HPCET 2026: Application Form, Dates, Eligibility, Pattern, Syllabus, Preparation Tips

The HPCET 2026 Exam is scheduled to be held in the second week of May 2026 and will be conducted via offline mode. HPCET, which stands for Himachal Pradesh Common Entrance Test, is an annual state-level examination. Himachal Pradesh Technical University (HPTU), located in Hamirpur, oversees the administration of the HPCET exam. This entrance test serves as a pathway for admission into various undergraduate and postgraduate courses across fields such as Engineering, Pharmacy, Management, and others.

Candidates aspiring for admission to courses such as B.Tech, B.Pharmacy, MCA, MBA, and MBA (Tourism and Hospitality Management) will have opportunities at various affiliated colleges, deemed universities, and institutes across Himachal Pradesh.

This article provides comprehensive details regarding the HPCET 2026 exam, covering various aspects such as important events and dates, application procedures, eligibility criteria, exam patterns, and more.

HPCET 2026 Courses Offered:

HPCET 2026 Highlights

HPCET 2026 is a prominent state-level entrance exam conducted by the Himachal Pradesh Technical University (HPTU), Hamirpur. It offers admissions to various undergraduate and postgraduate courses across different disciplines.

HPCET 2026 Exam Dates

Here are the important dates for candidates appearing for HPCET 2026:

HPCET 2026 Application Form

Eligible candidates for HPCET 2026 can apply conveniently through online mode, commencing in the fourth week of March 2026. The application process entails filling in personal, qualification, category, and address details in the registration form. candidates must upload a scanned copy of their photograph and signature as per the prescribed format. 

• HPCET 2026 applications can only be submitted through the online mode.
• Online application submissions will commence in the last week of March 2026.
• Applicants are required to provide comprehensive details such as personal information, educational qualifications, category, and contact addresses.
• Uploading a scanned image of the applicant’s photograph and signature as per the specified guidelines is mandatory.
• Candidates must double-check all entered information before final submission since no revisions are permitted afterwards.
• The application portal will close at the end of the fourth week of April 2026; submissions past this deadline will not be considered.
• For future reference and potential communications, candidates should print and safely store a copy of the completed application form.
• Ensure that all mandatory fields in the form are meticulously completed to avoid any issues during the review process.
• Regularly check the provided email and contact number for updates or further instructions from the admission office.
• Review the application guidelines thoroughly before beginning the submission process to ensure compliance with all requirements.

HPCET 2026 Application Fee

Candidates must pay the application fee online using methods such as debit cards, credit cards, or net banking. The fee is required as part of the submission process and must be paid exclusively through online channels. Please note that once paid, the fee is non-refundable under any circumstances.

How to Fill HPCET 2026 Application Form?

• Visit the HPCET 2026 Website – Go to the official website of HPCET 2026. The link will be provided above.
• Access the Online Application Form – Click on the “Online Application Form for HPCET-2026” link on the website.
• Provide Personal Information – Enter a valid mobile number, email ID, and date of birth, and create a username and password.
• Login and Fill out the Application Form – Login to the page using the created username and password. Fill out the application form with personal and qualification details.
• Upload Required Documents – Upload necessary documents such as scanned photographs, signatures, etc., in the prescribed format.
• Review and Confirm Details – Confirm all the entered details and click on the “Submit and Go for Payment” button.
• Proceed to Payment – Press on the “Click here for Online Payment” option to proceed with the payment process.
• Select Payment Method and Make Payment – Choose the preferred payment method (debit card, credit card, net banking, etc.) and complete the payment.
• Save Application Form – After successful payment, ensure to save a hard copy of the PDF of the application form for future reference.

HPCET 2026 Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for HPCET 2026 outline the academic and age requirements for aspiring candidates across various courses such as B.Tech, Pharmacy, and MBA. These criteria serve as fundamental guidelines to ensure that candidates meet the necessary qualifications to apply for their desired programs.

B.Tech Courses:

• Qualification: Candidates must have completed their 12th level or its equivalent from a recognized board.
• Subjects: Candidates must be qualified in subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, IT, Biology, Agriculture, etc.
• Marks: A minimum of 45% marks (40% for reserved category) must be obtained in the qualifying exam.
• Appearing: Candidates appearing in the final year of the qualifying exam will also be eligible.

Pharmacy:

• Qualification: One must have completed their 12th level or its equivalent from a recognized board.
• Age: The minimum age of candidates must be 17 years as of or before 31st December 2026.
• Marks: Minimum marks of candidates must be 45% marks (40% marks in case of reserved category) in the qualifying examination.
• Subjects: It will be compulsory to have subjects like Physics and Chemistry along with any one of Mathematics or Biology.

MBA:

• Qualification: One must be graduated in any stream from a recognized board.
• Marks: Candidates must have obtained 50% marks (45% marks in case of reserved category) in the qualifying examination.
• Appearing: Candidates appearing in the final year of graduation will also be eligible.

