
Are you dreaming of pursuing a course in Engineering, Architecture, or Pharmacy in Karnataka in 2026? If so, get ready to buckle up because the KCET 2026 exam is around the corner, and this guide has got you covered with everything you need to know. From the application form to exam dates, eligibility criteria, and more β weβve got all the deets, just for you! π
The KCET 2026 registration began in January 2026. Yes, you read that right! The Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) is happening for all aspiring students who want to get admission into various undergraduate programs like B.Tech, B.Arch, B.Pharm, and more. π The exam will take place in Β April 2026.
So, what’s the scoop? Letβs dive into all the exciting details!
KCET Exam News
1. KCET 2025 Registration Concludes with Record Numbers
Date: March 24, 2025
The Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) has successfully wrapped up the KCET 2025 registration process, witnessing an impressive turnout of over 3.65 lakh candidates. This marks a significant increase in participation compared to previous years, reflecting the growing interest among students in Karnataka’s professional courses.
2. KCET 2025 Exam Dates Announced
Date: March 20, 2025
KEA has officially scheduled the KCET 2025 exams for April 16 and 17, 2025. Additionally, the Kannada Language Test is set for April 15, 2025. Aspirants are advised to mark their calendars and begin preparations accordingly.
3. Application Correction Window to Open After Exams
Date: March 18, 2025
Candidates who wish to make corrections to their KCET 2025 application forms will have the opportunity to do so after the examination concludes. KEA will announce specific dates for the correction window, allowing applicants to rectify any errors made during the initial registration process.
4. KCET 2025 Admit Cards Release Date
Date: March 15, 2025
The KEA has announced that admit cards for KCET 2025 will be available for download from April 7, 2025. Candidates must ensure they retrieve their hall tickets promptly to avoid any last-minute issues.
5. Revised Date for Kannada Language Test
Date: March 10, 2025
KEA has revised the date for the Kannada Language Test to April 15, 2025. This adjustment aims to better accommodate candidates and ensure a smooth examination process.
π KCET 2026 Application Form β All You Need to Know π
Registration Process:
The KCET 2026 registration is live, and hereβs how you can fill out the application form:
- Start the Registration: First, head over to the official KEA website and click on the “KCET 2026 Registration” link.
- Enter Basic Details: Fill in your details like name, mobile number, and email address (yep, keep those handy).
- OTP Verification: Check your mobile for the OTP and enter it to verify your account. Easy, right?
- Fill Out the Form: Next, provide your academic details, address, and other essential info.
- Upload Documents: Youβll need to upload your photograph, signature, and other documents. Make sure theyβre in the required format. πΈ
- Pay the Fee: Now, time to pay the application fee. You can do this online through credit card, debit card, or net banking.
- Final Submission: Once everything is done, check your details and hit the submit button. Donβt forget to take a hard copy of the form for future use. π¨οΈ
Application Fee:
- Karnataka Candidates (GM/ 2A/ 2B/ 3A / 3B): βΉ500
- SC/ST/ Category-1/ Female Karnataka Candidates: βΉ250
- Outside Karnataka Candidates: βΉ750
- Outside India Candidates: βΉ5,000
π Eligibility Criteria for KCET 2026 π
So, who can apply for KCET? Letβs find out!
For B.Tech (Engineering) Courses:
- Qualification: Candidates should have passed 12th (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- Marks: Minimum 45% (40% for SC/ ST/ OBC).
- Appearing Students: Yes, you can still apply if you’re in your final year of 12th. π
For B.Arch. Courses:
- Qualification: Must have passed 10+2 or 10+3 (diploma) with compulsory subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- NATA Score: A valid NATA score is required to apply.
For B.Pharm Courses:
- Qualification: Candidates must have completed 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Mathematics.
- Marks: At least 45% for general candidates and 40% for reserved categories.
π― KCET 2026 Exam Pattern β What to Expect π―
The Exam Structure:
- Mode: Offline (Pen and Paper)
- Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes per paper
- Question Type: Objective-type questions (MCQs)
- Number of Questions: 60 questions per subject
- Marking Scheme: 1 mark for each correct answer. No negative marking! π
Subjects:
- Physics: 60 Marks
- Chemistry: 60 Marks
- Mathematics/Biology: 60 Marks
- Total Marks: 180 Marks
π KCET 2026 Syllabus β Get Prepared! π
The KCET syllabus is based on the 11th and 12th standard topics. The syllabus includes subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. Itβs important to know that each subject has its own set of topics, so donβt forget to check the detailed syllabus online.
Pro Tip: Focus more on tricky topics that you find challenging, and keep practicing those mock tests! π
π KCET 2026 Preparation Tips β Ace the Exam! π
Study Smart, Not Hard! πͺ
- Mock Tests: Keep solving model papers and previous year questions. The more you practice, the better youβll score. π―
- Time Management: Create a study timetable and stick to it. Donβt stress out; consistency is key! β°
- Focus on the Tough Subjects: We all know there are certain subjects that can make us break into a sweat. Dedicate extra time to those tricky chapters! π₯
- Healthy Routine: Yes, that means eating good food and getting enough sleep! π₯¦π΄ Youβll need energy to rock the exam!
π Best Books for KCET 2026 Preparation π
Hereβs a list of must-have books for your KCET prep:
- Physics: NCERT for 11th & 12th, Physics for Karnataka CET and COMEDK by G.K. Publications.
- Chemistry: Modernβs Abc of Chemistry Part 1 and Part 2 by SP Jauhar.
- Mathematics: Mathematics for 1st Year PUC by Dr. PG Umarani.
- Previous Yearβs Questions: KCET chapter-wise previous questions with solutions by Annapurna Experts.
ποΈ KCET 2026 Exam Centers β Find Your Nearest Center! ποΈ
KCET 2026 will be conducted at various centers across Karnataka. Some of the popular exam centers include:
- Bangalore
- Mysore
- Hubli
- Mangalore
- Tumkur
- Dharwad
Check out the full list on the official website and choose the center nearest to you. Donβt forget to check your exam center in advance, so youβre not scrambling last minute. π
π KCET 2026 Admit Card β Your Golden Ticket! ποΈ
The admit card for KCET will be available online from 7th April 2026. Youβll need your application number and name to download it. Remember, you must carry your admit card to the exam center, or you wonβt be allowed to sit for the exam. π
π‘ KCET 2026 Answer Key and Result β Whatβs Next? π
After the exam, youβll be eagerly waiting for the answer key and results. Hereβs what to expect:
- Answer Key: KEA will release the provisional answer key in April/May 2026. You can check it online and raise objections if needed.
- Result Declaration: The results will be out in the third week of May 2026. You can check your score online by entering your application number and name. π€©
π KCET 2026 Cutoff β Will You Make the Cut? π
The cutoff for KCET will be released after the result. The cutoff marks are the minimum required to qualify for admission. The cutoff will vary depending on factors like exam difficulty, seat availability, and more.
π KCET 2026 Counselling β The Final Step! π
After the results are declared, the counseling process begins in June 2026. The process involves document verification, filling in your college preferences, and seat allotment. Make sure you have all the required documents ready, including:
- Class 10th & 12th Marksheet
- KCET Scorecard
- Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- Aadhar Card
- Passport-size photograph