Karnataka Common Entrance Test

KCET 2026 Exam Dates

The KCET 2026 exam will be held on 23 and 24 April 2026. The Kannada Language Test will be conducted on 22 April 2026 for Kannadigas from Horanadu and Gadi Nadu.

The KCET 2026 registration deadline has been extended to 27 February 2026 from 17 February 2026. The KEA has extended the KCET fee payment deadline to 7 March 2026 from 3 March 2026.

As per KEA, nearly 3,15,713 candidates have registered so far for KCET 2026.

What is KCET?

Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) is a state entrance examination conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA). The exam enables candidates to secure admission into professional courses such as Engineering, Agriculture, and Pharmacy, and other courses in Karnataka.

Based on the stream of choice, KCET assesses the learning of candidates in subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.

• Conducted by Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA).
• Provides engineering, agriculture, veterinary courses, and pharmacy courses.
• For Karnataka candidates and non-Karnataka candidates.
• Various subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.
• Admissions based on KCET rank and counselling.

Courses Covered by KCET

KCET is a pen-and-paper and MCQ-type exam written by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) for professional courses admission. By KCET, admission can be taken in any of the following professional courses in Karnataka:

• Engineering
• Architecture
• Pharma (B.Pharma, D.Pharma, 2nd year B.Pharma)
• Veterinary Science
• Farm Science (B.Sc. Agriculture, Sericulture, etc.)
• Allied Health Sciences, Nursing, Ayurveda, Unani, Homoeopathy, BPT, BPO, etc.

For Medical and Dental courses, KCET registration is still required, even though admission is via NEET. Similarly, the Architecture Course will require NATA-2026.

Key Summary

• KCET is an entrance test for engineering, pharmacy, veterinary, and agricultural courses, which is administered by KEA.
• The exam will be held on 23 and 24 April 2026, and results will probably be declared in May 2026.
• When compared to 2020 (₹650), registration fees have slightly increased to 2025 (₹800) for the general category.
• KCET applications are increasing every year, and the number of students seeking admission is about 2.6 lakh by 2025.
• Competition has been growing as the reappearing candidate's percentage in 2025 has already risen to 26% as compared to 18% in 2020.
• The qualification is 45% marks in Class 12 (40% in case of the reserved categories) and certain subject-groups, depending on the course.
• KCET assesses three subjects (PCM/PB) of 60 questions each, each of which is rated at 180 marks and takes 4 hours.
• In 2026, the cutoffs are set to change, with the highest-ranking engineering colleges demanding between 1,500-6,500.

KCET 2026 Highlights

KCET is a state-level entrance test. It is among the most competitive exams in which candidates have an opportunity to get higher education in the state.

KCET 2026 Overview

The Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) is a state-level examination conducted once a year by the Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA). The application process, exam, and counselling are all conducted online.

KCET 2026 Tentative Dates

The KCET 2026 exam is scheduled for 23 and 24 April 2026. The official notification was released on 17 January 2026.

Follow the official Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) website for definitive dates and to complete the application process.

Here is a year-wise overview of KCET exam dates from 2025 to 2023.

Ques: How to find these changes in the dates of the KCET exam each year?

Ans. The KCET exam timetable is based on the school timetable and state board examination tests and exams conducted nationally, such as the JEE or NEET. KEA makes sure that it does not clash and manipulates schedules. That is why KCET is traditionally conducted in July or August, but nowadays it is arranged mainly in April or May.

Ques: When will the KCET results be announced?

Ans. The KCET results are normally announced one month following the exam. For example, the April 2025 exam declared results in May, whereas older years with later exams showed results in later months. The candidates should anticipate the results of the KCET 2026 to come in May or June, depending on the KEA schedule.

KCET Registration Fees (2020-2025 Trends)

The fee for the KCET registration has been revised over the years. The registration fees for the General category have been revised from 650 INR in 2020 to 800 INR in 2025.

• The fee for non-Karnataka candidates has been revised from 750 INR to 900 INR.
• Fees for SC/ST/OBC categories remained the same at 500 INR during all those years.
• Increased fee reflects the surging costs of carrying on offline tests, holding on to digital infrastructure, and executing government decisions.

Ques: What are the differences between the registration fees of the categories at KCET?

KCET Registration Fee

The KCET registration fee is different for different categories of students. Reserved category students from SC, ST and OBC pay a reduced fee of INR 500. General category students and candidates from outside Karnataka pay INR 800.

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) decides the fee structure. The fee is set to keep registration affordable for all candidates.

Is the KCET registration fee refundable?

KCET registration fees are generally not refundable. This applies whether a candidate appears for the exam or not.

KEA has followed this policy to keep the application process smooth. Candidates should register only when they are sure of appearing for the exam. This prevents losing money with no benefit.

KCET Registration Numbers (2023-2025)

KCET registrations have increased by 8.3% from 2024 to 2025. Registrations have also increased by around 18% compared to 2023.

The rise in registrations is due to growing interest in engineering and professional courses in Karnataka.

Why is the number of KCET applicants increasing every year?

The demand for engineering, pharmacy, veterinary and agricultural programs in Karnataka is the main reason for the increase in KCET applicants. Students prefer KCET because of the state quota advantage and the lower cost of education compared to private universities.

Increasing college intake and government policies also add to the rise in registrations.

Does increased registration make KCET more competitive?

Yes, more registrations mean tougher competition. The number of aspirants is rising faster than the number of available seats.

With over 2.6 lakh candidates expected in 2025, securing top ranks is challenging. Higher participation directly affects cutoffs, seat allocation and admission chances in Karnataka colleges.

KCET Reappearance Trends (2020-2025)

The percentage of reappearing candidates has grown steadily from 2020 to 2025. It went up from 18% in 2020 to 26% in 2025, which is a 44% growth over the years.

This shows that more students are reappearing for KCET to improve their scores and ranks to get a good college.

Why do many students reappear for KCET?

Students take KCET again to get higher rankings and secure a place in a better college or department, such as Computer Science and Electronics. There is no age restriction at KCET.

Many applicants use a second attempt to prepare better and maximise their chances at leading professional institutions.

Does reappearing improve the chances of admission in KCET?

Yes, reappearing can give a better chance of admission if the candidate is better prepared and scores higher than the previous time. Between 50 and 75 per cent of students who reattempt seem to improve their rank noticeably.

Students still need to study regularly, learn from past mistakes and practise mock examinations. Competition increases each year with the number of candidates.

KCET 2026: Courses and Subjects

The subjects to appear in CET-2026 depend on the professional course the candidate is applying for. The table below shows the subject combinations for different courses.

For other courses, candidates have to take a separate entrance exam.

KCET 2026 Admission Routes

Admission to Medical, Dental and AYUSH courses is based on the UGNEET exam. Admission to Architecture courses is based on the NATA exam.

Candidates must compulsorily register for CET-2026, fill out the application and pay the fees to become eligible to participate in the counselling.

For admission to B.P.T., B.Sc. Allied Health Sciences, and BPO courses, selection is based on PU Marks. There is no entrance exam for these courses, but candidates must compulsorily register for CET-2026, fill out the application and pay the fees to become eligible to participate in the counselling.

KCET Eligibility Criteria 2026

KCET 2026 eligibility criteria specify the minimum educational qualifications and other conditions required to apply for the exam. Candidates must ensure that they meet all the eligibility requirements before applying for the exam.

General Eligibility

• Must be an Indian citizen
• No upper age limit, but a minimum of 17 years for some courses like B.Pharm.
• Passed or appearing in the 2nd PUC from a recognised board.

