The registration process for the Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MHT CET) 2026, a crucial exam for students aiming for engineering and pharmacy courses in Maharashtra, has seen a delay. Originally, applications were set to open on January 1, 2026 . However, the State Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell has postponed the start date. The delay is due to ongoing testing of the new registration website. Students can now expect the MHT CET 2026 registration to begin in the first week of January 2026 .
This year, the MHT CET exam will have two important changes. First, the exam will happen in two separate sessions: April and May 2026 . Second, all students must have an APAAR ID and their Aadhar Card to apply. These are now compulsory for registration.
Key Updates for MHT CET 2026
- The MHT CET 2026 registration link will be available on the official website: cetcell.mahacet.org .
- Registration was delayed from January 1, 2026 , due to website testing.
- Applications are now expected to start in the first week of January 2026 .
- The exam will be held in two sessions during April and May 2026 .
- An APAAR ID and Aadhar Card are now compulsory for all applicants.
APAAR ID and Aadhar Card: Mandatory for Registration
A significant change for MHT CET 2026 is that an Aadhar Card and an APAAR ID are now mandatory for registration. Students must have these documents ready before they start filling out the application form. The APAAR ID, which stands for Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry, is a unique 12-digit identification number for students. It works like a digital locker for your academic records. You can create your APAAR ID by registering on the DigiLocker website (digilocker.gov.in) . Alternatively, you can obtain your APAAR enrollment number from your school. This new requirement aims to make student data management easier and more secure across different education systems. Ensure your Aadhar details are correct and your APAAR ID is generated well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues during registration.
Important Dates for MHT CET 2026
The CET Cell has already shared the likely schedule for the MHT CET 2026 exams. Students should check these dates carefully to plan their studies.
| Event | Date |
| MHT CET 2026 Registration Start Date | First week of January 2026 |
| MHT CET Session 1 Exam Date (PCM Group) | April 11 to 19, 2026 |
| MHT CET Session 1 Exam Date (PCB Group) | April 21 to 26, 2026 |
| MHT CET Session 2 Exam Date (PCB Group) | May 10 to 11, 2026 |
| MHT CET Session 2 Exam Date (PCM Group) | May 14 to 17, 2026 |
How to Apply for MHT CET 2026
Students can follow these simple steps to fill out the MHT CET 2026 application form once the registration link is active:
- Go to the official website: cetcell.mahacet.org .
- Look for the section that says "MHT CET 2026 registration" and click on it.
- Register by providing a valid email ID and a mobile phone number.
- Fill in your personal details, academic information (like your 10th and 12th standard marks), and contact details.
- Choose your subject group. You can select either PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) or PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) , depending on the course you want to join.
- Upload all the necessary documents. Make sure they meet the required size and format. This will include your Aadhar Card and details related to your APAAR ID .
- Pay the application fee using the available online payment methods.
- Review all the information you have entered. After checking everything, submit the application form.
It is important for all students to complete their registration on time. Keep checking the official website for the exact date when the registration link goes live.
