The Maharashtra Government just dropped some big news for MHT CET aspirants! Starting from the 2026–27 academic year, the MHT CET (Maharashtra Common Entrance Test) will now be held twice a year — once in April and again in May.
That’s right. Two chances instead of one. This new format puts MHT CET on the same track as JEE Main, giving students another opportunity to boost their scores and aim for better ranks in engineering, pharmacy, and other professional courses.
Official Post on X for MHT CET 2026 Exam Twice a Year Decision
Why is MHT CET Happening Twice a Year from 2026–27?
According to Hon. Shri. Chandrakant Patil, the State Higher and Technical Education Minister, the decision aims to make the exam process more student-friendly. Many students miss the MHT CET due to unforeseen circumstances or do not perform their best in one attempt.
By conducting the MHT CET exam twice, the Maharashtra State Government hopes to give every candidate two fair chances. The best score out of the two attempts will be considered for admissions, just like JEE Main.
This change was announced by the Hon. Minister on X after a review meeting with the Maharashtra CET Cell.
The decision of CET happening twice a year applies not only to the MHT CET PCM and PCB exams but also to other entrance exams such as the MBA/MMS CET.
MHT CET Twice a Year: How This Change Impacts You
For MHT CET aspirants like you, this change means:
- More flexibility: If you don’t perform well in the first attempt, you can improve in the second.
- Less pressure: Knowing there’s another chance can reduce exam anxiety.
- Better preparation strategy: You can use the first attempt to understand the paper pattern and use the second to maximise your scores.
- Increased competition: More attempts could also mean higher competition, as many students will work on improving their ranks in the second session.
MHT CET 2026 Exam Schedule
While the exact MHT CET exam dates for both sessions are yet to be announced, the government has confirmed the following timeline:
- MHT CET Session 1 Dates: April 2026
- MHT CET Session 2 Dates: May 2026
You can appear for either one or both sessions, but appearing for at least one is mandatory for admission.
The MHT CET syllabus and exam pattern are expected to remain the same, though the CET Cell will release an official notification with all details soon.
How Should You Prepare for Two MHT CET Attempts?
Preparing for two MHT CET exam sessions will require better planning and discipline. Here’s how you can approach it:
1. Treat Each Attempt Seriously
Don’t assume the first attempt is just for practice. Your April score might end up being your final one.
2. Analyse and Improve
If you appear for both, use your April performance to identify weak topics and focus on them before the May session.
3. Practise Solving Mock Tests
Take real exam-like MHT CET mock tests regularly. This will help you get familiar with the question format, timing, and difficulty level.
4. Follow a Consistent Study Routine
Since the gap between the two exams will be short, staying consistent is crucial. Revise using MHT CET practice books regularly, and don’t lose momentum after the first exam.
Key Takeaways
- MHT CET will now be conducted twice a year—April and May— starting from 2026.
- Students can appear in one or both sessions, and the best score will be used for admission.
- The decision aims to reduce stress and align the state exam with national-level entrance test standards (JEE Main).
Final Thoughts
This decision marks a major step towards making the MHT CET exam pattern more flexible and student-centric. With two opportunities to prove themselves, students now have a better shot at securing their dream college.
However, with this advantage also comes responsibility. Consistent practice, smart time management, and focused preparation will be the real game changers for MHT CET 2026 aspirants.
Source
Shri. Chandrakant Patil. [@ChDadaPatil], ११ नोव्हेंबर २०२५ | मुंबई आज माझ्या अध्यक्षतेखाली सीईटी परीक्षा संदर्भात आढावा बैठक घेण्यात आली. [Tweet], [X.]: 11 November, 2025: click here to read.
Kindly note that any and all information is subject to change as per the CET Cell, Ministry of Education, and Government of India.
