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MAH CET 2026: Exam Date, Registration, Syllabus, Pattern & More

Exam Level: StateState: MaharashtraExam Date: --

Last Updated on 12th December 2024

Maharashtra MBA CET

Overview

Latest Updates

  • MAH CET 2025 counselling (CAP) started in July 2025, post-result declaration on May 28, 2025, with a similar schedule expected for 2026 (as of June 21, 2025).
  • It is expected that the online registration process of MAH CET 2026 will start the last week of December 2025 and most probably end by the last week of February 2026.
  • MAH CET 2026 admit card is set to release in March 2026 and can be downloaded on the official website cetcell.mahacet.org with the help of login credentials.

In March or April 2026, this year, the MAH CET 2026 exam will be conducted online in various cities of India. It is also expected that the notification about the exam will be released in November 2025, and the online registration process can be completed from December 2025 to February 2026. The Centralised Admission Process (CAP) for MAH CET 2025 will be conducted in multiple rounds (typically 2-3) for both Maharashtra State and Outside Maharashtra State candidates. Each round will involve the release of merit lists, announcement of cutoffs, and allocation of seats.

In March 2026, downloading of admit cards will be possible. Colleges that accept the MAH CET score: Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS), Sydenham Institute of Management Studies (SIMSREE), Pune University (PUMBA), K J Somaiya, Welingkar Mumbai and more than 300 other management colleges in Maharashtra.

It was further noted that in 2025, 1.3 lakh students were registered to appear in the test, having an attendance rate of 85.7%. The general difficulty of the MAH CET 2025 was of easy medium, and the cutoffs of Best institutions such as JBIMS were around 95-98 percentile for the Maharashtra state-based and 98-99.99 percentile of all India-based. In case of other institutes, the cutoffs were 60-95 percentiles, by college and category.

MAH CET 2026 Highlights

The table below shows the MAH CET 2026 highlights


Particulars

Details

Examination Name

MAH CET 2026

MAH CET Full Form

Maharashtra Master of Business Administration Common Entrance Test

Conducting Body

State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra

Number of Seats

Approximately 40,000 across 300+ institutes

Application Mode

Online

Exam Mode

CBT (Computer-Based Test)

Exam Level

State

Offered Courses

MBA/MMS/PGDM

Exam Frequency

Once a year (multiple sessions over 2-3 days)

Exam Duration

150 minutes

Exam Pattern

200 questions in MCQ format

Exam Syllabus

Logical Reasoning

Abstract Reasoning

Quantitative Aptitude

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension

Exam Fees

₹ 1,200 (General Category); ₹ 1000 (Reserved Categories, subject to change)

Exam Language

English

No. of Test Cities

Approximately 49-50 (primarily in Maharashtra, with select centers outside)

Official Website

https://cetcell.mahacet.org/


What is the MAH CET?

The Maharashtra MBA Common Entrance Test (MAH MBA CET) is a state-level entrance exam conducted by the State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra. It facilitates admission to MBA/MMS/PGDM programs in over 300 management institutes across Maharashtra, including prestigious colleges like JBIMS, SIMSREE, PUMBA, K J Somaiya, and Welingkar Mumbai. The exam is conducted once a year, typically over multiple sessions in 2-3 days.

The MAH CET 2026 syllabus includes Logical Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension. The exam pattern consists of 200 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with a total of 200 marks, to be completed in 150 minutes. The mode of the exam is a Computer-based Test (CBT), with no negative marking for incorrect answers and +1 mark for each correct answer

MAH CET 2026 Application Process

The MAH CET 2026 application process will be done through online mode, and eligible candidates for applying to this exam will need to complete the application form along with the mandatory documents on the official site. This is purely a virtual process, and job applicants are expected to do the following:

  1. The official website for the MAH CET 2026 can be found at cetcell.mahacet.org. Click the button for "Apply for MAH CET 2026".
  2. Enrol by submitting personal information, including contact details and exam choice, in order to create a user account with a unique login ID and password.
  3. Get in and fill in the application form with your academic details, like Class 10th, 12th and graduation data.
  4. Provide a current passport-size photo in the mentioned format and a signed copy in scanned form.
  5. In order to pay the application fee (around 1,200 for the  General Category, about 1000 for the  Reserved Categories, may vary), use your credit/debit card, net banking, or other payment applications available.
  6. Choose 4 possible cities (out of the offered test centres) to pass the exam in.
  7. It is important to view the application form, send it in and save the confirmation page and the payment receipt as a record.

