First round of MHT-CET PCM from today, dual-attempt system kicks in Maharashtra will see a record number of students taking the state-level engineering entrance examination, with over 4.79 lakh candidates registered for the first phase of the MHT-CET (PCM group) starting April 11. This marks the introduction of a dual-attempt system, designed to align the state’s exam structure with national-level testing patterns. The computer-based examination will be held across 198 centers in all 36 districts between April 11 and April 20, excluding April 12 and 14, with two daily sessions. For the first time, candidates will have two opportunities to take the test. The initial phase runs from April 11 to April 20, while the second attempt is scheduled between May 14 and May 16. Authorities clarified that if a student appears for both attempts, the higher percentile will be used for admission, though participating in at least one attempt is mandatory. This change follows directives from higher and technical education minister Chandrakant Patil, aiming to bring the state’s exam format closer to national exams like the Joint Entrance Examination (Main), which also allow multiple attempts. The MHT-CET is conducted by the State Common Entrance Test Cell for admissions to engineering, pharmacy, and agriculture courses for the 2026-27 academic year. The exam’s structure now reflects a shift toward flexibility, addressing concerns about the pressure of a single attempt. The dual-attempt system is expected to reduce stress on students while ensuring a more equitable evaluation process. The decision to implement the dual-attempt system underscores Maharashtra’s efforts to modernize its educational framework.#maharashtra #chandrakant_patil #state_common_entrance_test_cell #mht_cet_pcm #joint_entrance_examination_main
