The MHT CET 2026 exam dates have been announced for the PCM/PCB group. The exam will be conducted from April 11 to 26 for the 1st Attempt. The MHT CET Biology Syllabus for the exam follows the SCERT Maharashtra curriculum for Classes 11 and 12.
- MHT CET Biology syllabus 2026 primarily focuses on topics such as Genetics and Evolution, Biotechnology, Human Physiology, and Cell Structure.
- The Biology section consists of 100 questions, one mark each, with no negative marking. A total duration of 90 minutes would be given to attempt the Biology paper.
- For the MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026, around 20% weightage is given to topics from Class 11, while 80% weightage is given to Class 12 Biology.
The 100 MCQs in the Biology exam will include 20 questions from class 11th and 80 questions from class 12th, with the exam being of a total of 100 marks.
In 2025, 22 candidates secured a 100th percentile in the MHT CET (PCM group), with Meer Vipul Bhuva getting the All India Rank 1. The PCB group had 14 candidates at the 100th percentile.
Students can watch this Biology Playlist by Saurav Sir to enhance their Biology preparation. The live lectures will clear all your doubts and will guide you throughout your preparation journey.
Related Topics:
- MHT CET Previous Years' Question Papers with Solutions PDF
- MHT CET 2026 Biology Best Books
- MHT CET 2026 Biology Free Mock Tests
Key Summary
- The whole syllabus of Biology of Standard 12th for 2026 is prescribed by SCERT, Maharashtra.
- The difficulty level of the Biology exam will be at par with the NEET exam.
- The questions in the Biology exam will be mainly application-based.
- The MHT CET 2026 will consist of 3 question papers, with Biology being the only one with 100 questions.
- The important topics for MHT CET Biology are Genetics and Evolution, Biotechnology, Human Physiology, Cell structure etc.
- What is MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026?
- MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026: Exam Pattern
- MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026: Important Topics
- MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026: Detailed Syllabus
- MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026: Chapter-Wise Weightage
- MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026: Reduced Syllabus
- MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026: Best Books
- MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026: Preparation Tips
- MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026: Mock Tests
- MHT CET and NEET Biology Syllabus Comparison
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026?
The Biology Syllabus for the MHT CET 2026 is based on the SCERT syllabus of Maharashtra. In the Biology exam, around 20% weightage is given to class 11th curriculum, and 80% weightage is given to class 12th curriculum.
It includes both Botany and Zoology, and contributes to the PCB group for students aiming at health science courses, pharmacy, or other life science-related fields.
The syllabus of the 11th standard is limited to certain topics such as Biomolecules, Respiration and Energy Transfer, Human Nutrition, etc.
Watch the video by PW Maharashtra on the important topics, chapter-wise weightage, and Marks distribution for the MHT CET Biology Syllabus.
MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026: Exam Pattern
The MHT CET 2026 exam pattern has been released by the CET cell on its official website, cetcell.mahacet.org. The exam pattern of MHT CET 2026 is given below:
| Subject | Questions | Duration | Marking Scheme |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | 50 MCQs | 45 Minutes | 1 Mark per question |
| Mathematics | 50 MCQs | 90 Minutes | 2 Mark per question |
| Chemistry | 50 MCQs | 45 Minutes | 1 Mark per question |
| Biology | 100 MCQs | 90 Minutes | 1 Mark per question |
| Note: There will be no negative marking in the exam. |
Source: Official Syllabus for MHT CET 2026
MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026: Important Topics
The MHT CET important topics of the syllabus are based on the previous year's questions and trend analysis. Important topics for MHT CET are given below:
Biology Class 11th Important Topics
| Unit | Important Topics |
|---|---|
| Diversity of Living Organisms | Five Kingdom Classification, Plant Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Characteristics & Examples |
| Structural Organisation in Plants & Animals | Plant Tissues, Animal Tissues, and Morphology of Flowering Plants |
| Cell Structure & Function | Cell Organelles, Cell Membrane Transport, Cell Cycle & Cell Division |
| Plant Physiology | Photosynthesis, Respiration in Plants, Plant Growth Regulators |
| Human Physiology | Digestion & Absorption, Breathing & Exchange of Gases, Circulation, Excretion, Neural Control & Coordination |
Biology Class 12th Important Topics
| Unit | Important Topics |
|---|---|
| Reproduction | Sexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants, Human Reproduction, Reproductive Health |
| Genetics & Evolution | Mendelian Genetics, Molecular Basis of Inheritance, DNA Replication, Evolution Theories |
| Biology & Human Welfare | Human Health & Disease, Microbes in Human Welfare |
| Biotechnology | Biotechnology Principles & Processes, Biotechnology Applications |
| Ecology & Environment | Ecosystem, Biodiversity & Conservation, Environmental Issues |
Ques. Are Microbes in human welfare and enhancement in food production important for the MHT CET Biology Paper?