Course-wise Academic Eligibility

KCET Exam Pattern 2026

The KCET exam pattern will be similar to that of the previous years. It has three parts: Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics/Biology with 60 marks each.

• Mode of Exam: Offline (Pen and Paper)
• Medium of exam: English and Kannada.
• Number of Sessions: 4 sessions in total: one for each subject.
• Total Questions: Each Session: 60 MCQs and 1 hour 20 minutes (80 Minutes) per section.
• Total Mark: (PCM): 180 marks (60 per subject x 1 mark each)
• Question Type: MCQs with 4 options and 1 correct answer.
• Marking Scheme: +1 mark for each correct answer and no negative marking for wrong answers.

Marking Scheme

The marking scheme of KCET 2026 is simple. Every right answer will be one mark, and there is no negative point for being wrong.

Subject Duration

Each subject paper is 80 minutes. The exam has a total of 4 hours in duration across the sessions.

All subjects are given equal weight, and each subject has 60 questions with 60 marks each.

KCET Exam Centres 2026

The exam centres will be released on the official website. Candidates can choose exam centres from the list given by KCET for 2026 during the registration process.

KCET 2026 Exam Centres

The Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) is held at exam centres across Karnataka. The list of exam centres covers most districts and several smaller towns in the state.

KCET 2026 Syllabus

The KCET syllabus is based on the 1st and 2nd PUC (Class 11 and 12) curriculum of the Karnataka State Board. The syllabus covers four subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.

Check: KCET 2025 April 16 Physics Question Paper with Solutions and KCET 2025 April 16 Chemistry Question Paper with Solutions.

How is the KCET syllabus decided?

The KCET curriculum is completely based on the Class 11 and 12 (1st and 2nd PUC) curriculum as prescribed by the Karnataka State Board. It has topics from Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Biology, which makes it comply with state education standards. Students should refer to the PUC textbooks for exact preparation.

Can KCET be prepared using NCERT books?

Yes, the NCERT books can give a very good background in preparation for KCET because the syllabus is very similar. However, Karnataka State Board PUC textbooks should be preferred by students since KCET requires strict adherence to the syllabus. Using both sources may enhance conceptual knowledge and increase the accuracy of responding to state-level examination questions.

Check: KCET Chapter-Wise Weightage.

KCET 2025 Paper Analysis

The KCET 2025 paper analysis shows the difficulty level of each subject. The question paper PDFs are available for download for each subject.

How was the difficulty level of the KCET 2025 subjects?

In KCET 2025, Physics was easy to moderate, and Chemistry and Kannada were moderate. The difficulty levels of Biology and Mathematics need to be updated. The paper had a proper mix overall, and students with good preparation managed well.

Where can students download the KCET 2025 question papers?

Students can download the question papers for Kannada, Physics, and Chemistry from the given PDF links. Biology and Mathematics papers will be uploaded later. These PDFs are practice-friendly, revision-friendly, and useful to see the exam pattern and type of questions asked.

KCET Exam 2026 Resources

Knowing which KCET resources to follow is important for preparing for the KCET exam 2026. Some recommended resources are mentioned below.

KCET Preparation Resources

Key Study Materials

KCET is based primarily on the NCERT and Karnataka State Board syllabus. Questions focus on concept clarity, not advanced JEE topics.

Official Textbook Downloads

KCET Previous Year Questions

KCET past question papers are useful in preparation because they enable students to know the patterns of questions.

You can also check: KCET 2025 Question Paper with Answer Key PDF

How KCET Past Year Papers Help in Preparation

Answering KCET past year papers enables students to know the level of difficulty of the exam, commonly asked topics and distribution of questions. They give information regarding time management and speed of problem-solving.

Frequency also helps one to build confidence, overcome fear of exams, and helps students to know areas of strength and weaknesses so that they can devise specific strategies of preparation.

Language of KCET Past Year Question Papers

The previous year's question papers of KCET are in English as well as Kannada, just like the real exam. This assists the candidates in preparing in the language of their choice.

KEA publishes official papers annually, and bilingual solved papers are frequently published by coaching institutes to aid the aspirants of different academic backgrounds.

KCET Mock Test

Significance of KCET Mock Tests

KCET practice tests allow the candidates to practice under the actual exam environment, gain time management skills, and gain confidence. They indicate both strengths and weaknesses, and allow focused preparation.

Frequent drilling with the help of mock tests could really boost the scores by increasing the speed of problem-solving and accuracy, which is extremely important in the context of KCET, which is highly competitive and time-constrained.

Where to Find KCET Mock Tests

The KCET Mock exam can be accessed online at the official KEA site or at the numerous coaching schools, which provide online practice and offline mock exams. These materials contain past year questions, sample papers and full-length practice exams.

It is strongly suggested that in order to master the exam patterns and perform better in the timed environment, it is highly recommended to practice various mock tests.

KCET 2026: Result

KCET 2026 Result Date and Details

The KCET 2026 result is expected to be declared in May 2026. The result is usually announced one month after the exam is conducted.

In 2025, the result was declared 37 days after the exam. The overall pass percentage in 2025 was 88.36%, with 2,75,677 candidates qualifying.

Kannada Language Test Result

The result for the Kannada Language Test will be announced separately by KEA. Candidates appearing for the language test need a minimum of 12 marks out of 50 to qualify.

KCET 2026 Counselling

Online counselling will start after the declaration of results, following document verification. Candidates will then enter options for preferred colleges and courses.

The process will include multiple rounds, such as initial allotment and upgradation.

KCET Overview 2026 FAQs

Is KCET tougher than CUET?

KCET is specialised in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology, making it competitive for engineering and medical aspirants in Karnataka. CUET is multisubject and serves central universities.

KCET is more difficult for engineering admissions because it focuses on problem-solving abilities and mastery of the subject matter.

How many times is KCET conducted every year?

KCET is held once a year and is organised by the Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA). Unlike JEE Main, which has two sessions per year, KCET has one attempt.

This single chance means candidates must study well, since the exam decides who takes professional courses in colleges in Karnataka for that academic year.

Can KCET scores be used beyond Karnataka?

KCET is used only for admissions to professional colleges in Karnataka. Out-of-state students are eligible to apply as long as they fulfil domicile requirements.

Unlike JEE Main, KCET does not offer national recognition. It is region-specific to Karnataka-based universities and state-authorised professional institutions.

What is the exam language of KCET?

KCET is conducted in English and Kannada, with candidates given a choice of preferred medium. Students comfortable with Kannada can use regional language assistance, while others can choose English.

This bilingual approach is meant to be fair and accessible to all students appearing for the Karnataka state entrance exam.

What is the age limit for KCET 2026?

There is no maximum age requirement for KCET 2026. Candidates must meet educational eligibility requirements, such as passing Class 12 with the required subject groupings.

Some professional courses, such as veterinary science, may have minimum age requirements. In most cases, age is not a major issue for KCET aspirants.

Is the Kannada language test mandatory?

Yes, the Kannada language test is mandatory for Horanadu and Gadinadu Kannadiga candidates. Candidates who have studied Kannada for 7 years are exempt from the test.

KCET vs CUET: Which Exam is Tougher?

KCET is tougher than CUET for engineering admissions. KCET focuses on Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology, testing problem-solving and subject mastery. CUET is multi-subject and serves central universities.

How Many Times is KCET Conducted in a Year?

KCET is held once a year. The Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) organizes the exam. Unlike JEE Main, which has two sessions per year, KCET offers only one attempt.

Can KCET Scores Be Used Outside Karnataka?

