Maharashtra follows a direct merit-based admission system for first-year diploma programs — there is no separate entrance examination. Admission to the first year is based entirely on Class 10 SSC (Secondary School Certificate) marks. Students register on the DTE Maharashtra portal, fill in their preferred colleges and branches, and seats are allotted through a centralized online process. The State Common Entrance Test Cell (CET Cell) coordinates this process. Government polytechnics and aided polytechnics have capped fees and are highly preferred. There are separate merit lists for each district to ensure regional representation.

Maharashtra's lateral entry scheme (DSE - Direct Second Year Engineering/Diploma) allows ITI graduates and Class 12 Science students to enter the second year of diploma programs directly. Unlike some states, Maharashtra has simplified this to a direct merit-based admission without a separate lateral entry entrance exam. The merit is based on ITI marks or Class 12 marks. DTE Maharashtra conducts centralized counseling for lateral entry seats through the CAP (Centralized Admission Process). This allows skilled ITI workers to upgrade their qualification without repeating already-learned trade content.

Maharashtra has some excellent government polytechnics including Government Polytechnic Mumbai, Government Polytechnic Pune, Government Polytechnic Nashik, Cusrow Wadia Institute of Technology Pune, and Government Polytechnic Nagpur. These institutions are known for quality faculty, well-equipped labs, and strong industry connections. Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Electronics branches are the most competitive. Government polytechnics in Maharashtra charge minimal fees (approximately Rs. 10,000–15,000 per year), making them accessible to students from economically weaker sections. The diploma earned from these institutions is highly regarded by employers.

Maharashtra has one of India's largest industrial bases with major manufacturing clusters in Pune (auto industry), Nashik (engineering), Aurangabad (textiles and auto), Nagpur (infrastructure), and Mumbai Metro Region (chemicals, pharmaceuticals). Diploma holders in Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, and Chemical Engineering find abundant employment opportunities in these clusters. Companies like Tata Motors, Bajaj Auto, Mahindra, Bosch, and hundreds of MSMEs recruit diploma holders for technician and supervisor roles. The Maharashtra state government regularly conducts diploma placement drives through MSBTE. Starting salaries range from Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 25,000 per month depending on branch and company.

Maharashtra polytechnic students can register on the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) portal (apprenticeshipindia.gov.in) to find apprenticeship opportunities in Maharashtra-based companies. Over 5.1 lakh apprenticeship positions are available nationwide under NAPS, with Maharashtra hosting a significant portion due to its industrial base. Under NAPS, the government shares 50% of the stipend (up to Rs. 1,500 per month) with the employer, reducing the burden on companies and increasing placement opportunities. Students can do apprenticeship during their final year of diploma or after completion. NAPS-registered apprenticeship experience is valued by employers for permanent recruitment.