MCA Entrance Exam Maharashtra 2026: MAH MCA CET Registration Last Date, Syllabus, Exam Pattern, and CAP Round Guide

If you’re targeting MCA admission in Maharashtra state, you’re not just “taking an exam”—you’re navigating a tightly sequenced system: online registration → computer based test → result/merit → MCA CET CAP round allotment → document verification → admission. The exam is officially conducted by the Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test Cell (CET Cell), which manages the organization, administration, and publication of the exam schedule and syllabus.

That sequencing is exactly where most candidates lose time (and sometimes seats). They either prepare well but miss a deadline, or they apply correctly but prepare without a score-maximizing plan for a 90-minute, 100-question test.

This guide breaks the entire mca common entrance exam process into what matters most: verified timelines (where available), the mah mca cet syllabus, the exam pattern, mistakes to avoid in the application form, and a practical preparation strategy you can execute even with college or a job. The MAH MCA CET is the state common entrance test for MCA admissions in Maharashtra, conducted annually by the Maharashtra Common Entrance Test Cell. While there are various entrance exams for MCA programs across India, this guide focuses specifically on the Maharashtra MCA Common Entrance Test.

If you’re also exploring management tracks, bookmark Mockat’s broader MBA entrance examsresource here: MBA entrance exams in India.

Scores from the MAH MCA CET are accepted by renowned institutions across Maharashtra for MCA admissions.

What is the MCA entrance exam in Maharashtra?

The mca entrance exam maharashtra is commonly referred to as MAH MCA CET (MCA Common Entrance Test)—a state-level entrance exam conducted for admission into Master of Computer Applications (MCA) programs in Maharashtra. The exam is conducted by the Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test Cell, which is responsible for organizing and administering the state common entrance test for MCA admissions.

Your score is used to gain admission through the centralized counselling/admission process, including document verification, merit lists, and mca cet cap round seat allotment.

MAH MCA CET 2026 at a glance

Here’s the “exam in one screen” view aspirants need:

Exam name: MAH MCA CET (MAH-MCA-CET)
Mode: Computer based test (online)
Medium: English
Duration: 90 minutes
Total questions / marks: 100 questions, 200 marks
Sections: Mathematics & Statistics, Logical/Abstract Reasoning, English Comprehension & Verbal Ability, Computer Concepts
Marking scheme: 2 marks per question, no negative marking
Admissions: Through centralized admission process and CAP rounds in Maharashtra

A quick clarity point that matters for planning:

The MAH MCA CET is a postgraduate entrance exam for computer applications. Its preparation overlaps heavily with aptitude exams (Quant/Reasoning/English), but it also includes computer concepts—a section many students underestimate.

MCA CET 2026 registration last date and important dates

The first rule of CET-driven admissions: always trust the latest notice (extensions are common). For A.Y. 2026–27, the State CET Cell issued a final extension notice for registration.

Confirmed timeline for MAH MCA CET 2026 (A.Y. 2026–27)

Online registration started: 07 January 2026
MAH MCA CET 2026 registration last date: 23 February 2026 (final extension)
Tentative exam date: 30 March 2026
Edit window (corrections in application form): 26 February 2026 to 28 February 2026

Important note on changing schedules

The CET Cell explicitly treats schedules as tentative schedule items that may change under unavoidable circumstances. So use this strategy:

Use the dates above for context and “how the cycle moves.”
For future cycles, verify the latest notice on the official CET Cell portal before you fill and submit.

MAH MCA CET eligibility criteria

Before you think about mocks or sample papers, check eligibility. It prevents last-minute disqualification during the admission process.

4.1 Educational Qualification

To be eligible for the MCA entrance exam Maharashtra (MAH MCA CET), candidates must have a bachelor's degree from a recognized university. Additionally, having Mathematics as a subject at the 10+2 level or during graduation is mandatory. Candidates with a background in computer science, such as a B.Sc. in Computer Science, are particularly well-prepared for the exam and future career opportunities in the field.

4.2 Final Year Students

Students in their final year of graduation are eligible to apply for the MAH MCA CET. This allows candidates who are about to complete their bachelor's degree to appear for the entrance exam without waiting for their final results.

Who is eligible for MAH MCA CET?

You generally need:

Indian National status
A bachelor's degree (graduation) such as B.E./B.Tech/B.Sc/B.Com/BCA/B.Voc, etc.
Preference/requirement: having studied mathematics at 10+2 level or at graduation level
Minimum marks in the qualifying exam:
- 50% for general category
- 45% for candidates belonging to reserved categories/EWS/PwD (as applicable) in maharashtra state

Are final-year students eligible?

