HPBTE Launches Registration for Polytechnic Admission Test 2026
The Himachal Pradesh Board of Technical Education (HPBTE) has officially commenced the registration process for the Polytechnic Admission Test (PAT) 2026. This entrance examination is a crucial gateway for students seeking admission to polytechnic institutes across the state. Eligible candidates can now submit their applications through the official website, hptechboard.com, with the deadline set for May 5, 2026.
Important Dates and Application Details
According to the official schedule released by HPBTE, the last date to apply for HP PAT 2026 is May 5, 2026. The entrance examination itself is scheduled to be conducted on May 17, 2026. Candidates must complete their registration before the deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.
Exam Schedule and Centre Information
The HP PAT 2026 exam will be held on May 17, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. It will take place at 29 designated examination centres spread across Himachal Pradesh. The board has made it clear that once an exam centre is allotted, no requests for changes will be entertained, so applicants should plan accordingly.
Application Fee Structure
Candidates are required to pay an application fee based on their category. For the General category, the fee is Rs 750, while reserved categories need to pay Rs 500. This fee must be submitted along with the application to complete the registration process successfully.
Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme
The HP PAT 2026 question paper will consist of 150 questions divided into four sections: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and English. Each correct answer will award four marks, but one mark will be deducted for every incorrect response, emphasizing the need for accuracy.
Key Dates for HP PAT 2026
- Last date to apply: May 5, 2026
- Roll number availability: May 11, 2026
- Exam date: May 17, 2026
- Answer key objection deadline: May 23, 2026 (until 5:00 PM)
- Result date: May 25, 2026
Purpose and Eligibility Criteria
HP PAT is conducted annually to facilitate admissions to polytechnic institutes in Himachal Pradesh that are approved by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) recognized by the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT). To be eligible, candidates must have passed Class 10 from a recognized board with a minimum of 35% aggregate marks. Students appearing for their Class 10 final exams are also eligible to apply, with final verification occurring during physical reporting.
Merit List and Counselling Process
The merit list for HP PAT 2026 will be prepared based on the marks obtained in the entrance exam. After the results are announced, candidates will have the opportunity to fill in their preferences for courses and institutes. Additionally, during the second round of counselling, applicants will be allowed to edit their preferences, providing flexibility in the admission process.
Prospective candidates are strongly advised to complete their registration well before the deadline and regularly check the official website for any updates or notifications regarding the examination.
