Priyadarshini College of Engineering (PCE) : Admission Process for 2026
- hardikjaincs
- Jan 13
- 6 min read
The landscape of engineering education in 2026 is rapidly evolving, with a stronger emphasis on specialized technical skills and industry-ready graduates. For diploma holders looking to transition into a full-fledged degree, Priyadarshini College of Engineering (PCE) — offers lateral-entry seats in select branches, providing a streamlined path to a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) degree. Established in 1990 and located in the heart of Nagpur, Maharashtra, PCE has cemented its reputation as a premier autonomous institution affiliated with Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University (RTMNU).
Choosing the right college for lateral entry (Direct Second Year) is a pivotal decision. It requires a balance of academic excellence, modern infrastructure, and robust placement support. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore why PCE Nagpur remains a top choice for engineering aspirants in 2026.
Why Choose Priyadarshini College of Engineering (PCE)?
Priyadarshini College of Engineering is not just one of the oldest private engineering colleges in Maharashtra; it is a hub of innovation. As an autonomous institution, PCE has the flexibility to design a curriculum that keeps pace with 2026 industry standards, integrating emerging technologies like AI, Robotics, and IoT into its core engineering branches.
Academic Excellence and Autonomy
The autonomous status granted by the UGC allows PCE to conduct its own examinations and update its syllabus frequently. For a lateral-entry student, this means you aren't just learning decades-old theories; you are engaging with modules designed in collaboration with industry experts.
Accredited and Recognized
Affiliation: RTM Nagpur University.
Approvals: AICTE, New Delhi.
Accreditation: NAAC with an 'A+' Grade (Cycle 2), ensuring quality education and global recognition.
Priyadarshini College of Engineering (PCE) — Offers Lateral-Entry Seats in Select Branches
One of the most significant advantages for diploma students is that Priyadarshini College of Engineering (PCE) — offers lateral-entry seats in select branches to accommodate those who have completed a three-year technical diploma. This "Direct Second Year" (DSE) admission allows students to skip the first year of the B.Tech program and graduate in just three years.
Available Branches for Lateral Entry (2026 Intake)
In 2026, PCE has optimized its intake to focus on high-demand sectors. While availability depends on the vacant seats from the previous year and the sanctioned lateral-entry quota, the following branches typically accept lateral-entry students:
Branch Name | Duration for Lateral Entry | Focus Area |
Computer Technology | 3 Years | Software Dev, Cloud Computing |
Mechanical Engineering | 3 Years | Robotics, Automation, Thermal |
Electrical Engineering | 3 Years | Power Systems, Renewable Energy |
Electronics & Telecomm. | 3 Years | 5G/6G Tech, Signal Processing |
Information Technology | 3 Years | Cyber Security, Data Analytics |
Aeronautical Engineering | 3 Years | Aircraft Design, Propulsion |
AI and Data Science | 3 Years | Machine Learning, Big Data |
Civil Engineering | 3 Years | Smart Infrastructure, Structural Eng. |
Eligibility Criteria for Lateral Entry 2026
To secure a seat through the lateral entry process, candidates must meet the stringent yet fair eligibility criteria set by the Directorate of Technical Education (DTE), Maharashtra.
Educational Qualification: Candidates must have passed a minimum three-year Diploma course in Engineering and Technology from an AICTE-approved institution.
Minimum Marks: A minimum of 45% marks is required (40% for candidates belonging to reserved categories, EWS, and PWD belonging to Maharashtra State only).
B.Sc. Candidates: Students who have completed a B.Sc. degree from a recognized university with at least 45% marks and Mathematics as a subject in Class 12 are also eligible.
Nationality: The candidate must be an Indian National.
Admission Process for Direct Second Year (DSE)
The admission process for lateral entry is primarily governed by the Centralized Admission Process (CAP) conducted by the State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra.
Step-by-Step Admission Guide:
Registration: Register on the official MHT CET / DTE Maharashtra portal specifically for Direct Second Year admissions.
Document Verification: Visit a designated Facilitation Center (FC) to verify your original documents and diploma marks.
Merit List: A merit list is generated based on the marks obtained in the final year of the Diploma.
Option Entry: During the CAP rounds, candidates must select Priyadarshini College of Engineering (PCE) as their preferred choice. Use the specific DTE Choice Codes for your desired branch.