KCET scores are used only for admissions to professional colleges in Karnataka. Out-of-state students can apply if they meet domicile requirements. KCET does not offer national recognition like JEE Main.

What is the Exam Language of KCET?

KCET is conducted in English and Kannada. Candidates can choose their preferred medium. This bilingual option provides regional language support for Kannada-speaking students.

What is the Age Limit for KCET 2026?

There is no maximum age limit for KCET 2026. Candidates must meet educational eligibility, such as passing Class 12 with the required subject groups. Minimum age requirements may exist for professional courses like veterinary science.

Is the Kannada Language Test Mandatory?

Yes, the Kannada language test is mandatory for Horanadu and Gadinadu Kannadiga candidates. Candidates who have studied Kannada for 7 years are exempt from the test.

KCET 2026 Eligibility Criteria

The Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) sets the eligibility criteria for KCET 2026. The official notification for KCET 2026 has not been released yet. A candidate's application is purely provisional until all academic and other eligibility conditions are verified.

There is no upper age limit for the KCET 2026 exam. Candidates must be Indian citizens. Candidates must have passed or be appearing in the 2nd PUC from a recognised board. Some courses, like B.Pharm, require a minimum age of 17 years.

Only candidates who hold the verification slip can enter their choices for seat allotment. KEA issues this slip after successful document verification.

Key Points from 2025

• Around 10,000 candidates in 2025 had their results initially withheld due to wrong registration numbers and 2nd PUC marks entry issues.
• Over 400 candidates who reappeared in KCET 2025 after being allotted seats in previous years but did not join had their ranks withheld pending investigation.

Key Summary

• There is no restriction on the number of times a candidate can appear for KCET. In 2025, 26% of candidates were reappearing.
• The Kannada Language Test is a qualifying exam and does not affect rank or cutoff.
• KEA considers the best PUC marks, including improvement examinations, for 50% weightage in rank calculation.
• Candidates must have at least 40% disability as per the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, for PwD reservation.

Eligibility Criteria PDF

KEA releases the detailed eligibility criteria every year with the official notification on its website. The official PDF contains the complete eligibility clauses.

Course-wise Eligibility Criteria

Architecture (B.Arch)

• The norms prescribed in COA / NATA / Admission Rules and relevant Government orders apply for eligibility and merit.

Engineering / Technology (B.E. / B.Tech)

• Passed 2nd PUC / 12th Std / Equivalent Exam with English as one of the languages.
• Minimum 45% marks in aggregate in Physics and Mathematics, along with Chemistry / Bio-Technology / Biology / Electronics / Computer.
• Relaxed to 40% for SC, ST, Cat-1, 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B category candidates.

Farm Science Courses

• Passed 2nd PUC / 12th Std / Equivalent exam with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology as optional subjects.
• For Agriculturist Quota, merit is based on 25% marks each from II year PUC (PCMB) and CET, plus 50% marks from the Practical Test.
• A minimum of 50% marks in the Practical Examination is required for the Agriculturist Quota.

Bachelor of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry (B.V.Sc. & A.H.)

• Passed 2nd PUC / 12th Std.
• Aggregate minimum of 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English.
• Relaxed to 40% for SC, ST, Cat-1, 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B category candidates.
• Merit is based on 50% of CET marks (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) and 50% of practical test marks.

B-Pharma

• Passed 2nd PUC / 12th Std with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology OR Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
• Minimum 45% marks in aggregate in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
• Relaxed to 40% for SC, ST, Cat-1, 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B category candidates.

Course-wise Eligibility Criteria for KCET 2026

Eligibility for KCET 2026 depends on the course you are applying for. The requirements for each course are listed below.

2nd Year B. Pharma

• Passed the Diploma in Pharmacy Examination from an institution approved by the Pharmacy Council of India.
• Secured a minimum of 45% marks in the Diploma in Pharmacy Examination.
• SC, ST, Cat-1, 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B category candidates need a minimum of 40% marks.

Pharma-D

Candidates must meet one of the following requirements:

• Passed 2nd PUC / 12th Std with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology or Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

OR

• Passed the Diploma in Pharmacy Examination from an institution approved by the Pharmacy Council of India.

Naturopathy & Yoga

• Passed the Qualifying Examination (Q.E.) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as optional subjects, and English as one of the languages.
• A minimum of 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology subjects in the Q.E. is required.
• SC, ST, Category–I, and OBC (2A, 2B, 3A, and 3B) category candidates need a minimum of 40% marks in the Q.E.

BPT (Bachelor of Physiotherapy)

• Passed the Q.E. with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as optional subjects and English as one of the languages of study.
• A minimum of 40% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology subjects in the Q.E. is required.
• SC, ST, Category–I, and OBC (2A, 2B, 3A, and 3B) category candidates need a minimum of 35% marks in the Q.E.

BPO (Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics)

• Passed the Q.E. with Physics, Chemistry and Biology / Mathematics as optional subjects, and English as one of the languages.
• A minimum of 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology / Mathematics subjects in the Q.E. is required.
• SC, ST, Category–I, and OBC (2A, 2B, 3A, and 3B) category candidates need a minimum of 45% marks in the Q.E.

B.Sc. AHS

• Passed the Q.E. with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as optional subjects, and English as one of the languages.

A minimum of 35% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology subjects in the Q.E. is eligible for admission to the BPT and BPO courses.

Common Eligibility Questions

Can I apply for Engineering if I have Biology instead of Mathematics?

No, Mathematics is compulsory for Engineering courses. If you have the PCB combination, you can apply for B.VSc and AH, Naturopathy & Yoga, and B.Sc (Nursing) courses.

Is there any special eligibility for B.Arch (Architecture) in KCET 2026?

Yes, students must qualify the National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA). They must also compulsorily register for CET-2026, fill the application and pay the fees to become eligible to participate in the counseling.

KCET Eligibility 2026: Kannada Language Test

The Kannada Language Test is a mandatory qualifying test. It will be conducted on 22nd April.

The test will be conducted only in Bengaluru, Belagavi, Vijayapura, and Mangalore. Candidates must appear for KCET 2026 at a test centre located at these centres only.

• Candidates claiming eligibility for Government seats under Horanadu & Gadinadu Kannadiga clauses must take the language test. This applies to candidates whose mother tongue is Kannada, Tulu, Kodava or Beary.
• The test establishes the candidate's ability to speak, read and write Kannada.
• The minimum passing marks are 12 out of 50 to be considered for assignment of ranks and to become eligible for allotment of seats in CET-2026.
• Horanadu and Gadinadu Kannadiga candidates who have studied TEN full academic years in Kannada Medium from 1st standard to 10th standard in places outside Karnataka need not appear for the Language Test.

Kannada Language Test: Common Questions

Do people fail the Kannada language test?

Yes, in 2025, around 456 candidates out of 1520 failed, and 12 candidates scored 0/50 in the Language test.

What is the syllabus for the Kannada language test?

The syllabus is of 4th standard level. Students can use the following books to prepare for the KCET Kannada language paper:

1. Kannada Alphabet: Learning and Writing
2. Learning Kannada Made Easy by Shashidhara Vishwamithra.
3. Speaking Kannada Made Easy by Doc Tortoise.

KCET 2026: Agriculturist Quota Eligibility

Agriculturist Quota is applicable only for Undergraduate courses. The Practical Examination will be conducted at the concerned Agricultural / Veterinary Universities.

KCET 2026 Practical Test Centres

The practical test for KCET 2026 is held at specific centres across Karnataka. The centres are listed below.

