MET 2026 registrations underway; application window open until 15 March 2026
The Manipal Entrance Test (MET 2026) application window is officially open, marking the crucial first step for aspirants aiming for admission into prestigious B.Tech and other programs across Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) campuses. This comprehensive, computer-based examination is your direct route to a top-tier engineering education at Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) and its affiliated colleges. The application process for Phase 1 commenced recently and the strict deadline to apply is March 15, 2026. Prospective students must ensure they complete the entire registration and fee payment process well before this cut-off date to secure their spot for the initial exam phase. MET is a highly competitive examination, and early application is highly advised to avoid any last-minute technical glitches. This year, the exam will be held in multiple phases, providing candidates with a valuable opportunity to attempt the test more than once and submit their best score for admission.
Understanding the timeline and ensuring you meet all prerequisites are the first essential steps in your preparation. The MET 2026 is designed to be accessible to a broad range of students who fulfill the academic requirements.
Activity | Details |
| Application Deadline | March 15, 2026 (No applications accepted after this date for Phase 1) |
| Phase 1 Exam Window | April 2026 (Tentative) |
| Slot Booking (OTBS) | Expected to open in April 2026 on a first-come, first-served basis |
| Important Note | Early slot booking is critical to secure preferred exam date and test center |
Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
The entire application process for MET 2026 is conducted online through the official MAHE admissions portal. Following these steps carefully will ensure a smooth registration and submission.
- Online Registration and Profile Creation: Start by visiting the official website and creating a new applicant profile using a valid email ID and mobile number. This generates your login credentials.
- Filling the Application Form: Log in to the portal and accurately fill in all personal, communication, and academic details (Class 10 and 12 scores/status). Accuracy is paramount, as MAHE generally does not provide a correction window.
- Document Upload: Upload scanned images of your recent passport-size photograph and signature. Ensure these adhere strictly to the prescribed dimensions and file size (e.g., usually JPEG/PNG format, max 300 KB).
- Fee Payment: The application fee (which typically includes an application fee and a mandatory entrance test fee) must be paid online using a debit/credit card, net banking, or UPI. The total fee for a single attempt is usually around ₹2000 (subject to change).
- Slot Booking: This is a crucial final step. Once fees are paid, you must book your exam slot—selecting the date, time, and center—using the OTBS, which opens tentatively in April 2026
The Strategic Advantage of MET
MET offers a distinct advantage over single-attempt exams by allowing candidates a valuable second chance. This multi-phase structure is a key feature for engineering aspirants.
- Multiple Attempts for Better Scores: Candidates who appear for Phase 1 can opt to register and appear for a second attempt in Phase 2 (tentatively in May 2026) by paying an additional test fee. MAHE will consider the best score from the attempts for the final rank list, significantly reducing exam-day pressure.
- Comprehensive Exam Pattern: The MET B.Tech exam is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) lasting 120 minutes. It comprises 60 questions for a total of 240 marks, covering Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and English.
- Unique Marking Scheme: The test includes both Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions. A significant feature is that NAT questions have no negative marking, encouraging students to attempt all numerical problems. MCQs follow a 4/-1 marking scheme.
- Rank-Based Counselling: Admission to the desired B.Tech program is based purely on your MET rank and preference filling during the subsequent centralized counselling process (typically starting in June-July 2026).
The opening of the MET 2026 application is a monumental moment for thousands of B.Tech hopefuls across the country. Don't procrastinate; your future in engineering starts with this form. Begin your registration now on the official MAHE admissions portal and secure your Phase 1 application before the March 15, 2026 deadline to ensure the best possible start to your admission journey.
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