Maharashtra MHT-CET Registration Fees Likely to Increase by Rs 150-250 for 2026-27 Academic Year

Maharashtra’s Common Entrance Test (CET) registration fees are poised for an upward revision in the upcoming 2026-27 academic year. The State CET Cell has submitted a proposal to the higher and technical education department seeking approval to raise examination fees by Rs 150 to Rs 250. This adjustment is expected to impact candidates across multiple undergraduate and postgraduate admission tests conducted by the state.

Proposed Fee Revision Across CETs
Currently, Maharashtra CET registration fees vary depending on the mode of the examination. Pen-and-paper tests typically charge candidates between Rs 500 and Rs 600, while computer-based exams carry fees ranging from Rs 800 to Rs 1,000. Under the new proposal, these charges would increase by Rs 150 to Rs 250. The exact increment would depend on the specific CET exam.

This move comes as the number of candidates participating in these tests continues to rise. Last year, over 14 lakh students appeared for various CETs in Maharashtra, and officials anticipate that more than 15 lakh candidates may register for the exams in 2026.

Scope of Maharashtra CETs
The Maharashtra CET Cell is responsible for overseeing 19 entrance examinations, which collectively cover 72 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. These include fields such as engineering, pharmacy, nursing, hotel management, teacher education, agriculture, medical sciences, and arts. The CET Cell ensures that admissions across these professional and technical courses are conducted fairly and systematically, following state and national education standards.

With the growing number of aspirants and the diverse range of courses under its purview, the CET Cell periodically reviews its fee structure and examination processes to maintain administrative efficiency and accommodate technological upgrades in exam delivery.

Tentative 2026-27 Examination Calendar
Alongside the proposed fee revision, the CET Cell has also released tentative dates for eight CETs scheduled for the 2026–27 academic year. The next CET cycle is set to begin earlier than usual, starting with the MP.Ed CET on March 24.

One of the key highlights of the upcoming CET cycle is the two-attempt structure for Maharashtra’s largest entrance exam, the MHT-CET. This format aligns the state’s examination process with national-level tests such as the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE), which offer multiple opportunities for students to improve their scores.

The first attempt for the MHT-CET Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) stream is scheduled from April 11 to April 19, while the Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) stream will be conducted from April 21 to April 26. Tentative dates for the second attempt are set for May 14 to May 17 for PCM and May 10–11 for PCB.

This two-attempt system aims to reduce exam pressure, provide flexibility, and allow students a chance to perform better in their preferred streams without having to wait an entire year for a re-examination.

Why the Fee Revision is Proposed
Several factors are driving the proposed increase in registration fees. First, administrative and technological costs for conducting large-scale examinations are rising. With computer-based tests becoming the norm for many CETs, the CET Cell has to maintain secure online platforms, invest in reliable servers, and ensure smooth online registration processes. These upgrades, while improving the candidate experience, also increase operational costs.

Second, the increasing number of candidates appearing for CETs adds logistical challenges. With over 15 lakh students expected next year, the CET Cell requires additional resources to manage test centers, invigilation, data processing, and result publication efficiently.

Finally, the state aims to align its examination practices with national-level standards. The introduction of two attempts for MHT-CET and the broader adoption of computer-based testing are steps in this direction. The proposed fee adjustment helps cover these enhancements without compromising the quality and integrity of the examination process.

Impact on Students and Families
For aspiring students and their families, the proposed fee hike may be a modest increase in the overall cost of pursuing higher education. While the fee revision may raise registration costs by Rs 150 to Rs 250 per test, the CET Cell emphasizes that these changes are necessary to maintain modern, secure, and efficient examination standards.

Educational experts note that even with the fee increase, Maharashtra’s CETs remain more affordable compared to many national-level entrance exams. The two-attempt system also benefits students financially and academically, as it reduces the need for repeated coaching or additional test preparation outside the state’s official exam framework.

Administrative Oversight and Next Steps
The fee revision proposal is currently under review by the higher and technical education department. Once approved, official notifications regarding the revised fee structure and payment deadlines will be issued on the CET Cell’s website. Students planning to appear in the 2026-27 CETs are advised to regularly check updates to avoid missing registration deadlines or fee-related announcements.

Additionally, the CET Cell is expected to release detailed guidelines on exam centers, mode of examination, and syllabus updates alongside the final registration fee notification. Candidates should also note the tentative MHT-CET schedule, as the two-attempt system will require careful planning for exam preparation and time management.

Preparing for the 2026-27 CET Cycle
With more than 15 lakh candidates anticipated, the 2026-27 CET cycle promises to be highly competitive. Experts recommend that students:

• Begin preparations early, focusing on core subjects relevant to their chosen streams (PCM or PCB).
• Stay updated with official notifications from the CET Cell regarding registration dates, fee revisions, and exam schedules.
• Plan for potential two-attempt strategies, especially for high-stakes exams like MHT-CET, to maximize scores.
• Factor in the revised registration fees when budgeting for examination-related expenses.

By taking a proactive approach, students can navigate the updated fee structure and schedule changes while maintaining focus on academic preparation.

Conclusion
Maharashtra’s CET registration fee revision for the 2026-27 academic year reflects a broader effort to modernize examinations, accommodate rising candidate numbers, and ensure fair, transparent admission processes across multiple streams. While candidates will need to pay slightly higher fees, the benefits include enhanced infrastructure, a two-attempt system for MHT-CET, and better-aligned state-level exams with national standards.

As the higher and technical education department reviews the proposal, students and families are advised to prepare for both the financial and logistical aspects of the upcoming CET cycle. The CET Cell’s tentative schedule and two-attempt system offer promising flexibility for aspiring professionals across engineering, medical, agricultural, arts, and technical education programs in Maharashtra.