Ans. Yes, Microbes in human welfare and enhancement in food production account for around 5% weightage with 3-4 questions. The sub-topics included are SCP, antibiotics, sewage treatment, tissue culture, biofortification, and plant breeding. These topics are scoring as direct questions are being asked from these.
Ques. How much weightage is given to Reproduction in plants and humans in MHT CET Biology?
Ans. Around 8-10% weightage is given to Reproduction in plants and humans, and around 6-8 questions are asked from these topics. The sub-topics included are double fertilization, menstrual cycle, gametogenesis, contraception, and pollination.
MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026: Detailed Syllabus
The syllabus of MCT CET for the biology paper is based on the syllabus of SCERT, Maharashtra, and the weightage given to the 11th class curriculum and 12th class curriculum is 20% and 80%, respectively.
Class 12th Biology Syllabus
| Unit | Topics |
|---|---|
| Reproduction |
|
| Genetics and Evolution |
|
| Biology and Human Welfare |
|
| Biotechnology |
|
| Ecology and Environment |
|
Class 11th Biology Syllabus
The Biology syllabus of class 11th for the MHT CET as prescribed by the SCERT, Maharashtra, is given below:
- Biomolecules
- Respiration and Energy Transfer
- Human Nutrition
- Excretion
- Osmoregulation
Source: Official MHT CET Syllabus
Ques. The application-based questions are asked from which chapters in the MHT CET 2026?
Ans. The questions in MHT CET Biology are mainly application-based, but these are less difficult than the NEET exam. The application-based questions mostly come from the following topics:
- Biotechnology (Polymerase Chain Reaction, Genetically Modified Organism)
- Genetics (lac operon, Hardy-Weinberg)
- Ecology (biomagnification, succession)
- Human Physiology (disorders, hormone roles)
- Reproduction (contraception, infertility)
MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026: Chapter-Wise Weightage
The MHT CET Biology chapter-wise weightage is derived from the previous year’s patterns, and the weightage is divided into 20% for class 11th and 80% for class 12th.
- Human Physiology of class 12th accounts for the maximum weightage of around 15% with 11-12 questions.
- Genetics and Evolution, Biotechnology, and Ecology are some other important topics in class 12th.
- Cell structure and function, along with Plant and Animal Physiology, account for around 7-8% weightage each in class 11th.
Class 11th Chapter-Wise Weightage
| Class 11 Chapter / Unit | Approx Weightage (%) | Approx Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Diversity in Living World (Plant & Animal Diversity) | 5% | 1-2 |
| Structural Organisation in Animals | 4% | 1 |
| Cell Structure & Function | 7% | 2 |
| Biomolecules | 5% | 1-2 |
| Plant Physiology | 8% | 2-3 |
| Animal Physiology (Human Physiology basics) | 7% | 2 |
| Transport in Plants | 3% | 1 |
Class 12th Chapter-Wise Weightage
| Class 12 Chapter / Unit | Approx Weightage (%) | Approx Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Genetics & Evolution | 12% | 9-10 |
| Biotechnology & Its Applications | 10% | 7-8 |
| Human Physiology | 15% | 11-12 |
| Reproduction | 8% | 6 |
| Ecology | 10% | 7-8 |
| Environmental Issues | 5% | 3-4 |
| Microbes in Human Welfare | 5% | 3-4 |
Ques. How many questions are generally asked from the Genetics topic in the MHT CET Biology paper?
Ans. The Genetics topics account for around 12% weighatge in the MHT CET biology paper, which means around 8-10 questions come from this topic. The sub-topics are Genetic Basis of Inheritance, Molecular Basis, Gene Regulation, etc.
