HPCET 2026 (Himachal Pradesh Common Entrance Test) is a state-level entrance examination conducted by Himachal Pradesh Technical University (HPTU), Hamirpur for admission to various undergraduate and postgraduate professional courses. The examination serves as a gateway for admission to B.Tech, B.Pharmacy, MBA, MCA, and other technical programmes offered by HPTU and its affiliated colleges across Himachal Pradesh. With the official notification for HPCET 2026 already released on December 10, 2025, aspirants can now begin their preparation for this highly competitive entrance examination scheduled for May 2026.
Table of Contents
HPCET 2026 Exam Highlights
Understanding the basic structure and format of HPCET 2026 is essential for effective preparation. The examination is conducted annually in offline mode and tests candidates on Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics for engineering aspirants. Here is a comprehensive overview of the key exam details that every aspirant should know before beginning their preparation journey.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Himachal Pradesh Common Entrance Test (HPCET) |
| Conducting Body | Himachal Pradesh Technical University (HPTU), Hamirpur |
| Exam Level | State Level (Himachal Pradesh) |
| Exam Mode | Offline (Pen and Paper Based) |
| Exam Duration (B.Tech/B.Pharmacy) | 3 Hours 15 Minutes |
| Exam Duration (MBA/MCA) | 2 Hours |
| Total Questions (UG Courses) | 150 MCQs |
| Total Questions (PG Courses) | 100 MCQs |
| Total Marks (UG Courses) | 600 Marks |
| Total Marks (PG Courses) | 200 Marks |
| Negative Marking | Yes, 1 mark for UG and 0.5 mark for PG courses |
| Medium of Exam | English |
| Courses Offered | B.Tech, B.Pharmacy, MBA, MCA, M.Tech, BBA, BCA, BHMCT, B.Sc. (HM & CT) |
| Official Website | himtu.ac.in |
HPCET 2026 Important Dates
HPTU has released the notification schedule for HPCET 2026 on December 10, 2025. Candidates must be aware of all important dates to ensure timely completion of the application process and preparation. The tentative schedule based on the official notification and previous year trends is provided below for reference.
| Event | Expected Dates (2026) |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release | December 10, 2025 (Released) |
| Online Registration Begins | February 2026 (First Week) |
| Last Date for Application Submission | April 2026 (Third Week) |
| Application Correction Window | Late April 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | May 2026 (First Week) |
| HPCET 2026 Exam Date (UG Courses) | May 2026 (Second/Third Week) |
| HPCET 2026 Exam Date (PG Courses) | May/June 2026 |
| Provisional Answer Key Release | May 2026 (Fourth Week) |
| Final Answer Key Release | June 2026 (First Week) |
| Result Declaration | June 2026 (First Week) |
| Counselling Registration | June 2026 (Second Week) |
| Counselling (JEE Main Based) | July 2026 (Last Week) |
| Counselling (HPCET Based) | August 2026 |
Courses Offered Through HPCET 2026
HPCET 2026 offers admission to a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate technical and professional courses. Candidates can apply for multiple courses based on their eligibility and interest. Understanding the available programmes helps aspirants make informed decisions about their academic and career goals.
Undergraduate Courses
| Course Name | Duration | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| B.Tech (Bachelor of Technology) | 4 Years | 10+2 with PCM |
| B.Pharmacy (Allopathy) | 4 Years | 10+2 with PCM/PCB |
| B.Pharmacy (Ayurveda) | 4 Years | 10+2 with PCB |
| BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration) | 3 Years | 10+2 any stream |
| BCA (Bachelor of Computer Applications) | 3 Years | 10+2 with Mathematics |
| BHMCT (Bachelor of Hotel Management & Catering Technology) | 4 Years | 10+2 any stream |
| B.Sc. (HM & CT) | 3 Years | 10+2 any stream |
Postgraduate Courses
| Course Name | Duration | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| MBA (Master of Business Administration) | 2 Years | Graduation with 50% marks |
| MBA (Tourism & Hospitality Management) | 2 Years | Graduation with 50% marks |
| MCA (Master of Computer Applications) | 2 Years | Graduation with Mathematics |
| M.Tech | 2 Years | B.Tech/B.E. with 50% marks |
| M.Sc. Physics | 2 Years | B.Sc. with Physics |
| M.Sc. Environmental Sciences | 2 Years | B.Sc. in relevant field |
HPCET 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Meeting the eligibility criteria is mandatory for appearing in HPCET 2026. HPTU prescribes specific educational qualifications, minimum marks, and age requirements for different courses. Candidates must carefully verify their eligibility before filling the application form to avoid rejection at later stages.
