Maharashtra CET 2025: Engineering has long been one of the most popular career choices in Maharashtra, drawing lakhs of students each year with dreams of securing a bright future. However, the ongoing admission season has painted a rather surprising picture. Despite an impressive 2.14 lakh students registering for engineering courses this year against a total intake capacity of 1.83 lakh seats, less than half of them have actually confirmed their admissions after three CAP (Centralised Admission Process) rounds.
Big Numbers, But Low Confirmations
According to official data, only 95,253 candidates have confirmed their admission so far, leaving a massive 88,507 seats vacant across the state. This is despite 1.19 lakh students submitting option forms in the third round alone, where 98,253 of them were allotted seats. Yet, only 30,412 students went ahead and confirmed their admissions.
Now, as the CET Cell gears up for the final and fourth CAP round, students who secure seats must confirm their admission between September 2 and 4. Once this phase ends, any remaining vacancies will be filled through institute-level spot admissions, making this round the last major opportunity for students under the centralised process.
The Shift Towards New Age Courses
What makes this year stand out is the dramatic shift in student preferences. Traditional engineering branches such as mechanical, civil, and electrical once seen as the backbone of engineering education are struggling to attract students.
For instance, mechanical engineering had 20,873 seats available but only 9,762 admissions confirmed, which is just 47%. Civil engineering had 15,211 seats, but only 7,811 students confirmed, while electrical engineering saw just 5,654 confirmations out of 11,879 seats.
In contrast, modern, technology driven branches are thriving. Courses like artificial intelligence (AI) and data science, AI and machine learning, cybersecurity, robotics, and computer-related streams are almost fully occupied in most colleges. Computer engineering, computer science, and IT too have witnessed strong demand, with more than 60% of seats already filled.
A Reflection of Changing Times
This clear preference shift reflects today’s job market reality. With technology evolving at a rapid pace, students are increasingly focusing on courses that align with future job opportunities and provide a sense of security. While core engineering fields remain essential, they no longer enjoy the dominance they once did in shaping career paths.
What Lies Ahead
As the final CAP round unfolds, there is hope that more seats will be filled. For thousands of students still waiting, this round is their last chance before the process moves to individual institutions. Whether the vacant seats will shrink significantly or continue to reflect this mismatch between registrations and admissions remains to be seen.
But one thing is clear: the landscape of engineering education in Maharashtra is changing fast, and the choices students are making today are reshaping the future of the profession.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on official updates from the Maharashtra CET Cell and current admission data. Students are advised to check the official website for the latest notifications and deadlines.
Also read: SBI PO Prelims Result 2025 Out: Check Scores Now at sbi.co.in
