MHT CET Eligibility Criteria – 2026 The Road to MHT CET
MHT CET Eligibility Criteria 2026: The State Common Entrance Test Cell (CET Cell) Maharashtra has announced the probable schedule of the MHT CET. This exam is the gateway to admission to engineering, pharmacy, and agricultural courses. Candidates who want to appear for this exam can apply till 1st March 2026. The candidates can check and download the official notification PDF from the link available on the official website. Candidates can visit the official website of MHT CET for more information about MHT CET eligibility criteria.
If you’re targeting MHT CET 2026, understanding eligibility is crucial. Indian nationals, including OBC, SC, ST, and other state candidates, can apply for the engineering stream. You must have passed Class 12 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM). The minimum aggregate marks required are 50% for General/OBC/EWS and 45% for SC/ST/PwD categories.
Notably, there’s no minimum requirement in individual PCM subjects—only your overall PCM percentage matters. Students appearing for Class 12 exams in 2024/2025 are also eligible, provided they submit passing certificates before admission. No age limit or domicile restrictions apply; candidates from other states compete under the All-India quota (70% open seats).
What is MHT CET 2026
MHT CET Exam is organized every year by the State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra. This examination is considered to be the most important and prestigious examination of the Maharashtra state. Application forms for this exam are made on the official website mahacet.org.
Every year lakhs of candidates appear for the MHT CET examination to get admission to undergraduate programs for various programs. Candidates who qualify for the examination are eligible to get admission to prestigious Colleges and Institutions in Maharashtra.
Due to the vast syllabus, and the difficulty of the exam, only a few candidates can qualify MHT CET exam on the first attempt. However, the first condition of MHT CET eligibility Criteria for is that the applicant must have passed 10+2 from a recognized board or University. The second main condition is that the applicant should be an Indian national.
So let us know how many attempts the candidates make for MHT CET and what are the MHT CET Eligibility Criteria and age limit criteria.
| Exam Particulars | Exam Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Full Name | Maharashtra Common Entrance Test |
| Short Exam Name | MHT CET |
| Conducting Body | Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test Cell |
| Frequency of Conduct | Once a year |
| Exam Level | State Level Exam |
| Languages | English, Marathi, Hindi, Urdu |
| Eligibility Criteria | candidates must be passed the 10+2 Exam from any recognized board or university. |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Application Fees | For General category candidates from Maharashtra, Outside Maharashtra, J & K Migrant candidates Rs. 800 For SC/ST/OBC/SBC)and Persons with Disability (PwD) Rs. 600 |
| Mode of Exam | Online |
| Mode of Counselling | Online / Offline |
| Participating Colleges | Around 450 colleges |
| Exam Duration | 3 Hours |
| Official Website | cetcell.mahacet.org |
MHT CET Eligibility Criteria
The MHT CET Entrance Exam preparation procedure starts with obtaining accurate knowledge of the eligibility criteria for the exam. The MHT CET Notification will be out on 16th January. Interested candidates who want to apply for the MHT CET exam, can check the eligibility criteria below. In this article, you can learn all about MHT CET eligibility criteria and whether you are eligible to take the exam or not.
All the candidates who passed/appeared at the qualifying examination i.e. HSC/12th Standard examination or its equivalent examination and have Indian Nationality are eligible to appear for MHT CET. There is no age limit for admission and appearance to MHT CET.
| Eligibility Criteria for MHT CET | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Indian Citizen |
| Domicile | Maharashtra State domicile or born in Maharashtra |
| Age Limit | No age limit |
| Educational Qualification | HSC/12th or equivalent examination with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects, and Chemistry/Biotechnology/Biology/Technical Vocational subject as one of the optional subjects |
| Minimum Marks | Minimum 50% aggregate marks (45% for reserved categories) in the above subjects |
| JEE Main Score | For Engineering and Technology courses, candidates can also apply with a valid JEE Main score |
| MHT CET Subjects | Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics for Engineering courses; Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics for Pharmacy and other courses |
| Percentage in PCM/PCB | Minimum 50% marks in PCM for Engineering and Technology courses; PCB for Pharmacy and other courses |
| Diploma Holders | Diploma holders in Engineering/Technology are also eligible for direct admission to the second year of Engineering and Technology courses |
(a) It is mandatory to appear for MHT CET for candidates belonging to Maharashtra State Candidature, Minority Candidature seeking admission to B.E./B.Tech. However, All India Candidature candidates may or may not appear for MHT CET as a Score of JEE (Main) shall be preferred over MHT CET for admission to B.E./B.Tech.