Yes—candidates appearing in the final year of the qualifying exam are typically allowed to appear for the CET (subject to meeting eligibility during admissions).

How to apply: online registration and application form steps

Most avoidable problems happen here: wrong photo specs, name mismatch, payment failures, missing mandatory IDs, or not saving the registration number for future reference.

Step-by-step online registration checklist

Use this as your execution checklist for online registration:

Create candidate login (email + mobile)
Enter personal details carefully (name must match ID)
Upload documents/photo/signature as per specifications
Select exam city preferences (final allotment is at CET Cell discretion)
Pay the application fee online
Download confirmation page and store safely for future reference

Two non-negotiables many candidates miss

For CET 2026 registrations, the CET Cell introduced stronger digital verification. Be ready with:

Aadhaar authentication
APAAR ID verification (through DigiLocker, as required)

Photo and signature: don’t lose your form here

Common rejections come from incorrect uploads. Follow the specifications in the brochure:

Clear, front-facing, neutral expression
Light background, no shadows
File size limits must be followed exactly

MAH MCA CET application fee and payment options

Fees differ by category, and payment is accepted only through online modes (like internet banking, UPI, cards, etc.). Service charges may apply.

Application fee table (MAH MCA CET 2026)

Candidate category	Application fee
Open category (Maharashtra), OMS, J&K/Ladakh migrant	₹1500
Reserved categories / EWS / PwD (Maharashtra only), Orphan, Transgender	₹1300

Practical reminders:

Fee is usually non-refundable and non-transferable.
Always download the payment receipt and keep it for future reference.

MAH MCA CET exam pattern and marking scheme

The MAH MCA CET exam is conducted as a computer-based test across different examination centres.

The fastest way to improve score isn’t “more study.” It’s aligning prep to the scoring structure.

Exam pattern snapshot

Total marks: 200
Total questions: 100
Test duration: 90 minutes
No negative marking
Multiple choice (four options)

Marking scheme table (section-wise)

Section	No. of questions	Marks per question	Maximum marks
Mathematics & Statistics	30	2	60
Logical / Abstract Reasoning	30	2	60
English comprehension & verbal ability	20	2	40
Computer Concepts	20	2	40
Total	100		200

What this means strategically:

Math + Reasoning together are 120/200 marks.
English + Computer Concepts are 80/200 marks and are often easier to stabilize with consistent practice.

MAH MCA CET syllabus (topic-wise breakdown)

Candidates can review the complete MAH MCA CET syllabus on the official website of the State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra.

The mah mca cet syllabus is not “random aptitude.” It is clearly sectioned. Build a section-wise plan instead of mixing everything daily.

Mathematics and Statistics syllabus

Mostly high school mathematics (up to 12th standard). Key topics include:

Algebra: expansion, factorization, quadratic equations, indices, logarithms, progressions, binomial theorem, permutations and combinations
Co-ordinate geometry: lines, circles, distance formulae, parabola/ellipse/hyperbola, basic transformations
Differential equations: first order, linear with constant coefficients, homogeneous linear differential equations
Trigonometry: identities, equations, properties and solution of triangles, height & distance, inverse functions
Probability and statistics: events, distributions, dispersion, skewness and kurtosis, correlation and regression, curve fitting
Arithmetic: ratios, time-work, distance-speed, percentage
Basic set theory and functions
Mensuration: areas and volumes (cubes, spheres, cylinders, cones)

Logical and Abstract Reasoning syllabus

This section measures how quickly and logically you think. Expect:

Logical situations
Passage/fact-based reasoning
Problem-solving style questions

English comprehension and verbal ability syllabus

This is your scoring stabilizer if you train it right:

Grammar fundamentals
Vocabulary
English comprehension
Synonyms/antonyms
Sentence correction
Word & phrases
Jumbled paragraphs

Computer Concepts syllabus

This is where many “non-CS background” students panic unnecessarily. The topics are learnable:

Computer basics: CPU, instructions, I/O devices, memory organization, backup devices
Data representation: integers, fractions, binary/hexadecimal representations
Binary arithmetic: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, signed arithmetic, two’s complement
Boolean algebra, truth tables, Venn diagrams
Computer architecture basics
Computer language: assembly vs high-level, C programming basics
Operating system basics

How do you download the MAH MCA CET admit card?

