MHT-CET PCM Exams Kick Off Across Maharashtra with Record Registrations
The Maharashtra Health and Technical Common Entrance Test (MHT-CET) for the physics, chemistry, and mathematics (PCM) group commenced today, marking a pivotal moment for thousands of students aspiring to secure seats in engineering and pharmacy courses across the state. This annual examination serves as a critical gateway for admissions into professional degree programs in Maharashtra.
Exam Schedule and Format Details
The PCM group examinations are scheduled to run over eight days, from April 11 to April 20, with two daily shifts—morning and afternoon sessions. Meanwhile, the physics, chemistry, and biology (PCB) group tests will begin on April 21. This year, the CET is being conducted in a computer-based format across 198 centers spread throughout 36 districts in Maharashtra.
Introduction of Two-Attempt System for Enhanced Flexibility
In a significant development, the MHT-CET has introduced a two-attempt system for the first time, mirroring the pattern of the national-level Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main. The initial attempt is taking place from April 11 to 20, followed by a second opportunity scheduled for May 14 to 16, 2026.
Students were required to indicate their preference during registration—whether to appear for one or both attempts. For those opting for both, the higher percentile score will be considered for admission purposes, providing a strategic advantage.
Student Participation and Demographic Breakdown
A total of 479,332 students have registered for the first attempt of the PCM CET, while 296,553 candidates have signed up for the second attempt. Combined, this brings the overall participation to 775,885 students across both sessions.
The demographic composition of the first-attempt registrants includes 289,707 male students, 189,604 female students, 21 transgender students, 2,750 orphan students, and 2,060 differently abled (PwD) students.
Steady Growth in Registrations Over Recent Years
Registrations for the PCM CET have demonstrated consistent growth over the past four academic cycles:
- 2023–24: 313,731 students
- 2024–25: 379,794 students
- 2025–26: 464,262 students
- 2026–27: 775,885 students (combined for both attempts)
This year alone has seen an increase of 15,070 registrations compared to the previous year, highlighting the examination's growing importance.
Expert Insights on Syllabus Alignment and Preparation Strategies
According to RB Garud, an entrance exam expert, students benefit this year from the close alignment between the CET syllabus and the Standard XII state board curriculum. "Students can leverage their recent board exam preparation to score well in CET. Instead of starting new topics, they should revise and practice high-weightage chapters," Garud advised.
The examination follows a multiple-choice question format with a balanced difficulty distribution: approximately 70% easy questions, 15% moderate, and 15% difficult. Experts recommend that students initially attempt questions they are confident about to build momentum and reduce stress.
Subject-Wise Focus Areas for Optimal Performance
Garud emphasized key areas within each subject to maximize scores:
- Physics: Mechanics, electricity, light, heat, sound, and modern physics carry higher weightage.
- Chemistry: Organic chemistry, along with d-block and p-block elements, should be prioritized.
- Mathematics: Calculus and geometry remain crucial scoring domains.
Official Statement on the New Examination Framework
The CET cell released a statement noting, "This year's introduction of multiple attempts is expected to provide students with greater flexibility and improve their chances of securing admission to top professional courses." This reform aims to create a more equitable and accessible admission process for aspiring engineers and medical professionals in Maharashtra.
