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/MMS CET 2026 exam dates, confirming two distinct sessions in April and May 2026. This is a crucial announcement for MBA aspirants targeting top B-schools like JBIMS and SIMSREE. Get the complete schedule, understand the exam pattern (200 questions, no negative marking), check the eligibility requirements (50% in graduation), and start your targeted preparation immediately. The official notification was released on November 21, 2025.
The quest for a coveted Master of Business Administration (MBA) or Master of Management Studies (MMS) seat in Maharashtra's top B-schools has just gained crucial clarity. The Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell officially announced the exam dates for the MAH MBA/MMS CET 2026 on November 21, 2025. In a significant move, the examination will be conducted across two distinct sessions to manage candidate numbers and ensure a fair process. The first session is scheduled from April 6–8, 2026, and an additional session will be held on May 9, 2026.
This early announcement, made well in advance of the typical exam cycle, provides aspirants with a strategic advantage. As of the dateline November 25, 2025, candidates should immediately use this definitive schedule to structure their preparation, align their study plans, and target the over 40,000 MBA/MMS seats available in the state's recognized institutions, including the highly sought-after Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS) and Sydenham Institute of Management Studies & Research (SIMSREE).
Key Exam Structure and Pattern for MAH CET 2026
Understanding the structure of the MAH MBA/MMS CET is essential for effective preparation, as its pattern differs significantly from other national MBA entrance exams like the CAT. The exam is a Computer-Based Test (CBT), designed to test a candidate's aptitude across multiple management domains.
- Exam Mode and Duration:
- The test will be conducted online (CBT) in English.
- The total duration for the exam is 150 minutes (2.5 hours).
- Significantly, there is no sectional time limit, allowing candidates to manage the 200 questions according to their strengths.
- Question Format and Marking Scheme:
- The paper consists of 200 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs).
- Each correct answer fetches +1 mark.
- A major relief for aspirants: there is No Negative Marking for incorrect or unattempted questions. This encourages candidates to attempt all 200 questions.
- Sectional Composition:
- The exam is divided into four main sections, with a high weightage on Reasoning:
- 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)
- The exam is divided into four main sections, with a high weightage on Reasoning:
Eligibility & Registration Snapshot
Aspiring candidates must ensure they meet the minimum eligibility criteria before proceeding with the registration process. The State CET Cell's official website, cetcell.mahacet.org, is the sole platform for all communication and applications.
- Academic Eligibility Requirements:
- Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s Degree of minimum three years duration from any recognized university.
- General Category/OMS (Outside Maharashtra State) Candidates: Must have scored a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in their qualifying degree.
- Reserved Category Candidates (from Maharashtra State only): Require a minimum of 45% aggregate marks in their qualifying degree.
- Final-Year Students: Candidates in their final year of a Bachelor's Degree are also eligible to apply but must submit proof of completion during the Centralized Admission Process (CAP) rounds.
- Key Registration Timeline (Expected):
- The MAH MBA/MMS CET 2026 registration process is expected to commence in December 2025 and likely close in February/Early March 2026.
- Candidates must register on the official portal, cetcell.mahacet.org, by filling out personal details, uploading a photo and signature, and paying the application fee. Early application is strongly advised to prevent last-minute technical glitches.
- The Centralized Admission Process (CAP):
- Admission to all participating institutes is conducted through the Centralized Admission Process (CAP) rounds, which usually begin in May/June, based on the MAH CET 2026 score and category-wise merit.
Strategic Preparation and Target Institutions
With two separate examination windows, candidates have the flexibility to plan their mock tests and revision cycles effectively. A high score is crucial for securing admission to the state's most prestigious B-schools.
- Focus Areas for Preparation:
- Logical and Abstract Reasoning: Constituting 100 out of 200 questions, this is the highest weightage section. Focus heavily on Analytical Puzzles, Seating Arrangements, Syllogisms, and Visual/Non-Verbal Reasoning sets.
- Quantitative Aptitude: Review core topics like Arithmetic (Time, Speed, Distance, Profit & Loss), Algebra, and basic Geometry. The level of difficulty is generally moderate.
- Verbal Ability: Concentrate on Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary (Synonyms/Antonyms), Sentence Correction, and Para Jumbles.
- Top B-Schools Accepting MAH CET Scores:
- Achieving a high percentile (99+ for top choices) is necessary to enter Tier-1 institutions:
- Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS), Mumbai
- Sydenham Institute of Management Studies & Research (SIMSREE), Mumbai
- Prin. L. N. Welingkar Institute of Management Development & Research (WeSchool), Mumbai
- Department of Management Sciences (PUMBA), University of Pune, Pune
- SIES College of Management Studies, Mumbai
- Achieving a high percentile (99+ for top choices) is necessary to enter Tier-1 institutions:
Conclusion: Paving the Way to a Top MBA/MMS
The dual-session announcement for the MAH MBA/MMS CET 2026 provides an excellent opportunity for aspirants to mitigate risks and focus their efforts. With the first session scheduled for April 6–8 and the second on May 9, 2026, the pathway to a respected MBA/MMS program in Maharashtra is clearly defined. Utilize the comprehensive syllabus, practice extensively, and adhere to the eligibility norms. Start your preparation today to maximize your score and secure a seat in your dream B-school.
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