The MHT CET 2026 Final Merit List has been published on the official CAP website. Stay up to date on the CAP Round 1 seat matrix PDF, option entry dates, and a direct merit list download link for engineering admissions. Registration begins on July 28.
MHT CET 2026 CAP Round 1 Seat Matrix LIVE UpdatesMHT CET 2026 Final Merit List and Seat Matrix: The State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra, has released the MHT CET 2026 CAP Round 1 seat matrix today, on July 28, 2026 , on the official website: fe2026.mahacet.org. This time, the CET Cell delayed the release of the final merit list, which was supposed to be released yesterday, on July 27 . In the seat matrix PDF, the candidates can find the college-wise, branch-wise, and category-wise available vacant seats for CAP Round 1 counselling. Before participating in the CAP Round 1 counselling process, the candidates should refer to the seat matrix and make a draft copy of their entries before starting the Round 1 choice filling process. For better access, the candidates are asked to download the MHT CET seat matrix PDF. Along with the seat matrix, the authority has also released the final merit lists on July 27, 2026. Candidates whose names are displayed in the final merit list can take part in the CAP Round 1 option entry process. No one are allowed to submit grievances after the release of the final merit list.
- MHT CET 2026 CAP Round 1 Seat Matrix PDF: Click Here
- MHT CET 2026 CAP Round 1 Final Merit List: Click Here
MHT CET CAP Round 1 Seat Matrix for Colleges
Candidates can refer to the MHT CET CAP Round 1 college-wise seat matrix of last year here in the following table. Once the vacant seats for 2026 are released, the same will be updated here. Usually, the number of seats for colleges does not change over the year.
Institute Code | Institute Name | CAP Round 1 Vacant Seats |
|---|---|---|
16006 | COEP Technological University | 300 |
03012 | Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI), Mumbai | 60 |
06273 | Vishwakarma Institute of Technology (VIT), Pune | 576 |
06271 | Pune Institute of Computer Technology (PICT), Pune | 192 |
03215 | Sardar Patel Institute of Technology (SPIT), Mumbai | 96 |
06175 | Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering (PCCOE), Pune | 192 |
03182 | Thadomal Shahani Engineering College (TSEC), Mumbai | 144 |
06007 | Walchand College of Engineering (WCE), Sangli | 86 |
04167 | Yeshwantrao Chavan College of Engineering (YCC), Nagpur | 144 |
02020 | Shri Guru Gobind Singhji Institute of Engineering and Technology (SGGS) Nanded | 118 |
06272 | Dr. D. Y. Patil College of Engineering, Akurdi | 144 |
03199 | Dwarkadas J. Sanghvi College of Engineering (DJSCE), Mumbai | 144 |
03214 | Xavier Institute of Engineering (XIE), Mumbai | 96 |
What after MHT CET CAP Round 1 Seat Matrix 2026?
After releasing the MHT CET CAP Round 1 seat matrix 2026, the candidates can refer to the following guidelines:
- Before starting the MHT CET CAP Round 1 choice filling process, the candidates are advised to prepare a draft copy of their preferred colleges. For the same, the candidates should consider not only the college-wise vacant seats PDF, but also check the last year’s cutoff to get a tentative idea about their chances of securing a seat.
- Candidates are advised to take suggestions from their parents and experts before entering the choices. Also consider the placement history, faculty, distance from residence, and hostel facility while choosing the colleges.
- Do not choose any of those colleges that the candidates will not join if they get an allotment via the CAP Round 1 seat allotment process.
MHT CET 2026 CAP Round 1 Seat Matrix LIVE Updates
09 00 AM IST - 27 Jul'26
Un Aided Colleges Seat Matrix is Important
The un-aided private engineering institutes across Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and Nagpur account for the largest share of engineering seats in Maharashtra. The seat matrix displays category-wise CAP seat counts for all recognized private colleges participating in centralized allotment.
08 30 AM IST - 27 Jul'26
Shift Wise Seat Distributions In Colleges
Few colleges offer first-shift and second-shift programs for popular branches. The published seat matrix clearly separates shift-wise choice codes and seat counts. Candidates need to note the exact choice code for their preferred shift during CAP Round 1 option entry.
