Mumbai University KT (Keep Term) Rules Explained

Understanding the Mumbai University KT System

In the Mumbai University (MU) ecosystem, students don't say they got a "backlog" or an "arrear." They say they got a KT (Keep Term).

Specifically, the system is known as ATKT (Allowed To Keep Term). It dictates exactly how many failed subjects you can carry forward before the university forces you to drop a year.

Here is exactly how the ATKT system works for B.E. / B.Tech students in Mumbai University.

The ATKT Limits: How Many KTs Can You Carry?

Mumbai University uses a "cross-year" restriction system. You are allowed to carry KTs into the next year, but there is a strict numerical cap.

1. Progression to Second Year (SE): To move from First Year (FE) to Second Year (SE), a student can carry a maximum of 5 KTs across Semester 1 and Semester 2. Condition:* Maximum 3 KTs in one semester, and 2 in the other (e.g., 3 KTs in Sem 1 + 2 KTs in Sem 2 = Allowed).

If you fail 6 subjects across your first year, you get a Year Drop.

2. Progression to Third Year (TE): To move to the Third Year (TE), things get much stricter.

You must have completely cleared First Year (FE). Zero active KTs from Sem 1 and Sem 2 are allowed.

You can carry a maximum of 5 KTs from your Second Year (SE).

If you have even a single uncleared KT from your First Year, you will receive a Year Drop and cannot enter the Third Year.

3. Progression to Final Year (BE): To move to the Final Year (BE):

You must have completely cleared Second Year (SE).

You can carry a maximum of 5 KTs from your Third Year (TE).

Internal vs. External KTs

A major trap in Mumbai University is failing the internal assessments (Term Work / Orals / Practicals).

Failing an internal component is counted as a separate KT. If you fail the Theory paper for Applied Mathematics II, and you also fail the Term Work for the same subject, that counts as 2 KTs, consuming a massive portion of your 5-KT limit.

You must ensure you pass all internal assessments, as they are entirely in the hands of your college professors. Never antagonize a professor in Mumbai University, or you risk an Internal KT.

How to Clear a KT

Mumbai University conducts supplementary exams (KT exams) in the subsequent semester. You will write the KT exam alongside your regular current-semester exams.

When you clear a KT, MU replaces the failed grade. However, your transcript will permanently show an asterisk (*) or similar mark indicating that the subject was cleared in a subsequent attempt.

To ensure you don't face a year drop, use our Target SGPA Calculator to figure out exactly how many marks you need to score in your upcoming KT exams to secure your progression.