Manipal Entrance Test (MET)

Manipal Entrance Test (MET) is the primary admission examination for undergraduate engineering programmes at the Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) campuses under Manipal Academy of Higher Education. The test evaluates analytical reasoning, conceptual understanding of physics and mathematics, and the ability to solve problems accurately under time pressure.

Preparation Insight
A critical strategic advantage in MET lies in the Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions. These 15 problems, worth a total of 60 marks, do not carry negative marking, making them a “zero-risk” scoring zone. High-performing candidates prioritize these questions, ensuring every NAT is attempted regardless of full certainty, as they provide a significant score buffer without the risk of penalty.

Selection Logic
In a shift from traditional entrance models, MET utilizes a composite ranking system for 2026. Ranks are determined by a 50:50 weightage split between the MET entrance score and Class 12 Board performance. This dual-weightage approach ensures that the merit list reflects both competitive aptitude and sustained academic discipline throughout the senior secondary years.

Exam Mechanics
The computer-based assessment comprises 60 questions to be completed in 120 minutes. The paper is divided into four sections: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and English. The marking scheme follows a +4 / –1 structure for Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), while the NAT questions carry a +4 / 0 structure. To qualify for the ranking process, candidates must secure a minimum of 50% marks in the MET itself.

Strategic Insight
Because the exam uses section-based progression, candidates cannot return to a section after moving forward. This makes early decision-making critical, students must decide whether to skip or attempt a problem before moving to the next section. Effective time management within each subject block becomes more important than managing the overall test duration.

Admission Mechanics
After the examination, candidates participate in the MAHE online counselling process, where seats are allocated across participating campuses based on the composite rank derived from MET score and board performance. Candidates must submit institute and branch preferences before the seat allotment rounds begin.

Competition Signal
The Manipal Institute of Technology attracts a large national applicant pool each year. Competitive branches such as Computer Science and Engineering at the Manipal (Main) campus typically close within roughly the top 1,500 ranks, while similar programmes at the Bengaluru campus may extend to around 7,000 ranks, making even small score differences important for securing preferred branches.