Maharashtra Health Sciences and Technical Common Entrance Test Exam Pattern 2026
Maharashtra Health Sciences and Technical Common Entrance Test Exam Pattern
MHT CET Exam Pattern 2026: Overview
The MHT CET Exam Pattern 2026 is expected to be released by the State CET Cell, Maharashtra, on the official website cetcell.mahacet.org in December 2025. The pattern is expected to be the same as the previous year.
The exam covers Physics, Chemistry & Mathematics (PCM) for engineering courses and Physics, Chemistry & Biology (PCB) for pharmacy courses. Both the PCM and PCB group exams will include MCQ questions, and negative marking will not be applied.
MHT CET Exam Pattern 2026 in Brief
The MHT CET Exam Pattern includes the format in which the exam is conducted. It covers subjects, total questions, marking scheme, exam duration, and question types.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | MHT CET 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Maharashtra Common Entrance Test Cell (Maharashtra CET Cell) |
| Official Website | cetcell.mahacet.org |
| Exam Mode | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Duration | 180 minutes (3 hours) |
| Groups / Subjects |
|
| Total Questions |
|
| Total Marks | 200 for both PCM & PCB |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Marks Distribution |
|
| Negative Marking | No |
| Syllabus Weightage |
|
| Tentative Pattern Release | December 2025 (Official website) |
Key Points of MHT CET Exam Pattern 2026
The PCM exam will include 150 questions, and the PCB exam will include 200 questions. The MHT CET exam duration will be 3 hours.
MHT CET total marks will differ according to the subjects. Mathematics questions will carry 2 marks each, whereas Physics, Chemistry and Biology will be of 1 mark each.
MHT CET Exam Pattern 2026 PDF Download
Candidates must stay updated on the MHT CET official website, cetcell.mahacet.org, for regular updates regarding the exam pattern, dates, syllabus, and any latest developments.
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Key Summary
The MHT CET Exam Pattern 2026 includes the section-wise pattern, marking scheme, total number of questions, and difficulty level.
- The MHT CET Exam Pattern 2026 is expected to be released by the State CET Cell, Maharashtra, in December 2025.
- In the MHT CET Exam, the PCM Group will include 150 Questions and the PCB Group will include 200 Questions.
- The MHT CET Exam will include MCQ Questions, and negative marking will not be applied.
MHT CET Syllabus and Weightage
The MHT CET exam is based on the Maharashtra state board syllabus for classes 11 and 12.
- Around 20% weightage is given to class 11 and 80% to class 12.
- Application-based questions will test the candidate’s problem-solving skills.
| Class Level | Approx. Weightage | Types of Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Class 11 | 20% | Fundamental concepts, basics |
| Class 12 | 80% | Advanced & application-based questions |
MHT CET Passing Marks
The MHT CET passing marks are 45% aggregate marks (90 out of 200) for the general category and 40% aggregate marks (80 out of 200) for reserved category candidates.
Qualifying marks do not guarantee admission. The cutoff will vary according to branch and college.
| Category | Minimum % Required | Marks Out of 200 |
|---|---|---|
| General / Unreserved | 45% | 90 marks |
| Reserved (SC/ST/OBC) | 40% | 80 marks |
MHT CET Exam Pattern 2026: Subject-Wise
The MHT CET exam pattern tests candidates' knowledge in subjects relevant to their courses. The exam is divided into 2 streams.
- The PCM Branch includes Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics for engineering & technology candidates.
- The PCB Branch includes Physics, Chemistry and Biology for pharmacy, agriculture and allied courses.
Source: cetcell.mahacet.org
MHT CET Paper Pattern PCM
- In the PCM Paper, 50% of the total weightage is given to Mathematics. Physics and chemistry carry equal weightage, including conceptual and numerical problems.
- Mathematics is scoring but time-consuming, as each question carries 2 marks.
- Physics & Chemistry include a mix of theory and numericals, which together form 50%; they are comparatively easier than mathematics.
- By scoring well in mathematics, candidates can score more than 150+, which is important for top engineering colleges.
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks | Weightage % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 50 | 2 | 100 | 50% |
| Physics | 50 | 1 | 50 | 25% |
| Chemistry | 50 | 1 | 50 | 25% |
| Total | 150 | — | 200 | 100% |
MHT CET Paper Pattern PCB
- In PCB, Biology carries the maximum weightage of 50%, which is an important section for PCB candidates.