B.Tech Eligibility Criteria
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must have passed or appeared in 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized Board or University
- Mandatory Subjects: Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects along with one of the following - Chemistry, Biotechnology, Biology, Computer Science, IT, Electronics, Technical Vocational Subject, Agriculture, Engineering Graphics, Business Studies, or Entrepreneurship
- Minimum Marks: 45% aggregate marks in the qualifying subjects (40% for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates)
- Age Limit: Minimum 17 years as on December 31, 2026
- Alternative Eligibility: Diploma in Engineering/Technology with 45% marks (40% for reserved categories)
B.Pharmacy Eligibility Criteria
- Educational Qualification: 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized Board
- Mandatory Subjects: Physics and Chemistry as compulsory subjects along with Mathematics or Biology
- Minimum Marks: 45% aggregate marks (40% for reserved categories)
- Age Limit: Minimum 17 years as on December 31, 2026
MBA/MCA Eligibility Criteria
| Course | Qualification | Minimum Marks |
|---|---|---|
| MBA | Bachelor's degree (minimum 3 years) from a recognized university | 50% (45% for reserved categories) |
| MBA (T&HM) | Bachelor's degree (minimum 3 years) from a recognized university | 50% (45% for reserved categories) |
| MCA | Graduation with Mathematics as a subject at 10+2 or graduation level | 50% (45% for reserved categories) |
Age Limit and Reservation
- Minimum age for UG courses: 17 years as on December 31, 2026
- No upper age limit for any course
- Relaxation in minimum marks for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates as per government norms
- Reservation for HP state quota, women, and differently-abled candidates as per state policy
HPCET 2026 Application Process
The HPCET 2026 application process is completely online through the official HPTU website. Candidates must complete the registration, fill in the application form, upload documents, and pay the application fee within the stipulated timeline. Following the correct procedure ensures successful submission of the application.
Steps to Apply for HPCET 2026
- Step 1: Visit the official website himtu.ac.in
- Step 2: Click on "Application Form for HPCET-2026" link under the Admission tab
- Step 3: Select the programme and enter basic details including name, father's name, email ID, and mobile number
- Step 4: Verify email through OTP and create login credentials
- Step 5: Login using the Form Number and Password
- Step 6: Fill the complete application form with personal, educational, and contact details
- Step 7: Upload scanned passport-size photograph and signature in prescribed format
- Step 8: Select admission criteria - National Level Test (JEE Main) / HPCET / Qualifying Examination
- Step 9: Pay the application fee through online mode (Net Banking/Credit Card/Debit Card)
- Step 10: Submit the form and download the confirmation page for future reference
HPCET 2026 Application Fee
Candidates must pay the application fee as per their category and selected admission criteria. The fee is non-refundable and can be paid only through online modes. Separate fees are applicable for each programme if applying for multiple courses.
| Category | Application Fee (Per Admission Criteria) |
|---|---|
| General Category | Rs. 1,550 |
| Reserved Category (SC/ST/OBC) | Rs. 1,400 |
| BPL Families | Rs. 1,400 |
| JEE Main Candidates (Without HPCET) | Rs. 1,200 |
Documents Required for Application
- Scanned passport size photograph (JPG format, max 100 KB)
- Scanned signature (JPG format, max 50 KB)
- Class 10th mark sheet and certificate
- Class 12th mark sheet and certificate
- Graduation mark sheets (for PG courses)
- Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS if applicable)
- Domicile certificate (for HP state quota)
- Income certificate (if applicable)
- Disability certificate (for PwD candidates)
HPCET 2026 Exam Pattern
Understanding the HPCET exam pattern is crucial for strategic preparation. The examination pattern varies based on the course applied for. For B.Tech and B.Pharmacy, candidates need to attempt 150 questions, while MBA and MCA have 100 questions. The marking scheme includes negative marking for incorrect answers.
