Engineering Entrance Exams Including MHT-CET and TS EAMCET Continue Registration Updates

MHT-CET, TS EAMCET, and KCET 2026 registration updates are now live. Check key deadlines, mandatory APAAR ID requirements, and exam schedules for state B.Tech admissions.

The landscape for state-level engineering admission cycles is witnessing significant activity as major state boards release updated schedules and mandatory guidelines for 2026. While national exams like JEE Main dominate the current headlines, state-specific tests such as the MHT-CET (Maharashtra) and TS EAMCET (Telangana) have introduced new digital mandates, including the compulsory integration of the APAAR ID and Aadhaar-based authentication for all applicants. These updates are critical for aspirants aiming for seats in state-run and private technical universities.

The State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra, has recently updated candidates regarding the commencement of the MHT-CET 2026 registration process. Originally expected to go live on January 1, the portal is currently undergoing final stress testing. Authorities have confirmed that the link will be fully operational within the first week of January. A major shift this year is the mandatory requirement of the APAAR ID (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry), which acts as a digital academic locker for students.

• Mandatory Documents: Candidates must possess a valid Aadhaar card and a pre-generated APAAR ID to initiate their registration.
• Two-Session Exam: Starting this year, MHT-CET will be conducted in two sessions (April and May), with the best scorecard performance being considered for final merit.
• Application Fee: The fee is set at ₹1,000 for General category students and ₹800 for reserved categories within Maharashtra.
• Aadhaar Sync: Name and date of birth on the application must strictly match the data available on the UIDAI server to avoid rejection.

TS EAMCET and KCET 2026: Official Calendars Released

In South India, the Telangana State Council of Higher Education (TGCHE) and the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) have synchronized their calendars to avoid overlaps with national assessments. The TS EAMCET (now officially referred to as TG EAPCET) has confirmed its exam dates for May 2026, while Karnataka's KCET has announced a mid-January start for its digital application window.

• KCET Update: KEA will launch an OTP-based application system on January 17 to enhance security and reduce clerical errors.
• TS EAMCET Pharmacy: Dates for the Pharmacy and Agriculture streams in Telangana have been specifically slotted for May 4 and 5, 2026.
• GUJCET Extension: The Gujarat board has extended its registration deadline to January 6/7, providing a final buffer for students to submit their documents.

Key Preparation for State Admission Cycles

As the registration portals open, candidates are advised to prepare their digital dossiers to meet the strict upload specifications. Unlike national exams, state entrance tests often require specific domicile certificates and category-based documentation at the time of initial application to determine seat eligibility under local quotas.

• Scorecard Normalization: For exams held in multiple shifts like MHT-CET, a normalization process will be used to ensure the final percentile is fair across different difficulty levels.
• Domicile Proof: Ensure that domicile certificates are updated, as many states have revised their "local status" definitions for the 2026-27 academic year.
• Mock Tests: State-specific mock tests are now available on the respective CET portals to help students familiarize themselves with the localized exam patterns.

Conclusion

The first week of January serves as a vital preparation phase for state-level engineering admission aspirants. With MHT-CET registration expected to stabilize in the coming days and KCET's window opening on January 17, the focus is firmly on administrative accuracy. By securing an APAAR ID and ensuring Aadhaar synchronization now, students can avoid last-minute hurdles. The final percentile and scorecard generated from these state exams will remain the definitive gateway for thousands of local engineering seats throughout the 2026 season.