- In PCB, Physics and Chemistry carry equal weightage, but are majorly concept-based.
- To get a high cutoff in pharmacy/agriculture, candidates should aim to get 75+ marks in biology.
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks | Weightage % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | 50 | 1 | 50 | 25% |
| Chemistry | 50 | 1 | 50 | 25% |
| Biology | 100 | 1 | 100 | 50% |
| Total | 200 | — | 200 | 100% |
Subjects in the MHT CET Exam
The MHT CET includes different subjects according to the streams.
- PCM group (Engineering/Technology) → Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics
- PCB group (Pharmacy/Medical/Agriculture) → Physics, Chemistry, Biology
| Stream | Subjects Included | Total Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| PCM | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics | 3 |
| PCB | Physics, Chemistry, Biology | 3 |
Subject-Wise Marks for CET
The marks distribution in MHT CET differs according to the branches. Mathematics carries the highest weightage in PCM and Biology in PCB.
MHT CET Total Marks 2026
The MHT CET Total Marks 2026 is the maximum score a candidate can achieve in the exam. The total marks vary between the PCM (Engineering) and PCB (Pharmacy/Medical) groups based on the number of questions and marks per subject.
MHT CET Total Marks by Group
| Group | Total Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) | 150 |
|
200 |
| PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) | 200 |
|
200 |
MHT CET Exam Pattern: Stream-wise Subjects and Weightage
The exam pattern for MHT CET 2026 is different for the PCM and PCB streams. The weightage of subjects and the total number of questions differ for each group.
| Stream | Key Subjects & Weightage | Total Questions | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCM (Engineering) |
|
150 | 200 |
| PCB (Pharmacy/Medical) |
|
200 | 200 |
MHT CET Passing Marks
The MHT CET qualifying marks differ according to the category. Scoring the passing marks makes a candidate eligible for admission, but high scores are required depending on the cutoff.
| Category | Minimum % Required | Marks Out of 200 |
|---|---|---|
| General / Unreserved | 45% | 90 marks |
| Reserved (SC/ST/OBC) | 40% | 80 marks |
MHT CET Percentile for 70 Marks
The MHT CET percentile depends on the difficulty level of the exam and the candidate's performance. According to the previous year's analysis, with 70 marks, candidates can score around 65 to 75 percentile. The percentage can drop according to the difficulty level of the exam.
| Marks | Estimated Percentile Range | Difficulty Influence |
|---|---|---|
| 70 | 65 – 75 | Varies by year & paper toughness |
MHT CET Percentile for 120 Marks
By scoring 120 marks, candidates will be placed in the top percentile. As per the previous year's analysis, with 120 marks, candidates will get a percentile of around 97 to 98.5.
- With this score, candidates will be eligible for Computer Science, IT, and top branches in COEP, VJTI, and SPIT.
- In 2024, candidates with 118 to 122 marks were admitted to Tier 1 engineering colleges.
MHT CET Exam Pattern 2026: Subject-wise Weightage
The MHT CET 2026 subject-wise weightage includes specific topics of each subject and the weightage of questions asked from that topic. Candidates can use this to find high-weightage areas and prepare with a proper strategy.
Mathematics Weightage (PCM Group)
Calculus and Algebra carry the maximum weightage and can help to score high. A few topics, like Probability, Matrices and Vectors, require less time but are easy to score.
| Topic | Approx. Weightage (%) |
|---|---|
| Algebra | 15–20% |
| Calculus | 25–30% |
| Coordinate Geometry | 15–20% |
| Trigonometry | 10–15% |
| Probability & Statistics | 5–10% |
| Matrices & Determinants | 5–10% |
| Vectors & 3D Geometry | 5–10% |
Physics Weightage (PCM / PCB Group)
Mechanics and Electrodynamics are high-priority subjects. Some topics, like Modern Physics, are scoring but include only a few questions.
