KCET 2026: Application Form, Exam Dates, Eligibility, Pattern, Syllabus, Preparation Tips

KCET (Karnataka Common Entrance Test) is an annual state-level examination conducted by the Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA). It serves as the gateway to admission in various undergraduate courses such as Engineering, Architecture, Pharmacy, and more. The exam offers aspiring students the opportunity to pursue their academic goals in Karnataka’s esteemed institutions.

Admission through KCET extends to diverse undergraduate courses including B.E/B. Tech, B.Arch, and B.Pharm, among others. However, candidates aspiring for Medical and Architecture courses must qualify for the NEET and NATA exams respectively, in addition to the KCET, to secure admission.

This article outlines comprehensive information about KCET 2026, covering aspects like the application procedure, examination schedule, and eligibility criteria.

KCET 2026 Highlights

The KCET 2026 highlights feature important details about this state-level entrance exam, which is essential for admission to various undergraduate programs in Karnataka.

KCET 2026 Exam Dates

Stay informed about the KCET 2026 exam schedule with this concise overview of important dates. This summary helps candidates plan their preparation and application process effectively for the upcoming entrance test.

KCET 2026 Application Form

The KCET 2026 application process marks a significant milestone for aspiring candidates seeking admission to various courses. With the release of the application form in the first week of January 2026, applicants are urged to meticulously follow the online procedure, ensuring adherence to eligibility criteria and detailed instructions outlined in the information bulletin.

• The KCET 2026 application form will be released on 1st week of January 2026, via the official website.
• Applicants can only access and submit their applications through the online mode; no offline option is available.
• Eligibility criteria should be thoroughly reviewed by interested candidates to ensure qualification for the exam.
• Detailed instructions provided in the information bulletin must be carefully read and adhered to during the application process.
• The application procedure involves several phases: registration, form completion, document uploads, and fee payment.
• All required fields in the application form must be filled meticulously, with no sections left incomplete to avoid cancellation.
• Scanned images of the candidate’s photograph, signature, and parent’s signature must be uploaded in JPG/JPEG format.
• The deadline for form submission is the 3rd week of February 2026; no applications will be accepted beyond this date.
• No hard copies of the application form need to be sent via post to the authority; the entire process is online.
• A correction facility will be provided to candidates in March 2026, enabling them to rectify any errors in their submitted applications.

KCET 2026 Application Fee

The application fee for KCET 2026 can be submitted through both online and offline modes. Online payments are processed using credit cards, debit cards, or net banking, while offline payments can be made through bank challans or demand drafts. It’s essential to note that the application fee is non-refundable under any circumstances.

KCET 2026 Eligibility Criteria

KCET 2026 Eligibility Criteria dictate the conditions candidates must meet to be eligible for the exam. These criteria are set by the Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) to ensure fairness and transparency in the admission process. Fulfilling these requirements is crucial for aspirants aiming to appear for the KCET 2026 exam.

For B.Tech:

• Qualification: Candidates must have passed 2nd PUC/12th or equivalent from any recognized board.
• Marks: Aspirants should obtain a minimum aggregate of 45% (40% for SC/ST/CAT 1, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B).
• Subjects: Candidates must have studied Physics and Mathematics along with Chemistry/Biology/Biotechnology and English, with one language subject in their 12th class.
• Appearing: 12th appearing candidates are also eligible to apply.

For B.Arch:

• Qualification: Candidates must have passed the 10+2 level or 10+3 diploma level from a recognized board/institute.
• Subjects: Candidates should have studied Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects.
• Appearing: 12th appearing candidates are also eligible to apply.
• Score Card: Candidates must possess a valid NATA 2026 exam score.

For B.Pharm:

• Qualification: Candidates must have passed the 12th class/diploma in pharmacy or its equivalent from any recognized board.
• Marks: Candidates should secure a minimum aggregate of 45% marks (40% for reserved category) in their qualifying examination.
• Subjects: Candidates must have studied Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Mathematics in their qualifying exam.
• Appearing: Final year or 12th appearing candidates are also eligible to apply for KCET 2026.

For B.V.Sc. & A.H.:

• Qualification: Candidates should have passed the 10th and 12th class examination or its equivalent from any recognized board.
• Marks Criteria: Candidates must obtain a minimum of 50% marks (40% for reserved category) in their qualifying exam.
• Subjects: Candidates must have studied Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English subjects in the qualifying exam.
• Appearing: Candidates appearing in the 12th class in the year 2026 will also be eligible to apply.

KCET 2026 Exam Pattern

The KCET 2026 Exam Pattern provides a blueprint for the upcoming Karnataka Common Entrance Test. It outlines the structure, format, and assessment criteria for the exam. Understanding this pattern is crucial for candidates preparing to excel in the test.

