HPCET 2026: Registration (STARTS), Dates (OUT), Pattern, Syllabus, Eligibility, Admission Process

Himachal Pradesh Common Entrance Test 2026 ( HPCET )

DeskCalelnderRegistration - 13 Mar '26 - 19 Apr '26

This exam is conducted for courses given below:
Saakshi Varsha Lama
Updated on Mar 19, 2026 11:25 IST

By Saakshi Varsha Lama, Deputy Manager Content

HPCET 2026: Himachal Pradesh Technical University (HPTU) has released the HPCET 2026 application form. Candidates can now register for HPCET 2026 exam online at himtu.ac.in. Final date to complete the HPCET registration 2026 is April 19. No other mode of application will be accepted. HPTU has also announced the official HPCET exam date 2026. Candidates will be able to attempt HPCET 2026 on May 10, 2026, as a pen and paper based test. During the exam, they will have to attempt 150 multiple-choice questions. Total duration of HPCET 2026 is 3 hours and 15 minutes. While reporting to allotted centre, they will have to bring their HPCET hall ticket 2026. Scores will be announced through HPCET result tentatively by May 21, 2026. Qualified candidates will have to register for counselling.

HPCET is conducted as an annual exam to select students for BTech admissions. Students who qualify the entrance exam will be eligible for admissions into the participating engineering colleges of the state. However, the authorities will also accept students based on JEE Main and 12th class qualifying exam marks. Read to know more about HPCET 2026.

Table of contents
  • What is HPCET?
  • HPCET 2026 Exam Dates & Schedule (Tentative)
  • HPCET 2026 Highlights
  • HPCET 2026 Application Form
  • HPCET 2026 Syllabus
  • HPCET 2026 Exam Pattern
  • HPCET 2026 Preparation Tips
  • HPCET 2026 Admit Card
  • HPCET 2026 Result
  • HPCET 2026 Counselling
  • HPCET 2026 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
View More
HPCET Logo

What is HPCET?

Himachal Pradesh Common Entrance Test (HPCET) is organized by Himachal Pradesh Technical University (HPTU) to provide BTech/BPharm/BHMCT & BSc/MTech/MPharm/MSc/MBA/BBA/MCA/BCA admissions into the participating institutes of the state. HPCET is held offline i.e., as a pen-and-paper-based test at various exam centres. BTech admissions are also offered based on JEE Main and 12th standard qualifying examination scores.

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Is HPCET easy or tough?
A: 

The level of HPCET is similar to 12th standard syllabus. If candidates are well prepared for their board exams, they can be considered ready for HPCET too. Overall, HPCET is easier than national level exams such as JEE Mains.

Q:   What is the total score in HPCET?
A: 

During HPCET, students will have to attempt 150 questions. For every correct answer, four marks will be allotted. The total score that can be secured in HPCET is 600. However, one mark is deducted for incorrect answers.

Q:   Can the eligibility for HPCET be changed?
A: 

HPCET eligibility criteria is released at official website. No changes in eligibility are expected for HPCET 2026. However, if any changes are made, it will be announced online.

Q:   Is there any provision for conducting the HPCET exam twice in a year?
A: 

HPCET is conducted as an annual exam. Currently, there is no provision for conducting it twice a year. If any change is made, it will be announced at official website.

HPCET 2026 Exam Dates & Schedule (Tentative)

Take a look at the table below for the complete schedule of HPCET 2026 exam

DatesUpcoming Exam Dates
13 Mar ' 26 - 19 Apr ' 26

HPCET 2026 application form

ONGOING
May ' 26

HPCET 2026 Admit Card

TENTATIVE
10 May ' 26

HPCET 2026 Exam Date

21 May ' 26

HPCET 2026 Result

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HPCET 2026 Highlights

The important highlights of HPCET 2026 can be checked from the table given below. 

