The Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) 2026 notification has been officially released by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA), initiating the application process for admission to undergraduate professional courses in engineering, pharmacy, agriculture, veterinary science and allied programmes.
KCET 2026 Exam Schedule and Registration Dates
The KEA has opened the KCET 2026 registration window from 17 January 2026 on its official portal: cetonline.karnataka.gov.in. Eligible candidates must complete and submit the online application by 17 February 2026. Key dates released by the authority include:
- KCET 2026 Notification Release: 2 January 2026
- Online Registration Begins: 17 January 2026
- Last Date to Apply: 17 February 2026
- Tentative Admit Card Release: First week of April 2026
- KCET 2026 Exam Dates: 23 & 24 April 2026
- Answer Key Release (Tentative): First week of May 2026
- Result Declaration (Tentative): 30 May 2026
The exam will be held in offline (pen-and-paper) mode, with students appearing in separate shifts for Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology papers.
Courses and Eligibility for KCET 2026
KCET 2026 is the state-level entrance exam for admission into various undergraduate programmes, including B.E./B. Tech, B.Pharm, Agriculture, Veterinary Science, Yoga, Naturopathy and other allied courses offered by participating colleges across Karnataka. To be eligible, candidates are generally required to have passed or be appearing in Class 12 (2nd PUC) with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects (for engineering) and meet the minimum aggregate marks as prescribed in the official notification.
How to Apply for KCET 2026?
The online application process involves the following key steps:
- Visit the official KEA portal: cetonline.karnataka.gov.in
- Click on the KCET 2026 registration link
- Enter personal and academic details
- Upload required documents (photograph, signature)
- Pay the application fee online
- Submit the form before the last date
Applicants are advised to have documents like SSLC/Class 10 mark sheet, Aadhaar card, and contact details ready before initiating the registration process.
Exam Day Structure and Timings
The KCET 2026 exam will be held over two days:
- 23 April 2026: Physics and Chemistry papers
- 24 April 2026: Mathematics and Biology papers
Each subject paper will be conducted in two sessions, typically in the morning and afternoon shifts, with a duration of 80 minutes per subject.