• Mode of Exam: The examination will be conducted through offline mode.
• Duration: A total of 80 minutes will be provided for the examination.
• Number of Questions: There will be a total of 60 questions in each subject.
• Question Type: Objective-type questions will be asked in the examination.
• Marking Scheme: Each correct response will be awarded 1 mark.
• Negative Marking: There will be no negative marking for wrong answers.

Marking Scheme:

KCET 2026 Syllabus

The KCET Syllabus 2026 will encompass topics from the 11th and 12th class curriculum, covering subjects such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology. Each subject will have its own set of topics outlined for the exam. Stay tuned for the comprehensive syllabus, which will be updated in our article once it is released.

KCET 2026 Preparation Tips

Preparing for KCET 2026 requires strategic planning and focused study. Here are some effective preparation tips to help you ace the exam.

1. Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the KCET syllabus for each subject thoroughly.
2. Create a Study Schedule: Plan your study schedule effectively, allocating sufficient time to each subject.
3. Practice Previous Papers: Solve previous years’ KCET papers to get acquainted with the exam pattern and types of questions.
4. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weak areas and dedicate more time to practice and revision.
5. Take Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests to assess your preparation level and improve your time management skills.
6. Revision is Key: Regularly revise the topics you’ve studied to reinforce your learning.
7. Stay Healthy: Maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper sleep, diet, and exercise to stay focused and energized.
8. Seek Clarifications: Don’t hesitate to seek clarification from teachers or peers if you have any doubts.

KCET 2026 Admit Card

The KCET 2026 admit card will be released in 1st week of April 2026, accessible through the official website. Candidates can download it using their login credentials, either application number or date of birth. Possession of the admit card is mandatory for entry into the examination hall, along with a valid identity proof. 

Failure to present the admit card will result in denial of entry. The admit card includes essential details such as the candidate’s name, examination date, centre, and timing, ensuring candidates have all the necessary information for a smooth examination experience.

KCET 2026 Answer Key

The provisional answer key for KCET 2026 will be released online in April or May 2026. This allows candidates to access it conveniently to estimate their scores by comparing their answers against the correct ones provided.

If there are differences, candidates can file objections against the provisional answer key until the specified deadline. These objections are then considered by the authorities, who will issue a final answer key reflecting any necessary adjustments. This process ensures transparency and accuracy in the assessment of candidate performance.

KCET 2026 Merit List/ Result

The KCET merit list will be compiled following the publication of the final answer key and will feature the names of candidates selected for admission. The results will be announced online on the 2nd week of  May 2026, and all examinees will be able to check their scores on the official website. 

After the release of results, candidates can download their scorecards using their login credentials. It is recommended that candidates print a copy of their results for future reference. Should there be any discrepancies found in the result, candidates should promptly contact the relevant authorities to address the issue.

KCET 2026 Cut-Off

The KCET 2026 cut-off marks will be released online concurrently with or shortly after the announcement of the results. Candidates must meet these minimum cut-off marks to qualify for admission. The cut-off will vary across different categories, ensuring a tailored approach to candidate eligibility.

These cut-off marks are determined based on several critical factors: the total number of candidates who appeared in the exam, the difficulty level of the exam, and the performance of the candidates. This comprehensive consideration helps to maintain fairness and standards in the admission process, ensuring that only adequately qualified candidates can proceed to the next stages of admission.

KCET 2026 Counselling

The counselling process for KCET 2026 will be conducted online by the authority, tentatively starting in June or July 2026. This vital step involves several stages, including online registration, document verification, seat allotment, and the issuance of admission letters. Eligible candidates are required to actively participate in the counselling sessions, as it is mandatory for securing admission. 

Seat allotment will be based on the candidates’ performance in the entrance examination. Additionally, candidates must ensure the verification of all necessary documents during the counselling process. Failure to complete this verification may result in seats not being confirmed.

Documents Required During Counselling:

• 10th class mark sheet & certificate
• 12th class mark sheet & certificate
• Domicile certificate
• Caste certificate
• Identity proof i.e. Adhaar card
• KCET 2026 scorecard
• KCET 2026 admit card
• Copy of filled application form
• Latest passport-size photograph etc.

KCET 2026 Participating Institutes 

KCET 2026 provides admission to various institutes across Karnataka offering undergraduate courses in fields like Engineering, Pharmacy, Agriculture, and more. These participating institutes contribute to the diverse educational landscape of the state.

KCET 2026  FAQ’s

Sunil Kushwaha

As a dedicated Biology Science graduate, I’m passionate about sharing the latest updates in national and state entrance exams through my blog. I aim to keep aspiring students informed about exam trends, important dates, and changes in syllabi. With a keen interest in education, I strive to offer valuable insights for students navigating the competitive landscape of entrance examinations and admission tests. Stay updated with me.