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MET 2026 Good Attempt: How Many Questions Are Enough for Top Colleges?


MET 2026 Good Attempt: How Many Questions Are Enough
MET 2026 Good Attempt: How Many Questions Are Enough



The Manipal Entrance Test (MET) has emerged as one of the most competitive engineering entrance exams in India, serving as the gateway to the prestigious Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT). As we look toward the 2026 academic session, the competition for core branches like Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) and Information Technology (IT) is expected to reach an all-time high.


For every aspirant, the burning question remains: What constitutes a "good attempt" in MET 2026? Success in this exam isn't just about how much you know; it's about strategic attempt rates, managing the negative marking, and understanding the rank-to-branch dynamics of the various MAHE campuses.

In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the ideal number of questions to attempt for MET 2026 to help you secure a seat in your dream college.



MET 2026 Exam Pattern: The Foundation of Your Strategy


Before calculating your "good attempt," you must understand the playing field. The MET 2026 exam follows a specific structure that balances speed with accuracy.

Particulars

Details

Mode of Exam

Computer-Based Test (CBT)

Total Duration

2 Hours (120 Minutes)

Total Questions

60 Questions

Total Marks

240 Marks

Question Types

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) & Numerical Answer Type (NAT)

Marking Scheme

+4 for Correct; -1 for Incorrect (MCQs only)

NAT Marking

+4 for Correct; 0 for Incorrect (No negative marking)


Section-wise Question Distribution


To plan your MET 2026 good attempt, you need to know where the marks are concentrated:

  • Mathematics: 15 MCQs + 5 NAT (20 Questions)

  • Physics: 10 MCQs + 5 NAT (15 Questions)

  • Chemistry: 10 MCQs + 5 NAT (15 Questions)

  • English: 10 MCQs only (10 Questions)



Defining the "MET 2026 Good Attempt"


A "good attempt" is defined by the number of questions you answer that practically guarantees a score sufficient for your target branch. Given the 240-total-mark limit, the margin for error is slim.



For Top-Tier Branches (CSE, AI & ML, Data Science)


To get into the MIT Manipal (Main Campus) for CSE, you generally need a rank within the top 1,000–1,500.

  • Target Score: 160+ / 240

  • Good Attempt: 48–52 Questions with 90% accuracy.

  • Strategy: You cannot afford to skip more than 8–10 questions. Focus heavily on NAT questions since they carry no negative marking.


For Mid-Tier Branches (ECE, EEE, Mathematics & Computing)


For these highly sought-after technical branches, a rank under 5,000–7,000 is usually required.

  • Target Score: 130–150 / 240

  • Good Attempt: 40–45 Questions with 85% accuracy.

  • Strategy: Prioritize English and Chemistry to save time for the lengthier Mathematics section.


For Core & Other Branches (Mechanical, Civil, Mechatronics)


These branches are available at ranks ranging from 15,000 to 25,000.

  • Target Score: 100–120 / 240

  • Good Attempt: 35–40 Questions with 80% accuracy.





Branch-wise Cutoff Trends: What to Expect in 2026


Understanding the previous years' closing ranks is vital for setting your MET 2026 goals. Based on recent trends, the competition for Bengaluru and Jaipur campuses is also intensifying.


MIT Manipal (Main Campus) Expected Closing Ranks

Branch

2024 Closing Rank

2025 Closing Rank

2026 Predicted Rank

Computer Science (CSE)

1633

5129*

< 2000

Data Science & Engineering

4660

5031

< 4800

Electronics & Communication

7255

6789

< 7000

Information Technology

4180

4321

< 4200

Mechanical Engineering

23389

19258

< 20000



Sectional Strategy for a High Score


To maximize your MET 2026 good attempt, follow this subject-wise approach:


1. Mathematics (The Decider)

With 20 questions, this section carries the most weight. Focus on Calculus (12%), Vectors (9%), and Algebra (8%). Since there are 5 NAT questions, ensure you solve them completely as there is no penalty for a wrong guess.


2. Physics & Chemistry (The Rank Boosters)

These sections often feature direct formula-based questions. In Physics, Electrostatics and Mechanics are high-yield. In Chemistry, Organic Chemistry and Chemical Bonding are essential. Aim for a 100% attempt rate in the NAT portions of these subjects.


3. English (The Time Saver)

The 10 MCQs in English are generally moderate in difficulty. Aspirants often finish this section in under 8–10 minutes, providing extra cushion for the Mathematics section.



Expert Tips to Improve Your MET 2026 Good Attempt

  • Master the NAT Questions: There are 15 Numerical Answer Type questions in total. Since there is no negative marking, never leave a NAT question blank. Even a calculated guess is better than no answer.

  • Negative Marking Management: In the MCQ section, every wrong answer costs you 1 mark. If you aren't sure between three options, it's safer to skip.

  • Time Allocation: Use the "2-Pass" method. In the first 60 minutes, solve every question you are 100% sure about. Use the remaining 60 minutes for tougher calculations and NATs.

  • Mock Tests: Take at least 10–15 full-length mock tests to understand your "strike rate" (questions attempted vs. questions correct).





Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


Q: What is considered a MET 2026 good attempt for the CSE branch at the Manipal main campus?

 A: A MET 2026 good attempt for CSE at the main campus would be answering approximately 48 to 52 questions with an accuracy rate of 90% or higher, aiming for a score above 160.


Q: Is there negative marking in MET 2026 for all questions? 

A: No. Negative marking (-1) only applies to the 45 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). The 15 Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions do not have any negative marking, making them a safe part of your MET 2026 good attempt strategy.


Q: Can I get into MIT Bengaluru with a score of 100? 

A: A score of 100 usually fetches a rank around 12,000–15,000. While CSE might be difficult at this score, you have a very good chance for branches like ECE, IT, or Cyber Security at the Bengaluru campus.


Q: How many questions are there in total in the MET 2026 engineering paper? 

A: The paper consists of 60 questions in total, to be completed within 120 minutes.



Conclusion


Success in MET 2026 is a blend of speed and precision. While attempting more questions increases your potential score, the negative marking in MCQs can quickly derail your rank. Focus on achieving a MET 2026 good attempt by securing all 15 NAT questions and maintaining high accuracy in the remaining 45 MCQs.

Ready to start your preparation?


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