All candidates are advised to keep updating through the official site and make sure that everything is right before reporting it.

MAH CET 2026 Admission Fees

It is mandatory for candidates to pay the application fee online in order to complete the MAH CET 2026 registration process.

MAH CET Registration Fees Particulars

MAH CET Registration Fees Details

Application Fee (General Category)

₹ 1,200 (tentative)

Application Fee (Reserved Categories, Maharashtra State only)

₹ 1000 (tentative)


MAH CET 2026 Admit Card

An admit card to the MAH CET 2026 is a compulsory document, which should be taken to the examination centre. Without it, it is not possible to enter the exam hall. All exam sessions will definitely be conducted in March 2026, and then the admit card will be issued to them, and they must download it additionally. To download the MAH CET 2026 admit card, follow the steps mentioned below:

  1. Go to the official site, cetcell.mahacet.org 
  2. On the home page, tap on the link called the Download MAH CET 2026 Admit Card.
  3. With a registered User ID and Password, which you have created at the time of application, log in.
  4. The admit card will appear after a successful login.
  5. Check everything, name, photograph, date of exam and exam centre.
  6. Print the admit card and make sure you get at least two properly printed copies.
  7. Make sure that the signature and photograph on the printed copy are evident and readable.

The individuals must scan the admit card to identify any mistakes and report to the authorities in case of any mismatch. Bring a valid photo identification (e.g. Aadhaar, PAN, or Voter ID), and bring the admit card to the examination centre and show it at the exam centre.


Maharashtra MBA CET

Exam Details

MAH CET 2026 Eligibility Criteria

As participants of the MAH CET 2026, the candidates have to respond to the eligibility requirements postulated by the State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra. The candidates should possess a bachelor's degree in any stream (Arts, Sciences, Commerce, Engineering and so on) of a recognised university or institution. The table below prescribes the eligibility criteria of the MAH CET 2026 exam.

Parameters

Details

MAHCET Educational Qualification

Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree of at least three years’ duration in any stream from a recognised university or institution.

MAH CET Minimum Marks Required

General Category: Minimum 50% aggregate marks in graduation.

Reserve categories (SC/ST/OBC/PWD, Maharashtra State): Only a minimum of 45% total marks at the exam.

MAH CET Final-Year Students

Final-year students are eligible to apply, provided they submit proof of passing their degree with the required marks during the Centralised Admission Process (CAP).

MAHCET Age Criteria

There is no upper age limit for appearing in the MAH CET exam, as long as the academic requirements are met.

International Students

Foreign nationals, PIOs, or NRIs can apply but must obtain an equivalency certificate from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) for their qualifying degree.


Candidates are advised to verify their eligibility on the official website, cetcell.mahacet.org, before applying. Meeting these criteria ensures eligibility for admission to MBA/MMS programs in over 300 institutes in Maharashtr

MAH CET 2026 Exam Pattern

The MAH CET 2026 exam of MAH will be a Computer-based Test (CBT) given online and will have four parts. There are 200 multiple-choice (MCQ) questions in this test, which have to be answered within 150 minutes. The correct answers have a single mark, and there is no negative marking for incorrect answers. The sections assess the aptitude of a candidate in different skill levels; hence, it is a wholesome test during admission to MBA/MMS. The following table has information about the exam pattern of MAH CET 2026:

MAH CET 2026 Exam Sections

Total No. of Questions

Marks per Correct Answer

Marks per Wrong Answer

Total Marks

Logical Reasoning

75

+1 mark

0 (No negative marking)

75

Abstract Reasoning

25

+1 mark

0 (No negative marking)

25

Quantitative Aptitude

50

+1 mark

0 (No negative marking)

50

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension

50

+1 mark

0 (No negative marking)

