Special Correspondent
Pune: The State Common Entrance Examination (CET) is set to be conducted three times next year, providing students with greater flexibility and multiple chances to improve their scores. Following the model of JEE Mains, the exams will now be held in April, May, and December 2026, marking a significant change in the state’s entrance exam schedule.
The CET Cell has announced that the exams will be organized for three major streams: PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics), PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology), and MBA. The first round is scheduled for April 2026, followed by the second in May. The third exam will be held in December 2026, with the subsequent April 2027 exam being part of the new system.
This new schedule aims to address common student concerns. Many students make errors during a single attempt, and giving them another chance allows for correction and improvement. While appearing for one exam will remain mandatory, taking the second will be optional. In cases where students appear for both, the higher score will be considered for admission.
Career counselor Harish Butle highlighted the benefits, saying, “Having two opportunities allows students to rectify mistakes made in the first attempt and improve their performance in the second. It also helps streamline the admission process without unnecessary delays.”
Dilip Sardesai, Commissioner of the State CET Cell, added, “Students often face difficulties during exams. Conducting a second optional CET provides them with another opportunity without any added pressure. Organizing two exams is a challenge for us, but it will help students better plan their preparation. The December 2026 and April 2027 exams will also give ample study time for the 2027 admission cycle.”
Prof. Rahul Patil, who has over 15 years of experience in the admission process, praised the move, noting, “This is a student-friendly decision. It gives candidates the chance to appear twice a year, allowing genuine opportunities to improve performance. For MBA aspirants, many of whom lack complete information about the CET process, this change will open doors to better preparation and improved results. Overall, it creates a new pathway for students to shape their careers effectively.”
