International students (FN, NRI, OCI, PIO, CIWGC) can join MCA in Maharashtra through the official State CET Cell portal. No entrance exam for the international quota — admission is on the merit of your Bachelor’s degree. Programme duration: 2 years.
About the programme
A two-year postgraduate computer-applications programme covering software development, data structures, databases and web technologies at AICTE-approved institutes. The programme suits students aiming for software and IT careers.
Who can apply
- Foreign Nationals (FN) — non-Indian passport holders
- Non-Resident Indians (NRI)
- Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIO)
- Children of Indian Workers in Gulf Countries (CIWGC)
- Children of Merchant Navy personnel
Entrance exam
Eligibility & key facts
| Academic eligibility | A recognised Bachelor’s degree, preferably with Mathematics or Computer Science. |
| Level | Postgraduate |
| Duration | 2 years |
| State CET Cell fee | USD 1,200 one-time (USD 50 eligibility check + USD 1,150 registration) |
| Tuition | Varies by institute; shown in the portal during choice filling |
| Where | 200+ participating colleges across Maharashtra, including Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur |
How to apply on fn.mahacet.org
- Register on fn.mahacet.org. Create your free account with your name, e-mail and passport details.
- Submit documents for the eligibility check. Upload transcripts, passport and category documents, and pay the USD 50 eligibility-check fee.
- Receive your eligibility confirmation. The State CET Cell verifies your documents and confirms the courses you qualify for.
- Complete registration. Pay the USD 1,150 registration fee to activate your candidature.
- Fill your college choices. Select colleges and branches from the participating institutes listed in the portal.
- Accept your seat allotment. Receive your allotment letter and report to the college to complete admission.
Want the full picture? Read the detailed guide: MCA admission guide for international students.
Frequently asked questions
Is an entrance exam needed for MCA?
No. MCA admission for international applicants is based on the merit of your Bachelor’s degree. No entrance exam is required for the international quota.
What background do I need for MCA?
A recognised Bachelor’s degree, preferably with Mathematics or Computer Science. The programme suits students aiming for software and IT careers.
How long is MCA?
MCA is a two-year postgraduate programme at AICTE-approved institutes in Maharashtra.
What does it cost to apply?
The State CET Cell fee is USD 1,200 in total — a USD 50 eligibility-check fee when you submit documents, and USD 1,150 registration after your eligibility is confirmed. Tuition is paid separately to the college you join.