50

Total

200



200


MAH CET 2026 Previous Years’ Question Papers

Previous years' question papers are very useful resources to candidates who intend to complete the MAH CET 2026 exam. These papers also assist students to gain knowledge of the exam pattern, the type of questions and the major areas to study. The use of past papers improves time management and confidence before the exam. Although official question papers may not be publicly distributed, they are available either via the official site, cetcell.mahacet.org or reliable e-learning sites. The following are the links to old question papers of the MAH CET, subject to availability:

MAH CET Previous Years

Question Paper

MAH CET 2018 Question Paper

Click Here

MAH CET 2020 Question Paper

Click Here

MAH CET 2021 Question Paper

Click Here

MAH CET 2022 Question Paper

Click Here

MAH CET 2023 Question Paper

Click Here

MAH CET 2024 Question Paper

Click Here


Candidates are advised to visit the official website or contact coaching institutes for authentic question papers and mock tests.

MAH CET 2026 Preparation Tips

MAH CET 2026 is an important entrance exam for those interested in taking admission into MBA/MMS courses in more than 300 institutes across Maharashtra, which include JBIMS, SIMSREE and PUMBA. Preparation with proper strategies would help the candidate get a high score and percentile. These are the important preparation tips to be followed:

  • MAH CET Exam Pattern and Syllabus You should be very much aware of the MAH CET exam pattern, which will contain 200 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) in Logical Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and Verbal Ability, which should be solved within 150 minutes.
  • Build a Realistic Study Plan: Develop a balanced schedule whereby some time will be given to each section. Add daily practices and mock tests to monitor the progress.
  • Take the help of credible resources to study: Consult NCERT books to gain basic concepts, followed by books that were recommended by almost every coaching centre, a question bank, and the papers of the last year, so that the flow of questions can be understood.
  • Mock Tests: Do not underestimate them. Regular practice attempts in test conditions, evaluation of errors and time management, accuracy will allow you to avoid this situation.
  • Keep Aligned Notes: Keep compact notes that could be revised quickly and note important formulas, ideas, and shortcuts of Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning.

Regular practice and upholding revision will increase the expected confidence and performance in the MAH CET 2026.

Exam Day Guidelines and Dress Code

The e-Exam MAH CET 2026 is an essential eligibility examination for any MMS/ MBA institute in Maharashtra. The candidates should take care of the guidelines provided on their admit card to have a smooth time during the exam. Report to the examination centre no later than 60 minutes before the check-in. Bring the MAH CET 2026 admit card and an original photo identification (e.g. Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID). Dressing is formal or semi-formal; avoid demonstrating too many pockets or decorations in clothes. Simple, comfortable clothes are advised.

Items not allowed into the exam: The candidates are not supposed to carry mobile phones, calculators, smartwatches, Bluetooth, cameras and other valuables into the exam centre because they are prohibited items and could lead to cancellation of the exam. Obey everything that the invigilators suggest.

MAH CET 2026 Answer Key

The answer key of the MAH CET 2026 Result is supposed to be out within a week of the examination, which could be in March or April 2026, on the official site, cetcell.mahacet.org. The candidates can use it to calculate the scores. To contact the answer key, you should follow the steps below:

  1. Take a look at the official site, cetcell.mahacet.org 
  2. Tap the MAMBACET ANSWER key 2026 link.
  3. The application ID and Password are needed to log in.
  4. The key to the answers will be presented in a PDF.
  5. Get the file downloaded, verify responses and print it down.

Objections to the answer key can also be made by candidates, within the stipulated time, in case permitted, along with following the instructions on the official site

MAH CET 2026 Result

The State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra, will declare the MAH CET 2026 result in May 2026. Students who will submit the exam will be able to download the results on the official site, cetcell.mahacet.org. This will appear with the score of the candidate together with the percentile, which is important to the Centralised Admission Process (CAP). To download the MAH CET 2026 result, follow the steps mentioned below:

  • Go to the official website cetcell.mahacet.org 
  • Visit the site and click on the result page link, MAH CET 2026 Result link or the result page link Download Scorecard.
  • Access by your logged-in Application ID and password.
  • The CET scorecard of the MAH MBA 2026 will be displayed on the screen.
  • The scorecard is only available in PDF fillable format, which can be downloaded and a printout made and used during admission.

