MAH CET Exam Pattern 2026: Check Negative Marking & Latest Pattern for MBA/ MMS

Maharashtra Common Entrance Test 2026 ( MAH CET )

Vipra Shrivastava
Updated on Sep 14, 2025 13:40 IST

By Vipra Shrivastava, Senior Manager - Content

MAH MBA CET exam pattern 2026 will be announced in December 2025. The question paper of MBA CET 2026 is expected to have 200 questions from Logical Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension. Each question will carry 1 mark and there will be no negative marking.

There will be six sessions of the MAH CET exam so there will be score normalization. The question papers of every MAH MBA CET session will have unique set of questions. Read below to know all about the latest MAH MBA CET exam pattern.

Q:   Is there negative marking in MAH CET MBA exam?
A: 

MAH CET is one of the few MBA entrance exams in India which does not have negative marking. For each correct attempt, one mark is awarded to the candidate but no marks are deducted for wrong answers or unattempted questions. The total marks of MBA CET are 200 and candidates need not worry about making incorrect attempt. They must however avoid random selection of options as correct answers. They should take time in understanding the question and then choose the option. It is not mandatory to solve all the questions in MAH CET so candidates can spend some time on the questions and then answers. The exam will be of 2.5 hours and if they answers 75-80 questions correctly, they stand to gain a good percentile.

Q:   What is the duration of MAH CET exam for MBA/MMS?
A: 

The duration of MAH CET exam is 2.5 hours or 150 minutes. Candidates are expected complete the paper in the given time limit. There will be no sectional time limit so candidates can answers the questions as per their own strategy. No extra time will be given to any candidate for completing the test under any circumstances.

 In the MAH MBA CET exam, candidates will be required to punch in their answers on screens by using the computer mouse. They will be required to select an option and click on it. To save time on rough work use the screens calculator.

Since MAH MBA CET does’t have sectional time limit, you can re-check your answers as many times as you want till the exam time limit gets over. However, it is important that you keep a check on the time and not waste it in rechecking the answers repeated.

Table of content
  • MAH MBA CET Exam Pattern 2026: Highlights
  • Section Wise MAH MBA CET Exam Pattern 2026
  • MAH MBA CET Marking Scheme
  • MAH MBA CET Syllabus 2026
  • FAQs Regarding MAH MBA CET Paper Pattern
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MAH MBA CET Exam Pattern 2026: Highlights

 The MBA CET pattern is precribed by Maharashtra State CET Cell. Given below are the key highlights of the MAH CET 2026 exam pattern for MBA/MMS course:

MAH MBA CET Exam Pattern 2025

Details

Sections

  • Logical Reasoning
  • Abstract Reasoning
  • Quantitative Aptitude
  • Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

Number of questions

200

Number of answer choices

Five options

MBA CET total marks

200

Exam duration

150 minutes (2.5 hours)

Mode of examination

Online

Medium of examination

English

MAH CET marking scheme

  • One mark for correct attempt
  • Zero mark for incorrect attempt and unattempted question
  • No negative marking
MAH CET pattern

MAH MBA CET question paper break-up

Also Read:

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   How can I prepare for MAH MBA CET?
A: 

MAH MBA CET preparation can be done in two ways – 1. Join a coaching institute 2. Prepare by self study. If you choose the former, you will get complete guidance from the teachers and mentors, but if you choose the later, you will have to be your own guide. Self study will require a lot more discipline and dedication. Take simple yet impactful steps. First of all, check the exam syllabus and see how much time you will require to cover the topics. If you are already familiar with the topics included in the MAH MBA CET syllabus, you will be able to have an estimation of the time required.

Ideally, you should start MAH MBA CET preparation about nine months in advance. That will give you an ample time to understand and master the topics included in the syllabus through theory and practice questions. Join online study groups for problem solving and doubt clearing. Staying in contact with peers will keep you motivated for preparation.

Q:   Can I choose the order of solving MAH MBA CET questions?
A: 

There is no hard and fast rule related to the order of solving MAH MBA CET question. In 2022, the questions were listed in random order without sectional segregation so candidates could choose questions to solve as per their choice. In 2023, the questions were sectionalized so there was no option to choose questions as per one’s choice. It is better that candidates prepare for the exam in such a way that they can solve every next questions that appear on screens. They can skip the question and move to the next. Candidates must note that no matter what the order of the questions be they must save their answers before moving to the next question. If the answers is not saved it will not be recorded in the system.