MHT CET Physics Weightage (PCM / PCB Group)
Mechanics carries the highest weightage in the MHT CET Physics section. The weightage is based on the previous year's exam pattern.
| Topic | Approx. Weightage (%) |
|---|---|
| Mechanics | 20–25% |
| Thermodynamics | 10–15% |
| Electrodynamics | 15–20% |
| Optics & Waves | 15–20% |
| Modern Physics | 10–15% |
| Properties of Matter | 5–10% |
| Heat & Oscillations | 5–10% |
MHT CET Chemistry Weightage (PCM / PCB Group)
Physical and Organic Chemistry carry the most weightage in the Chemistry section. Questions from Inorganic Chemistry mostly follow the previous year's pattern.
| Topic | Approx. Weightage (%) |
|---|---|
| Physical Chemistry | 35–40% |
| Organic Chemistry | 30–35% |
| Inorganic Chemistry | 25–30% |
MHT CET Biology Weightage (PCB Group)
Human Physiology and Genetics carry the most weightage in the Biology section. Ecology and Biodiversity are easy-scoring topics for quick marks.
| Topic | Approx. Weightage (%) |
|---|---|
| Genetics & Evolution | 15–20% |
| Cell Biology | 10–15% |
| Human Physiology | 20–25% |
| Plant Physiology | 10–15% |
| Ecology & Environment | 10–15% |
| Biotechnology & Microbiology | 5–10% |
| Diversity of Life | 10–15% |
High-Weightage Chapters in MHT CET
Some chapters carry higher weightage based on previous year trends. In PCM, Mathematics topics like Integration and Differential Calculus are important. In PCB, Human Physiology and Genetics carry high weightage.
| Stream | High-Weightage Subjects | Key Chapters | Avg. Weightage (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCM | Mathematics | Integration, Differential Eqns, Complex Numbers | 20–25% |
| PCM | Physics | Modern Physics, Electrostatics, Thermodynamics | 15–18% |
| PCM | Chemistry | Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry (Equilibrium) | 15–18% |
| PCB | Biology | Human Physiology, Genetics, Plant Physiology | 35–40% |
| PCB | Chemistry | Biomolecules, Organic Chemistry | 15–18% |
Percentile for 150 Marks in MHT CET
A score of 150 marks gives a percentile of 99.7%. This places the candidate among the top 1,000 candidates.
Candidates with this score can get admission in CSE/IT branches in top-tier colleges.
| Marks | Approx. Percentile | Expected Rank | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 150 | 99.7 – 99.8 | Top 800–1200 | Strong score; ensures admission in elite colleges (COEP, VJTI, SPIT) |
MHT CET 2026 Syllabus
The MHT CET Syllabus includes the Maharashtra state board curriculum for Classes 11 and 12. Around 80% weightage is given to Class 12 topics, and around 20% weightage is given to Class 11 topics.
The syllabus includes Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics for engineering. It includes Physics, Chemistry, Biology for medical.
| Subject | Topics Included |
|---|---|
| Mathematics (PCM) | Algebra, Calculus, Coordinate Geometry, Trigonometry, Probability, Vectors & 3D Geometry, Matrices & Determinants |
| Physics (PCM/PCB) | Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Electrodynamics, Optics & Waves, Modern Physics, Properties of Matter, Heat & Oscillations |
| Chemistry (PCM/PCB) | Physical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry |
| Biology (PCB) | Genetics & Evolution, Cell Biology, Human Physiology, Plant Physiology, Ecology & Environment, Biotechnology & Microbiology, Diversity of Life |
MHT CET 2026 Difficulty Level
The MHT CET Exam is considered moderately difficult. The Mathematics section is more challenging because of lengthy questions. The PCB group is easier, but Biology is more time-consuming.
MHT CET 2025 Difficulty Trend and Safe Scores
The MHT CET 2025 difficulty trend varied by subject. The table below shows the expected difficulty, key challenges, and safe scores for each subject.
| Section | 2025 Difficulty Trend | Key Challenges | Expected Safe Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | Moderate (Conceptual & tricky numericals) | Requires strong fundamentals | 35–40/50 |
| Chemistry | Easy to Moderate (Conceptual + application) | A few confusing organic/physical chemistry questions | 35–40/50 |
| Mathematics | Moderate to Difficult (Lengthy & time-bound) | Time management biggest issue | 70–80/100 |
| Biology | Easy to Moderate (NCERT-based, memory-oriented) | Length due to 100 questions | 70–80/100 |
Is it Easy to Score 150 in MHT CET?
Scoring 150 in MHT CET is a bit difficult and can be achieved by top performers. Candidates should prepare high-weightage chapters well with an accuracy of 90% on attempted questions.
- For scoring 150+, candidates should attempt 180 to 190 questions with 85 to 90% accuracy.
