MAH MBA CET 2026 exam scheduled from April 6–8 and again on May 9, dates officially declared

The Maharashtra State CET Cell has officially declared the MAH MBA CET 2026 exam dates: April 6, 7, and 8, and a second slot on May 9, 2026. This is a critical announcement for MBA/MMS aspirants targeting top B-schools in Maharashtra. Learn the exam pattern, key eligibility criteria, and a robust preparation strategy to ace this state-level, computer-based test (CBT). Start your 550+ word, SEO-optimized preparation plan today!

The pursuit of a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from a prestigious institution in Maharashtra has just been given a definitive timeline. In a crucial announcement for management aspirants, the Maharashtra State CET Cell has officially released the exam dates for the MAH MBA CET 2026. This computer-based entrance test, a gateway to MBA and MMS programs across over 300 government, university, and private-unaided institutes in the state, is scheduled to be conducted on multiple days.

​Aspiring candidates must mark their calendars for the main test windows: April 6, 7, and 8, 2026. Additionally, the CET Cell has scheduled a second examination slot on May 9, 2026. This multi-session format is designed to accommodate the large number of applicants—often exceeding 70,000—and ensures a smoother testing experience. With the dates now locked in, candidates have a clear runway of approximately 200 days to finalize their preparation strategy and maximize their chances of securing admission into coveted institutions like JBIMS, SIMSREE, PUMBA, and K J Somaiya Institute of Management.

​Key Details of the MAH MBA CET 2026 Examination 

​The MAH MBA CET is a state-level entrance examination highly sought after by both Maharashtra State (MS) and All India (AI) candidates. Understanding the exam's structure is the first step toward effective preparation.

• ​Exam Mode and Duration: The test is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) with a total duration of 150 minutes (2.5 hours). Unlike some national-level exams, there is no sectional time limit, giving candidates the flexibility to manage their time across sections.
• ​Question Paper Structure: The paper consists of 200 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), with five options for each question. The questions are randomly jumbled across sections.
• ​Marking Scheme: Crucially, the MAH MBA CET follows a favorable marking scheme: +1 mark for every correct answer and NO negative marking for incorrect attempts. This encourages candidates to attempt all questions confidently.

​The 200 questions are distributed across four core sections, testing different facets of a candidate's aptitude:

• ​Logical Reasoning: 75 Questions (75 Marks)
• ​Abstract Reasoning: 25 Questions (25 Marks)
• ​Quantitative Aptitude: 50 Questions (50 Marks)
• ​Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC): 50 Questions (50 Marks)

​Eligibility and Application Checklist 

​Before diving into preparation, aspirants must ensure they meet the minimum eligibility criteria set by the State CET Cell. The registration process is expected to commence around December 2025.

• ​Educational Qualification: Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree of a minimum of three years' duration from a university recognized by the UGC or AIU. 
  • ​Minimum Marks: A minimum of 50% marks in aggregate is required for General category candidates (including All India candidates).
  • ​Reserved Category Relaxation: Candidates belonging to reserved categories (SC, ST, OBC, PwD) from the Maharashtra State only are eligible for a relaxation, requiring a minimum of 45% marks.
  • ​Final Year Students: Students appearing for their final year of the qualifying degree are also eligible to apply provisionally, provided their results are declared before the commencement of the admission process.
• ​Nationality and Age Limit: 
  • ​The candidate must be an Indian National. Separate provisions exist for NRI/Foreign nationals, though All India (AI) candidates must be Indian citizens.
  • ​There is no upper or lower age limit for appearing in the MAH MBA CET.
• ​The Admission Process (CAP): After the results are announced, shortlisted candidates will participate in the Centralized Admission Process (CAP). This is a multi-round counseling procedure where seats are allocated based on merit, preference, and seat availability. High percentile scores (typically 99+ for top institutes like JBIMS and SIMSREE) are essential to secure a seat through the CAP.

​Strategic Preparation: Your 200-Day Roadmap 

​With the exam roughly 200 days away, a structured and strategic preparation plan is key to cracking the MAH MBA CET 2026. Given the absence of negative marking and the 150-minute time limit for 200 questions, speed and accuracy are paramount.

• ​Master the Syllabus and Exam Pattern: Begin with a thorough understanding of the syllabus for all four sections. The Logical Reasoning section carries the maximum weightage (75 marks), demanding significant dedicated practice, especially in areas like Seating Arrangement, Critical Reasoning, and Syllogisms.
• ​Mock Test Practice is Non-Negotiable: The jumbled nature of questions in the actual exam requires constant practice with full-length mock tests that mirror the test environment. 
  • ​Daily Practice: Dedicate time daily for practicing sectional tests, especially for Quantitative Aptitude and Abstract Reasoning which require formula memorization and pattern recognition.
  • ​Weekly Mock Analysis: Attempt a full-length mock test at least once a week. The most crucial part is the subsequent analysis to identify weak topics, time sinks, and areas for improvement.
  • ​Target Attempts: Since there's no negative marking, aim to develop a strategy to attempt all 200 questions within the 150-minute window, maximizing your score.
• ​Section-Wise Focus Areas: 
  • ​Quantitative Aptitude: Focus on core Arithmetic (Percentage, Profit & Loss, Ratio & Proportion, Time-Speed-Distance) and Data Interpretation (DI) sets. Master shortcuts for quick calculations.
  • ​Verbal Ability & RC: Enhance your reading speed by regularly reading newspapers and editorial articles. Focus on foundational English grammar and vocabulary. Practice a variety of Reading Comprehension (RC) passages.
  • ​Abstract Reasoning: This section heavily involves visual reasoning and pattern completion. Consistent practice with visual puzzles and series is necessary to build speed.

​Conclusion

​The announcement of the MAH MBA CET 2026 dates on April 6, 7, 8, and May 9, 2026, is a clarion call for aspirants to transition from planning to execution. The state-level nature of the exam, the high number of participating B-schools, and the unique marking scheme make it a fantastic opportunity for management candidates. By diligently following a structured preparation roadmap, mastering the test pattern, and prioritizing consistent mock test analysis, you can effectively secure a high percentile and unlock your path to a top-tier MBA/MMS program in Maharashtra.

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