MAH CET 2026 Counselling

The Centralised Admission Process (CAP) is the process of the MAH CET 2026 counselling starting after the declaration of the result (in May 2026). The candidates who will attend the cutoff will be qualified individuals:

  • Document Verification
  • Filling of Preferential information online
  • Seat Allotment

Colleges Accepting MAH CET 2026 Score

Here are the names of colleges accepting MAH CET 2026 scores.

College Name

Location

Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies

Mumbai

Sydenham Institute of Management Studies (SIMSREE)

Mumbai

PUMBA

Pune

K J Somaiya Institute of Management

Mumbai

Welingkar Institute of Management

Mumbai

Maharashtra MBA CET

Exam Dates & Schedule 2026

The MAH CET 2026 exam is expected to be held in March or April 2026, likely over multiple sessions across 2-3 days, based on previous years' patterns. The official exam notification is anticipated to be released in November 2025, and candidates are advised to regularly check the official website, cetcell.mahacet.org, for the latest updates. Refer to the table below for the tentative MAH CET 2026 exam schedule:

Upcoming Events

Important Dates (Tentative)

MAH CET 2026 Registration Starts

Last Week of December 2025

Last Date of Registration

Last Week of February 2026

MAH CET Admit Card Download

First Week of March 2026

MAH CET Exam Date

March or April 2026 (Multiple sessions over 2-3 days)

MAH CET Result Announcement

May 2026

Centralised Admission Process (CAP) Starts

June or July 2026

Maharashtra MBA CET

Cutoff

After the results are published, that is in May 2026, the State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra, will release the MAH CET 2026 cutoff. Each participating institute will enable the declaration of the cutoff percentiles by the institute on the announcement of participating institutes to avail MBA/MMS admissions. The cut-offs depend on category (Maharashtra State vs. Reverent All India) and institute. Considering the best colleges such as JBIMS, the acceptable cutoff of All India candidates will be 98-99.99 percentile. The probable cutoff percentiles of MAH CET 2026 in leading institutes are as per the table below:

MAH CET Colleges

Expected Cutoff (Percentile)

JBIMS, Mumbai

95-98 (MS), 98-99.99 (AI)

SIMSREE, Mumbai

92-95 (MS), 95-97 (AI)

PUMBA, Pune

90-93 (MS), 93-95 (AI)

K J Somaiya, Mumbai

88-92 (MS), 92-94 (AI)

Welingkar, Mumbai

85-90 (MS), 90-93 (AI)

SIES, Mumbai

80-85 (MS), 85-88 (AI)

N L Dalmia, Mumbai

80-85 (MS), 85-88 (AI)

Chetana’s, Mumbai

75-80 (MS), 80-85 (AI)

MET, Mumbai

75-80 (MS), 80-85 (AI)

XIMR, Mumbai

70-75 (MS), 75-80 (AI)

MIT, Pune

65-70 (MS), 70-75 (AI)

BVIMR, Pune

60-65 (MS), 65-70 (AI)

Note: MS = Maharashtra State Category, AI = All Indi


MAH CET 2026 FAQs

Q1. What is MAH CET 2026?

It is a state-level MBA entrance test carried out by the State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra, to achieve admission in MBA/MMS courses in 300-plus institutes of the state of Maharashtra.

Q2. What is the schedule of MAH CET 2026?

The examination should take place in March/April 2026 in several cities in India, normally in 2-3 days.

Q3. What are the eligibility criteria to write the MAH CET 2026?

The eligible candidates should have a bachelor's degree (minimum 50 percent of General, 45 percent of SC/ST/OBC, Maharashtra State) from a recognised university.


AcronymMaharashtra MBA CET
Conducting BodyOther
Mode and TypeOnline (Computer Based Test (CBT))
Application ModeOnline
Frequency-
Languages-
Test Takers-
Duration-
Total Marks-
Marking Scheme-
Application Fee-
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