Ques. Is Ecology and Environment important for MHT CET biology 2026?
Ans. Yes, the Ecology and Environment accounts for around 15% weightage of the exam. Around 10-12 questions are asked from these topics. The sub-topics included in these are ecosystems, biodiversity, pollution, conservation, succession, and biomagnification.
MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026: Reduced Syllabus
The Biology syllabus is the same as that of 2025 without any recent changes. However, the Biology syllabus was reduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, but later the deleted syllabus was reintroduced in 2025.
Deleted topics from the Syllabus during the COVID-19 Pandemic
| Chapter/Unit | Deleted Topics/Points |
|---|---|
| Reproduction (Unit VI) | Chapter 1: Reproduction in Organisms (entire chapter, including asexual/sexual reproduction as a characteristic feature). Parts of Chapter 2: Reproduction in Lower and Higher Animals (e.g., asexual reproduction in animals, detailed gametogenesis sub-points). Parts of Chapter 3: Reproduction in Lower and Higher Plants (e.g., asexual reproduction in plants, pollination mechanisms in detail). |
| Inheritance and Variation (Unit VII) | Parts of the chromosomal basis of inheritance (e.g., detailed linkage and crossing over examples). Some mutation types and pedigree analysis sub-points. |
| Evolution (Unit VIII) | Detailed theories like Lamarckism/Darwinism examples, adaptive radiation specifics. Origin of life sub-theories (e.g., abiogenesis details). |
| Ecology and Environment (Unit X) | Parts of biodiversity conservation (e.g., specific case studies on endangered species). Detailed pollution types and control measures. |
| Other Minor Deletions | Human Health and Diseases: Some immunology sub-points. Biotechnology: Advanced applications, such as gene therapy details. Total Impact: About 20–25% of the syllabus, focusing on removing descriptive/examples while keeping core mechanisms. |
Note: These topics are reintroduced in 2025 and are included in the 2026 syllabus.
MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026: Best Books
| Book Name | Author / Publisher |
|---|---|
| NCERT Biology Class 11 & 12 | NCERT |
| Maharashtra HSC Biology Textbook (Class 11 & 12) | Maharashtra State Board |
| Objective NCERT at Your Fingertips – Biology | MTG Editorial Board |
| Trueman’s Objective Biology (Vol 1 & 2) | K.N. Bhatia & M.P. Tyagi |
| Errorless Biology | Disha Experts |
| Biology Vol 1 & 2 (GRB Series) | Dr. P.S. Verma & Dr. V.K. Agarwal |
Ques. Are NCERTs enough for MHT CET, or do I need the Maharashtra board textbook?
Ans. NCERTs are sufficient for basic concepts as well as for many direct questions. However, as the MHT CET is based on the SCERT syllabus, you must thoroughly cover the SCERT or the Maharashtra board textbooks. The questions are aligned with the SCERT pattern.
MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026: Preparation Tips
As the exam dates for the MHT CET 2026 have been announced. Students require disciplined preparation to ace the exam with a good score.
Given below are some preparation tips that students can follow in their preparation:
Focus upon
- Build strong fundamentals using NCERT textbooks and clear the basic concepts.
- Focus on advanced problem-solving and mastering important topics.
- Intensive revision, full-length mocks, error analysis, and PYQs.
Daily Routine: Study consistently for 8-10 hours, giving around ~3 hours per subject.
Subject-Specific Tips
- Focus on the high-weightage areas, such as Genetics & Evolution, Biotechnology, Human Physiology, etc. These account for ~35 questions almost every year.
- Use NCERTs for important topics such as Genetics concepts, Biotechnology processes, and Ecology explanations.
- Students should memorize diagrams and flowcharts as questions are frequently asked about the Human Heart, Nephron, Flower Structure, DNA Replication, etc.
MHT CET Biology Syllabus 2026: Mock Tests
Mock tests stimulate the actual exam, helping improve time management, accuracy, identify weak areas, reduce anxiety, and build exam temperament.