Practical Test Fees

The practical test fee must be paid at the test centre on the day of document verification. The payment is made in the form of a demand draft.

• Rs 500/- for General and OBC candidates.
• Rs 250/- for SC, ST and Category-1 candidates.

Merit List Calculation

The merit list is prepared based on marks in 2nd PUC, CET, and the practical test. The weightage of each component is different for different courses.

• For most courses: 25% weightage for 2nd PUC marks, 25% for CET marks, and 50% for practical test marks.
• For B.V.Sc & AH: 50% weightage for CET marks and 50% for practical test marks.

Agriculturist Quota in KCET 2026

Children of farmers or agricultural labourers can claim the agriculturist quota. The candidate's parents must own or tenant agricultural land to be eligible.

Seats reserved for this quota are 23-24% in courses like B.Sc Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry, Fisheries, and Food Technology.

KCET Eligibility 2026: Specific Clauses

KEA has defined specific eligibility clauses for KCET 2026. Each clause has its own set of requirements and documents.

Clause A

The candidate must have studied in Karnataka for a minimum of seven years from 1st standard to 2nd PUC / 12th standard as on 1st July 2026. The study must be in one or more government-recognised institutions in the state.

The candidate must have appeared and passed either the SSLC / 10th standard or 2nd PUC / 12th standard examination from Karnataka State. If a candidate took more than one year to pass a class, the years of academic study are counted as one year only.

Documents to be Produced

• SSLC / 10th standard mark sheet
• 2nd PUC/ 12th standard mark sheet
• Study certificate
• Rural Study Certificate for completing 10 years from 1st to 10th, if claiming the rural quota
• Kannada Medium Study Certificate for completing 10 years from 1st to 10th, if claiming the rural quota
• Caste/Income Certificate issued by the Concerned Tehsildar- For SC/ST in Form-D, Category-I in Form E and 2A, 2B, 3 and 3B in Form F, if claiming reservation benefits

Clause B

The candidate must have studied and passed the 1st and 2nd year Pre-University Examination within Karnataka. The institution must be run or recognised by the State Government.

Either of the candidate's parents should have studied in Karnataka for seven years.

Documents to be Produced

• SSLC / 10th standard mark sheet
• 2nd PUC/ 12th standard mark sheet
• Caste/Caste Income Certificate issued by the concerned Tehsildar- For SC/ST in Form-D, Category-I in Form E and 2A, 2B, 3 and 3B in Form F, if claiming reservation benefits
• A study certificate for either of the parents, having studied for at least 7 years in Karnataka, from the head of the educational institution where they had studied
• The candidate’s study certificate for having studied both 1st & 2nd PUC or 11th & 12th standard in Karnataka, issued by the Head of the educational institution

Clause C

The candidate and either of their parents must have Kannada, Tulu or Kodava as their mother tongue. Either of the parents should have been domiciled in Karnataka.

The candidate should have passed the qualifying examination from a University or Board or any other Institution located outside Karnataka. They should be residing outside Karnataka as on 1st May 2026.

The candidate shall undergo a Kannada Language test conducted by KEA.

Documents to be Produced

• SSLC / 10th standard mark sheet
• 12th standard mark card of the candidate
• Domicile certificate issued by the concerned Revenue or Municipal Authorities certifying that the candidate and either of their parents have resided outside the state of Karnataka as on 01-05-2026. The place of the issuing authority should correspond to the place of domicile of the candidate/father/mother.
• Domicile certificate issued by the concerned Revenue Authorities of the state of Karnataka regarding the previous domicile of the father/mother of the candidate, as a place in the state of Karnataka. The place of the issuing authority should correspond to the place of domicile of the father/mother.
• Candidate’s Study certificate, Transfer Certificate
• Father/Mother’s 10th standard marks card/ cumulative record in original in support of mother tongue as Kannada/Tulu/Kodava
• A duly sworn declaration regarding the mother tongue of the candidates

Clause D

The candidate's mother tongue must be Kannada, Tulu or Kodava. The candidate should have resided and studied for a period of SEVEN years between 1st and 12th standards in the disputed Kannada-speaking areas.

These areas are South Solapur or Akkalkot or Jeth or Gadhinglaj taluka of Maharashtra State or Kasargod or Hosadurga Taluks of Kerala State. The candidate shall undergo a Kannada Language test conducted by KEA.

Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) Eligibility Clauses

The Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) eligibility rules include several clauses. These clauses define who can apply based on residency, parent's service, and other criteria. Each clause has specific document requirements.

Clause C and D: Kannada Language Requirement

Candidates claiming eligibility under clauses C and D must speak, read, and write Kannada. They must also secure a minimum of 12 marks in the Kannada Language Test conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA). Candidates who do not meet this requirement will not be assigned ranks.

The following documents are required for these clauses:

• SSLC/10th standard Marks Card and 2nd PUC/12th standard Marks Card of the candidate
• Residential certificate from the concerned Tahsildar of the respective disputed Taluk
• Candidate's study certificate issued by the head of the institution, countersigned by the Taluk Education Officer
• A duly sworn declaration regarding the mother tongue of the candidate

Clause E: Children of Defence Personnel Who Served in Karnataka

This clause applies to candidates who are sons or daughters of defence personnel who worked continuously in Karnataka for a minimum period of one year during the candidate's two-year study period in PUC/11th and 12th standard. The candidate must have studied and passed the qualifying examination from a government or government-recognised educational institution in Karnataka.

Documents required under Clause E:

• SSLC/10th standard Marks Card
• 2nd PUC/12th Standard Marks Card of the candidate
• Study certificate for having studied 2nd PUC or equivalent examination in Karnataka, issued by the head of the educational institution
• Employment certificate of the parent issued by the Controlling Office, indicating the period of work in Karnataka from the reporting date to the current date

Clause F: Children of Serving Defence Personnel with Karnataka as Hometown

This clause covers sons or daughters of serving Defence personnel from Karnataka who declared a place in Karnataka as their hometown at the time of joining the Defence service. Proof of domicile must be obtained from the AG's (Army Hqs) respective branch of the integrated HQ of MoD for Officers and respective Record Offices for JCOs/OR. The candidate should have passed the qualifying examination from a university, board, or institution located anywhere in India.

Documents required under Clause F:

• SSLC/10th standard Marks Card
• 2nd PUC/12th standard Marks Card of the candidate
• Caste/Income Certificate issued by the concerned Tahsildar in the prescribed format if claiming reservation benefits
• Parents' hometown declaration certificate while joining the service, issued by the respective branch of the Integrated HQ of MoD for Officers and the respective record offices for JCOs

Clause G: Children of Defence Personnel in Field/Active Service

This clause applies to sons or daughters of defence personnel who served in Karnataka for at least one year and are posted on duty in Field/Active service, with families permitted by Defence Authorities to continue staying in Karnataka. Candidates must have studied and passed the qualifying examination from a government or government-recognised educational institution in Karnataka.

Documents required under Clause G:

• SSLC/10th standard Marks Card
• 2nd PUC/12th Standard Marks Card of the candidate
• Study certificate for having studied the 2nd PUC or equivalent examination in Karnataka, issued by the head of the educational institution
• Service certificate of the parent issued by the Controlling Office, indicating the period of work in Karnataka and a certificate showing the present place of posting, confirming family permission to stay in Karnataka. The present working place must be indicated by name, not code numbers.

