MHT CET 2026 Achieves All-Time High Enrollment Figures

The Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell has reported that MHT CET 2026 registration numbers have reached a record high, with approximately 10.94 lakh applicants registered for the engineering and pharmacy entrance exam so far. This figure marks the highest ever registration count recorded for the state-level test. The unusually strong registration trend is being attributed largely to the introduction of a two-attempt system this year, which allows candidates to appear in both sessions in April and May and have the best score considered for final ranking.

The high registration count includes candidates from both PCM and PCB groups

The MHT CET 2026 registration data shows significant numbers across both the PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) and PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) streams. As per available estimates:

• In the PCM group, around 4,52,931 candidates registered for the first attempt and 2,79,337 registered for the second attempt.
• In the PCB group, 2,64,019 candidates are registered for the first attempt, and 97,872 for the second.

These combined figures result in a total that surpasses previous years’ registration records for the exam.

The two-attempt exam structure has contributed significantly to the surge in participation

One of the key reasons behind the high number of registrations for MHT CET 2026 is the recently introduced two-attempt structure. Candidates have the option to appear in both Session 1 (April) and Session 2 (May) exams, and authorities will consider the best of the two scores for final ranking and counselling. This flexibility reduces pressure on students, encourages improvement in performance and boosts overall participation. It is seen as a step towards aligning MHT CET with national entrance exam standards.

Highest registration figures will likely influence competitive dynamics in 2026 admissions

With nearly 11 lakh registrations, competition for admissions to engineering and pharmacy programmes in Maharashtra is expected to intensify. Higher registration numbers can lead to increased cut-offs and shifts in merit benchmarks, particularly in popular disciplines like Computer Science, Electronics and Biomedical Engineering. Students aiming for top percentile ranks will need to perform consistently well in both exam attempts to stay competitive.

The final registration total may still increase before the deadline

MHT CET 2026 registration is ongoing and the final numbers are likely to increase further before the deadline. Candidates can continue to submit their applications through the official portal cetcell.mahacet.org until the last date without late fee, and slightly beyond with a late fee option. The CET Cell had already announced deadline extensions this year, encouraging more applicants to register.

Strong registrations indicate sustained interest in MHT CET as a gateway exam

The record registration figures reflect sustained interest in MHT CET as the primary state-level gateway for engineering and pharmacy admissions in Maharashtra. High participation this year also suggests that the revised exam structure and multiple attempts have resonated with aspirants. Education experts say that such changes could lead to better scoring opportunities and reduce exam stress among candidates.