The admit card (hall ticket) is typically made available through candidate login. You’ll generally need:

Registration number / roll number
Password or date of birth
A printout of the hall ticket with a recent photo (as instructed)

Identity verification at the exam center

Carry:

Hall ticket
Original photo ID (Aadhaar/e-Aadhaar, PAN, passport, voter ID, etc. as accepted)

If the name on your hall ticket doesn’t match your photo ID, you may not be allowed to appear. This is why application accuracy matters more than people realize.

The results of the MAH MCA CET are expected to be declared in the first week of April 2026.

Preparation strategy for a 90-minute MCA CET

A lot of students “cover syllabus” but don’t train for speed + selection. Your goal is not to attempt everything—it’s to maximize marks inside 90 minutes.

Additionally, choosing an MCA program with a modern curriculum ensures you are learning the latest industry trends, innovative teaching methods, and up-to-date course content, which prepares you for current industry needs. MCA graduates are in demand across top IT firms like TCS, Infosys, Wipro, HCL, and Accenture. Completing an MCA degree opens up diverse and rewarding career opportunities in the technology sector, with roles such as software developer, system analyst, and project manager. The rise in demand for IT professionals has further increased the significance of the MCA degree in the job market.

The high-score formula

Score = (accuracy × selection) + time discipline

Because there is no negative marking, students assume guessing is fine. In reality, the real penalty is time. Random attempts consume time that could be used for sure-shot questions.

A practical 6-week plan (works even with college)

Week 1: Baseline and weak-area map

Take 1 diagnostic test
Identify weak areas in:
- Arithmetic vs Algebra vs Geometry
- Reasoning types you slow down in
- Grammar/vocab gaps
- Computer concepts unfamiliar topics

Week 2–3: Build section stability

Math: focus on Arithmetic + Algebra first (highest frequency and speed payoff)
Reasoning: daily timed sets
English: short RC + grammar correction drills
Computer concepts: 30–45 minutes daily (build familiarity)

Week 4: Add timed mixed practice

Start 90-minute full-length simulations
Track:
- time per question
- accuracy per section
- questions left unattempted

Week 5: Tighten strategy

Create “attempt rules”:
- leave questions that exceed your time cap
- return later only if time remains
Use error logs (why you got it wrong)

Week 6: Final polish + calm execution

2–3 full mocks per week
Revise formulas, reasoning patterns, and computer basics
Sleep discipline and test-day routine

A simple time strategy that works

Use a two-pass approach:

Pass 1: Only sure-shot questions (build momentum)
Pass 2: Medium questions you can solve with focus
Skip anything that feels like a time trap

MAH MCA CET CAP round explained

Your CET score is only step one. The real admission happens in mca cet cap round counselling.

CAP (Centralized Admission Process) typically includes:

Online registration for admission
Uploading required documents
Document verification (E-scrutiny or physical scrutiny)
Provisional merit list
Grievance window
Final merit list
Filling and confirming option form
Seat allotment rounds
Seat acceptance fee payment (as applicable)
Reporting to the allotted institute

CAP verification modes

A major shift in recent CAP cycles has been flexibility in scrutiny:

E-scrutiny: upload documents and get them verified online
Physical scrutiny: visit a facilitation/scrutiny center in person

Choose the mode based on:

your document readiness
your ability to visit centers
how quickly you can fix discrepancies if your file is reverted

CAP round process table (step-by-step)

CAP stage	What you do	What to double-check
Registration	Fill admission form, upload documents	Name, category, graduation details
Document verification	E-scrutiny or physical verification	Clear scans, correct certificates
Merit list	Check provisional + final merit	Category status, score details
Option form	Rank your preferred institutes	Order matters: realistic + aspirational
Seat allotment	Accept or upgrade as per rules	Deadlines for self-confirmation
Reporting	Confirm admission at institute	Originals + receipts + payment proof

Documents required for MCA CET CAP rounds

Start preparing documents early. Don’t wait for merit lists.

Core documents (usually required)

CET application/score details
Graduation marksheets / degree proof
ID proof (Aadhaar, etc.)
Passport-size photos
Domicile/nativity documents (as required by candidature type)

Reserved category document checklist

If applicable, keep these ready:

Caste certificate
Caste validity certificate
Non-creamy layer certificate (for relevant categories)
EWS certificate (if applicable)
PwD certificate (if applicable)

If you can’t produce documents during verification, your category claim may be removed and you may be treated as general category for admission. This can directly impact seat allotment.

