• Updated on 31 Mar, 2026 by Souvik Podder
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MHT CET Exam Pattern 2026 was released for both the PCM and PCB groups. Based on the format, the PCM paper will include a total of 150 multiple-choice questions, with 50 questions each from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. For the PCB group, the paper will consist of 100 questions from Biology, along with 50 questions each from Physics and Chemistry, making it 200 questions in total.
MHT CET 2026 will be held in online Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode, and the total duration for both PCM and PCB papers will be 3 hours. One important thing to note is that there will be no negative marking, which can help candidates attempt questions with a bit more confidence. However, the difficulty level is expected to be similar to JEE Main, especially for PCM candidates. The syllabus distribution will also follow the same pattern as before, with approximately 20% of the questions based on the Class 11 syllabus and the remaining 80% from the Class 12 syllabus.
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MHT CET Exam Pattern 2026: Overview
MHT CET Exam Pattern varies for PCM and PCB groups. The PCB paper will include 200 questions, while the PCM paper will have 150 questions. Around 4 lakh candidates are expected to appear for MHT CET 2026. The table below highlights some key factors about the exam pattern:
MHT CET Exam Pattern 2026 for PCM
PCM exam in MHT CET 2026 will be divided into two sections: Mathematics and Physics-Chemistry, each lasting 90 minutes. The mathematics section will carry 2 marks each, while Physics and Chemistry questions will carry 1 mark each. There will be no negative marking. Given below are the details:
Read: MHT CET Score Distribution: How Did Students Perform in 2026?
MHT CET Exam Pattern 2026 for PCB
The PCB exam pattern in MHT CET 2026 will consist of two papers, Physics and Chemistry (combined) and Biology, each lasting 90 minutes. Students will face 100 questions in Biology and 50 questions each in Physics and Chemistry, with one mark per question and no negative marking
MHT CET Syllabus 2026
MHT CET 2026 Syllabus primarily focuses on topics from Class 11 and 12 Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. To get more information on the MHT CET 2026 Syllabus, candidates should check the table below:
Check: MHT CET Cutoff vs. Placement: Do Higher Cutoff Colleges Offer Better Jobs?
MHT CET Preparation Tips 2026
To clear the MHT CET 2026 exam on the first attempt, a strong foundation and a well-organised study plan were essential. Here are some practical preparation tips to help candidates succeed and pursue a career :
- Understand the MHT CET exam pattern and syllabus.
- Create a structured study plan.
- Collect relevant study materials and reference books.
- Regularly practice and revise the topics.
- Take daily mock tests.
- Solve the previous year’s MHT CET Question Papers.
- Follow last-minute tips to boost confidence and improve performance.
MHT CET Exam Pattern 2026 FAQs
How many MHT CET 2026 papers must I appear for?
The course for which students are applying will determine this. Students must appear for two papers if they want to pursue engineering (B.E./B.Tech): Paper 1 (Mathematics) and Paper 2 (Physics & Chemistry). They can select PCM or PCB for Pharmacy (B.Pharm) or D.Pharm, which means they will take Paper 2 (Physics & Chemistry) and either Paper 1 (Maths) or Paper 3 (Biology). They must only show up for the subject combinations that are pertinent to the course they have chosen.
How long does the MHT CET exam last in total?
In MHT CET 2026, each paper lasts 90 minutes. The total length of the exam, if students are taking two papers (for example, PCM Papers 1 and 2), will be 180 minutes (3 hours) in total. However, it will be divided into separate sessions rather than one sitting. If their schedule requires more than one paper per day, there are brief breaks between sessions.
Does MHT CET 2026 have any negative marking?
No, MHT CET does not have a negative marking.
Can a candidate appear for both PCM and PCB groups in MHT CET 2026?
Yes, students certainly can. All three papers: Paper 1 (Maths), Paper 2 (Physics and Chemistry), and Paper 3 (Biology), are open to candidates who wish to maintain their options for Engineering and Pharmacy. However, candidates must keep in mind that they'll need to prepare for more subjects and pay an additional application fee, so make a good plan.
What language does the MHT CET 2026 question paper use?
The MHT CET 2026 question paper is available in three languages: Urdu, Marathi, and English. When completing the application, candidates have the option to select their preferred language. The language option, however, depends on the centre's availability. Students' papers might only be available in English if their centre does not support regional languages.
How challenging is the MHT CET 2026 exam?
The level of difficulty is comparable to that of the Maharashtra Class 11 and Class 12 board exams. However, top colleges demand high scores due to intense competition and a high volume of applicants. Particularly in mathematics and physics, where problem-solving abilities are more heavily evaluated than memorisation, the questions range in difficulty from moderate to challenging.
Will there be a single day for the MHT CET 2026?
No, the MHT CET is divided into two groups, PCM and PC, and is conducted over several days and shifts. Students' papers will be scheduled before the two daily sessions of the exam (morning and afternoon). The admit card, which is issued closer to the exam, will provide them with their precise date and time.
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