Clause H: Children of Ex-Servicemen with Karnataka as Hometown

This clause applies to sons or daughters of ex-servicemen who declared a place in Karnataka as their hometown at the time of joining the defence service. Proof of domicile must be obtained from the Deputy Director, Department of Sainik Welfare and Resettlement of that district, and countersigned by the Director, Department of Sainik Welfare and Resettlement. The candidate should have passed the qualifying examination from a university, board, or institution located anywhere in India.

Documents required under Clause H:

• SSLC/10th standard mark sheet
• 2nd PUC/12th standard mark sheet
• Caste/Income Certificate issued by the concerned Tehsildar if claiming reservation benefits: Form-D for SC/ST, Form E for Category-I, and Form F for 2A, 2B, 3 and 3B
• Parents' hometown declaration certificate while joining the service, issued by the Joint Director/Deputy Director of the concerned district and countersigned by the Director, Department of Sainik Welfare and Resettlement, Bangalore

Clause I: Children of Transferable Union or State Government Employees

This clause covers sons or daughters of employees of the Union Government, Karnataka State Government Undertaking, or Joint Sector Undertaking who are liable to be transferred anywhere in India. The parent must have worked in Karnataka for a minimum period of one year during the candidate's two-year study period in PUC/11th or 12th standards. The candidate must have studied and passed the qualifying examination from a government or government-recognised educational institution in Karnataka.

Karnataka CET Eligibility Clauses J to O: Documents Required

This section lists the eligibility clauses J to O for the Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET/Karnataka CET) and the documents required under each clause. Each clause defines a specific category of candidate who may claim eligibility under the Karnataka CET rules.

Clause J: Children of Union or State Government Employees

Clause J covers the son or daughter of a working or retired employee of the Union Government, or an employee of the Union or Karnataka State Government Undertaking, or a Joint Sector Undertaking. The employee must meet one of the following conditions:

• The employee had declared any place in Karnataka as their hometown at the time of joining service.
• The employee had studied in any government or government-recognised educational institution located in Karnataka for a minimum period of seven years.
• The employee was or is liable to be transferred anywhere in India as per the terms and conditions of employment.

The candidate must also have passed the qualifying examination from a university, board, or any other institution located anywhere in India.

Documents Required for Clause J

• SSLC/10th standard marks card
• 2nd PUC/12th standard marks card
• Study certificate of the candidate for having studied 2nd PUC or equivalent examination in Karnataka, issued by the head of the educational institution
• Certificate from the employer indicating the parent's period of employment in Karnataka and showing that they are transferable anywhere in India
• Certificate from the employer indicating the parent as an employee of the Union or Karnataka State Government Undertaking or the Joint Sector Undertaking
• Caste/Income Certificate issued by the concerned Tehsildar, if claiming reservation benefits:
  • For SC/ST: Form-D
  • For Category-I: Form E
  • For 2A, 2B, 3 and 3B: Form F
• Study certificate of the parent employee for having studied for at least 7 years in Karnataka, issued by the Head of the educational institution where they studied
• Home town declaration certificate of the parent employee issued at the time of joining service, showing that they are transferable anywhere in India, issued by the employer

Clause K: Children of Members of Parliament from Karnataka

Clause K covers the son or daughter of Members of Parliament elected from Karnataka. The candidate must have passed the qualifying examination from a university, board, or any other institution located anywhere in India.

Documents Required for Clause K

• SSLC/10th standard mark sheet
• 2nd PUC/12th standard mark sheet
• Caste/Caste Income Certificate issued by the concerned Tehsildar, if claiming reservation benefits:
  • For SC/ST: Form-D
  • For Category-I: Form E
  • For 2A, 2B, 3 and 3B: Form F
• Certificate showing that the parent is or was a Member of Parliament elected from Karnataka, issued by the Parliament Secretariat

Clause L: Children of All India Service or Karnataka State Government Employees

Clause L covers the son or daughter of a serving or retired employee belonging to the All India Service of Karnataka cadre, or of the Karnataka State Government. For candidates who studied outside Karnataka from 1st standard to 2nd PUC or 12th standard, the period of the parent's service outside Karnataka during that time can be added to make up the seven years required within Karnataka under clause (a).

Documents Required for Clause L

• SSLC/10th standard mark sheet
• 2nd PUC/12th standard mark sheet
• Caste/Income Certificate issued by the concerned Tehsildar, if claiming reservation benefits:
  • For SC/ST: Form-D
  • For Category-I: Form E
  • For 2A, 2B, 3 and 3B: Form F
• Certificate from the Principal Secretary/Deputy Secretary/Under Secretary, DPAR, Government of Karnataka, Bangalore, for parents belonging to the All India Service of Karnataka cadre, stating that the parent is a member of such cadre, the period of service outside Karnataka, and for State Government employees, a certificate from the concerned head of the office/department

Clause M: Children of Jammu and Kashmir Migrants

Clause M covers the son or daughter of Jammu and Kashmir migrants. Proof of migration must be produced from the jurisdictional District Magistrate and Deputy Commissioner of any state in India.

Documents Required for Clause M

• SSLC/10th standard mark sheet
• 2nd PUC/12th standard mark sheet
• Original certificate issued by the Jurisdictional District Magistrate and Deputy Commissioner of any state in India as proof of migration

Under this clause, candidates can claim eligibility for the seats earmarked by the government.

Clause N: Candidates Who Studied in Kannada Medium Outside Karnataka

Candidates who have studied 10 full years in Kannada medium from 1st standard to 10th standard in places outside Karnataka need not appear for the Kannada Language Test conducted by KEA. The candidate must have passed the qualifying examination from any government or government-recognised educational institution.

Documents Required for Clause N

• SSLC/10th standard mark sheet
• 2nd PUC/12th standard mark sheet
• Domicile certificate issued by the concerned Revenue or Municipal Authorities certifying that the candidate and their parent have resided outside Karnataka as on May 1, 2026. The place of the issuing authority should correspond to the place of domicile of the candidate/father/mother
• Study certificate issued by the head of the institution for having studied in Kannada medium from 1st standard to 10th standard

Clause O: Children of Central Armed Police Force Employees

Clause O covers the son or daughter of a working or retired employee in the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) service. The employee must have declared a place in Karnataka as their hometown at the time of joining the CAPF service.

Documents Required for Clause O

• SSLC/10th standard mark sheet
• 2nd PUC/12th standard mark sheet
• Proof of domicile obtained by extracting the record from the Record Office of the CAPF unit where the parent's service record is maintained

KCET 2026 Eligibility: Documents Required

Students should keep the following documents before applying to KCET 2026.

• Recent passport-size colour photograph
• Candidate’s signature
• Left thumb impression
• Class 10th marks card
• 2nd PUC marks card
• Category certificate, Rural study certificate, and Income certificate (if applicable)
• Kannada medium certificate (if studied in Kannada from 1st to 10th std.)
• Domicile Certificate (If Applicable)
• Aadhar card for verification
• Defence/Service Certificate (If Applicable)

Further, the candidate should have passed the Q.E. from a University or Board or any other institution located anywhere in India.

Documents to be Produced:

• SSLC / 10th standard mark sheet
• 2nd PUC/ 12th standard mark sheet
• Caste/Income Certificate issued by the concerned Tehsildar- For SC/ST in Form-D, Category-I in Form E and 2A, 2B, 3 and 3B in Form F, if claiming reservation benefits
• Parents’ hometown declaration certificate while joining the service, issued by the Record Office of the CAPF unit, where the parents' service records are maintained.

KCET 2026 Eligibility: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the eligibility clauses ‘A’ to ‘O’ in KCET 2026 eligibility criteria?

There are 15 eligibility clauses from A to O in KCET that determine if a candidate is treated as a Karnataka local for seat allotment and reservations.

