional courses such as B.Tech, M.Tech, Pharmacy, MBA, and MCA. Since admission to many top state colleges depends on this entrance exam, keeping track of the HPCET 2026 exam schedule is crucial. By knowing the application window, exam dates, and counseling timeline in advance, aspirants can plan their preparation more effectively. This guide will provide you with the essential HPCET 2026 exam schedule to help you stay on track.

About HPCET Exam

The HPCET exam is organized by HPTU Hamirpur every year. It serves as the gateway to engineering, pharmacy, and management courses in Himachal Pradesh.
Admissions are offered into both government and private colleges affiliated with HPTU. Apart from direct merit, many institutes give priority to HPCET-qualified candidates. Therefore, aspirants who aim to secure a seat in these professional courses must prepare thoroughly.

HPCET: Himachal Pradesh CET Schedule 2026 (Tentative Dates)

The official notification for HPCET 2026 will be released on the HPTU website. Based on past years (2024 and 2025), here is the expected timeline:

👉 Students should regularly visit the HPTU official website (www.himtu.ac.in) for confirmed dates.

HPCET Eligibility 2026

• Before applying, candidates must check the eligibility criteria:
  For B.Tech

• Must have passed Class 12 with Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry/Biology.

• Minimum 45% aggregate (40% for reserved categories).
  For M.Tech

• A valid B.E./B.Tech degree with 50% marks (45% for reserved categories).
  For Pharmacy

• Passed Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Mathematics.
  For MBA/MCA

• Bachelor’s degree with minimum 50% marks (45% for reserved categories).
  Additionally, Himachal domicile candidates are given reservation benefits during admission.

Application Process

The HPCET 2026 application form will be available online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the official website – himtu.ac.in.

2. Click on the HPCET 2026 application link.

3. Register with basic details and create login credentials.

4. Fill in academic qualifications, course preference, and personal details.

5. Upload scanned documents – photo, signature, certificates.

6. Pay the application fee online (based on 2025 fees, subject to change):

   • General category: ₹1600

   • SC/ST/BPL category: ₹1100

7. Download and print the confirmation page for future reference.
   📌 Students must ensure all details are correct, as mistakes can lead to rejection.

Exam Pattern & Syllabus 2026

B.Tech (PCM)

• Duration: 3 hours

• Total Questions: 180

• Total Marks: 360

• Subjects: Physics (60 Q), Chemistry (60 Q), Mathematics (60 Q)

• Marking Scheme: +2 marks for a correct answer, -0.5 for a wrong answer (Negative Marking)

Pharmacy (PCM/PCB)

• Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Mathematics (60 questions each).

MBA/MCA

• Sections include Verbal Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation, and Reasoning.
  HPCET Syllabus 2026

• Physics & Chemistry: Class 11 & 12 NCERT syllabus.

• Mathematics: Class 11 & 12 NCERT Mathematics.

• MBA/MCA: Based on aptitude test topics (similar to CAT/CMAT level).

HPCET Counselling 2026

After results are declared, shortlisted candidates must participate in the counselling process:

• Online registration for counselling.

• Choice filling of colleges and courses.

• Seat allotment based on merit and reservation rules.

• Document verification at designated centers.

• Reporting to the allotted college within the deadline.
  Reserved category candidates must provide valid certificates during verification. Missing this step can lead to seat cancellation.

Colleges Accepting HPCET 2026

Some of the top government and private colleges under HPTU include:

• Himachal Pradesh Technical University (HPTU), Hamirpur (Main Campus)

• Jawaharlal Nehru Government Engineering College (JNGEC), Sundernagar

• Atal Bihari Vajpayee Government Institute of Engineering & Technology, Pragatinagar

• Mahatma Gandhi Government Engineering College, Jeori

• Green Hills Engineering College, Solan

• Baddi University of Emerging Sciences and Technology, Baddi

• LR Institute of Engineering & Technology, Solan

Preparation Tips for HPCET 2026

• Start early: Cover NCERT books of Class 11 & 12 thoroughly.

• Make a timetable: Dedicate fixed hours for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

• Practice mock tests: Solve previous year question papers and sample tests.

• Revise regularly: Keep short notes for formulas and key concepts.

• Use online resources: Take help from coaching modules, test series, and YouTube lectures.
  By combining consistent practice with a structured plan, aspirants can secure a good rank.

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FAQs on HPCET 2026

1. When will the HPCET 2026 application form be released?
The application form is expected to be released in March 2026 on the official HPTU website.

2. What is the exam pattern of HPCET 2026 for B.Tech?

• Mode: Offline (OMR-based)

• Total Questions: 180 (60 each from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics)

• Marking Scheme: +2 marks for every correct answer, -0.5 marks for every wrong answer

3. Who is eligible for HPCET 2026?

• UG (B.Tech): Must have passed Class 12 with minimum 45% marks (40% for reserved categories).

• PG (M.Tech, MBA, MCA): Graduation with minimum 50% marks (45% for reserved categories).

4. Which colleges accept HPCET scores?
All HPTU-affiliated government and private colleges across Himachal Pradesh accept HPCET scores for admission into engineering, pharmacy, and management courses.

5. How to prepare for HPCET 2026 effectively?

• Focus on NCERT syllabus (Class 11 & 12).

• Practice mock tests and previous year question papers.

• Revise regularly using short notes.

• Improve time management and consistency.

Conclusion

Successfully navigating the HPCET 2026 journey requires a clear strategy, and it starts now. By understanding the exam schedule, eligibility, and pattern, you’ve already won half the battle.
The next step is consistent application and smart preparation. Remember to leverage NCERT books and practice mock tests to build both speed and accuracy.
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