MAH MBA CET 2026 Registration Window Continues for MBA/MMS Admissions
The Maharashtra State CET Cell has officially opened the MAH MBA CET 2026 registration window as of January 10, 2026. Eligible graduates and final-year students can now apply for the state-level entrance exam on the official portal. This report details the new two-attempt format, mandatory APAAR ID requirements, and key deadlines for the 2026-28 admission cycle in Maharashtra.

The State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra, is currently processing a high volume of applications as the MAH MBA CET 2026 registration window remains active. Launched on January 10, the portal is the primary gateway for candidates seeking admission to Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Management Studies (MMS) programs across the state. In a significant move for the 2026 academic year, the authorities have introduced a dual-session format, allowing students more flexibility in their pursuit of a seat in premier Maharashtra institutes.
New Exam Format and Attempt Structure
The 2026 cycle marks a departure from the traditional single-attempt system. The CET Cell has restructured the examination to align with national-level entrance trends, aiming to reduce candidate stress and provide a second chance for score improvement.
- Dual Attempts: For the first time, the MAH MBA CET will be conducted in two separate sessions. The first session is scheduled for April 6, 7, and 8, while a second attempt will be held on May 9, 2026.
- Best Score Policy: Similar to the JEE Main model, candidates who choose to appear for both attempts will have their best performance considered for the final Centralized Admission Process (CAP).
- Registration Flexibility: The current registration window, closing on February 12, 2026, covers the application process for these sessions, allowing students to indicate their preference during the initial sign-up.
- Session Allotment: Candidates are randomly assigned to different shifts to ensure an even distribution of test-takers across the 48 designated test cities.
Mandatory Digital Identity and Eligibility
A critical update for the 2026 registration is the integration of digital academic lockers. The Maharashtra CET Cell has made it mandatory for all applicants to possess specific digital IDs to complete their forms on the official portal.
- APAAR and Aadhaar ID: It is now compulsory for every candidate to have an Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR) ID linked with their Aadhaar card. This move is part of the "One Nation, One Student ID" initiative.
- Graduation Criteria: Applicants must hold a three-year bachelor's degree from a recognized university with at least 50% aggregate marks. For reserved category candidates from Maharashtra, the minimum requirement is 45%.
- Final Year Students: Individuals currently in their final year of graduation are also eligible to apply, provided they complete their degree requirements before the commencement of the admission rounds.
- Application Fees: The registration fee is set at ₹1,200 for Open Category and All India (OMS) candidates, while reserved category students from Maharashtra pay a reduced fee of ₹1,000.
MAH MBA CET 2026 Key Dates and Exam Pattern
The following table outlines the timeline for the 2026 admission cycle and the structure of the 200-mark entrance test.
Event / Parameter | Details / Important Dates |
Registration Deadline | February 12, 2026 |
First Exam Session | April 6, 7, and 8, 2026 |
Second Exam Session | May 9, 2026 |
Total Questions | 200 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
Duration | 150 Minutes (No Sectional Timer) |
Negative Marking | None (1 Mark per Correct Answer) |
Conclusion
The ongoing registration for MAH MBA CET 2026 represents a vital opportunity for management aspirants to enter the state's robust educational ecosystem. With the introduction of the dual-attempt format and the mandatory APAAR ID integration, the State CET Cell has modernized the admission pathway to ensure greater transparency and student convenience. As the February 12 deadline approaches, candidates are encouraged to verify their digital credentials on the official portal to avoid last-minute technical hurdles. The successful completion of this registration phase will lead into a busy spring examination schedule, eventually paving the way for the CAP rounds in mid-2026.
