Pune: Maharashtra Launches Unified Online Portal for Foreign Student Admissions
Pune, 25th July 2025: In a significant move to simplify the admission process for international students, the Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell has rolled out a centralized online portal for the 2025–26 academic year, offering a single-window admission system for foreign nationals.
This newly launched platform allows Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), and children of Indian workers in Gulf countries to apply for professional courses across the state without having to visit individual university websites.
Earlier, applicants were required to navigate various institutional portals for information and submission of forms. The new system integrates the entire process—from selecting courses to uploading documents and paying fees—on one streamlined interface.
Over 2,600 Applications Received So Far:
Officials from the CET Cell report that the portal has already seen around 2,680 registrations, with a substantial number of applications originating from Gulf countries. Professional programs like B.Tech, BBA, and MBA are drawing the most interest.
To help students make informed decisions, the platform offers details such as institutional rankings, tuition costs, course structures, hostel availability, and other relevant information.
“Instead of browsing each institution separately, students can now complete the entire process from one place,” said Dr. Shailendra Dewalankar, Director of Higher Education. “This system brings transparency and ease to the application process.”
As per commissioner of Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test (MHT-CET), Dilip Sardesai, nearly 30 to 40 educational institutions in Maharashtra have set aside 5% to 15% of seats in various programs for international candidates. The portal makes it easier for eligible students to apply under these reserved quotas. “This unified portal aligns Maharashtra with global admission standards and opens doors to foreign students without unnecessary complexity,” Sardesai said.
Key Highlights of the Portal:
-Centralized registration and documentation process
-Access to course and college information under one platform
-Phase-wise admission rounds by course category
-Online fee payment after seat confirmation
-Physical presence required only when the academic year commences
The initiative is expected to enhance Maharashtra’s standing as a preferred destination for global learners, reinforcing its position as a leading center for professional education in India.