08 00 AM IST - 27 Jul'26
Verification Of Merit Ranks With Seats
Candidates must cross-examine their final state merit rank alongside total available seats in preferred engineering branches. Candidates need to evaluate their ranks relative to total sanctioned category seats to get a realistic picture of their admission chances before submitting option choices.
07 00 AM IST - 27 Jul'26
Artificial Intelligence Branch Seats Expand Greatly
The CAP Round 1 2026 seat matrix reflects a noticeable increase in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Data Science seats. Several top engineering colleges have introduced new AI specialization streams. Candidates should review these newly added course codes in the matrix for fresh admission opportunities.
06 00 AM IST - 27 Jul'26
Prepare Backup Colleges Before Deadline Arrives
Candidates should identify several backup colleges before the choice-filling window closes. Depending only on a few high-demand institutes may limit allotment opportunities. Referring to the MHT CET 2026 seat matrix while preparing alternative options ensures that applicants have a wider selection of colleges during CAP Round 1 counselling.
05 00 AM IST - 27 Jul'26
Cross Check Reservation Category Before Choices
Before submitting the CAP Round 1 web options, candidates should verify that their reservation category in the final merit list matches the approved documents. Since the CAP Round 1 seat matrix contains category-wise seat availability, any discrepancy may affect allotment eligibility. Early verification can prevent unnecessary complications during the counselling process.
04 00 AM IST - 27 Jul'26
Do Not Ignore Newly Added Branches
Several participating colleges may offer newer engineering programmes such as Data Science, Cyber Security, Robotics, or Artificial Intelligence. Candidates need to analyse these branches and enter the choices accordingly during the CAP Round 1 choice-filling process. Emerging disciplines may provide additional admission opportunities and should be evaluated alongside traditional engineering programmes before finalising web options.
03 00 AM IST - 27 Jul'26
Analyse Similar Colleges Before Option Entry
Candidates often find multiple colleges with comparable placements, infrastructure, and branch offerings. Before filling CAP Round 1 preferences, it is advisable to compare such institutes using the official seat matrix, previous admission trends, and academic offerings. This comparison will guide the candidates in arranging similar colleges in a logical order that reflects their genuine priorities.
02 00 AM IST - 27 Jul'26
Keep Dream Colleges at The Top
Do not think twice before including the highly competitive colleges at the beginning of their preference list if they desperately want to study there. During MHT CET 2026 CAP 1 counselling, the seat allotment system evaluates options sequentially based on merit. Including ambitious choices first does not affect consideration for lower-ranked options if higher preferences are unavailable.
01 00 AM IST - 27 Jul'26
Branch Preference Matters More Than Ever
Candidates need to decide whether Instituition reputation or branch preference is their higher priority before freezing the MHT CET CAP Round 1 choices. Some candidates may prefer a top college with a different branch, while others may prioritise their desired programme. Establishing this preference beforehand can simplify the MHT CET 2026 choice-filling process and reduce last-minute changes.
12 00 AM IST - 27 Jul'26
Preference Order Cannot Depend On Cutoffs
While previous years' cutoffs are useful for reference, candidates must avoid basing their choice arrangement based only on historical closing ranks. The MHT CET 2026 seat matrix and current competition lead to changes in admission trends. A well-balanced preference order should reflect both personal priorities and realistic admission possibilities for better counselling outcomes.
11 00 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Final Merit List Release Ends Verification Phase
The publication of the MHT CET 2026 CAP Round 1 final merit list marks the completion of the document verification and grievance redressal process. Candidates should ensure that their final merit number, category, and eligibility details are correctly reflected before proceeding to choice filling. The final merit list will be used for all subsequent Round 1 seat allotment decisions.
10 00 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Orphan Quota Seats Earmarked In Matrix
One percent supernumerary reservation for orphan candidates is explicitly noted in the published CAP Round 1 seat matrix. Eligible candidates with valid orphan certificates verified during scrutiny can check dedicated seat allocations across government and aided institutions.
