MHT-CET 2026 Introduces Dual-Attempt System for Engineering Aspirants
Nagpur, April 2026:
The first phase of the Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MHT-CET) for the Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) group commenced on April 11, marking a significant shift in the state’s technical entrance examination system. This year, for the first time, authorities have introduced a dual-attempt system, allowing candidates to appear for the exam twice.
Conducted by the State Common Entrance Test Cell, the examination is being held across 198 centres in all 36 districts of Maharashtra in a computer-based format. The first round will continue until April 20, excluding April 12 and 14, with two shifts conducted daily.
A record 4.79 lakh students have registered for the first attempt alone, reflecting a steady rise in participation compared to previous years. Officials reported that total registrations across both attempts have crossed 7.75 lakh candidates, indicating growing interest in technical education and engineering courses in the state.
The newly introduced dual-attempt system allows students to appear for the exam twice—once in April and again in May. According to CET authorities, while appearing for at least one attempt is mandatory, students who opt for both attempts will have their higher percentile score considered for admission.
The second phase of the examination is scheduled to be held between May 14 and May 16, offering candidates another opportunity to improve their performance. The move aligns the state-level entrance test with national-level examinations such as the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE Main), which also provides multiple attempts.
The examination pattern remains structured, with a total duration of 180 minutes, divided into two sections. The first section includes Physics and Chemistry, conducted for 90 minutes, followed by Mathematics for another 90 minutes. The test is auto-submitted after each section. Additionally, biometric verification measures, including fingerprint and photograph authentication, have been implemented at examination centres to ensure transparency and prevent malpractice.
Officials believe that the introduction of the two-attempt system will help reduce examination stress among students while providing a fair chance to improve scores. However, experts also note that the change may lead to increased competition due to higher participation levels.
The MHT-CET serves as a key gateway for admissions to undergraduate courses in engineering, pharmacy, and agriculture across Maharashtra. With the adoption of flexible examination patterns and increased accessibility, the state aims to strengthen its technical education ecosystem and align it with national standards.
