MET 2026 Phase-1 Applicants Await Slot Booking and Admit Card Updates
Stay updated on the MET 2026 Phase 1 slot booking process and admit card release dates. This guide provides engineering aspirants with a detailed look at the Manipal Entrance Test timeline, step-by-step OTBS instructions, and essential eligibility criteria. Learn how to secure your preferred exam center and download your hall ticket for the upcoming April session.

As the calendar turns to late December, engineering aspirants targeting the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) are closely monitoring the MET 2026 Phase 1 progress. With the application window currently active, the focus is shifting toward the crucial next steps: selecting exam dates through the Online Test Booking System (OTBS) and securing the admit card. For those aiming for a seat at prestigious campuses like MIT Manipal or MIT Bengaluru, understanding the coordination between registration and slot allocation is vital for a stress-free examination experience.
Key Dates and Slot Booking Mechanism
The Phase 1 application process, which commenced in late 2025, remains open until mid-March. However, the window for slot booking is anticipated to open shortly after the registration deadline. Aspirants should note that the booking process operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Application Deadline: The last date to submit the Phase 1 form is March 15, 2026.
- OTBS Window: Slot booking is tentatively scheduled for the first week of April 2026.
- Booking Requirement: Candidates must use their application number and the password generated during registration to access the OTBS portal.
- Selection Flexibility: Aspirants can choose their preferred exam city, date, and specific time slot (Slot 1: 9:00 AM or Slot 2: 12:30 PM) based on real-time availability.
Admit Card Issuance and Exam Structure
The MET 2026 admit card serves as the mandatory entry pass for the computer-based test. It is generated only after a candidate successfully confirms their exam slot. Discrepancies in the admit card should be reported immediately to the MAHE admissions office to avoid last-minute hurdles at the center.
- Release Timeline: E-hall tickets are typically available for download 24 to 48 hours after the slot is confirmed.
- Details Verified: The document will feature the candidate’s name, photograph, exact test center address, and reporting time.
- Exam Mode: MET 2026 will be a 120-minute online test consisting of 60 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) covering Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and English.
- Scoring Weightage: With a total of 240 marks, the test emphasizes accuracy and speed, making the mock tests available on the official portal a key resource for preparation.
Eligibility and Comparison of Key Phases
MAHE offers students the opportunity to appear in two phases, allowing them to improve their scores. While Phase 1 is the primary target for early applicants, understanding the differences between the two sessions helps in strategic planning.
| Feature | MET Phase 1 (Tentative) | MET Phase 2 (Tentative) |
| Application End Date | March 15, 2026 | April 2026 |
| Slot Booking Period | Early April 2026 | Early May 2026 |
| Examination Dates | Third Week of April 2026 | Second Week of May 2026 |
| Result Declaration | Late April 2026 | Late May 2026 |
- Academic Criteria: Candidates must have 50% aggregate marks in Physics, Mathematics, and one optional subject in their 10+2 or equivalent exams.
- Multiple Attempts: If an aspirant chooses to appear for both phases, the better of the two scores will be considered for the final merit list and counseling.
In conclusion, the journey to a premier engineering campus requires both academic excellence and administrative vigilance. Candidates are encouraged to complete their registrations early to avoid the last-minute rush and to ensure they get their preferred testing locations. You should regularly monitor the official Manipal Academy of Higher Education portal at manipal.edu for the live link to the OTBS and further announcements regarding the Phase 1 hall ticket release.
For regular updates follow Only Education News. For more details on engineering entrance exams and courses, check here: Engineering Exams List.