09 30 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Understand College Choice Codes In Matrix
Every college-course combination in the seat matrix is assigned a unique 9-digit choice code. The digit structure distinguishes general seats, TFWS seats, shift-wise courses, and autonomous branches. Candidates need to cross-check choice codes from the official seat matrix before locking options on the CET Cell portal.
09 00 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Minority Institutions Quota Seats PDF Updated
The religious and linguistic minority colleges across the state have detailed their seat matrices. In minority institutions, 51% of total seats are reserved for the respective minority community, while remaining seats fall under CAP general merit. Non-minority candidates must check available non-minority CAP seats before adding these colleges to their option forms.
08 30 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Option Form Choice Limits Explained Clearly
Candidates will be able to add up to 300 choice codes in their CAP Round 1 option form. Experts advise filling a healthy mix of high-preference reach colleges, realistic match colleges, and guaranteed safe colleges based on today's published seat matrix to secure an allotment in Round 1.
08 00 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Review Final Merit Details Before Locking
Before freezing the CAP Round 1 web options, the candidates should carefully verify the details mentioned in the MHT CET 2026 final merit list. Any discrepancy in merit position or category status should be addressed according to the counselling guidelines before the choice-filling deadline. Accurate merit information is essential for ensuring a smooth and transparent seat allotment process.
07 40 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
More Preferences Increase Allotment Possibilities
Candidates need to consider filling a sufficient number of college and branch preferences during MHT CET 2026 CAP Round 1 counselling. Restricting the option list to a handful of institutes will reduce the likelihood of securing an allotment. A wider yet carefully prioritised preference list can improve admission opportunities without compromising desired academic choices.
07 20 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Final Merit Rank Determines Allotment Priority
The CAP Round 1 allotment process will follow the MHT CET 2026 final merit list while allocating seats across participating institutes. Candidates with better merit positions receive priority for their higher preferences, subject to seat availability.
07 00 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Previous Cutoffs Help Build Smart Preferences
Previous years' closing ranks can be a useful reference while filling CAP Round 1 options. Candidates need to compare the MHT CET 2026 final merit position with historical cutoffs and current seat availability before locking preferences. Although cutoffs change every year, analysing past trends may help applicants identify colleges where admission chances are comparatively stronger.
06 40 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Avoid Random Ordering During Web Options
Experts suggest that candidates should not arrange colleges randomly during MHT CET 2026 choice filling. Every option should reflect genuine preference because once a higher-ranked choice is allotted, lower preferences are automatically ignored. Reviewing the final merit list, seat matrix, and previous admission trends together can help applicants prepare a logical and effective preference sequence.
06 20 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Higher Preferences Should Reflect True Aspirations
Candidates must place their most preferred colleges and branches at the top of the MHT CET 2026 CAP Round 1 option list. The allotment system considers higher preferences first based on merit and seat availability. Listing dream colleges first does not reduce the chance of receiving lower preferences if higher options are unavailable during the allotment process.
06 00 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Choice Filling Requires Balanced Preference Selection
A balanced choice-filling strategy can significantly increase the admission prospects during MHT CET 2026 CAP Round 1 counselling. Candidates should not limit themselves to only a few highly competitive colleges. Adding sufficient options across various institutes and branches may increase the likelihood of securing a seat while still keeping preferred programmes at the top of the option list.
05 40 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Merit Position Shapes College Preference Order
Candidates need to avoid preparing their preference list solely on personal choice after the MHT CET 2026 final merit list is released. In turn, they should consider their merit rank, available seats, and historical cutoff trends together. Including a mix of aspirational, moderate, and safe colleges can help maximise admission opportunities during the CAP Round 1 seat allotment process.
05 20 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Final Merit List Guides Choice Filling
The MHT CET 2026 CAP Round 1 final merit list is the basis of seat allotment and should be reviewed before entering web options. Candidates can evaluate their admission possibilities by comparing their merit position with previous years' closing ranks. A realistic preference order should be prepared after analysing the final merit list, and the seat matrix may improve allotment outcomes in the first counselling round.
