Admissions through the NRI Quota for the Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (CET) have plummeted by over 92% for the 2025-26 academic year. This sharp decline follows the state government's implementation of stricter eligibility rules.
Data from the Maharashtra CET Cell reveals a drop from 454 admissions in the previous academic session to just 34 this year across eight major professional courses. Officials attribute this drastic reduction to previous misuse of the quota system by ineligible candidates.
Sharpest Declines in Engineering Programs
Bachelor of Engineering and BTech programs saw the most significant decrease. Admissions fell from 424 students in the 2024-25 academic year to only 27 in 2025-26.
Other courses also experienced declines. LLB admissions dropped from 20 to 5. MBA/MMS admissions remained minimal, with one candidate admitted in both years.
B.Ed admissions saw a slight increase, moving from zero to one admission.
New Eligibility Criteria Target Misuse
The Maharashtra government revised eligibility criteria to address irregularities. Only genuine Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), their children, or candidates with legally appointed NRI guardians are now eligible.
Previously, students could secure seats through sponsorships from extended relatives. Authorities state this loophole led to widespread misuse of the quota for seats in private institutions.
Impact on Institutions and Future Admissions
The CET Cell aims for increased transparency and fair allotment of NRI seats. However, private institutions are concerned about vacant seats and potential revenue loss due to the reduced admission numbers.