MHT CET and NEET Biology Syllabus Comparison
The Biology syllabus of both exams overlaps significantly, especially in the core topics such as genetics, physiology, reproduction, and ecology. However, there is a significant difference between the two based on the coverage depth, class weightage, etc.
| Unit / Topic | MHT CET 2026 (Maharashtra Board) | NEET 2026 (NCERT) | Overlap / Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diversity in Living World | Class 11: Diversity in Organisms (basic classification) | Class 11: Detailed Five Kingdom, viruses, viroids, salient features of kingdoms | Partial overlap; NEET is more detailed on taxonomy. |
| Cell Structure & Function | Class 11: Biochemistry of Cell, basic cell organelles | Class 11: Cell theory, structure, biomolecules, cell cycle, division | High overlap; NEET deeper on cell cycle & biomolecules. |
| Plant Physiology | Class 11 & 12: Photosynthesis, Respiration, Plant Water Relations, Mineral Nutrition, Growth & Development | Class 11 & 12: Detailed transport, photosynthesis (C3/C4/CAM), respiration, hormones | Almost identical; both emphasize C3/C4 differences. |
| Human Physiology | Class 11 & 12: Digestion, Respiration, Circulation, Excretion, Neural & Chemical Coordination | Class 11 & 12: Detailed systems & locomotion, sensory organs, hormones | High overlap; NEET includes more on locomotion & sensory. |
| Reproduction | Class 12: Reproduction in Plants (double fertilization, pollination) & Humans (menstrual cycle, contraception) | Class 12: Human & flowering plants; reproductive health, strategies | Very high overlap; both cover contraception & double fertilization. |
| Genetics & Evolution | Class 12: Genetic Basis, Gene Nature/Expression/Regulation, Evolution basics | Class 12: Molecular basis, inheritance, evolution (Hardy-Weinberg, origin of life) | High overlap; NEET deeper on molecular details & evolution theories. |
| Biotechnology & Applications | Class 12: Process & Application (PCR, vectors, Bt cotton, insulin, ethical issues) | Class 12: Principles, processes, applications (gene therapy, GMOs, diagnostics) | Almost identical; both include PCR, recombinant DNA, and Bt crops. |
| Ecology & Environment | Class 12: Organisms & Environment (ecosystems, biodiversity, pollution, succession) | Class 12: Organisms & Populations, Ecosystem, Biodiversity & Conservation, Environmental Issues | High overlap; NEET has more numerical/data-based questions. |
| Microbes in Human Welfare / Food Production | Class 12: Microbes (antibiotics, SCP), Enhancement in Food Production (tissue culture, biofortification) | Class 12: Microbes in household/industry/human welfare; health & disease | High overlap; MHT CET emphasizes food production more. |
| Unique / Extra in One | Maharashtra-specific examples: more on plant breeding, single-cell protein | More on animal kingdom classification, human diseases details, and experimental aspects | Minor differences; no major exclusive topics. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques. Do diagram-based questions appear in MHT CET Biology?
Ans. Yes, diagram questions appear in the MHT CET Biology paper quite often. The diagram-based questions are asked from topics such as the transverse or vertical section of a flower, a nephron, brain sections, and transverse sections of the vary, etc.
Ques. What is the difficulty level of Biology in MHT CET compared to NEET?
Ans. The MHT CET biology paper is generally easier than the NEET paper. The major difference between the two exams is that, unlike MHT CET, NEET requires deep knowledge and analytical thinking with conceptual understanding.
Ques. Are previous year questions repeated in MHT CET Biology?
Ans. Yes, the previous year’s questions or their patterns repeat in the exam. Hence, students are advised to solve at least 5-10 years of question papers.
Ques. Has the MHT CET Biology syllabus changed recently for 2026?
Ans. No, the syllabus of 2026 is the same as that of 2025 without any change. However, in 2025, the reductions made during the COVID-19 pandemic were restored.
Ques. Is the MHT CET Biology syllabus the same as the Maharashtra HSC Board Biology?
Ans. Yes, the State CET cell has mentioned that the class 12th Biology syllabus for MHT CET is the same as the SCERT, Maharashtra class 12th syllabus of Biology. However, the class 11th syllabus is given separately for MHT CET as the topics are reduced due to its lower weightage.
Ques. What is the official source for the MHT CET Biology syllabus?
Ans. The state CET cell releases the MHT CET official syllabus every year on its official website, cetcell.mahacet.org. However, the syllabus is not provided in detail, but it is based on the SCERT Maharashtra syllabus of classes 11th and 12th.
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