05 00 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Seat Matrix Supports Better Choice Filling Decisions
The upcoming MHT CET CAP Round 1 seat matrix will serve as one of the most important documents during MHT CET 2026 counselling. It helps candidates to understand institute-wise, branch-wise, and category-wise seat availability before finalising preferences. Using this information wisely can reduce guesswork and help applicants create a strategic choice list based on realistic admission possibilities.
04 40 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
University Managed Colleges Seats Listed Separately
The MHT CET 2026 CAP Round 1 seat matrix is expected to separately release the vacant seats for the university-managed engineering colleges. Candidates should carefully examine these entries while preparing their option list. Since admission competition varies among institutions, reviewing university-managed colleges alongside government and private institutes can help candidates to explore a wider range of admission opportunities.
04 20 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Artificial Intelligence Seats Gain Candidate Interest
The candidates expect to focus on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning programmes after the CAP Round 1 seat matrix is released. Many colleges have expanded intake for emerging technology branches in recent years. Candidates should review branch-wise seat availability and compare options across multiple institutes before locking their preferences for the first round of admissions.
04 00 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Computer Science Seats Draw Maximum Attention
The CSE is expected to remain one of the most sought-after branches during MHT CET 2026 CAP counselling. Candidates will closely monitor the Round 1 seat matrix to identify colleges offering a higher number of CSE seats. Comparing the seat availability with previous years' closing ranks may help applicants make informed decisions while arranging their web option preferences.
03 40 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Engineering Admission Planning Enters Crucial Phase
With the release of the CAP Round 1 seat matrix approaching, MHT CET 2026 counselling is entering a vital stage. Candidates are advised to shortlist colleges, compare branch availability, and arrange preferences before the choice-filling window closes. A carefully prepared option list based on available seats and previous admission trends can significantly improve the likelihood of receiving a desirable allotment.
03 20 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Female Quota Seat Allocation In Matrix
30% of seats in each category are reserved for female candidates across state engineering colleges under standard Maharashtra admission rules. The seat matrix details female-specific seat counts alongside general seats for every branch, helping female aspirants assess realistic cut-off trends for Round 1 allotment.
03 00 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Persons With Disabilities Quotas Defined Matrix
5% of total seats across participating institutes are reserved for Persons with Disabilities (PwD), as detailed in the Round 1 matrix. The seat matrix lists specific seat allocations per branch for eligible PwD candidates who completed document verification. Applicants in this quota should review seat availability across top preferred colleges prior to option entry.
02 40 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Reserved Category Quota Breakdown Displayed Online
The CET Cell seat matrix provides a comprehensive breakdown for reserved categories, including SC, ST, VJ/DT, NT-A, NT-B, NT-C, NT-D, and OBC. Each institute's course table shows precise seat counts per category. The reserved category candidates need to make sure that their verified category status aligns with the matrix columns to maximize admission opportunities.
02 20 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Autonomous Colleges Seat Allocation Rules Applied
Autonomous engineering colleges in Maharashtra follow specific seat allocation matrices authorized by the CET Cell. While autonomous status allows independent academic curricula, seat allotment for CAP seats strictly follows state merit rank and category reservation guidelines. Candidates need to review autonomous college seat tables in the matrix to confirm general and reserved seat counts.
02 00 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Category Wise Seat Distribution Awaited Today
The MHT CET 2026 CAP Round 1 seat matrix is expected to include category-wise seat allocation for eligible candidates, as in past years. Candidates belonging to reserved categories should verify the availability of seats under their respective reservation before filling choices. Understanding category-wise intake in advance can help candidates make informed decisions and avoid overlooking colleges with better admission possibilities.
01 40 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Private Institutes Seats Officially Listed Soon
Private engineering colleges participating in the MHT CET CAP 2026 will also feature in the Round 1 seat matrix. Candidates can review institute-wise seat distribution for different branches and admission categories before finalising preferences. Comparing seat availability across multiple colleges can guide candidates in identifying institutions offering better admission opportunities based on their rank and reservation category during counselling.
01 20 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
All Eyes on Government Engineering Colleges Seat Matrix
Government Engineering Colleges remain prime targets due to lower fee structures and robust academic infrastructure. The seat matrix reveals exact seat counts across traditional core branches like Civil and Mechanical, alongside modern disciplines like Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence.