(b) It is mandatory to appear for MHT CET for candidates belonging to Maharashtra State Candidature, Minority Candidature seeking admission to B.Pharm/ D.Pharm. However All India Candidature candidates may or may not appear for MHT-CET as Score of NEET-2023 shall be preferred over MHT CET for admission to B.Pharm and D. Pharm.
MHT CET Exam Date
The Maharashtra State Common Entrance Examination Board has announced the tentative MHT CET exam dates. Candidates who want to appear for the exam can download the timetable and visit this official website mahacet.org.
MHT CET exam is a gateway for admission to courses like Engineering, Agriculture, and Pharmacy, The exam for the PCM group exam will be held from April 25 to 30, while for the PCB group, it will be held from April 16 to 23.
A few days ago, Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test Cell announced the exam pattern of MHT CET 2021 for both PCM and PCB groups. Apart from this negative marking system will not be applicable in the examination. Candidates should note that the pattern of Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry of CET will be similar to JEE Main.
| Exam Event | Dates |
|---|---|
| MHT CET Notification Release | To be Announced |
| Start of Online Application | To be Announced |
| Last Date for Application | To be Announced |
| Last Date for Application (with late fee) | To be Announced |
| Release of Admit Card | To be Announced |
| MHT CET Exam Dates (PCM Group) | To be Announced |
| MHT CET Exam Dates (PCB Group) | To be Announced |
| Announcement of Result | To be Announced |
| Counseling Process | To be Announced |
PCM Group Exam Dates:
If you’re appearing for the PCM group, mark your calendar for the exam dates ranging from April 25 to 30. This includes Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics papers. Organize your study plan accordingly to maximize your preparation.
PCB Group Exam Dates:
For those in the PCB group, your exams are scheduled from April 16 to 23. This period covers Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (for either Pharmacy or Health Science, depending on your specialization). Tailor your study schedule to focus on these subjects during this timeframe.
MHT CET Exam Pattern
MHT CET is conducted every year by the State Common Entrance Test Cell (CET Cell), Maharashtra, and many candidates are excited about the MHT CET. MHT CET Examination is considered to be the toughest examination in India. The popularity of the MHT CET exam is increasing among students, Let know the MHT CET exam pattern in detail below
The MHT CET exam consists of three sections: Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry, each carrying equal weightage.
| Section | Number of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 50 | 2 | 100 |
| Physics | 50 | 1 | 50 |
| Chemistry | 50 | 1 | 50 |
| Total | 150 | 200 |
The questions will be based on the Syllabus of the State Council of Educational Research and Training Maharashtra.
Approximately 20% weightage will be given to Std. XI curriculum and 80% weightage will be given to Std. XII curriculum while setting the question paper.
There will be no Negative Marking, however, the difficulty level will be at par with the JEE (Main) for Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry and the difficulty level for Biology will be at par with NEET.
The questions will be mainly application-based. MHT CET will consist of 3 question papers of Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) and each paper will be of 100 marks, Details are as given below:
| Paper | Subject | No. of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ based on | Mark(s) Per Question | Total Marks | Duration in Minutes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Std. XI | Std. XII | |||||
| Paper I | Mathematics | 10 | 40 | 2 | 100 | 90 |
| Paper II | Physics | 10 | 40 | 1 | 100 | 90 |
| Chemistry | 10 | 40 | ||||
| Paper III | Biology | 20 | 80 | 1 | 100 | 90 |
MHT CET Application Form
MHT CET application form was released by the Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test Cell on its official website. If you fulfill the MHT CET eligibility criteria, Filling out the application form is the first step that candidates take to appear for the examination. Once the MHT CET application procedure is finished, candidates will be allowed to make any necessary adjustments or corrections.
The application fee for the MHT CET exam in varies depending on the type of category the candidate belongs to. Further, those candidates who successfully fill out the application form will be eligible to get the MHT CET admit card.
MHT CET Application form 2026 Direct Link
Candidates interested in applying for the MHT CET exam will be able to apply online. The application form is expected to go live soon. Once released, candidates will be able to apply for MHT CET at cetcell.mahacet.org
MHT CET Application Form 2026: Steps to Fill
Students can have a look at the MHT CET application window in the image below:
| Step | Action | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Registration | Create an account using valid personal information |
| 2 | Fill Application Form | Provide personal, educational, and contact details |
| 3 | Upload Documents | Upload scanned copies of required documents |
| 4 | Fee Payment | Choose a payment method and pay the application fee |
| 5 | Confirmation | Verify all details and submit the application |
MHT CET 2026 Application Form: Documents Required
The MHT CET application process will be done online. Hence, the aspirants are advised to keep the given below document ready before applying for the MHT CET application form to avoid any mistakes at the last minute.