Which clauses do not require the Kannada Language Test?

All clauses except clause D and E which are for Horanadu and Gadinadu candidates respectively, do not require the Kannada language test.

Can candidates from outside Karnataka apply for KCET 2026?

Yes, they can apply. However, there will be limited seats for them with no government quota and higher fees. Most of the government quota seats are reserved for Karnataka-domiciled candidates.

Can students appearing in the 2nd PUC/Class 12th be eligible for KCET 2026?

Yes, appearing students are eligible for KCET 2026. Though they must upload/submit their 2nd PUC marks through the window provided by KEA after the results or during the Counselling process, as notified by the KEA.

What is the eligibility to participate in the KEA counselling for Medical, Dental, and AYUSH courses?

Medical, Dental and AYUSH candidates to become eligible for KEA counselling must compulsorily register for KCET 2026, fill the application and pay the fees. The admission will be based on UGNEET 2026 rank and score. Candidates who will score more than or equal to the prescribed minimum score will be eligible for admission.

Have the eligibility criteria for KCET 2026 changed from 2025?

The Eligibility criteria for KCET 2026 have not been announced yet. However, the eligibility criteria will likely remain the same as of 2025. Students are advised to keep a check on the official website.

KCET 2026 Application Status

The KCET 2026 application process started on January 17. The official notification has been released. Candidates can get all the necessary details about the exam at https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in.

The KCET registrations are now closed. However, the KEA has again extended the fee payment window, which will remain open until March 7.

A total of 3,15,713 candidates have registered for the KCET 2026 exam so far, as per KEA.

Courses Covered Under KCET 2026

KCET 2026 application is a common application for all courses — Architecture, Engineering, and AYUSH. Candidates must register online for KCET 2026.

• Medical, Dental, and AYUSH courses require a valid UGNEET-2026 score, since admission will be on the basis of NEET rank. However, candidates must compulsorily register for KCET 2026, fill out the application, and pay the fees to become eligible for KEA counselling.
• For admission to the Architecture course, candidates should compulsorily qualify in NATA-2026 (National Aptitude Test in Architecture) and must compulsorily register for KCET 2026, fill out the application, and pay the fees to become eligible for KEA counselling.
• For admission to B.P.T., B.Sc. Allied Health Sciences, BPO courses, selection will be based on PU marks. But they must compulsorily register for KCET 2026, fill out the application, and pay the fees to become eligible for KEA counselling.

Application Fee

The application fee for KCET 2026 is as follows:

Key Summary

• Registrations have been increasing annually with ~10-15% growth in recent years due to increasing interest of students in Engineering and Pharmacy courses.
• In 2025, over 3 lakh candidates registered and appeared for the KCET exam.
• Every year, around 1500-2000 candidates appear for the Kannada Language Test. It is around 0.4-0.8% of total candidates who appear for the KCET exam.
• Candidates are advised to verify that they are fulfilling any one of the Eligibility Clauses before applying for admission to Government seats. For any reason, the fee paid by the candidates will not be refunded.

What is KCET Registration?

KCET registration is the online application process conducted by KEA for admission to professional courses such as engineering, pharmacy, veterinary, and agricultural courses.

The registration process includes submitting personal, academic, and category details and paying the application fees.

KCET 2026 Registration Dates

KEA has officially announced the registration and exam dates for KCET 2026. Other key dates will be released with the official notification.

KCET 2026 Important Dates

The Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) 2026 is scheduled for April 23 and 24, 2026. The application process begins on January 17, 2026.

How to Apply for KCET 2026

Candidates must register and fill the application form online. The application fee must be paid online before the last date.

KCET 2026 Eligibility Criteria

KCET 2026 eligibility criteria specify the minimum educational qualifications and other conditions required to apply for the exam. Candidates must ensure that they meet all the eligibility requirements before applying for the exam.

General Eligibility

• Must be an Indian citizen
• No upper age limit, but a minimum of 17 years for some courses like B.Pharm.
• Passed or appearing in the 2nd PUC from a recognised board.

Architecture Course (B.Arch)

• The norms prescribed in COA / NATA/ Admission Rules, and relevant Government orders, apply in determining the eligibility and merit for admission to the Architecture course.

Engineering / Technology Courses (B.E. / B.Tech)

• Passed in 2nd PUC / 12th Std / Equivalent Exam with English as one of the Languages
• Minimum of 45% of Marks in aggregate in Physics and Mathematics, along with Chemistry /Bio-Technology / Biology / Electronics / Computer.
• (40% for SC, ST, Cat-1, 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B categorycandidates)

Farm Science Courses

• Passed in 2nd PUC / 12th Std / Equivalent exam with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology as optional subjects.
• In the case of Agriculturist Quota, the merit list will be prepared based on 25% marks each, secured in the concerned combinations in II year PUC (PCMB) & CET and 50% marks secured in the Practical Test.
• A minimum of 50% marks in the Practical Examination is required to claim a seat under the Agriculturist Quota.

Bachelor of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry (B.V.Sc. & A.H.)

• Passed in 2nd PUC / 12th Std.
• Aggregate minimum of 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English subjects.
• (40% for SC, ST, Cat-1, 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B category candidates)
• Merit will be based on 50% of the Marks secured in CET (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) and 50% of the marks scored in the practical test.

B-Pharma

• Passed in 2nd PUC / 12th Std with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology or Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics
• Minimum of 45% of Marks in aggregate in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology subjects.
• (40% for SC, ST, Cat-1, 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B category candidates)

OR

• Passed in Diploma in Pharmacy Examination from an institution approved by the Pharmacy Council of India and has secured a minimum of 45% marks. (40% for SC, ST, Cat-1, 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B category candidates)

2nd Year B. Pharma

• Passed in Diploma in Pharmacy Examination from an institution approved by the Pharmacy Council of India
• minimum of 45% marks. (40% for SC, ST, Cat-1, 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B category candidates.

Pharma-D

• Passed in 2nd PUC / 12th Std with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology or Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

OR

• Passed in Diploma in Pharmacy Examination from an institution approved by the Pharmacy Council of India.

Naturopathy & Yoga

• Passed in Q.E. with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as optional subjects, and English as one of the languages
• A minimum of 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology subjects in the Q.E. is eligible for admission to Naturopathy & Yoga courses.
• 40% of marks in Q. E. in case of SC, ST, Category–I, and OBC (2A, 2B, 3A, and 3B) Category candidates.

BPT (Bachelor of Physiotherapy)

• Passed in Q. E. with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as optional subjects and English as one of the languages of study
• A minimum of 40% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology subjects in the Q.E. is eligible for admission to BPT courses.
• 35% of marks in Q. E. in case of SC, ST, Category–I, and OBC (2A, 2B, 3A, and 3B) Category candidates.

BPO (Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics)

• Passed in Q. E. with Physics, Chemistry and Biology / Mathematics as optional subjects, and English as one of the languages
• Minimum of 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology / Mathematics subjects in the Q.E.is eligible for admission to BPO courses.
• 45% of marks in Q. E. in case of SC, ST, Category–I, and OBC (2A, 2B, 3A, and 3B) Category candidates.

B.Sc. AHS

KCET 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must have passed the Qualifying Examination (Q.E.) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as optional subjects. English must be one of the languages studied.

A minimum of 35% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology subjects in the Q.E. is required for admission to BPT and BPO courses.

KCET 2026 Application Fees

The KCET application fee varies by category. Candidates also had to pay an additional bank charge of INR 10, while those paying at the e-post office were charged INR 12 extra. These are service or bank processing charges.