HPCET 2026 Exam Pattern for B.Tech/B.Pharmacy
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode of Exam | Offline (OMR-based Pen and Paper) |
| Duration | 3 Hours 15 Minutes (195 Minutes) |
| Total Questions | 150 MCQs |
| Total Marks | 600 Marks |
| Subjects | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics/Biology |
| Questions per Subject | 50 Questions each |
| Marks per Question | +4 for correct answer |
| Negative Marking | -1 for incorrect answer |
| Language | English |
HPCET 2026 Exam Pattern for MBA/MCA
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode of Exam | Offline (OMR-based Pen and Paper) |
| Duration | 2 Hours (120 Minutes) |
| Total Questions | 100 MCQs |
| Total Marks | 200 Marks |
| Marks per Question | +2 for correct answer |
| Negative Marking | -0.5 for incorrect answer |
| Language | English |
Section-wise Distribution for MBA/MCA
| Section | Topics |
|---|---|
| Verbal Ability | Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary |
| Quantitative Ability | Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Statistics |
| Data Interpretation & Reasoning | Logical Reasoning, Data Analysis, Puzzles |
| General Awareness | Business Awareness, Current Affairs, Computer Knowledge |
HPCET 2026 Syllabus
The HPCET 2026 syllabus is based on Class 11th and 12th standard curriculum for undergraduate courses. Candidates should thoroughly cover all topics mentioned in the syllabus to maximize their scores. The syllabus covers Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics for B.Tech, while Biology is included for B.Pharmacy applicants.
HPCET Physics Syllabus
| Unit | Topics |
|---|---|
| Physics and Measurement | Units and Dimensions, Errors in Measurement, Significant Figures |
| Kinematics | Motion in 1D and 2D, Projectile Motion, Relative Velocity |
| Laws of Motion | Newton's Laws, Friction, Circular Motion, Work-Energy Theorem |
| Work, Energy and Power | Conservative and Non-conservative Forces, Collisions |
| Rotational Motion | Moment of Inertia, Torque, Angular Momentum, Rolling Motion |
| Gravitation | Kepler's Laws, Gravitational Potential, Escape Velocity, Satellites |
| Properties of Solids and Liquids | Elasticity, Surface Tension, Viscosity, Bernoulli's Theorem |
| Thermodynamics | Laws of Thermodynamics, Heat Engines, Entropy |
| Kinetic Theory of Gases | Equation of State, Kinetic Energy, Degrees of Freedom |
| Oscillations and Waves | SHM, Damped Oscillations, Wave Motion, Doppler Effect |
| Electrostatics | Coulomb's Law, Electric Field, Potential, Capacitors |
| Current Electricity | Ohm's Law, Kirchhoff's Laws, Electrical Instruments |
| Magnetic Effects of Current | Biot-Savart Law, Ampere's Law, Magnetic Force |
| Electromagnetic Induction | Faraday's Laws, Self and Mutual Inductance, AC Circuits |
| Optics | Reflection, Refraction, Lenses, Optical Instruments, Wave Optics |
| Modern Physics | Dual Nature of Matter, Atoms, Nuclei, Radioactivity, Semiconductors |
HPCET Chemistry Syllabus
| Unit | Topics |
|---|---|
| Basic Concepts | Mole Concept, Stoichiometry, Equivalent Weight, Empirical Formula |
| Atomic Structure | Quantum Numbers, Electronic Configuration, Periodic Properties |
| Chemical Bonding | Ionic, Covalent, Metallic Bonds, Molecular Orbital Theory, VSEPR |
| States of Matter | Gas Laws, Ideal Gas Equation, Kinetic Theory, Liquids and Solids |
| Chemical Thermodynamics | Enthalpy, Entropy, Gibbs Free Energy, Spontaneity |
| Equilibrium | Chemical Equilibrium, Ionic Equilibrium, pH, Buffer Solutions |
| Redox Reactions | Oxidation-Reduction, Balancing Redox Equations, Electrochemistry |
| Chemical Kinetics | Rate of Reaction, Order, Molecularity, Activation Energy |
| Surface Chemistry | Adsorption, Catalysis, Colloids, Emulsions |
| s-Block Elements | Alkali and Alkaline Earth Metals, Their Compounds |
| p-Block Elements | Group 13-18 Elements, Their Compounds and Properties |
| d and f Block Elements | Transition Metals, Coordination Compounds, Lanthanides, Actinides |
| Organic Chemistry Basics | IUPAC Nomenclature, Isomerism, Reaction Mechanisms |
| Hydrocarbons | Alkanes, Alkenes, Alkynes, Aromatic Compounds |
| Organic Compounds with Functional Groups | Alcohols, Aldehydes, Ketones, Carboxylic Acids, Amines |