Particulars Details
Name of the Exam Himachal Pradesh Common Entrance Test (HPCET)
Conducted By Himachal Pradesh Technical University (HPTU)
Exam Level Undergraduate 
Exam Frequency Annual
Mode of Exam Pen-and-Paper-Based Test
Total Registrations N/A
Course offered through the exam BTech/BPharm/BHMCT & BSc/MTech/MPharm/MSc/MBA/BBA/MCA/BCA
Exam Fees

General Category - INR 1,600

SC/ST/BPL Category - INR 800

Exam Duration

3 hours 15 minutes

Number of Sections

3 - Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics

Total Questions

150

Marking Scheme

4 marks will be given for every correct answer. 1 mark will be deducted for every wrong answer.

Medium of Exam English 
Colleges Accepting Exam Score Participating colleges of Himachal Pradesh
No. of Test Cities 11
Official Website himtu.ac.in
Contact Details

HP CET Email ID: examhptu@gmail.com

HP CET Helpline: 01972-224159

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is the HPCET 2026 application form date?
A: 

HPCET 2026 application form has started. Final date to submit online application form is April 19.

Q:   When will HPCET 2026 be held?
A: 

HPCET 2026 exam date has been announced. The authorities will conduct HPCET 2026 as an offline test at various centres on May 10, 2026.

Q:   How many papers are there in HPCET?
A: 

According to HPCET pattern, there is only one exam paper. However, the paper is divided into three sections - Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics.

Q:   Can I do BTech without HPCET?
A: 

For admissions into the BTech courses offered participating colleges of HPCET, the candidates will require HPCET score. However, students with JEE Main and 12th class qualifying exam marks are also accepted.

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HPCET 2026 Application Form

DeskCalendarRegistration: 13 Mar ' 26 - 19 Apr ' 26

HPCET 2026 application form is now available online. While filling the application form, the students will have to fill out their information. Students will also have to select their exam centre and upload documents. HPCET 2026 application fee has to be paid through net banking, credit card or debit card. If the students do not register, then cannot attempt the exam.

How to fill HPCET application form 2026?

Candidates can follow steps given below to fill HPCET application form.

  • Go to official website
  • Candidates will have to click on registration link
  • Once registered, they will have to log in and fill application form with required details.
  • Preferred exam centres have to be submitted.
  • Candidates will have to upload documents correctly.
  • HPCET application fee has to be paid online.
  • Finally, application form has to be submitted.

HPCET 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Candidates can take a look at the eligibility criteria required for admission to BTech programmes through HPCET. Before registration, the candidates should check the official eligibility criteria carefully. Those who fail to meet the eligibility criteria are not considered for admission into the participating institutes.

BTech (Direct): The candidate must have passed class 12th or its equivalent examination from a recognized Board or University with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects along with one of the Chemistry/ Biotechnology/Biology/ Technical Vocational subjects securing at least 45% marks (40% in case of candidate belonging to reserved category) in the above subjects taken together.

Basic admission criteria for BTech programmes:

  • In case the seats remain vacant after exhausting the merit of JEE (Main) and HPCET, the remaining seats will be filled up based on the merit of the 12th standard examination conducted by a recognized Board or University.
  • The number of seats remaining vacant after taking admission based on each test/examination will be shifted and filled based on the next text/examination in continuous order.

Note: The % indicates the marks obtained by the candidate in the entrance test/10+2 examination out of the total marks assigned to the entrance test/examination.

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Can the HPCET application form be filled offline?
A: 

No, HPCET application form cannot be filled offline. Candidates will have to fill online application form at official website.

Q:   What are the eligibility criteria to participate in HPCET?
A: 

HPCET eligibility criteria is available. For BTech admission, candidates should have passed 12th standard (or equivalent) exam with 45% marks in Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. Reserved category candidates have to secured 40% marks.

Q:   How is HPCET exam centre allocated?
A: 

While filling online HPCET application form, candidates will have to select their choice of exam centre. Based on order of preferences submitted, HPCET exam centre will be allocated.