KCET 2026 Documents Required

Students should keep the following documents ready before applying to KCET 2026.

• Recent passport-size colour photograph
• Candidate's signature
• Left thumb impression
• Class 10th marks card
• 2nd PUC marks card
• Category certificate, Rural study certificate, and Income certificate (if applicable)
• Kannada medium certificate (if studied in Kannada from 1st to 10th std.)
• Aadhar card for verification

KCET 2026 Registration Deadlines

The last date to register for KCET 2026 has been announced by KEA. The last day to fill the online application form without the late fee is 27th Feb, 2026.

As per the previous year's trend, the registration deadline has been extended for the benefit of students. For example, in 2025, the registration date was extended for one week.

KCET 2026 Correction Window

KCET Application Forms can be corrected on the official website. The correction window is generally opened after the KCET application form. Candidates can edit wrongly mentioned claims of reservation, special category, academic information, etc.

Candidates who wish to correct their Name, Father/Mother Name, Date of Birth, 10th/SSLC & 2nd PUC/12th standard register number have to submit a requisition along with relevant documents.

Candidates must submit the edited application forms before the last date of correction. The window can be accessed only once, meaning only one chance of editing the KCET Application Form will be given.

Candidates can follow these steps to edit the Karnataka CET 2026 Application Form:

• Visit the official website and click "Editing CET 2026 Application."
• Enter your User ID and generate OTP on your registered mobile number
• Edit the fields you want to edit and select the "Declare Button."
• Click the 'Submit' button to make sure that the changes are saved and submitted
• Then print the edited KCET Application form

KCET 2026 Admit Card

The admit card for the KCET 2026 exam is expected to be released in the 1st week of April 2026.

The admit card is the ticket to enter the examination hall. It includes the candidate's details, examination details, and the exam centre details.

• You must carry the printed copy of the admit card to the exam centre.
• You must carry a valid photo ID.

KCET 2026: Frequently Asked Questions

Ques. What if I miss the registration deadline?

Ans. The applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted. However, KEA may extend the deadline for the benefit of students. Students are advised to fill out the application form early to avoid a last-minute rush.

Ques. Do I need to use my own mobile number for registration?

Ans. Yes, you must provide your personal mobile number for OTP verification. One mobile number can be used by only one candidate, and no change of mobile number will be entertained at any stage.

Ques. When will the documents be submitted for special category reservations?

Ans. For special category reservations such as NCC, Sports, Scouts & Guides, Defence, etc., relevant documents/certificates must be submitted separately at KEA after the examination. The dates will be notified later by KEA.

Ques. Is document upload required during KCET 2026 online registration?

Ans. Unlike previous years, candidates do not have to upload any documents during the online application process.

KCET 2026 Exam Pattern Overview

KEA has released the KCET exam pattern 2026 along with the information bulletin on its official website, cetonline.karnataka.gov.in. The exam dates are April 23 and 24. The exam pattern includes the structure, marking scheme, duration, subject-wise details, and Kannada language test.

• The exam will be conducted in an offline pen-and-paper format.
• It includes 4 subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.
• The duration of the exam is 80 minutes for each subject, and there will be 60 questions per subject.
• There will be no negative marking, and students will get +1 for every correct answer.
• In Physics, Gravitation questions have appeared in 90% of papers since 2021.
• In Biology, only 15% questions are diagram-based, but they carry 25% of the scoring potential.

The Kannada Language Test, which is a mandatory qualifying test for certain candidates (Kannadigas from Horanadu and Gadinadu), will be conducted on 22nd April.

As per recent years' trend, female candidates comprise 55-60% in PCB streams and around 54-55% in PCM. Females have outperformed males by making up 54-55% of overall qualified candidates (in 2025).

KCET 2026 Exam Structure

The KCET Exam will be held in a non-digital, traditional way, and will consist of MCQs from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Biology. Every individual subject will have 60 questions, and the time allotted for each subject will be 80 minutes.

The new information regarding the KCET Exam will be available on the official KCET website. The KCET exam will be conducted on two days, with separate sessions for each subject.

Key Summary of KCET 2026

In the exam, the questions based on 1st PUC are easier, while the questions based on 2nd PUC are application-based as per recent trends. In Mathematics, Vectors/3D Geometry has the highest error rate.

• No negative marking in the exam leads to an average attempt rate of 90-95% per paper, higher than exams like JEE (70-80%).
• In the Kannada language test, the passing rate is around 70% even when the number of candidates is only ~0.5% of the total KCET Candidates.
• Out of the 80 minutes provided for each subject, the initial 10 minutes will be for writing/shading the particulars such as Name, CET Number, Version Code and Serial number of the question booklet.

KCET 2026 Exam Pattern for B.Tech

The KCET Exam Pattern for B.Tech is suitable for candidates who are choosing the Engineering stream. The exam pattern follows the same structure with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as the core subjects.

KCET 2026 Exam Pattern

The Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) 2026 will follow the same structure as the previous year's exam. All questions will be Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics only.

• Each subject will have 60 questions.
• Each question is worth 1 mark.
• Each subject is worth 60 marks.
• There is no negative marking for incorrect answers.
• The total marks for B.Tech is 180, combining all three subjects.

KCET 2026 Exam Schedule

KEA released the official exam schedule for KCET 2026 on January 2, 2026.

Kannada Language Test

KCET 2026 Subject-Wise Breakdown and Weightage

The KCET 2026 exam will test candidates based on their chosen course: Engineering (PCM) or Veterinary and Animal Husbandry (PCB). All subjects carry the same weightage in the final score.

Physics Exam Pattern

The Physics section has 60 questions, each worth 1 mark. The exam duration is 80 minutes.

Most Physics questions are concept-based and numerical. Key topics include Mechanics, Electricity, and Modern Physics. Physics is considered of medium difficulty, requiring both theory understanding and problem-solving ability.

Chemistry Exam Pattern

The Chemistry section has 60 questions, each worth 1 mark. The exam duration is 80 minutes.

About 40% of Chemistry questions are directly taken from NCERT. The focus is on factual, conceptual, and application-type questions. Organic and Inorganic Chemistry are mostly theoretical, while Physical Chemistry combines theory with numerical problems.

Mathematics Exam Pattern

The Mathematics section has 60 questions, each worth 1 mark. The exam duration is 80 minutes.

High weightage is given to Algebra, Calculus, and Coordinate Geometry. Mathematics is considered the most scoring subject for engineering aspirants with regular practice.

KCET Mathematics: Chapter-wise Weightage

Calculus carries the highest weightage in the KCET Mathematics section. The table below shows the approximate weightage and expected number of questions for each topic.

KCET Biology: Exam Pattern and Weightage

The Biology section has 60 questions, each worth 1 mark, and the exam duration is 80 minutes. For PCB students, topics like Human Physiology, Genetics, Ecology, and Cell Biology make up nearly 45% of the total questions.

This section can be scoring if the concepts from the NCERT textbooks are thoroughly prepared. The table below shows the chapter-wise weightage for Biology.

KCET 2026: Kannada Language Test

The Kannada Language Test for Horanadu and Gadinadu Kannadiga candidates will be conducted only in Bengaluru, Belagavi, Vijayapura, and Mangalore. The minimum passing marks for this test are 12 out of 50 marks.

• The Kannada Language Test paper will be of the 4th Standard Level.
• Candidates giving the language test must appear for KCET 2026 at a test centre in Bengaluru, Belagavi, Bijapura, or Mangalore only.

