Think of MHT-CET 2026 as your personal mountain to climb—one that leads to incredible opportunities in Maharashtra’s top engineering and pharmacy colleges. Just like the best climbers, success in this exam doesn’t come from rushing at the last minute. Every year, lakhs of students take on this challenge, and with the right MHT-CET 2026 preparation tips, you can rise above and reach your goal.
This article will provide guidance on how to start preparing for MHT-CET.
What is MHT-CET?
The MHT-CET is a state-level entrance exam conducted by the Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test Cell. It primarily tests your knowledge in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (for engineering aspirants) or Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (for pharmacy aspirants). The exam is usually held in April–May.
When Should You Start Preparing for MHT-CET 2026?
Ideally, you should begin your MHT-CET 2026 preparation at least 10–12 months before the exam date. Since MHT-CET 2026 will likely be conducted around April–May 2026, July or August 2025 is a good time to start serious preparation.
Why Start MHT-CET 2026 Preparation Early?
- The syllabus is vast, covering the entire Standard 11 and 12 Maharashtra State Board curriculum (Physics, Chemistry, and Maths/Biology).
- Early preparation helps you grasp fundamental concepts thoroughly and reduces last-minute stress.
- Starting early allows time for revision and practice, which is critical for a competitive exam like MHT-CET.
Step-by-Step MHT-CET 2026 Preparation Roadmap
October to November 2025:
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Foundation and Syllabus Familiarisation
First and foremost, take a deep dive into the syllabus. The syllabus weightage is 20% from Class 11 and 80% from Class 12 of the Maharashtra State textbooks. Analyse the official MHT-CET syllabus thoroughly for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Biology. Then highlight topics with higher weightage from previous years’ papers.
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Resource Selection
Choosing the right resources early in your preparation will save you time, reduce confusion by streamlining your efforts, and help you stay focused on what actually matters for MHT-CET 2026. Make sure your study materials include the State Board textbooks, trustworthy reference books per subject, and MHT-CET test series.
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Build Fundamentals
Focus on understanding important concepts in Physics (Oscillations, Superposition of Waves, etc.), Chemistry (Physical, Organic, and Inorganic), and Mathematics (Differentiation, Integration, Trigonometry,etc.).
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Short Daily Quizzes
Use apps or MHT-CET question banks to attempt 10–15 questions daily from current topics.
December 2025:
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Strengthening Core Topics and Application Practice
Solve numerical problems in Physics and Chemistry, practise solving algebra, coordinate geometry, and calculus in Mathematics.
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Weekly Topic Tests
Take MHT-CET mock tests for each major topic to identify weak areas.
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Begin Solving Previous Years’ Papers
Start solving MHT-CET previous years' papers in timed conditions, focusing on understanding question patterns and difficulty level.
January 2026
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Intensify Practice to Build Speed
Take 1-2 full-length MHT-CET mock tests every week. Analyse the type of mistakes made so you can find methods to avoid them.
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Topic Revision with Shortcuts
Memorise formulae, reaction mechanisms, and develop shortcut techniques for quicker problem-solving.
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Maths Focus
If you’re appearing for MHT-CET (PCM), increase problem-solving speed with daily practise of chapters like matrices, vectors, and differential equations.
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Group Study/Discussion
Consider joining study groups or enrolling in coaching classes if you believe that collaborative learning would serve you well. Engaging with peers who share similar goals can provide motivation.
February 2026
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Focus on Weak Areas and Regular Testing
Dedicate 3–4 days each to the weak topics identified in the mock tests you took in January or while solving previous years’ papers.
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Time Management Drills
In MHT-CET, there is a rule of A–B section locking, wherein section B is locked for the first 90 minutes i.e. while section A is active. This means you cannot attempt questions from section B. After the initial 90 minutes, section A gets locked and section B gets activated. Time management is essential. By taking mock tests with sectional time locking systems, you will be simulating this exam experience, thus, improving your MHT-CET preparation 2026.
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Conceptual Revision
Use flashcards or mind maps for quick revision of important concepts and formulas.
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Practise Chemistry Equations and Derivations
Practise writing key reaction equations and derivations repeatedly to build recall speed.
March 2026
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Final Phase: Strengthening Exam Preparation
Take 3–4 full-length mock exams daily under exam conditions.
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Maintaining Health
As the exam day approaches, you might start feeling the pressure. As a result, your health might decline. Eat nutritious meals, stay physically active, and make time for hobbies and relaxation. Remember, a healthy body and a calm mind are your greatest allies during entrance exam preparation.
Pro MHT-CET 2026 Preparation Tip: Keep a detailed error log to track and address mistakes identified during mock tests, so you can prevent them from recurring.
April 2026
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Last Minute Revision
Continue revisiting and revising formula sheets, important reactions, and key problem-solving methods. Aim for quick revision to sharpen recall.
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Avoid New Topics
Focus only on revising and polishing the topics and sub-topics you are confident in.
Beginning new topics at this stage might cause panic at the end moment. This could ultimately affect your confidence, and, in turn, your performance.
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Positive Mindset
Stay healthy, get enough sleep, and keep a positive mindset. Practise meditation or breathing exercises to reduce anxiety.
Visual Guide: Your MHT-CET 2026 Preparation Roadmap
To make your preparation journey easier and more organised, we’ve created a simple infographic that breaks down the entire MHT-CET 2026 preparation process into clear, actionable steps. Whether you’re just beginning or want to refine your strategy, this infographic will serve as your quick-reference guide.
MHT-CET 2026 Preparation Roadmap
This visual roadmap highlights when to start, what to focus on each month, and how to balance study, practise, and revision effectively. Take a moment to explore the timeline, identify your current phase, and plan your next move accordingly!
Click here to download this MHT-CET 2026 Preparation Strategy PDF for free.
With consistent effort combined with a positive outlook on your capabilities, you'll find yourself not only prepared, but also equipped to tackle MHT-CET 2026 confidently when it arrives. Embrace this journey as an opportunity for growth; dive deep into every learning experience it offers while keeping sight of your ultimate goal: success on exam day.
MHT-CET 2026 Preparation Tip: Make sure to regularly check the Maharashtra State CET Cell website for updates on exam dates, application deadlines, and any changes. Staying informed helps you plan ahead and avoid last-minute hassles.