PICT (Pune Institute of Computer Technology) is one of the most preferred choices for MCA in Pune.

The Department of Computer Science at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) has an excellent academic reputation.

VIT Pune (Vishwakarma Institute of Technology) offers strong infrastructure and active placement cells.

MIT-WPU offers a modern curriculum and decent placements for MCA students.

What about the answer key, objections, and result steps?

For many CET exams, the process often includes:

Provisional answer key
Objection window (if any)
Final answer key and result declaration

Because processes can change, the safest approach is:

Track your candidate login and notices
Keep your response sheets/attempt notes so you can validate quickly when the answer key is released

Common mistakes that cost marks or seats

These are “small” errors with big consequences:

Missing the latest update on mca cet 2026 registration last date after an extension
Name mismatch between hall ticket and photo ID (leads to exam-day rejection risk)
Ignoring Computer Concepts until the last week
Treating “no negative marking” as a license to guess randomly
Not saving the registration number and payment receipt for future reference
Uploading low-quality scans that get reverted during document verification
Filling the option form emotionally (only “top colleges”) instead of strategically
Delaying caste validity certificate planning (this is not a last-week task)

How Mockat fits into a smart entrance exam plan

Mockat is built for high-stakes aptitude exams by CAT 99.9+ percentilers Vignesh Srinivasan and Sanjana Pani, and while MAH MCA CET is not CAT, the overlap in skill-building is real:

Mathematics speed and accuracy
Logical reasoning discipline
English comprehension and verbal ability

If you want a structured way to build these fundamentals with accountability, Mockat offers:

Direct mobile access to mentors
Unmuted live classes
Unlimited mentorship
Large-scale practice via mocks, sectionals, boosters, and daily questions

To explore the broader exam-prep ecosystem on Mockat (especially if you’re also considering management pathways), start here:

And if your biggest gap is consistency and practice volume:

If you prefer a plan-based structure:

Plans

To validate trust signals before committing time:

FAQs

What is the MCA entrance exam in Maharashtra called?

The mca entrance exam maharashtra is commonly known as MAH MCA CET (MAH-MCA-CET). It is a state-level entrance exam used to shortlist candidates for MCA programs in Maharashtra. Your CET score is later used in the centralized admission process and mca cet cap round seat allotment.

What was the MCA CET 2026 registration last date?

For A.Y. 2026–27, the mca cet 2026 registration last date was extended via a final extension notice. The last date for online registration and confirmation was 23 February 2026. For future cycles, deadlines can change, so always check the latest CET Cell notice before you submit.

What is the MAH MCA CET exam pattern and total marks?

The mah mca cet exam is a computer based test of 90 minutes with 100 multiple-choice questions carrying 200 total marks. It typically includes four sections: Mathematics & Statistics, Logical/Abstract Reasoning, English comprehension & verbal ability, and Computer Concepts, with 2 marks per question.

Is there negative marking in MAH MCA CET?

No. The marking scheme for MAH MCA CET specifies no negative marking. However, this does not mean random guessing is smart—time is limited to 90 minutes. The highest scorers use disciplined selection: secure attempts first, then medium-difficulty questions, and skip time traps.

What is MCA CET CAP round and why does it matter?

The mca cet cap round is the centralized counselling and seat allotment process for MCA admissions. It includes online registration, document upload, document verification, merit lists, the option form, and seat allotment rounds. Even a strong CET score can be wasted if you miss CAP deadlines or upload incomplete documents.

What documents are required for MCA admission through CAP rounds?

Documents usually include identity proof, graduation records, CET details, and candidature proofs. Candidates from reserved categories may also need caste certificate, caste validity certificate, and non-creamy layer/EWS/PwD certificates as applicable. If documents are missing at verification, category benefits may be removed during admissions.

Can final-year graduation students apply for MAH MCA CET?

Yes. Candidates appearing in the final year of their bachelor’s degree are generally allowed to appear for the exam. You must still meet eligibility at the admission stage, so keep graduation completion timelines and required proofs ready for CAP document verification and final reporting to the allotted institute.

How do I download the MAH MCA CET admit card?

The admit card (hall ticket) is usually available in the candidate login. You’ll typically need your registration number and password/date of birth to download it. Print it and carry it with an accepted original photo ID. If your name doesn’t match, you may face issues at identity verification.