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Section Wise MAH MBA CET Exam Pattern 2026

Take a look at the number of questions asked in each section of MAH MBA CET question paper and marks allotted to them. 

MAH MBA CET Sections

Number of Questions

Marks per Question

Logical Reasoning

75

1

Abstract Reasoning

25

1

Quantitative Aptitude

50

1

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

50

1

Total

200

200

MAH MBA CET Difficulty Level: Section Wise

As mentioned above, the MAH CET question paper consists of 200 MCQs divided across four sections. Each question has five options to choose the right answer from. There is no sectional time-limit for solving the MAH CET question paper so the candidate can plan how to approach the question paper. Given below is table indicating difficulty levels of the sections for reference:

MBA CET Sections

Difficulty Level

Good Attempts

Abstract Reasoning

Moderate

18-20/25

Logical Reasoning

Moderate and Lengthy

42-44/75

Quantitative Aptitude

Moderate to Difficult

30-32/50

Verbal Ability

Moderate to Difficult

32-35/50

Overall

Moderate and Lengthy

135/200

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Can I prepare for MAH CET MBA in 6 months?
A: 

Yes, you can prepare for MAH MBA CET in 6 months as the syllabus in not very different from any other MBA entrance test. The main subjects to study are Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Quantitative Aptitude and Logical Reasoning. Data Interpretation is the sub part of Quantitative Aptitude so you need not prepare for it separately. To prepare for MAH MBA CET in six months, make a plan which is more focused on the topics from which most of the questions are asked. This is to make sure that you prepare the right topics in the given limited time. Spend the first three months in covering the syllabus, then utilize the next two months in practicing sample questions as well as mock tests. In the last one month focus on improving your hold on important topics by doing extensive revision and mock tests. You can make your own plan according to your hold over the topics. However, your plan must include mock tests and practice questions. Read More: MAH MBA CET preparation in six months

Q:   What is the marking scheme of MAH CET MBA?
A: 

The marking scheme of MAH MBA CET is very straightforward. The total marks is 200 hundred for 200 questions. Which means, every question carries one mark. There is no negative marking. In case of incorrect attempt, candidates will be marked zero. If they skip a question, even then they will be marked zero. Total marks of a candidate will be calculated out 200 on the basis of their total number of correct attempt.

Section wise the marks allotment is as follows:

  • Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension: 50 marks
  • Logical Reasoning: 75 marks
  • Abstract Reasoning: 25 marks
  • Quantitative Aptitude: 50 marks

The MAH CET percentile is calculated out of normalized scores of every test take across all the sessions of the exam. The percentile is calculated on the basis of top scoring candidate’s marks against all other candidates.

Q:   Is MAH CET MBA syllabus and its difficulty level the same as of CAT or XAT?
A: 

Yes, the MAH CET MBA syllabus is same as CAT or XAT but its difficult level is lower than the two. If a candidate has appeared for CAT or XAT, then they can easily clear MAH CET with minimum preparation. The MAH CET MBA syllabus for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension, Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation. There is no Decision Making and General Awareness sections in MAH CET which are there in XAT.

Even though the number of questions are higher in MAH CET, the difficult level is easier than both CAT and XAT as there are less number of reading comprehension passages and related questions. The passages of MAH CET are simpler, shorter and less in number. The Quantitative Aptitude and Logical Reasoning questions are also easier in comparison to the questions of CAT and XAT.

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MAH MBA CET Marking Scheme

MAH CET MBA follows a very simple marking scheme wherein one mark is awarded for each right attempt. Check the table below for section wise marks in MAH CET 2026.

MAH MBA CET Sections

Number of Questions

Total Marks

Abstract Reasoning

75

75

Logical Reasoning

25

25

Quantitative Aptitude

50

50

Verbal Ability

50

50

Overall

Moderate and Lengthy

135/200

Check below some key points related to MAH MBA CET exam pattern:

  • The exam will be conducted in online mode. Candidates will have to punch in the answers in the computer system with the help of computer mouse.

  • Pen and paper for rough work will be provided inside the exam hall.

