Maharashtra MBA/MMS CET 2026 Commences with Strong Opening Day Attendance
The Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell has reported a robust start to the MBA/MMS CET 2026, with an overall attendance rate of 89.48% recorded on the inaugural day of the examination. This significant turnout saw 47,079 candidates appearing for the test out of the 52,612 scheduled across the state, marking a promising beginning for the admission process for the 2026-27 academic year.
Examination Conducted in Two Smooth Sessions
The entrance examination for admission to Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Management Studies (MMS) courses began on Monday, April 6, 2026. It was administered through a computer-based format across 36 districts in Maharashtra, organized into two distinct sessions: morning and afternoon. Officials confirmed that both sessions concluded without any major disruptions, adhering strictly to examination protocols.
In the morning session, which ran from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM, attendance stood at 88.59%. Out of 26,076 registered candidates, 23,101 appeared, while 2,975 were absent. This session was conducted at 175 centers statewide.
The afternoon session, held between 2:00 PM and 4:30 PM, witnessed an even higher turnout of 90.36%. Here, 23,978 candidates were present out of 26,536 registered, with 2,558 absences. This session took place across 179 centers.
Record Registrations Reflect Growing Demand for Management Education
This year's MBA/MMS CET has seen a sharp rise in registrations, with a total of 1,81,426 candidates registering for the exams, which will be conducted in two phases. This figure represents a substantial increase compared to last year's 1,57,281 registrations, underscoring the escalating interest in management education within the state.
According to official data, 1,32,838 students registered for the first attempt, while 48,588 opted for the second attempt, contributing to the cumulative total. The examination is being conducted in batches over three days: April 6, 7, and 8, with the first phase already underway.
Steady Growth in Registrations Over Four Years
Over the past four years, registrations for the MBA/MMS CET have shown a consistent upward trajectory:
- 2023-24: 1,30,927 registrations
- 2024-25: 1,52,911 registrations
- 2025-26: 1,57,281 registrations
- 2026-27: 1,81,426 registrations (current peak)
This steady climb highlights the growing competitiveness of management admissions and the expanding appeal of the CET system as a gateway to higher education.
Enhanced Inclusivity and Accessibility
The data from the CET Cell also emphasizes increasing inclusivity in this year's examination. Notably, 8 transgender candidates, 482 orphan students, and 487 persons with disabilities (PWD) have registered, reflecting efforts to make the entrance test more accessible across diverse social categories.
Officials have reiterated that the expanded participation underscores both the heightened competitiveness of management admissions and the wider accessibility of the CET system across various regions and social groups in Maharashtra.
Computer-Based Format Ensures Transparency
The MBA/MMS CET continues to serve as the primary gateway for admission to MBA and MMS programmes across Maharashtra. Its computer-based format is designed to ensure transparency and uniformity in assessment, providing a fair and efficient platform for all candidates.
With the examination proceeding smoothly and record numbers of aspirants vying for seats, the 2026-27 academic year is poised to be a landmark period for management education in the state, driven by robust participation and inclusive practices.
