
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.
- 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)
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.
Commonly asked questions
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.
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.
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.
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
| Dates | Upcoming 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 |
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 |
Commonly asked questions
HPCET 2026 application form has started. Final date to submit online application form is April 19.
HPCET 2026 exam date has been announced. The authorities will conduct HPCET 2026 as an offline test at various centres on May 10, 2026.
According to HPCET pattern, there is only one exam paper. However, the paper is divided into three sections - Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics.
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.
HPCET 2026 Application Form
Registration: 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.
Commonly asked questions
No, HPCET application form cannot be filled offline. Candidates will have to fill online application form at official website.
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.
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.
While filling online HPCET application form, candidates will have to upload their photograph and signature according to official specifications.
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.
Commonly asked questions
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.
HPCET syllabus PDF is released online. Candidates can access and download the HPCET syllabus through the official information brochure.
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.
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.
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.
Commonly asked questions
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.
There is negative marking in HPCET. For every wrong answer, one mark will be deducted.
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.
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 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.
Commonly asked questions
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.
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.
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.
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 2026 Admit Card
Admit 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.
Commonly asked questions
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.
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.
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.
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 2026 Result
Result: 21 May ' 26
Commonly asked questions
There is no official passing marks for HPCET. For admission into participating colleges of the state, ranks obtained in exam will be considered.
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.
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.
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 2026 Counselling
Commonly asked questions
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.
During HPCET counselling, candidates will have to submit their score card, 10th and 12th class marksheet, category certificate and more for verification.
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.
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 2026 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Commonly asked questions
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.
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.
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.
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.
HPCET Exam
Student Forum
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Contributor-Level 7
30 Institutes accepting HPCET
University Institute of Technology, Himachal Pradesh...
Shimla • Public
HPTU - Himachal Pradesh Technical University
Hamirpur • Public
Jawaharlal Nehru Government Engineering College
Mandi • Public
Atal Bihari Vajpayee Government Institute of Enginee...
Shimla • Public
What is the counselling process for HPCET?