Seat Allotment: If allotted, report to the college to confirm your admission by paying the fees.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the "Against CAP Vacancy" seats. If seats remain vacant after the official rounds, the college conducts an institute-level round where you can apply directly.
Fee Structure for 2026-27 (Estimated)
The fee structure at PCE is regulated by the Fees Regulating Authority (FRA). For the academic year 2026, the approximate annual tuition fees for the Direct Second Year are as follows:
Open Category: ₹1,25,000 - ₹1,35,000 per year.
OBC/EBC Category: Approximately 50% of the tuition fee is waived (subject to government norms).
SC/ST/VJNT/SBC: Significant concessions are available as per Maharashtra State Government scholarship schemes.
Note: Additional charges for training and placement, library, and laboratory insurance may apply.
Infrastructure and Facilities
A major reason why Priyadarshini College of Engineering (PCE) — offers lateral-entry seats in select branches with such high demand is its world-class infrastructure.
Laboratories and Centers of Excellence
PCE houses specialized labs for every department. For instance, the Aeronautical department features actual aircraft components for hands-on learning, while the Computer Science department boasts high-speed computing labs dedicated to AI and Deep Learning.
Library and Digital Resources
The Central Library is a treasure trove for researchers, with over 100,000 volumes, national and international journals, and access to digital libraries like IEEE and Elsevier.
Campus Life
Spread across a sprawling 72-acre campus at Digdoh Hills, the college provides:
Separate hostels for boys and girls.
Modern gymnasium and sports facilities.
An auditorium with a seating capacity of 1000+.
Hygienic cafeteria and medical facilities.
Placements at PCE Nagpur: 2025-2026 Trends
Placements are the ultimate goal for most engineering students. PCE has a dedicated Training and Placement (T&P) cell that bridges the gap between academia and the corporate world.
Key Placement Statistics
Highest Package (2025): ₹23 - ₹27 LPA.
Average Package: ₹4.5 - ₹5.5 LPA.
Placement Percentage: Over 70% for eligible students in core and IT branches.
Top Recruiters
Graduates from PCE are frequently hired by global giants:
IT & Software: TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Cognizant, Accenture, Capgemini.
Core Engineering: Tata Motors, Reliance, Bosch, L&T, Torrent Power.
Emerging Tech: Amazon, Byju’s, and various high-growth startups.
The T&P cell also provides "Campus to Corporate" training, which includes mock interviews, soft skills development, and coding boot camps, ensuring lateral-entry students are just as prepared as their four-year counterparts.
FAQs
1. Does Priyadarshini College of Engineering (PCE) — offer lateral-entry seats in select branches only?
Yes, while most core branches accept lateral entry, the number of seats depends on the sanctioned intake and vacancies from the previous year. It is best to check the latest DTE seat matrix for 2026.
2. Is there an entrance exam for lateral entry at PCE?
No, for lateral entry (Direct Second Year), admissions are based on the marks obtained in your Diploma in Engineering. You do not need to appear for MHT CET or JEE Main.
3. What is the location of PCE?
PCE is located at Priyadarshini Campus, Digdoh Hills, Hingna Road, Nagpur, Maharashtra - 440019.
4. Can B.Sc. students apply for lateral entry at PCE?
Yes, B.Sc. graduates with Mathematics in Class 12 and a minimum of 45% marks in their degree can apply for the Direct Second Year of B.Tech.
5. How is the placement for lateral entry students?
Lateral entry students are treated equally during campus placements. Many companies actually prefer lateral-entry students because of their strong foundational practical knowledge from their diploma years.
Others:
Ready to take the next step in your engineering career?
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to secure your future at one of Nagpur’s most prestigious institutions. Whether you are aiming for a career in AI, Mechanical, or Aeronautical engineering, the path starts here.
Conclusion
Priyadarshini College of Engineering continues to be a beacon of technical education in Central India. Its commitment to innovation, combined with its autonomous flexibility, makes it an ideal destination for students seeking a career-defining engineering degree. Because Priyadarshini College of Engineering (PCE) — offers lateral-entry seats in select branches, it opens doors for thousands of diploma holders to achieve their dreams of becoming engineers.
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