01 00 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
All India Quota Seats Via JEE
The Round 1 seat matrix confirms All India (AI) quota seats available across private autonomous and unaided engineering colleges in Maharashtra. These seats are allotted based on JEE Main Paper 1 percentile ranks. Non-Maharashtra candidates and state candidates with valid JEE Main scores can check branch-wise AI seat availability to optimize their chances during CAP Round 1 choice filling.
12 40 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Tuition Fee Waiver Scheme Seats Breakdown
TFWS (Tuition Fee Waiver Scheme) seats are highlighted separately in the seat matrix PDF. Up to 5% supernumerary seats will be allocated per course for high-merit candidates meeting specified family income criteria. Because TFWS seats offer significant tuition fee relief, competition for these seats is intense. Candidates should check if TFWS choice codes are active for their preferred colleges.
12 20 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
EWS Quota Seats Detailed In Matrix
The EWS candidates can review the dedicated 10% supernumerary seat allocations listed in the CAP Round 1 seat matrix. EWS seats are sanctioned over and above the regular intake in participating government and unaided engineering colleges. Candidates holding a verified EWS certificate should check branch-specific seat numbers to ensure that they select eligible choices during option form confirmation.
12 00 PM IST - 26 Jul'26
Home University Seats Allocation Matrix
The seat matrix categorizes available seats into Home University (HU) and Other than Home University (OHU) allocations. A majority of seats in state-affiliated institutes will be reserved for candidates belonging to the university's home region. Candidates should verify their home university status printed on their final merit card to ensure they are looking at the correct quota columns within the published seat matrix table.
11 40 AM IST - 26 Jul'26
Government Colleges Seat Intake To Watch
Government engineering colleges are expected to receive significant attention once the MHT CET 2026 Round 1 seat matrix becomes available. Candidates can compare sanctioned intake across various branches before submitting web options. Along with it, candidates should also refer to the previous years' closing ranks to prepare a practical counselling strategy for the first CAP round.
11 20 AM IST - 26 Jul'26
Choice Filling Planning Begins With Matrix
Candidates who will participate in the MHT CET 2026 CAP Round 1 choice-filling process should use the upcoming seat matrix as the foundation for choice filling. The document will indicate how many seats are available under each admission category in every participating institute. A well-planned preference list prepared after studying the matrix may improve the possibility of securing a preferred college during allotment.
11 00 AM IST - 26 Jul'26
Branch Availability Details Releasing On Monday
The upcoming CAP Round 1 seat matrix will help candidates understand branch-wise seat distribution across Maharashtra engineering colleges. Popular branches such as CSE, AI, IT, ECE and ME are expected to attract significant attention. Candidates should compare seat availability with previous cutoff ranks while preparing their final order of college and course preferences.
10 40 AM IST - 26 Jul'26
College Wise Seats Information Coming Soon
Thousands of engineering candidates are waiting for the MHT CET 2026 CAP Round 1 seat matrix, which will display the number of available seats across participating colleges. The document is expected to mention category-wise, institute-wise, and course-wise intake for Round 1 admissions. Reviewing the seat matrix before choice filling can help candidates prepare a balanced preference list with realistic admission expectations.
10 20 AM IST - 26 Jul'26
How To Download College Seat Matrix?
To get access to the MHT CET CAP Round 1 seat matrix PDF, visit cetcell.mahacet.org and navigate to the B.E./B.Tech CAP 2026 section. Click on the link titled "CAP Round 1 Seat Matrix." The document allows candidates to search by college code, branch, and category. Downloading this official matrix ensures you have verified data on total sanctioned intake, general seats, reservation quotas, and minority seats before finalizing your preferences.
10 00 AM IST - 26 Jul'26
Final Merit List Released With Matrix
Along with the college-wise vacant seats, the CET Cell will release the final MHT CET 2026 merit list. After reviewing grievances submitted between July 23 and July 25, the final rank list determines candidate standing for MHT CET CAP Round 1 allotment. Candidates need to check their updated state rank, home university rank, and category rank alongside seat availability to build a realistic option preference list for engineering admissions.