| Biomolecules | Carbohydrates, Proteins, Vitamins, Nucleic Acids |
| Polymers | Classification, Polymerization, Natural and Synthetic Polymers |
| Environmental Chemistry | Pollution, Green Chemistry, Ozone Depletion |
HPCET Mathematics Syllabus
| Unit | Topics |
|---|---|
| Sets, Relations and Functions | Types of Sets, Operations, Functions, Inverse Functions |
| Complex Numbers | Algebra of Complex Numbers, Argand Plane, De Moivre's Theorem |
| Quadratic Equations | Roots, Nature of Roots, Relation between Roots and Coefficients |
| Matrices and Determinants | Types of Matrices, Operations, Inverse, System of Equations |
| Permutations and Combinations | Fundamental Counting Principle, Arrangements, Selections |
| Binomial Theorem | Expansion, General Term, Properties |
| Sequence and Series | AP, GP, HP, Sum of Series, Special Series |
| Trigonometry | Ratios, Identities, Equations, Inverse Trigonometric Functions |
| Coordinate Geometry | Straight Lines, Circles, Conics (Parabola, Ellipse, Hyperbola) |
| Three Dimensional Geometry | Direction Ratios, Lines, Planes, Distance Formulas |
| Vector Algebra | Types of Vectors, Operations, Scalar and Vector Products |
| Limits, Continuity and Differentiability | Limits, Continuity, Differentiability, L'Hospital's Rule |
| Differential Calculus | Derivatives, Applications, Maxima and Minima, Tangents |
| Integral Calculus | Indefinite and Definite Integrals, Applications, Area |
| Differential Equations | Order, Degree, Formation, Solution Methods |
| Statistics | Mean, Median, Mode, Standard Deviation, Variance |
| Probability | Conditional Probability, Bayes' Theorem, Distributions |
| Mathematical Reasoning | Statements, Logical Operations, Quantifiers |
HPCET 2026 Exam Centres
HPCET 2026 will be conducted across multiple exam centres in Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh. Candidates can select their preferred exam centre during the application process, subject to availability. The exam centre details will be mentioned on the admit card.
| S.No. | UG Course Exam Centres | PG Course Exam Centres |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hamirpur | Hamirpur |
| 2 | Shimla | Mandi |
| 3 | Mandi | Dharamshala |
| 4 | Kangra | Solan |
| 5 | Solan | - |
| 6 | Bilaspur | - |
| 7 | Kullu | - |
| 8 | Una | - |
| 9 | Chamba | - |
| 10 | Sirmour | - |
| 11 | Chandigarh | - |
HPCET 2026 Admit Card
The HPCET 2026 admit card will be released approximately one week before the examination date on the official website. Candidates must download and take a printout of the admit card as it is mandatory for entry into the examination hall. The admit card contains essential details about the candidate and examination.
Details on HPCET Admit Card
- Candidate's name and father's name
- Roll number and registration number
- Date of birth and category
- Photograph and signature
- Exam date, time, and shift
- Exam centre name and address
- Reporting time and important instructions
Documents to Carry on Exam Day
- Printed copy of HPCET 2026 admit card
- Valid photo ID proof (Aadhar Card/Voter ID/Passport/Driving License)
- Passport size photographs (2 copies)
- Black/Blue ballpoint pen
HPCET vs JEE Main: Admission Pathways
HPTU offers two primary pathways for B.Tech admission - through HPCET scores and JEE Main scores. Understanding the seat allocation and merit calculation helps candidates plan their admission strategy effectively. Both pathways have equal importance with 50% seats allocated to each.
| Parameter | HPCET Pathway | JEE Main Pathway |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Allocation | 50% of total seats | 50% of total seats |
| Merit Calculation | 100% HPCET Score | 60% JEE Main + 40% Class 12th marks (Normalized) |
| Eligibility | HPCET Qualified Candidates | JEE Main Qualified Candidates |
| Counselling Priority | After JEE Main round | First priority in counselling |
| Vacant Seats | Filled through 12th marks if seats remain | Transferred to HPCET round |
HPCET 2026 Result and Cutoff
HPTU will declare the HPCET 2026 result on the official website after the examination. The result will be available in the form of a scorecard containing the candidate's marks and rank. Candidates who meet the cutoff marks will be eligible to participate in the counselling process.
