KCET 2026 Step-by-Step Application & Exam Details. The KCET 2026 exam is one of the most important state-level entrance examinations for students aiming to secure admission to undergraduate professional courses in Karnataka.
Conducted every year, KCET plays a decisive role for aspirants seeking seats in engineering, pharmacy, agriculture, and allied programs offered by government and private institutions across the state.
“KCET is not just an entrance test; it is the gateway that transforms years of classroom learning into real academic opportunities.”
With the KCET 2026 scheduled timelines, students now have a clear roadmap to plan their preparation, applications, and counselling strategy.
KCET 2026 Overview
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Name | KCET 2026 (Karnataka Common Entrance Test) |
| Conducting Authority | Karnataka Examination Authority |
| State | Karnataka |
| Courses Covered | Engineering, Architecture, Pharmacy, Agriculture & Allied UG Courses |
| Vacancies | Seats vary yearly based on participating colleges |
| Important Dates | January 2026 – June 2026 (Tentative) |
| Important Changes | No negative marking; offline exam continues |
| Application Fee Update | Category-wise fee unchanged |
| Target Students | Class 12 pass/appearing students |
| Official Website | cetonline.karnataka.gov.in |
KCET 2026 Exam Dates (Tentative)
KCET 2026 follows a structured annual schedule. Based on the latest cycle, the exam-related activities are expected to occur as follows:
| Event | Expected Timeline 2026 |
| Application Form Release | 4th week of January |
| Last Date to Apply & Pay Fee | 4th week of February |
| Application Correction Window | 4th week of February |
| Admit Card Release | 2nd week of April |
| KCET 2026 Exam Date | 3rd week of April |
| Answer Key Release | 4th week of April |
| Result Declaration | 3rd week of May |
| Counselling Begins | June |
KCET 2026 Application Form: Key Instructions
Filling the KCET 2026 application form correctly is crucial, as even small errors can lead to rejection. The entire process is conducted online, making it convenient but detail-sensitive.
Candidates must ensure that their name, date of birth, category, and academic details exactly match their official documents. A valid mobile number and email ID should be entered because all KCET-related communication is sent digitally. Uploading documents such as photographs and signatures must be done strictly in the prescribed format.
The KCET 2026 application fee is paid online and is non-refundable under any circumstances. Applicants are advised to keep multiple printouts of the submitted form for the counselling and admission stages.
KCET 2026 Application Fee Structure
| Category | Fee Amount |
| GM / 2A / 2B / 3A / 3B (Karnataka) | ₹500 |
| SC / ST / Category-1 / Female (Karnataka) | ₹250 |
| Outside Karnataka | ₹750 |
| Outside India | ₹5,000 |
How to Apply for KCET 2026
Applying for KCET 2026 involves a step-by-step online process. Candidates start by registering on the official portal, verifying their mobile number via OTP, and filling in personal and academic details. After uploading documents and paying the fee, applicants must carefully review all information before final submission. Once submitted, downloading and saving the application form is strongly recommended.
KCET 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility for KCET 2026 varies slightly based on the course selected.
For B.Tech, candidates must have passed Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects, along with Chemistry, Biology, or Biotechnology. A minimum of 45% aggregate marks is required for general category students, while reserved categories need 40%.
For B.Arch, applicants must qualify for Class 12 or 10+3 and possess a valid NATA score. Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics are mandatory subjects.
For B.Pharm, candidates should have passed Class 12 or a Diploma in Pharmacy with Physics and Chemistry, plus Biology or Mathematics, securing the required aggregate marks.
KCET 2026 Exam Pattern
The KCET 2026 exam is conducted in offline mode using OMR sheets. Each subject paper contains 60 multiple-choice questions, with one mark awarded for every correct answer. There is no negative marking, making accuracy-focused attempts beneficial. Each paper has a duration of 80 minutes, allowing students adequate time to manage questions calmly.
KCET 2026 Syllabus Overview
The KCET 2026 syllabus is based entirely on the Karnataka Pre-University curriculum. It covers topics from Class 11 and Class 12 in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. Students preparing from NCERT-aligned textbooks generally find the syllabus manageable, provided they focus on conceptual clarity and regular revision.
KCET 2026 Preparation Tips
Effective preparation for KCET 2026 requires consistency and smart planning. Creating a balanced study timetable helps cover all subjects without stress. Mock tests and previous-year question papers play a key role in understanding exam patterns and improving time management. Maintaining good health, proper sleep, and regular breaks ensures better concentration during preparation.
FAQs on KCET 2026
Is KCET 2026 conducted online?
No
Is there negative marking in KCET 2026?
No
Can Class 12 appearing students apply?
Yes
Is NATA mandatory for B.Arch admission?
Yes
When does KCET 2026 counselling begin?
Counselling is expected to start in June 2026.
