Himachal Pradesh Common Entrance Test

The HPCET 2026 application process is completely online and allows candidates to apply for courses like B.Tech, B.Pharmacy, MCA, and MBA at HPTU. First, candidates must register on the official HPTU website by entering personal details and creating a password. After registration, they need to log in and fill in the application form with academic information, contact details, and other required data. Candidates must upload a scanned photograph and signature according to the specified size and format. Next, the application fee must be paid online using net banking, debit card, or credit card, depending on the course and category. After completing all steps, the form must be submitted, and a printout should be saved for future reference. Candidates who forget their login ID or password can use the “Forgot Password” option to reset it or contact HPTU support for help.

HPCET 2026 Application Process: Eligibility criteria

Before applying for HPCET 2026, candidates must make sure they match the following qualifying requirements:

• Educational Requirements: Candidates must have finished their 10+2 education or equivalent examination from a recognised board or university. They must have completed necessary subjects such as Informatics Practices, Biotechnology, Physics, Engineering Graphics, Business Studies, Mathematics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Electronics, Information Technology, Biology, Technical Vocational topics, Agriculture, and Entrepreneurship.
• Minimum Marks: General category candidates must have a minimum of 45% aggregate marks in the aforementioned disciplines, while reserved category candidates (SC/ST) must have at least 40%.

HPCET 2026 Important Dates

The HPCET 2026 important dates outline the complete schedule for application, exam, result, and counselling activities. This table helps candidates stay informed about key events, including application start and end dates, admit card release, exam day, answer key announcements, result declaration, and certificate verification for smooth participation in the admission process.

HPCET 2026 Application Process

The HPCET 2026 application process is conducted online through the official HPTU portal. Candidates must complete registration, fill in personal and academic details, upload documents, pay the application fee, and submit the form to complete the process successfully.

• Registration: Visit the official HPTU website, click on New Registration or Apply Now, fill in personal details, create a password, and submit the registration form.
• Fill in the Application Form: Log in with your registered credentials, enter personal, academic, and other required details, upload photograph and signature as per specifications, verify information, and click Save and Continue.
• Pay the Application Fee: Complete the payment online via net banking, credit card, or debit card, ensuring the correct fee for your course and category; a confirmation message will be sent after successful payment.
• Form Submission: After completing all steps, click on Submit to finalize your application, then take a printout for future reference.

HPCET 2026 Application Fee

HPCET 2026 fee can be paid through online mode using net banking, credit card, or debit card. The following table shows the application fee for all the categories:

Note: Both B. Tech. & B. Pharmacy/ MBA & MBA (T&HM) will carry the application fee that has been determined for the general category as Rs 3200; however, in case of the SC/ST/BPL category, it requires payment of INR 1600.

HPCET 2026 Application Process Common Issues and Solutions

Candidates may encounter the following common issues during the application process:

• Technical Issues: Ensure a stable internet connection and use a compatible browser. Clear cache and cookies if problems persist.
• Payment Failures: Verify payment details and ensure sufficient account balance. If the transaction fails, attempt the payment again or contact the bank.
• Document Upload Errors: Adhere to the specified file size and format requirements for uploading documents.

HPCET 2026 Application Process Forgot ID/Password Recovery

If candidates forget their HPCET 2026 login ID or password, they can use the 'Forgot Password' option on the portal, enter their registered email to receive a reset link, and follow instructions. Assistance is also available from HPTU support. If candidates forget their login credentials:

• Use the 'Forgot Password' option on the login page.
• Enter the registered email ID to receive a password reset link.
• Follow the instructions in the email to reset the password.
• For further assistance, candidates can contact the HPTU support team.

HPCET 2026 FAQs

What is the eligibility criteria for HPCET 2026?

Candidates must have completed 10+2 or equivalent with subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, or related disciplines, with minimum 45% for General and 40% for SC/ST candidates.

When does the HPCET 2026 application process start?

The HPCET 2026 application process starts in February 2026 on the official HPTU website.

What is the last date to submit the HPCET 2026 application form?

Candidates must submit the HPCET 2026 application form by April 2026.

How can I register for HPCET 2026?

Visit the official HPTU website, click on New Registration or Apply Now, fill in personal details, create a password, and submit to complete registration.

How can I pay the HPCET 2026 application fee?

The HPCET 2026 application fee can be paid online via net banking, credit card, or debit card, according to the course and category.

What is the HPCET 2026 application fee for SC/ST/BPL candidates?

SC/ST/BPL candidates applying for B.Tech, B.Pharmacy, MCA, MBA, or MBA (T&HM) must pay INR 1600.

What should I do if I forget my HPCET 2026 login ID or password?

Use the 'Forgot Password' option on the HPCET 2026 login page, enter the registered email, follow the reset instructions, or contact HPTU support for help.

What documents are required to upload during the HPCET 2026 application?

Candidates must upload a scanned photograph and signature according to the specifications mentioned in the HPCET 2026 application form instructions.

What are the common issues faced during HPCET 2026 application, and how can they be resolved?

Issues include technical errors, payment failures, and document upload errors. Candidates should check internet connection, verify payment details, and follow file size/format guidelines.

How can candidates submit the HPCET 2026 application form successfully?

After completing registration, filling personal and academic details, uploading documents, and paying the fee, click Submit and take a printout for future reference.