The Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MAH-CET) is a state-level entrance examination administered by the State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra for undergraduate engineering courses (B.Tech/B.E.) in government and private institutes of Maharashtra.
This guide offers a detailed insight into MAH-CET 2025, consisting of its syllabus, exam pattern, eligibility criteria, important dates, and preparation tips.
Why MAH-CET?
- State-Recognized: Widely accepted by top engineering colleges in Maharashtra.
- Affordable Education: Lower tuition fees in state colleges.
- Accessible: Conducted annually in multiple centers across Maharashtra.
MAH-CET 2026 Exam Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Exam Name | Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MHT CET) |
| Conducting Body | State CET Cell, Maharashtra |
| Exam Level | State-level |
| Courses Offered | B.E./B.Tech, B.Pharm, Agriculture |
| Mode of Exam | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Duration | 180 Minutes (3 Hours) |
| Medium | English, Marathi, Urdu (for PCB group) |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Total Marks | 200 |
| Marking Scheme | No Negative Marking |
Eligibility Criteria
| Criteria | Details |
| Nationality | Indian Citizen |
| Age Limit | No age limit |
| Qualification | Passed or appearing in 10+2 (Science Stream) |
| Subjects Required | Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics |
| Minimum Marks | 45% (General), 40% (SC/ST/OBC/PWD Maharashtra) |
| Domicile | Maharashtra domicile required for state quota |
Exam Pattern (PCM Group)
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks/Question | Total Marks |
| Physics | 50 | 1 | 50 |
| Chemistry | 50 | 1 | 50 |
| Mathematics | 50 | 2 | 100 |
| Total | 150 | — | 200 |
Duration: 180 minutes
Sections: Physics & Chemistry (90 min), Mathematics (90 min)
No negative marking
Level: Based on Maharashtra State Board HSC syllabus (Class 11 and 12)
MAH-CET 2026 Syllabus (PCM)
Physics
- Laws of Motion
- Kinematics
- Gravitation
- Sound
- Oscillations
- Current Electricity
- Electromagnetism
- Wave Optics
- Semiconductors
- Modern Physics
Chemistry
- Atomic Structure
- Chemical Thermodynamics
- Equilibrium
- Organic Chemistry – Basics
- Hydrocarbons
- Electrochemistry
- Coordination Compounds
- Solid State
- Surface Chemistry
- Polymers and Biomolecules
Mathematics
- Differentiation and Integration
- Vectors
- 3D Geometry
- Matrices and Determinants
- Probability
- Trigonometry
- Complex Numbers
- Sets, Relations, and Functions
- Limits and Continuity
- Linear Programming
Important Dates (Tentative)
| Event | Date (Tentative) |
| Application Start | January 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | March 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | April 2026 |
| Exam Dates | May 2026 |
| Result Declaration | June 2026 |
| CAP Counselling Rounds | July–August 2026 |
MAH-CET Participating Colleges in Pune
| College Name | Seats via MHT CET |
| COEP Pune | Yes |
| VIT Pune | Yes |
| PICT Pune | Yes |
| MIT-WPU Pune | Yes (Partly) |
| BVUCOE Pune | Limited |
Preparation Tips
- Understand the syllabus: Stick to the Maharashtra HSC Board textbooks.
- Time Management: Practice mock tests with timers.
- Focus on Class 12 topics: Major weightage is from 12th standard.
- Practice MCQs: Prioritize accuracy and speed.
- Revise regularly: Make short notes and concept maps.
FAQs: MAH-CET 2026
Q1. Is MAH-CET accepted outside Maharashtra?
A: Mostly valid for Maharashtra colleges only.
Q2. Can I apply for both PCM and PCB groups?
A: Yes, but you need to pay separately and appear for both.
Q3. Is there any reservation for female candidates?
A: Yes, 30% seats are reserved for female candidates in each category.
Q4. What is the level of difficulty of MAH-CET compared to JEE?
A: Easier than JEE Main; based primarily on the state board syllabus.
Q5. Is coaching required for MAH-CET?
A: Not mandatory, but can help in structured preparation.
Conclusion
MAH-CET 2026 offers a window of opportunity to Maharashtra’s prestigious engineering colleges. Having a student-friendly format and state syllabus, it gives a good platform to students who want to opt for a B.Tech without the national competition of appearing for JEE. Proper preparation, management of time, and clear concepts will be sufficient to crack the examination.
Related Articles You Might Like:
- Top Engineering Colleges in Maharashtra 2025
- JEE Main 2025 vs MHT CET 2025: Key Differences
- MHT CET 2025 Preparation Strategy: Books, Timetable, Tips
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