HPCET 2025 Expected Cutoff Marks (For Reference)
| College | Branch | General Category (Approx. Marks) |
|---|---|---|
| JNGEC Sundernagar | Computer Science | 180-250 |
| JNGEC Sundernagar | Electronics & Communication | 150-200 |
| HPTU Hamirpur | Computer Science | 160-220 |
| GHEC Bilaspur | Computer Science | 180-250 |
| UIT Shimla | Computer Science | 140-180 |
| ABVGIET Pragatinagar | Electronics & Communication | 90-120 |
HPCET 2026 Counselling Process
HPCET 2026 counselling will be conducted in offline mode at the HPTU campus, Hamirpur. The counselling process includes registration, choice filling, seat allotment, and document verification. Candidates must attend the counselling in person with all original documents.
Counselling Schedule (Expected)
| Round | Category | Expected Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Round 1 - Stage 1 | JEE Main Based | July 2026 (Last Week) |
| Round 1 - Stage 2 | HPCET Based | August 2026 (First Week) |
| Round 1 - Stage 3 | 12th Marks Based (if seats vacant) | August 2026 (Second Week) |
| Round 2 | All Categories | August 2026 (Third Week) |
| Mop-up Round | Vacant Seats | September 2026 |
Documents Required for Counselling
- HPCET 2026 Scorecard/JEE Main 2026 Scorecard
- HPCET 2026 Admit Card
- Class 10th Mark Sheet and Certificate
- Class 12th Mark Sheet and Certificate
- Character Certificate
- Transfer Certificate
- Migration Certificate (for other state candidates)
- Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS)
- Domicile Certificate (for HP quota)
- Income Certificate
- Passport size photographs (6 copies)
- Valid ID Proof
HPCET 2026 Participating Colleges
HPCET scores are accepted by over 50 colleges across Himachal Pradesh including government institutions, private colleges, and deemed universities. These institutions offer various undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in engineering, pharmacy, management, and other technical fields.
Government Engineering Colleges
| College Name | Location | Courses Offered |
|---|---|---|
| Jawaharlal Nehru Government Engineering College (JNGEC) | Sundernagar | B.Tech (CSE, ECE, ME, CE, EE) |
| Himachal Pradesh Technical University (HPTU) | Hamirpur | B.Tech, MBA, MCA, M.Tech |
| Government Hydro Engineering College (GHEC) | Bilaspur | B.Tech |
| Atal Bihari Vajpayee Government Institute of Engineering and Technology | Pragatinagar, Shimla | B.Tech |
Private Engineering Colleges
| College Name | Location |
|---|---|
| Jaypee University of Information Technology (JUIT) | Solan |
| Shoolini University | Solan |
| Himachal Institute of Engineering and Technology (HIET) | Kangra |
| Green Hills Engineering College | Kumarhatti, Solan |
| L.R. Institute of Engineering and Technology | Jabli-Kyar, Solan |
| Gautam Institute of Management and Technology | Hamirpur |
| Himachal Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (HIPER) | Hamirpur |
HPCET 2026 Preparation Tips
Effective preparation strategy is essential to score well in HPCET 2026. Since the exam is based on Class 11th and 12th syllabus, candidates should focus on building strong fundamentals. Here are expert-recommended preparation tips to help aspirants achieve their target scores.
Preparation Strategy
- Understand the Syllabus: Begin by thoroughly reviewing the complete HPCET syllabus. Identify high-weightage topics and prioritize them in your study plan.
- Create a Study Schedule: Develop a realistic timetable allocating equal time to Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Ensure daily practice and regular revisions.
