| MBA CET 2025 | |
| Filled Form | 189000 |
| Paid Registered | 157000 |
| MAH MBA CET Exam Year | Total Registered candidate | Total Test Takers | Percentage ofAbsentees |
| 2025 | 157,000 | 1,40,000 | |
| 2024 | 154,000 | 139,000* | 12%* |
| 2023 | 130,927 | 112,209 | 14% |
| 2022 | 137,000 | 104,000 | 21% |
| 2021 | 132,000 | 121,000 | 10% |
| 2020 | 124,236 | 110,000 | 11% |
| 2019 | 111,846 | 102,851 | 8% |
Mumbai Sees a Surge in Technical Course Aspirants: MHT-CET and MCA-CET Registrations Witness Significant Growth
Mumbai: The number of aspirants for technical courses in Maharashtra, governed by the All-India Council of Technical Education (AICTE), has witnessed a significant rise this year. Among the various entrance tests conducted in the state, the Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MHT-CET) for engineering, pharmacy, and agricultural courses has seen close to nine lakh students registering for the examination. Of these, approximately 7.64 lakh candidates have confirmed their registration by completing the payment of fees. This marks a five percent increase compared to the final registration numbers recorded in the previous year.
While the MHT-CET remains the most popular entrance test, the Common Entrance Test (CET) for management courses has also experienced a marginal rise in the number of applicants. However, one of the most significant increases has been observed in the Master of Computer Applications (MCA) entrance test. The number of candidates registering for MCA-CET has surged by nearly 50 percent compared to last year.
Rising Popularity of MCA-CET
According to data from the state’s CET cell, over 56,000 candidates have registered for the MCA-CET this year. In contrast, the number of aspirants last year stood at 39,000, marking a considerable jump. The intake capacity for MCA programs across institutions in Maharashtra is over 17,000 seats. If this rising trend continues, there is a strong likelihood of an increase in the number of available seats in the coming academic years. This year’s surge in applications is also notable compared to the 2021-22 academic session when only around 25,000 students had appeared for the entrance exam.
The growing demand for MCA programs is believed to be influenced by multiple factors. One significant reason is the reduction in the course duration. Previously, MCA was a three-year postgraduate program. However, in recent years, the duration has been reduced to two years, making it a more attractive option for students who wish to pursue higher studies in the field of computer applications without investing additional time. Officials from the CET cell believe that this change in course structure has been a major factor in drawing more aspirants toward MCA programs.
Expert Opinions on the Increasing Demand for MCA
Academicians and industry experts have weighed in on the growing popularity of MCA programs. Dr. B.K. Mishra, Principal of Thakur College of Engineering and Technology, stated that the rising demand for MCA is closely linked to the increasing preference for computer-aligned courses among students. With advancements in technology and the expanding scope of computer applications across industries, students are increasingly inclined to opt for courses that provide them with hands-on technical skills.
“Our college is also planning to introduce an MCA program from the upcoming academic session. The demand for engineering courses has also seen an upward trend in recent times. There was a period when the Centralized Admission Process (CAP) rounds for engineering courses were fewer than the total number of seats available in various colleges. However, this trend is changing over the past few years, largely due to the introduction of emerging courses,” said Dr. Mishra.
Meanwhile, Dr. G.T. Thampi, Principal of Thadomal Shahani Engineering College, highlighted that despite the increasing focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and data sciences, a large number of students are still opting for traditional computer engineering courses. He pointed out that while generative AI is expected to become a dominant force in multiple industries, students who understand market trends and job prospects are making strategic academic choices.
“While AI, data science, and machine learning have gained prominence, computer engineering remains the preferred choice for a significant number of students. MCA programs are also attracting a large number of aspirants because they are more cost-effective than engineering courses while offering equally valuable hands-on training and industry exposure,” explained Dr. Thampi.
Emerging Trends in Engineering and Technical Education
Over the past few years, several new courses in artificial intelligence, data sciences, and machine learning have been introduced by AICTE, leading to an increase in demand for engineering and technology-related programs. The emergence of these specialized courses has fueled interest among students who seek career opportunities in cutting-edge technological fields.
The surge in MHT-CET registrations further highlights this trend. In 2021-22, only about five lakh aspirants had appeared for the MHT-CET exam. However, over the past four years, this number has risen by more than 50 percent, reaching 7.64 lakh registrations this year. Experts believe that the availability of new-age courses, combined with increased awareness about career prospects in engineering and technology, has contributed to this growth.
Additionally, colleges and universities are adapting to changing market demands by expanding their curriculum to include specialized courses. Many institutions are incorporating AI, blockchain, cybersecurity, and robotics into their existing programs to equip students with industry-relevant skills. As a result, the overall enrollment in technical education programs has seen a positive trajectory.
The Future of CET-Based Admissions in Maharashtra
With the rising number of students opting for technical and management courses, the state’s CET cell is expected to take measures to accommodate the growing demand. One of the possible steps includes an increase in the number of seats available for MCA and engineering courses. Additionally, the government may introduce new policy changes to streamline the admission process and enhance accessibility for students across the state.
Experts also believe that institutions will continue to witness a rise in applications for specialized courses in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data sciences. While engineering and MCA programs remain highly sought after, students are increasingly looking for opportunities to develop expertise in emerging technologies that align with industry requirements.
From a broader perspective, the overall increase in CET applications is a positive sign for the state’s higher education sector. The rising demand for technical education indicates that students recognize the importance of acquiring industry-specific skills to improve their career prospects. With ongoing technological advancements and an evolving job market, Maharashtra is likely to remain a key hub for engineering, computer applications, and management education in the years to come.
Conclusion
The growth in the number of students applying for technical courses in Maharashtra reflects the changing landscape of higher education. With the MHT-CET recording a significant increase in applicants and the MCA-CET witnessing a remarkable 50 percent surge in registrations, it is evident that students are gravitating toward fields that offer lucrative career opportunities.
Factors such as course duration revisions, the introduction of emerging technology subjects, and the increasing relevance of hands-on training programs have played a crucial role in shaping student preferences. Educational institutions are also responding to this shift by updating their curricula and expanding their offerings.
As the demand for computer-aligned courses continues to rise, it will be essential for policymakers and educators to ensure that institutions are well-equipped to cater to the growing number of aspirants. The future of technical and management education in Maharashtra appears promising, with more students eager to explore opportunities in engineering, MCA, and AI-driven disciplines.