- With a score of more than 150, candidates can get admission in top colleges like COEP, VJTI, SPIT (CSE/IT branches).
The table below shows the marks target, approximate percentile, rank range, preparation strategy, and reality check.
| Marks Target | Approx. Percentile | Rank Range | Preparation Strategy Needed | Reality Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 120+ | 97–98.5 | Top 10,000 | Strong basics, regular mocks | Achievable by consistent students |
| 130–140 | 98.7–99.3 | Top 5,000 | High accuracy in Maths/Biology & strong Chemistry | Achieved by ~7–8% candidates |
| 150+ | 99.7+ | Top 1,000 | Mastery of PCM/PCB, daily timed practice, zero weak areas | Achieved by only the top 2–3% |
MHT CET 2026 Difficulty Level
The MHT CET Difficulty level 2026 will show the level of challenging questions expected in the PCM and PCB Groups. The exam is expected to be based on conceptual understanding, problem-solving skills, and the Maharashtra State Board syllabus.
| Group | Subject | Difficulty Level | Question Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCM | Mathematics | High | Numerical / Conceptual MCQs | Calculus & Algebra are the toughest; they require practice & speed |
| PCM | Physics | Moderate | Conceptual & Numerical MCQs | Some questions are tricky; focus on key formulas |
| PCM | Chemistry | Moderate | Conceptual & NCERT-based MCQs | Mostly scoring if concepts are clear |
| PCB | Physics | Moderate | Conceptual MCQs | Easier than PCM Physics; focus on Class 12 topics |
| PCB | Chemistry | Moderate | Conceptual & NCERT-based MCQs | Similar to PCM Chemistry, scoring if practised well |
| PCB | Biology | Moderate | Conceptual & Fact-based MCQs | High number of questions; straightforward if memorised |
FAQs for MHT CET Exam Pattern
How many marks are there in the MHT CET exam?
The total marks of MHT CET 2026 differ based on the group: PCM for engineering candidates and PCB for medical/pharmacy candidates.
| Group | Total Questions | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|
| PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) | 150 | 200 |
| PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) | 200 | 200 |
What is the pattern of the MHT CET PCM exam?
The PCM Exam pattern is designed to test Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics knowledge of Class 11 & 12, with a higher weightage to Class 12 topics.
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 50 | 2 | 100 |
| Physics | 50 | 1 | 50 |
| Chemistry | 50 | 1 | 50 |
| Total | 150 | — | 200 |
How many marks is 95 percentile in MHT CET?
In the MHT CET Exam, candidates scoring above 95 percentile are among the top performers. The exact marks vary depending on the difficulty level each year.
MHT CET Total Marks
The total marks for MHT CET 2026 depend on the group chosen by the candidate. The PCM group is for engineering candidates, and the PCB group is for medical and pharmacy candidates.
| Group | Total Questions | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|
| PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) | 150 | 200 |
| PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) | 200 | 200 |
MHT CET PCM Exam Pattern
The PCM exam tests knowledge of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics from Class 11 and 12. Class 12 topics carry a higher weightage.
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 50 | 2 | 100 |
| Physics | 50 | 1 | 50 |
| Chemistry | 50 | 1 | 50 |
| Total | 150 | 200 |
Marks for 95 Percentile in MHT CET
Candidates scoring above the 95 percentile are among the top performers. The exact marks for a given percentile vary each year based on the difficulty level of the exam.
| Group | Approx. Marks for 95 Percentile |
|---|---|
| PCM | 135–140 / 200 |
| PCB | 140–145 / 200 |
The 95th percentile is competitive and usually enough for admission in reputed engineering or medical colleges in Maharashtra.
How to Score 150+ in MHT CET
To score more than 150 marks, candidates need consistent preparation and accuracy across all subjects. This is particularly important in Mathematics for the PCM group and Biology for the PCB group.
Tips to Score 150+:
- Practice the previous year’s MHT CET papers
- Focus on Class 12 topics (~80% weightage)
- Take mock tests and analyse weak areas
- Attempt all questions as there is no negative marking
Marks for 98th Percentile in MHT CET
The 98th percentile in MHT CET represents the top 2% of candidates. It reflects excellent performance and high chances of securing admission to elite colleges.
| Group | Approx. Marks for 98 Percentile |
|---|---|
| PCM | 145–150 / 200 |
| PCB | 150–155 / 200 |