  • Use of calculator or any other gadget during the MBA CET exam is prohibited.
Free VARC Questions with Answers for Practice Free DILR Questions with Answers for Practice Free Quantitative Aptitude Questions with Answers for Practice

Also Read:

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   What are the topics from which Quantitative Aptitude questions are asked in MAH CET?
A: 

The MAH MBA CET Quantitative Aptitude is a moderately difficult section. The topics from which the questions are asked include Geometry, Trigonometry, Algebra, Mensuration, Partnership (Accounts), Profit and Loss, Mean, mode, median, Ratio and Proportion, In-Equations, Quadratic and Linear equations, Surds and Indices, Time-Speed-Distance, Number System, Geometric Progression, Binomial theorem, Inequalities, Work and Time, Percentage, Logarithms, Square Root and Cube Root, Probability and Simple Interest and Compound Interest.

 This section also contains topics from data interpretation and data sufficiency. Normally, there are two sets of data interpretation questions based on a graph, table or pie chart. Most of the questions however are from Quantitative Aptitude, specifically Arithmetic. Aspirants must dedicate about 2-3 months to this section for complete preparation. They need to be thorough with all the concepts and have enough practice of various types of questions.

Q:   What are the topics from which Logical Reasoning questions are asked in MAH CET?
A: 

Most of the questions of MAH MBA CET Logical and Abstract Reasoning are asked from topics like Arrangements, Family trees, Coding-Decoding, Direction, Clock and Calendars, Groups and Conditionality, Number Series, Venn Diagrams, Syllogisms, Odd Word Out, Analogies, Blood Relations, Proposition, Direction Sense, Assumptions, Puzzles, Binary Logic, Clock and Calendars, Sets and Caselets, etc.

This section is divided into two parts – Logical Reasoning and Abstract Reasoning. The Logical Reasoning section has about 75 questions and Abstract Reasoning Section has around 25 questions. The number of questions can change in a given year or in a given session. So, candidates must prepare for both types of reasoning questions of various difficulty levels. Scoring high in Logical Reasoning will result in a good overall score.

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MAH MBA CET Syllabus 2026

MAH MBA CET Syllabus consists of questions from logical and abstract reasoning, quantitative aptitude and verbal ability & reading comprehension. Given below are the section-wise topics on which you should base your MAH CET preparation:

MBA CET Sections

Topics

Logical/Abstract Reasoning

Linear and Circular Arrangement, Venn Diagram, Symbol-based Comparison, Series Completion, Coding/Decoding, Syllogisms, Sequential Output, Selection Criteria, Blood Relations, Conditional Coding, Direction Sense

Quantitative Aptitude

Arithmetic, Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, Data Sufficiency, Mensuration, Geometry, Probability, Ratio & Proportion, Numbers, Percentage, Trigonometry, Data Interpretation – Graphs, Charts, Tables

Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension

Reading Comprehension, Antonyms & Synonyms, Spelling/Inappropriate Usage, Error Correction, Fill in the Blanks, Sentence Completion and Word Arrangement, Para Jumbles, Grammar, Vocabulary, Spelling/Inappropriate usage

Also Read:

Best Books for MAH MBA CET Preparation 2026

Given below is the list of best books for MAH MBA CET preparation. For a complete preparation of MAH CET exam refer to the books listed below. They will help you in concepts, formula, practice, mock tests and tips and tricks.

MAH CET Books

Author/Publisher Names

MAH CET (MBA/ MMS) Entrance Guide

Disha Publications

50+ Solved Papers

Arihant

Mathematics for MBA Entrance Exams

R.S. Agarwal

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension

TIME

Maharashtra MBA CET 2018-19

Arihant Publications

Check MAH CET cut offs and predict calls from colleges accepting MAH CET score for admission. Check Fees, Placement Reviews, Admission, Shortlist Criteria and Eligibility of all MAH CET participating colleges by clicking the link below:

Predict MAH CET Calls
View Syllabus
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FAQs Regarding MAH MBA CET Paper Pattern

Check here Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) related to MAH CET pattern:

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Which are the best books for MAH MBA CET?
A: 

To study the syllabus for MAH CET MBA/MMS, candidates must choose the right reference books. Although the CAT preparation books are common study material for all MBA entrance exams in India including MAH CET, candidates must refer to exam specific books to know the nuances of the exam. Books for MAH MBA CET are available in the market and they include sample questions of various difficult levels for practice. Candidates planning to appear for MAH MBA CET must refer to the books specific to the exam. Given below is the list of best books for MAH CET MBA preparation:

Book Name

Authors/Publishers Name

MAH CET (MBA/ MMS) Entrance Guide

Odisha Publications

50+ Solve Papers

Arihant

Mathematics for MBA Entrance Exams

RS Agarwal

Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension

TIME

Maharashtra MBA CET 

Arihant Publications

Q:   How many MAH CET mock tests should I practice before the exam?
A: 

The candidates must practice at least 15-20 MBA CET mock tests. Practicing that many will make them well prepared for all types of questions in the exam - tricky, lengthy, easy, tough, etc. They should practice the mock tests in the latest format of the exam (jumbled questions from across the sections). However, the point to keep in mind is that one should not start practicing mock test without completing the MAH MBA CET syllabus. They must first complete the syllabus so that while solving the mock test, they know which theorem to apply on what type of questions.

Candidate must also analyse their performance with each mock test to see their progress. The goal of MAH MBA CET practice should be to score better with each mock test. The goal should also be the gain speed in solving the questions with each mock test.

Q:   What is the exam pattern for the MH-CET MBA?
A: 

MAH MBA CET exam pattern is similar to other MBA entrance exams but has unique elements. The question paper has 200 questions. All questions are in Multiple Choice Answers type. Every question has five options to choose the correct answers from. The total marks of the test is 200. Each question carries one mark. There is no negative marking in MAH CET so 0 marks will be awarded for incorrect entries. If you skip a question, you will be marked zero. The questions are usually moderate in terms of difficult level.

The time duration of MAH MBA CET is 2.5 hours or 150 minutes. There is no sectional time limit so candidates can solve questions as per their pace. However, they need to complete the paper before the 2.5 hours are over.

MAH CET MBA exam is held in online mode at various test centres. The exam is conducted in multiple sessions. Usually two days, four sessions.

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MAH CET Exam

Student Forum

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Answered 2 months ago

Since your percentile in MAH MBA CET is 91.6, you have a high probability of getting admission into most mid-tier colleges through the CAP round which comprise the following options: MET Institute of Management, Lala Lajpatrai Institute of Management, Indira Institute of Management Pune, and Thakur

...Read more

A

ABHINAV SRIVASTAVA

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

MAH B.Design CET Applications Process needs the following documents:

  • A valid email ID and mobile number

  • Recent passport-sized photograph and signature (scanned)

  • Class 10 and 12 mark sheets

  • Caste certificate, if applicable

  • Domicile certificate, if claiming Maharashtra quota

  • Disability certificate, if appli

...Read more

S

Sayeba Naushad

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

Qualified candidates participate in Centralized Admission Process (CAP) rounds after the MAH B.Design CET Entrance Exam, where they fill in their choices of institutes and seats are allotted based on merit and preferences.

S

Sayeba Naushad

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

Yes, All India Candidates are also eligible to apply for MAH B.Des CET. The MAH B.Design CET Registration fee for All India Candidature is INR 1900.

S

Sayeba Naushad

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

The application fee for MAH B.Des CET is INR 1900 for General Category Candidates (Maharashtra State only) and for All India Candidature Candidates. 

For candidates belonging to [SC, ST, VJ/DT-NT (A), NT (B), NT (C), NT (D), OBC, SBC, SEBC, EWS], and PwD candidates (Maharashtra State only), the MAH B

...Read more

S

Sayeba Naushad

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

The eligibility criteria for MAH B.Des CET are:

  • Must be an Indian national.

  • Passed 10+2 or equivalent exam with at least 45% (40% for reserved categories).

  • There is no age limit.

S

Sayeba Naushad

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

The MAH CET B.Des exam is of 2 hours 45 minutes duration and carries 200 marks. There is no negative marking in the exam and the exam is conducted in English.

S

Sayeba Naushad

Contributor-Level 10

596 Institutes accepting MAH CET

  • 24.20 Lakh
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  • Full Time

NMIMS School of Business Management, Mumbai

Vile Parle West, Mumbai Private

NMIMS Scho
      • 2 years
      • |
      • Full Time
        • 17.68 Lakh
        • 2 years
        • |
        • Full Time
        • 16.50 Lakh
        • 2 years
        • |
        • Full Time

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