HPCET 2026 Exam Pattern

The HPCET 2026 exam pattern includes details regarding the mode, types of questions, marking scheme, and more. Candidates need to understand the exam pattern before appearing for the examination. Here’s a concise overview of the key components of the HPCET 2026 exam pattern.

• Mode of Exam: The examination will be conducted through offline mode.
• Types of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) will constitute the exam.
• Language: The question paper will be available in English.
• Number of Questions: The UG paper will comprise 150 questions, while the PG paper will have 100 questions.
• Duration: Candidates will have a total of 2 hours to complete the paper.
• Marking Scheme: Correct answers will be awarded 4 marks, while incorrect responses will incur a penalty of 1 mark

Marking Scheme:

HPCET 2026 Syllabus

The syllabus for HPCET 2026 covers a wide range of topics in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. Candidates are advised to thoroughly review the syllabus to prepare effectively for the exam.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the syllabus for each subject:

For B.Tech & B.Pharmacy:

HPCET 2026 Preparation Tips

Preparing effectively for the HPCET 2026 examination is essential for achieving success in securing admission to various courses. Here are ten comprehensive tips to help you maximize your preparation:

1. Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the HPCET exam pattern, including the number of questions, marking scheme, and duration of the exam for each section.
2. Create a Study Schedule: Develop a well-structured study schedule that allocates sufficient time for each subject, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the syllabus.
3. Focus on Core Subjects: Concentrate on core subjects such as Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and relevant subjects depending on the course you’re applying for.
4. Practice Previous Year Papers: Solve the previous year’s question papers and sample papers to understand the exam format, assess your preparation level, and identify areas for improvement.
5. Utilize Quality Study Material: Invest in high-quality study materials, including textbooks, reference books, and online resources, to enhance your understanding of key concepts.
6. Take Mock Tests: Regularly take mock tests to simulate exam conditions, improve time management skills, and gauge your performance.
7. Clarify Doubts: Don’t hesitate to seek clarification for any doubts or concepts you find challenging. Utilize resources such as online forums, study groups, or expert guidance.
8. Revision is Key: Allocate time for regular revision of all subjects to reinforce learning and ensure retention of important concepts.

HPCET 2026 Exam Centre

HPCET Exam Centres for 2026 will be situated in various cities across Himachal Pradesh, including Bilaspur, Chamba, Hamirpur, Mandi, Shimla, Solan, Kullu, Sirmour, and Una. Additionally, an exam centre will be available in Chandigarh.

HPCET 2026 Admit Card

The HPCET Admit Card for 2026 will be accessible for download online starting from the first week of May 2026. It will feature essential details such as the candidate’s roll number, photograph, exam centre address, and exam schedule. 

To download the hall ticket, candidates need to log in to the website using their application number and date of birth. It’s imperative to preserve the admit card and present it on the day of the entrance examination.

HPCET 2026 Answer Key

The HPCET 2026 Answer Key will be accessible online in the second week of May 2026. Candidates can view and download the answer key from the official website in PDF format, organized by different sets and subjects. 

It serves as a tool for candidates to estimate their potential scores in the entrance exam. Additionally, candidates can challenge the answer key with supporting documents or solutions related to the question papers, if necessary.

HPCET 2026 Result

Following the conclusion of the exam, the HPCET 2026 Result will be published online. The final result, incorporating all submitted challenges, will be available through the official website.

Expectedly, the HPCET 2026 Result will be declared in the fourth week of May 2026. Candidates can access their results by providing their application number and date of birth on the website. It is advisable to print a copy of the result for future reference.

HPCET 2026 Cut-Off

After the result declaration, the authority will release the HPCET 2026 Cut-Off online. It represents the minimum marks required for admission.

The HPCET Cut-Off 2026 will be determined based on factors such as seat availability, exam difficulty, and candidate numbers. It will vary across courses, colleges, and categories.

HPCET 2026 Admission

Admission to participating institutes/universities will depend on the merit rank/marks obtained in HPCET 2026. The counselling process will occur online in the second week of June 2026.

Candidates need to present original documents along with attested photocopies during the admission reporting. Eligible candidates will receive a selection letter upon completing all formalities.

Documents required during HPCET 2026 Counselling:

• Passing certificate of 10th & 12th class
• 10th & 12th class mark sheet
• HPCET 2026/ National level entrance exam- Result
• Character certificate
• Domicile certificate
• Category certificate
• Income certificate

HPCET 2026 Participating Colleges/ Institutions

The participating colleges/institutes for HPCET 2026 play a crucial role in offering diverse educational opportunities in Himachal Pradesh. Here’s a comprehensive list of these institutions:

HPCET 2026 FAQ’s

Sunil Kushwaha

As a dedicated Biology Science graduate, I’m passionate about sharing the latest updates in national and state entrance exams through my blog. I aim to keep aspiring students informed about exam trends, important dates, and changes in syllabi. With a keen interest in education, I strive to offer valuable insights for students navigating the competitive landscape of entrance examinations and admission tests. Stay updated with me.