The Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) opened registration for the Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) 2026 on January 16, 2026 . This state-level entrance exam facilitates admissions to various undergraduate professional courses across Karnataka. Students targeting degrees in Engineering, Pharmacy, Agriculture, and Veterinary Science must complete their online application by February 17, 2026 . The official portal for registration iscetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea. The KCET 2026 examination will be conducted on April 23 and 24, 2026 .
KCET provides the primary pathway for eligible candidates seeking admission to first-year undergraduate programs in government and private institutions throughout Karnataka. The examination aims to standardize the admission process for highly sought-after professional courses. KEA released the official notification and information bulletin on January 2, 2026. This comprehensive document details eligibility criteria, application procedures, syllabus overview, and other important guidelines. Candidates must carefully review this information and adhere to the specified timelines to ensure their application is processed correctly.
Eligibility for KCET 2026
To qualify for KCET 2026, candidates must have successfully passed their 2nd PUC or Class 12 examinations. The eligibility criteria specify Physics and Mathematics as mandatory subjects in the qualifying examination. Additionally, applicants require a minimum aggregate score of 45% across their relevant subjects in the qualifying examinations. Specific subject combinations and any applicable reservation criteria are fully outlined within the official information bulletin. Students from various boards, including CBSE, ICSE, and Karnataka State Board, are eligible, provided they meet the academic requirements.
Key Dates for KCET 2026
KEA has published a detailed schedule for the entire KCET 2026 cycle. The application window is open for approximately one month, providing ample time for candidates to prepare and submit their forms. This schedule also covers crucial phases such as admit card release, the actual examination, provisional and final answer key publications, result declaration, and the subsequent counselling process for seat allocation. Keeping track of these dates is vital for all applicants.
| Event | Date(s) |
|---|---|
| KCET 2026 Notification Release | January 2, 2026 |
| KCET 2026 Application Dates | January 16 – February 17, 2026 |
| KCET 2026 Application Dates (with late fee) | February 18, 2026 |
| KCET 2026 Admit Card Release | Expected 1st week of April 2026 |
| KCET 2026 Exam | April 23 and 24, 2026 |
| KCET 2026 Answer Key Release | Expected 1st week of May 2026 |
| KCET 2026 Result Date | Expected May 30, 2026 |
| KCET 2026 Counselling Starts | Expected to begin in June 2026 |
How to Register for KCET 2026
Candidates meeting the eligibility criteria must apply online through the designated KEA portal. The registration process requires careful attention to detail for accurate submission of personal information, academic qualifications, and supporting documents. It is imperative to refer to the official information bulletin (Notice: 17-01 UGCET – 2026 INFORMATION BULLETIN – 1 (17-01-2026)) for precise instructions regarding document scanning formats, file sizes, and the fee payment procedure. Following these steps precisely avoids application rejection.
- Visit the official KCET portal atcetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea.
- Initiate the registration process by signing up to create new login credentials. Use a valid, registered email address and contact number for this purpose.
- KEA will send these newly generated credentials, including a User ID and password, to the candidate’s registered email ID and contact number.
- Log in to the official website using the provided User ID and password.
- Proceed to fill the KCET 2026 online application form. Ensure all personal, academic, and contact details are accurate and complete.
- Upload scanned copies of required documents. Adhere strictly to the prescribed format and size specifications mentioned in the notification PDF.
- Pay the application fee. This must be done using an online payment method, such as debit card, credit card, or net banking.
- Review all entered information thoroughly. Submit the completed application form before the deadline.
Next Steps and Important Information
After submitting the application, candidates should download and print the acknowledgment page for their records. Students must regularly check the official KEA website for any subsequent updates or announcements concerning the KCET 2026 examination, admit card release, or counselling schedule. Timely submission of the application before the deadline is essential. The KEA Helpdesk is available to assist with technical issues or provide clarification on queries related to the application process.