Maharashtra CET Cell Proposes Shifting Second Entrance Exam Attempt To May, Plans Aadhaar-Based Exam Centre Restrictions

Mumbai: The Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell has suggested moving the second attempt of its entrance exams to May, following board exams, to alleviate academic pressure on students. The proposal was presented to the state Higher and Technical Education Department. These days, the CET Cell organizes two attempts for specific entrance exams, enabling students to enhance their scores for medical, engineering, and other professional courses admissions.

The shift in exam dates is a response to concerns expressed by students last year. They complained about the December attempt's clash with school preliminaries and practical exams, leading to added stress and difficulty in preparing for entrance tests concurrently with board exams. The official stated that the full schedule for the 20 entrance exams conducted by the CET Cell would be published the following week, outlining the detailed exam timetable and attempts.

Moreover, the CET Cell intends to narrow down the selection of examination centers. Initially, candidates could choose any three centers across diverse cities. However, due to reported malpractices at certain centers, the cell intends to limit options based on candidates’ Aadhaar-linked pincodes or the location of their board examination centers. The official elaborated that students would now have the choice to pick centers based on Aadhaar-linked pincode or the site of their board exams.

The CET Cell is also exploring the possibility of giving more significance to Class 10 and Class 12 board exam scores in the admission process. A committee has been set up to assess the recommendations, and their discussions are still in progress. According to an official, if approved, the proposal to include board exam marks would only be implemented from 2028.

These proposed modifications might impact the examination schedule, centre allocation process, and admission criteria for CET candidates. The final timetable and additional announcements from the CET Cell are anticipated to clarify the implementation of these measures.