The State Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell has officially released the schedule for the second attempt of the Maharashtra Health and Technical Common Entrance Test (MHT-CET) for the academic year 2026–27. According to a statement issued by the state CET Cell, the examinations will be conducted from May 9 to May 21, with a total of 4,92,383 students registered to appear.
Stream-wise Examination Schedule
The second attempt covers multiple streams, including MBA/MMS, Engineering (PCM), Pharmacy, and Agriculture (PCB). As per the detailed schedule:
- MBA/MMS CET: May 9, with 53,931 candidates registered.
- PCB Group (Pharmacy and Agriculture): May 10 and 11, with 1,16,538 students.
- PCM Group (Engineering): May 12 to May 21, excluding May 16 and 17, with 3,21,914 candidates.
First Attempt Statistics
In the first attempt of MHT-CET, a total of 8,96,236 students had registered, out of which 8,33,482 appeared, recording an attendance rate of 92.99%. However, 62,754 students were absent for the first attempt.
Introduction of Two Attempts
This year marks a significant change as the CET Cell has introduced two attempts for these entrance exams for the first time, following the model of the national-level Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main. As per directions from Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil, students were given the option to appear for one or both attempts while filling the application form. It is mandatory for candidates to appear for at least one exam, while the second attempt is optional.
Score Consideration for Admission
If a candidate appears for both attempts, the higher percentile score among the two will be considered for admission purposes. This policy aims to give students a fair chance to improve their performance.
The announcement has been welcomed by students and educational institutions alike, as it provides flexibility and reduces the pressure of a single high-stakes examination. Candidates are advised to check the official CET Cell website for further updates and details regarding hall tickets and exam centers.
