MHT-CET, JEE Scores Under Scrutiny as CET Cell Flags HSC–Entrance Performance Gaps
The State Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell, Maharashtra, has initiated a review of MHT-CET and JEE scores after identifying significant differences between students' Class 12 (HSC) board examination marks and their performance in engineering entrance examinations. The move comes amid concerns over unusually high entrance scores that do not align with HSC academic performance.
According to CET Cell officials, the analysis aims to examine whether there are irregularities or systemic issues contributing to the widening gap between board examination results and entrance test performance. The review is part of efforts to maintain transparency and fairness in the admission process for professional courses.
Why is the CET Cell Reviewing Scores?
The CET Cell observed cases where candidates secured:
- Relatively low marks in the Maharashtra HSC examination, but
- Exceptionally high percentile scores in MHT-CET or JEE Main.
Officials stated that while differences in performance are possible due to varying exam patterns and preparation strategies, large-scale discrepancies require further analysis to understand the trend.
What Will the Review Focus On?
The CET Cell is expected to examine:
- Performance trends between HSC and entrance examinations.
- Distribution of MHT-CET and JEE scores.
- Whether any anomalies indicate the need for policy changes.
- Possible improvements in the engineering admission process.
At present, the review is described as a data analysis exercise, and authorities have not announced any cancellation of results, re-examinations, or changes to the ongoing counselling process.
Will Admissions Be Affected?
As of now, no changes have been announced regarding:
- MHT-CET 2026 results
- JEE Main scores accepted for Maharashtra admissions
- CAP counselling schedule
- Merit list preparation
Engineering admissions through the Centralised Admission Process (CAP) will continue according to the published schedule unless the CET Cell issues a fresh notification.
Why Can HSC and Entrance Scores Differ?
Education experts point out several reasons why students may perform differently in board and entrance examinations:
- HSC examinations emphasize descriptive, syllabus-based learning.
- MHT-CET and JEE Main primarily test speed, conceptual understanding, and objective problem-solving.
- Many students undertake specialized coaching focused exclusively on entrance examinations.
- Different marking schemes and difficulty levels can also contribute to score variations.
Therefore, a difference in performance does not automatically indicate any wrongdoing.
Advice for Candidates
Students participating in the ongoing admission process should:
- Continue with CAP counselling as scheduled.
- Monitor official CET Cell notifications for any updates.
- Avoid relying on unverified social media claims regarding score cancellations or counselling changes.
- Keep all admission documents ready for verification.
About MHT-CET
The Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MHT-CET) is conducted annually by the State CET Cell, Maharashtra, for admission to undergraduate engineering, pharmacy, and other professional courses. Candidates can also apply through JEE Main scores for engineering admissions in Maharashtra, subject to the admission rules prescribed by the CET Cell.
FAQs
Why is the Maharashtra CET Cell reviewing MHT-CET and JEE scores?
The CET Cell has observed significant differences between some students' HSC board marks and their MHT-CET/JEE Main performance and has initiated a data review to better understand these trends.
Has the CET Cell cancelled any MHT-CET or JEE scores?
No. There has been no announcement regarding the cancellation of scores or re-examinations. The exercise is currently a review of performance patterns.
Will CAP counselling be delayed?
No. The CET Cell has not announced any changes to the ongoing CAP counselling schedule. Candidates should continue following the official admission timeline.
Does a low HSC score and high MHT-CET score indicate malpractice?
Not necessarily. Experts note that board examinations and entrance tests assess different skills, and many students prepare specifically for competitive entrance exams, leading to variations in performance. However, the CET Cell is analyzing the trend to ensure the integrity of the admission process.
