MHT-CET, MBA/MMS CET 2026 Registration Extended to Feb 20; Over 11.25 Lakh Students Apply

Nagpur: The State Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell has extended the online registration deadline for MHT-CET (PCM and PCB groups) and MBA/MMS CET for the 2026–27 academic year until February 20, following an unprecedented surge in applications.

Originally scheduled between January 10 and February 12, the registration window witnessed a record 11,25,219 candidates applying across the three major entrance examinations.

Record Participation This Year

For the first time, candidates have been allowed two attempts for MHT-CET (PCM and PCB) and MBA/MMS CET. While appearing for one attempt remains mandatory, students can opt for a second attempt. In cases where both attempts are taken, the higher score will be considered for admissions.

Out of the total registrations:

• 7,34,512 candidates opted only for the first attempt

• 3,90,707 candidates registered for both attempts

This brings the combined total to 11,25,219 applicants, marking one of the highest participation figures in recent years.

Stream-Wise Registration Data

The breakdown across streams reveals strong demand in engineering and medical-related courses:

PCM Group (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics)

• First attempt only: 4,12,280 candidates

• Both attempts: 2,64,057 candidates

PCB Group (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)

• First attempt only: 2,33,809 candidates

• Both attempts: 90,804 candidates

MBA/MMS CET

• First attempt only: 88,423 candidates

• Both attempts: 35,846 candidates

When compared to previous years, the increase is significant. Last year’s registrations stood at:

• PCM: 4,64,263

• PCB: 3,01,072

• MBA/MMS: 1,16,585

The upward trend highlights growing competition for professional courses in Maharashtra.

Two-Attempt Model Inspired by JEE Pattern

The newly introduced two-attempt model mirrors the national JEE (Main) examination format. The change was implemented following directions from Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil, aiming to provide students with an additional opportunity to improve their scores.

However, applicants must select whether they wish to appear for one or two attempts at the time of filling out the application form. This choice cannot be modified later.

Courses Covered Under MHT-CET

The examinations serve as a gateway for admissions to:

• Engineering and Technology

• Pharmacy

• Bachelor of Planning

• Integrated Master of Planning

• Agricultural education courses

• MBA and MMS programmes

All examinations will be conducted in computer-based online mode at designated centers across Maharashtra.

Candidates can access application forms, detailed schedules, and the official information brochure through the CET Cell’s official website.

Mandatory APAR and UDID Requirements

From this academic year onward, the CET Cell has introduced additional verification measures.

• APAR (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) ID is now mandatory for all applicants.

• Candidates with disabilities must provide a Unique Disability ID (UDID) for authentication and eligibility verification.

Students who do not yet possess an APAR ID are advised to generate one through DigiLocker and regularly monitor the official website for updates and notifications.

MHT-CET & MBA/MMS CET 2026 Exam Schedule

The detailed schedule for both attempts is as follows:

PCM Group

• First attempt: April 11 to April 19, 2026

• Second attempt: May 14 to May 17, 2026

PCB Group

• First attempt: April 21 to April 26, 2026

• Second attempt: May 10 to May 11, 2026

MBA/MMS CET

• First attempt: April 6 to April 8, 2026

• Second attempt: May 9, 2026

With over 11 lakh registrations and the flexibility of two attempts, the 2026–27 CET cycle is expected to be one of the most competitive admission seasons in Maharashtra.

Students are advised to complete their registration before the February 20 deadline and carefully review eligibility, documentation, and exam center details to avoid last-minute issues.