MBA CET 2026: Registration Date, Exam Date, and Syllabus

The Maharashtra Common Entrance Test, also known popularly as MBA CET, is one of the most competitive state-level management entrance examinations in India. Conducted by the State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra, the exam serves as a gateway to MBA and MMS programmes offered by government, university-managed, and private management institutes across the state. Prestigious universities such as Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS) and Sydenham Institute of Management Studies, Research and Entrepreneurship Education (SIMSREE) admit students through this exam, making it a key milestone for management aspirants.

Every year, more than 1.5 lakh candidates appear for MAH MBA-CET, which goes to show its importance and competitiveness. This blog offers a comprehensive overview of MBA CET 2026, covering registration timelines, exam dates, eligibility criteria, syllabus, exam pattern, and preparation strategies.

What Is the MBA CET Exam?

The MAH MBA CET is a computer-based test conducted for admission into MMS and MBA courses in Maharashtra. After the exam, qualified candidates participate in a Centralised Admission Process (CAP), during which seats are allotted based on CET scores and preferences.

Additionally, candidates with valid scores in Top MBA entrance exams in India such as CAT, CMAT, MAT, XAT, ATMA, or GMAT can also take part in the CAP rounds without appearing for the CET again.

MBA CET 2026 Important Dates

While official notifications are released closer to the exam cycle, the timeline for MBA CET 2026 registration, examination, and results is outlined below:

Interested students are advised to keep a constant check on official announcements to avoid missing deadlines.

MBA CET 2026 Application Fees

The application fee must be paid online during registration. Without fee payment, the application form will continue to reflect as incomplete.

Eligibility Criteria for MBA CET 2026

To appear for the MAH MBA-CET 2026, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• A minimum three-year Bachelor’s degree from a UGC or AIU-recognised university

• At least 50% aggregate marks (45% for Maharashtra reserved categories, EWS, and PWD candidates)

• Final-year graduation students are also eligible to apply

For candidates evaluated in the CGPA system, they need to convert their grades into a percentage as per the university’s prescribed method. Reserved category candidates are required to produce valid caste and non-creamy layer certificates during document verification.

MBA CET 2026 Registration Process

The registration process for MBA CET is conducted entirely online. Candidates must first complete basic registration and then fill out the detailed application form.

Key Steps:

1. Visit the official Maharashtra CET portal

2. Register using your personal details and create login credentials

3. Fill in academic, category, and domicile information

4. Upload a photograph and a signature in the prescribed format

5. Select preferred test cities

6. Pay the application fee and submit the form

Applicants should keep a copy of the submitted form for future reference.

Photo and Signature Specifications

The photograph must be recently taken and passport-sized with a light background.

MBA CET 2026 Exam Pattern

Understanding the exam pattern is important for effective preparation. The MAH MBA-CET follows a balanced pattern with no section time limits.

Exam Duration: 150 minutes
Marking Scheme: +1 for correct answer, no negative marking
Mode: Online

CET MBA Syllabus 2026

The CET MBA syllabus remains consistent with previous years and covers four broad sections:

Logical & Abstract Reasoning

• Linear and circular arrangements

• Coding-decoding

• Blood relations

• Venn diagrams

• Syllogisms

• Series and symbol-based reasoning

Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation

• Arithmetic and algebra

• Geometry and mensuration

• Ratio, percentage, probability

• Data interpretation (tables, charts, graphs)

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

• Reading comprehension passages

• Grammar and sentence correction

• Vocabulary, synonyms, antonyms

• Para jumbles and critical reasoning

MBA CET 2026 Preparation Tips

Preparation for MAH CET typically requires 3–6 months of dedicated studying. Candidates often prepare for multiple MBA entrance exams at the same time, which makes managing time and multiple syllabi crucial.

Section-wise Strategy:

• Logical Reasoning: Practise 15–20 questions daily to improve speed and accuracy

• Abstract Reasoning: Focus on pattern recognition and shortcut methods

• Quantitative Aptitude: Revise formulas, practise calculation-intensive questions, and analyse mock tests

• Verbal Ability: Read editorials, revise grammar rules, and practise RC passages regularly

Solving previous years’ question papers and taking mock tests helps candidates understand difficulty levels and improve performance.

Final Thoughts

MBA CET continues to be one of the most sought after gateway for management studies by aspirants looking to take admission to institutes in Maharashtra. A clear understanding of the syllabus, exam pattern, and timelines is essential for effective preparation. For students exploring structured learning methods and diverse institutes, staying informed about competitive exams like MAH CET helps align preparation with long-term academic goals.