Documents Required for MHT CET Application Form The list of files and documents that must be supplied to complete the NEET form is provided in the table below.
- Scanned Photograph of the candidate
- Scanned Signature of candidate
- Scan of thumb impression of candidate
- A valid mobile number
- Class 10, 12 marks and percentage
- Valid government-authorised ID proof
- Credit card/ Debit card/ Net banking credentials
- The citizenship certificate of the candidate
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| 10th and 12th mark sheets | Scanned copies |
| Passport-sized photograph | Recent, colored photograph |
| Signature | Scanned copy of your signature |
| Aadhar card | Proof of identity |
| Valid email ID and mobile number | For communication purposes |
MHT CET Application Form Fees
| Catagories | Fees |
|---|---|
| General/ J&K Migrants/ Outside Maharashtra State (OMS) | Rs. 800 |
| ST/ SC/ OBC/ PWD/ SBC/ NT/ EWS | Rs. 600 |
FAQs on MHT CET Eligibility Criteria
Who is eligible for MHT CET 2026?
Answer: According to MHT CET Eligibility criteria, candidates must have passed the HSC (Class 12) examination or its equivalent with subjects such as Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry or Biology, or Biotechnology. Additionally, candidates must secure a minimum percentage in these subjects to be eligible.
2. What are the MHT CET Eligibility criteria for engineering after the 12th in Maharashtra?
Answer: To pursue engineering after 12th in Maharashtra, students must complete their Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) or its equivalent with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects, along with Chemistry or Biology or Biotechnology. The MHT CET eligibility criteria may vary slightly based on the specific engineering course.
3. Is mh cet only for Maharashtra students?
Answer: No, MHT CET is not exclusive to Maharashtra students. While a certain percentage of seats are reserved for Maharashtra candidates, students from other states can also apply for MHT CET.
4. What are the eligibility criteria for MHT CET PCM?
Answer: The eligibility criteria for MHT CET PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) generally include passing the HSC examination or its equivalent with specific minimum marks in PCM subjects.
5. Can other state candidates apply for MHT CET?
Answer: Yes, candidates from other states are usually eligible to apply for MHT CET. Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test Cell allows candidates from all over India to participate.
6. Is it mandatory to have a domicile for MHT CET?
Answer: Having a domicile is generally not mandatory for MHT CET. While some seats for Maharashtra candidates might be reserved, students from other states can also apply.
7. What is the age limit for MHT CET?
Answer: There is typically no specific age limit for MHT CET. As long as candidates meet the educational eligibility criteria, they can apply regardless of their age.
8. What Percentage is required in 12th for MHT CET?
Answer: The required percentage in the 12th grade for MHT CET varies for different courses. Generally, candidates need to secure a minimum percentage in the relevant subjects (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics or Biology) to be eligible for the exam.
9. Is 50% mandatory in each PCM subject for MHT CET?
Answer: No! Only your combined PCM percentage counts. For example, scoring 55% in Physics, 48% in Chemistry, and 47% in Maths (total 50%) makes you eligible. Individual subject scores can dip below 50%, but your aggregate must meet the category requirement (General: 50%, SC/ST: 45%).
10. Can OBC candidates apply with 50% aggregate?
Answer: Yes! OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates need 50% in PCM overall. During admission, submit a valid OBC certificate issued after March 31, 2023. Ensure it specifies “Non-Creamy Layer” per Maharashtra government guidelines.
11. Are other state students eligible?
Answer: Absolutely! No domicile certificate is required. Other state candidates compete fairly for seats under the All-India quota. However, 30% of seats are reserved for Maharashtra-based students.
12. What’s the syllabus for MHT CET 2025?
Answer: The syllabus aligns with Maharashtra State Board (HSC) + NCERT, covering Physics (Optics, Mechanics), Chemistry (Electrochemistry, Organic), and Maths (Calculus, Algebra). Focus on chapters with high weightage, like Calculus (35% in Maths).
13. Do I need Biology for Engineering?
Answer: No! Biology is only required for Pharmacy/Biology streams. Engineering aspirants only need PCM subjects.
14. Can diploma holders appear for MHT CET?
Answer: Yes! 3-year engineering diploma holders can apply for lateral entry to engineering courses. Submit your diploma certificate during counseling.
15. Where can I download eligibility PDFs?
Answer: Official MHT CET eligibility PDFs for 2024/2025 are available on the mahacet.org website. These include category-wise rules and document guidelines.
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