Q:   Which documents are required for HPCET registration?
A: 

While filling online HPCET application form, candidates will have to upload their photograph and signature according to official specifications.

HPCET Logo

HPCET 2026 Syllabus

HPCET 2026 syllabus has been released. Through official HPCET syllabus, candidates can check subjects and topics that has to be studied for examination. Level of HPCET syllabus will be similar to 12th class qualifying exam. Before starting exam preparation, students should become familiar with syllabus so that they can prepare a study plan. Topics from Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics are included in official syllabus. To score good marks, students should study entire syllabus well during preparation.

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is the syllabus for the HPCET Exam?
A: 

HPCET syllabus consists of the topics and units from Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. Along with the syllabus, the candidates are advised to check the official HPCET exam pattern.

Q:   How can I get the HPCET syllabus PDF?
A: 

HPCET syllabus PDF is released online. Candidates can access and download the HPCET syllabus through the official information brochure.

Q:   Which subjects do I have to study for HPCET?
A: 

HPCET syllabus is released online. For the exam, candidates will have to study topics from Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics equivalent to 11th and 12th standard.

Q:   What is the overall difficulty level of HPCET?
A: 

According to previous years' analysis, HPCET is of moderate difficulty. Most of the questions are based on 11th and 12th standard syllabus, so candidates who are prepared for board exams will be able to attempt HPCET exam.

View Syllabus
HPCET Logo

HPCET 2026 Exam Pattern

HPTU has released HPCET 2026 exam pattern soon. Through exam pattern, students can check how entrance examination will be held. HPCET exam pattern consists of details regarding examination mode, duration, sections, type of questions, marking details and more. Students can know how to prepare for exam if they are familiar with pattern.

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Will HPCET be held online?
A: 

No. HPCET will be held offline i.e., as a pen-and-paper-based test. Candidates will have to report to their allotted centre and attempt the examination in offline mode. HPCET consists of multiple-choice questions that have to be attempted in 3 hours 15 minutes. All of the answers have to be marked in OMR sheets. The entrance examination will not be held in any other mode. 

Q:   Is there negative marking in HPCET?
A: 

There is negative marking in HPCET. For every wrong answer, one mark will be deducted.

Q:   What is section-wise weightage in HPCET?
A: 

According to pattern, HPCET will consist of three sections. All three sections will consist of 60 questions each. Out of total 180 questions, 150 have to be attempted.

Q:   What is the duration of HPCET?
A: 

HPCET exam pattern will be released online. According to pattern, duration of exam is 3 hours and 15 minutes. Extra time will not be given to complete exam. Students will have to answer 150 objective questions within duration.

HPCET Logo

HPCET 2026 Preparation Tips

While preparing for exam, students should follow important HPCET 2026 preparation tips. Some important tips are given below.

  • Before starting preparation, students should check HPCET 2026 exam pattern and syllabus carefully. Through pattern and syllabus, candidates can know subjects to study and how exam will be held.
  • Students should prepare a study plan so that they cover all topics before exam. This will help them to study for exam in an bettee way.
  • Mock exams and sample papers should be solved daily.
  • Students should include revision in study plan.
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Which section is difficult to prepare in HPCET?
A: 

As per previous years' analysis, most students find Mathematics as the most difficult section to prepare in HPCET due to its lengthy and tough questions.

Q:   How much time is sufficient for HPCET preparation?
A: 

Candidates are advised to start their HPCET preparation as early as possible so that they have enough time for revision. Most students start their preparation along with their board exams.

Q:   Is it compulsory to attempt the Mathematics section of HPCET?
A: 

Yes, candidates will have to attempt the Mathematics section of HPCET. All three sections have to be attempted to qualify and secure a valid score.

Q:   Is HPCET exam pattern important for exam preparation?
A: 

Yes, HPCET exam pattern is important for preparation since it will help them to know how the examination will be held and be accordingly prepared for it. 