- Focus on NCERT: NCERT textbooks are the foundation for HPCET preparation. Master all concepts, examples, and exercises from Class 11th and 12th NCERT books.
- Practice Previous Year Papers: Solve HPCET previous year question papers to understand the exam pattern, difficulty level, and frequently asked topics.
- Take Mock Tests: Regular mock tests help improve speed, accuracy, and time management. Analyze your performance after each test to identify weak areas.
- Manage Negative Marking: Since 1 mark is deducted for wrong answers, avoid random guessing. Attempt only those questions you are confident about.
- Revise Formulas: Create formula sheets for all subjects and revise them daily. Quick recall of formulas saves time during the exam.
- Stay Healthy: Maintain a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and regular exercise during preparation. Physical and mental wellness is crucial for optimal performance.
Recommended Books for HPCET 2026
| Subject | Recommended Books |
|---|---|
| Physics | Concepts of Physics by H.C. Verma, NCERT Physics Class 11 & 12, Objective Physics by D.C. Pandey |
| Chemistry | NCERT Chemistry Class 11 & 12, Organic Chemistry by O.P. Tandon, Physical Chemistry by P. Bahadur |
| Mathematics | NCERT Mathematics Class 11 & 12, Objective Mathematics by R.D. Sharma, A Master Resource Book by Praful K. Agarwal |
| MBA/MCA | Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension by Nishit K. Sinha, A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal |
HPCET Previous Year Question Papers
Practicing previous year question papers is one of the most effective preparation strategies. These papers help candidates understand the exam pattern, difficulty level, and types of questions asked. HPTU releases question papers on its official website after the examination.
| Year | Source |
|---|---|
| HPCET 2025 | Official Website himtu.ac.in |
| HPCET 2024 | AglaSem, Testbook, Careers360 |
| HPCET 2023 | Educational Portals |
| HPCET 2022 | HPTU Archives |
Frequently Asked Questions
HPCET stands for Himachal Pradesh Common Entrance Test. It is a state-level entrance examination conducted by Himachal Pradesh Technical University (HPTU), Hamirpur for admission to B.Tech, B.Pharmacy, MBA, MCA, and other professional courses in Himachal Pradesh.
HPCET 2026 is expected to be conducted in May 2026. The official notification has already been released on December 10, 2025. Exact exam dates will be announced in the detailed notification.
HPCET 2026 for B.Tech consists of 150 MCQs from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (50 questions each) for a total of 600 marks. The exam duration is 3 hours 15 minutes. There is +4 marks for each correct answer and –1 mark for wrong answers.
Yes, HPCET is generally considered easier than JEE Main in terms of difficulty level. The questions are based on Class 11th and 12th NCERT syllabus with moderate difficulty. However, competition depends on the number of applicants and available seats.
Yes, candidates with valid JEE Main scores can apply for admission to HPTU affiliated colleges without appearing for HPCET. 50% of seats are reserved for JEE Main candidates. Separate application and fee payment is required.
For B.Tech, candidates need minimum 45% marks in 10+2 with PCM (40% for reserved categories). There is no minimum qualifying score in HPCET itself; admission depends on merit rank and cutoff of respective colleges.
Yes, HPCET has negative marking. For B.Tech/B.Pharmacy, 1 mark is deducted for each wrong answer. For MBA/MCA, 0.5 marks are deducted for incorrect responses.
There is no limit on the number of attempts for HPCET. Candidates can appear for the exam multiple times as long as they meet the eligibility criteria.
The HPCET 2026 application fee is Rs. 1,550 for General category and Rs. 1,400 for Reserved category candidates per admission criteria selected. Separate fees apply for each programme if applying for multiple courses.
HPCET scores are accepted by HPTU, JNGEC Sundernagar, GHEC Bilaspur, JUIT Solan, Shoolini University, and over 50 government and private colleges in Himachal Pradesh for B.Tech, B.Pharmacy, MBA, and MCA admissions.
HPCET is conducted in offline mode (pen and paper-based test). Candidates receive OMR sheets to mark their answers using black or blue ballpoint pen.
HPCET 2026 counselling is expected to begin in June 2026 for registration, with seat allotment scheduled in July–August 2026. JEE Main based counselling is conducted first, followed by HPCET based allotment.