HPCET Logo

HPCET 2026 Admit Card

DeskCalendarAdmit Card: May ' 26

HPCET 2026 admit card date will be announced online. To download admit card, students will have to log in with User ID and password. Students can check their allotted exam centre, date, timings and guidelines from HPCET admit card. At exam centre, they will have to bring their admit card along with an original identity proof for verification. If documents are not shown at centre, then students will be not be allowed to attempt exam.

Steps to download HPCET admit card 2026

To download admit card, candidates can follow steps given below.

  • Go to official wbesite.
  • Candidates have to click on admit card link.
  • They will have to log in with User ID and password.
  • Admit card will be available online.
  • Candidates have to download hall ticket.
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is the HPCET 2026 admit card date?
A: 

HPCET 2026 admit card date will be released soon. The students will be able to access the HPCET admit card by logging in using the required credentials. No other mode will be used to release the HPCET admit card. Registered students will have to download the admit card and present it at the exam centre along with identity proof. Without the admit card, the students will not be allowed to attempt the exam.

Q:   In how many cities is HPCET exam held?
A: 

HPCET is held at various exam cities of the state. The list of cities where the examination will be held will be available while filling online application form of HPCET.

Q:   Which details are present in the HPCET admit card?
A: 

Candidates will be able to check personal and examination related details on the HPCET admit card. Before downloading the admit card, the candidates should check the details carefully. If any mistakes, they contact the authorities immediately.

Q:   How can I download the HPCET admit card?
A: 

HPCET admit card will be released online. Only the registered candidates will be able to access and download the HPCET admit card. The given steps can be followed to download the admit card of HPCET.

  • Go to himtu.ac.in
  • Candidates will have to provide their User ID and password.
  • The admit card will be displayed on the screen.
  • Candidates are advised to check all of the details before downloading the admit card. 
HPCET Logo

HPCET 2026 Result

DeskCalendarResult: 21 May ' 26

HPCET result 2026 will be announced online tentatively by May 21. Candidates will be able to check download HPCET result 2026 at himtu.ac.in using their User ID and password. HIMTU will not use any other mode to release result. Through the HPCET result, candidates can check their scores and ranks obtained in exam. No requests to make changes in the scores and ranks will be accepted. HPCET 2026 merit list will be prepared according to performance of the candidates in the exam. Qualified candidates will be able to register for counselling. 

How to check HPCET 2026 result?

Candidates will be able to download HPCET result 2026 by following steps given below.

  • Go to himtu.ac.in
  • Click on result link.
  • Candidates will have to log in using their User ID and password.
  • HPCET result has to be downloaded
Read more
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is the passing marks for HPCET?
A: 

There is no official passing marks for HPCET. For admission into participating colleges of the state, ranks obtained in exam will be considered.

Q:   When will HPCET 2026 result be declared?
A: 

HPCET 2026 result will be announced by May 21. Candidates can check HPCET result online. To check result, candidates will have to log in with required details. No other mode will be used to declare HPCET result. Scores and ranks obtained in entrance exam will be released through result of HPCET.

Q:   What after HPCET result?
A: 

After HPCET results are declared, candidates will have to participate in counselling. During counselling, candidates will have to register, upload documents, fill choices and pay fee. However, candidates who have a valid HPCET score will not be required to pay counselling fee. All registered candidates will have to report to counselling venue for seat allotment. Allotment of seats will be done based on candidate's rank and preferences.

Q:   What is good rank in HPCET exam?
A: 

For admissions into top colleges under HPCET, candidates should score under 500. With rank of 500 to 1000, they can be eligible for lesser competitive courses in top colleges.

HPCET Logo

HPCET 2026 Counselling

HPCET 2026 counselling is held for qualified students. During counselling, students will have to register and fill required details. After uploading documents, they will have to choose course and college in order of preference. HPCET 2026 seat allotment result will be announced online. Admission will be based on candidate's merit and preferences. JEE Main scores will also be accepted for admissions. Selected candidates will have to confirm their admission before final date.

Read more
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   How many rounds are there in HPCET counselling?
A: 

HPTU is expected to conduct two rounds of HPCET counselling. Candidates who are not allotted in first round will be eligible for second round of counselling.

Q:   What are the documents required for HPCET counselling?
A: 

During HPCET counselling, candidates will have to submit their score card, 10th and 12th class marksheet, category certificate and more for verification.

Q:   What is HPCET qualifying cutoff?
A: 

HPTU does not release the official HPCET qualifying cutoff. Candidates have to attempt the entrance exam and admission will be done based on their obtained ranks.

Q:   What is the counselling process for HPCET?
A: 

During HPCET counselling, candidates will have to register with required details and upload their documents. Non-HPCET candidates have to pay the counselling fee. Allotment will be announced online. 

HPCET Logo

HPCET 2026 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Read for HPCET 2026 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Do I need to study the entire HPCET syllabus?
A: 

Candidates should prepare for entrance exam using entire HPCET syllabus. Since question paper will be prepared using topics of syllabus, it will help students if they are familiar with official syllabus. Some important topics can also be selected and students can focus on them more.

Q:   What is the application fee of HPCET?
A: 

Candidates will have to pay exam fee for HPCET application form to register for the exam. They can make fee payment online through net banking/debit card/credit card/UPI. HPCET application fee for SC/ST/BPL category candidates is INR 800 and other category candidates will pay INR 1,600. If candidates fail to pay the fee, then their application will be rejected.

Q:   How can I register for HPCET?
A: 

Candidates can register for HPCET online. During registration, the candidates have to provide their basic details. A password also has to be generated for future login.

Q:   What is the marking scheme of HPCET?
A: 

HPCET marking scheme is released online. Candidates should check marking scheme carefully to understand how their responses will be marked. For every correct answer, authorities will award four marks to candidates. However, one mark will be deducted for every incorrect answer.

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HPCET Exam

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 5 days ago

During HPCET counselling, candidates will have to register with required details and upload their documents. Non-HPCET candidates have to pay the counselling fee. Allotment will be announced online. 

N

Nishtha Panda

Contributor-Level 7

Answered 5 days ago

HPTU does not release the official HPCET qualifying cutoff. Candidates have to attempt the entrance exam and admission will be done based on their obtained ranks.

N

Neha Anand

Contributor-Level 7

Answered 5 days ago

During HPCET counselling, candidates will have to submit their score card, 10th and 12th class marksheet, category certificate and more for verification.

N

Nishtha Mishra

Contributor-Level 7

Answered 5 days ago

HPTU is expected to conduct two rounds of HPCET counselling. Candidates who are not allotted in first round will be eligible for second round of counselling.

N

Nishtha Jain

Contributor-Level 7

Answered 5 days ago

For admissions into top colleges under HPCET, candidates should score under 500. With rank of 500 to 1000, they can be eligible for lesser competitive courses in top colleges.

S

Shiksha Garg

Contributor-Level 7

Answered 5 days ago

There is no official passing marks for HPCET. For admission into participating colleges of the state, ranks obtained in exam will be considered.

S

Saakshi Varsha Lama

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 5 days ago

HPCET is held at various exam cities of the state. The list of cities where the examination will be held will be available while filling online application form of HPCET.

R

Rachit Chauhan

Contributor-Level 7

Answered 5 days ago

Yes, HPCET exam pattern is important for preparation since it will help them to know how the examination will be held and be accordingly prepared for it. 

J

Jasleen Shukla

Contributor-Level 7

Answered 5 days ago

Yes, candidates will have to attempt the Mathematics section of HPCET. All three sections have to be attempted to qualify and secure a valid score.

N

Nidhi Chaudhary

Contributor-Level 7

Answered 5 days ago

Candidates are advised to start their HPCET preparation as early as possible so that they have enough time for revision. Most students start their preparation along with their board exams.

N

Nikita Goyal

Contributor-Level 7

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