Horanadu and Gadinadu Kannadiga candidates who have studied 10 full academic years in Kannada Medium from 1st standard to 10th standard outside Karnataka do not need to appear for the Kannada Language Test.

KCET 2026: Marking Scheme

Each subject in the KCET exam will include 60 MCQs, and the marking scheme is uniform for all subjects. The expected marking scheme, based on the previous year's pattern, is given below.

KCET 2026: Syllabus

The KCET syllabus is based on the 1st and 2nd PUC (Class 11 and 12) curriculum of the Karnataka State Board. The official syllabus PDFs for each subject are available for Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, and Physics.

KCET 2026: Preparation Strategies

KCET 2026 requires disciplined preparation for at least 6 months. With roughly 75 days left for the exam, a 3-month plan can be followed.

Timeline Division:

• Month 1: Build strong fundamentals using NCERT textbooks, clear basic concepts, and make short notes for quick revision.
• Month 2: Focus on advanced problem-solving, mastering important topics, and solving daily sectional MCQs.
• Month 3: Intensive revision, full-length mocks, error analysis, and previous year questions (PYQs).

Daily Routine: Study consistently for 8-9 hours, giving around 2 hours per subject. Use the remaining hours for mock tests, PYQs, and quick revision of the day's work.

Subject-Specific Tips:

• Physics: Daily numerical practice with strong conceptual understanding.
• Chemistry: Use flashcards for reactions and periodic tables.
• Mathematics: Create formula sheets and practice questions in a time-bound manner.
• Biology: Master diagrams and use mnemonics for better retention.

KCET: Paper Analysis

Analyzing previous years' papers helps understand the exam pattern and important topics. This analysis is useful for focusing preparation on high-weightage areas.

KCET Difficulty Level

The Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) has maintained a moderate overall difficulty in recent years. Mathematics is generally the toughest subject, while Biology is usually the easiest and most scoring.

No major out-of-syllabus questions have been asked in recent years.

Subject-wise Difficulty Trend

KCET 2026: Frequently Asked Questions

Has the KCET 2026 exam pattern changed from previous years?

No major changes have been seen in recent years. The exam pattern remains the same with 60 MCQs and 80 minutes per subject with no negative marking.

Do all candidates have to appear for all four subjects?

No, candidates appear for subjects relevant to their particular course.

Does KCET include descriptive questions?

No, there are no descriptive questions in KCET. All questions will be in the form of multiple-choice questions.

Is the difficulty level of questions in KCET more than JEE/NEET?

No, the difficulty level of KCET is lower than JEE Main and NEET, as most of the questions are direct and formula-based in KCET.

KCET Exam Pattern for B.Tech

The KCET Exam Pattern for B.Tech is suitable for candidates who are choosing the Engineering stream. Based on last year's exam, the structure will be the same, and the questions will be from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics only, and all will be Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).

Each subject will have 60 questions of 1 mark each, thus making it 60 marks per subject. If a person makes an incorrect choice, there will be no negative marking for that question in the KCET Exam.

The total marks for B.Tech will be 180 if we consider all the three subjects together.

KCET 2026 Syllabus Overview

The KCET syllabus is based on the 1st and 2nd Pre-University Course (Class 11 and 12) curriculum of the Karnataka State Board. The Kannada language test, mandatory for certain candidates (Kannadigas from Horanadu and Gadinadu), is based on the 4th Standard level.

The syllabus covers four subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.

• For Engineering/Technology courses, students appear in PCM subjects.
• For Farm Sciences courses, students appear in PCMB subjects.
• For B.VSc and AH, Naturopathy & Yoga, and B.Sc (Nursing), students appear in PCB subjects.
• For B-Pharma, 2nd Year B.Pharma, and Pharma-D, students appear in either PCB or PCM subjects.

Approximately 20-40% of questions come from 1st PUC, and 60-80% come from 2nd PUC. The 2nd PUC portion carries more weight for high scorers.

Key Summary of KCET Syllabus

The syllabus overlaps with national exams like JEE MAIN and NEET, but remains state-specific in depth. It emphasizes practical application, with numerical problems constituting 50-60% in Physics and Mathematics.

• The biology portion leans towards theoretical recall (approx 70-80%).
• Each subject comprises 60 questions with 1 mark each.
• There is no negative marking in the exam.

What is KCET 2026 Syllabus

The Karnataka Examinations Authority prescribes the KCET syllabus, and it mainly aligns with the NCERTs. Over 70% of KCET questions have been direct concept-based, drawn from core chapters like Organic Chemistry basics, Cell Biology, Algebra, and Electromagnetism.

The KCET syllabus tests a student's understanding of topics studied during PUC rather than advanced problems. In 2024, there were around 45 questions that were out of the syllabus, as reported by The Indian Express.

KCET Syllabus PDFs

Official syllabus PDFs are available for each subject. Students can download them from the Karnataka Examinations Authority website.

KCET 2026 Detailed Syllabus

The detailed syllabus for KCET 2026 includes all four subjects. The table below provides the subject-wise breakdown.

Physics

The Physics syllabus covers topics from both 1st and 2nd PUC. Numerical problems form a significant portion of the questions.

Chemistry

The Chemistry syllabus includes core chapters such as Organic Chemistry basics. The focus is on conceptual understanding.

Mathematics

The Mathematics syllabus includes Algebra and other core topics. Numerical problems constitute 50-60% of the questions.

Biology

The Biology syllabus includes Cell Biology and other topics. The portion leans towards theoretical recall, approximately 70-80%.

KCET 2026 Exam Pattern

Each subject in KCET comprises 60 questions with 1 mark each. There is no negative marking in the exam.

• Physics: 60 questions
• Chemistry: 60 questions
• Mathematics: 60 questions
• Biology: 60 questions

Related Articles

• KCET Paper Analysis
• KCET 2026 Best Books
• KCET 2026 Preparation Tips

KCET 2026 Physics Syllabus: Chapter-Wise List

The Physics syllabus for KCET is divided into two parts: 1st PUC and 2nd PUC. The 1st PUC portion has 11 chapters, and the 2nd PUC portion has 14 chapters.

Physics Chapters for 1st PUC

• Physical World And Measurement
• Kinematics (Motion In Straight Line And Plane)
• Laws Of Motion
• Work, Energy And Power
• Motion Of System Of Particles And Rigid Body
• Gravitation
• Mechanical Properties Of Solids And Fluids
• Thermal Properties Of Matter
• Thermodynamics
• Kinetic Theory Of Gases
• Oscillations And Waves

Physics Chapters for 2nd PUC

• Electric Charge And Fields
• Electrostatic Potential And Capacitance
• Current Electricity
• Moving Charges And Magnetism
• Magnetism And Matter
• Electromagnetic Induction
• Alternating Current
• Electromagnetic Waves
• Ray Optics And Optical Instruments
• Wave Optics
• Dual Nature Of Radiation And Matter
• Atoms And Nuclei
• Semiconductor Electronics
• Communication Systems

KCET 2026 Chemistry Syllabus: Chapter-Wise List

The Chemistry syllabus for KCET is also divided into 1st PUC and 2nd PUC sections. The 1st PUC portion has 14 chapters, and the 2nd PUC portion has 16 chapters.

Chemistry Chapters for 1st PUC

• Some Basic Concepts Of Chemistry
• Structure Of Atom
• Classification Of Elements And Periodicity In Properties
• Chemical Bonding And Molecular Structure
• States Of Matter: Gases And Liquids
• Thermodynamics
• Equilibrium
• Redox Reactions
• Hydrogen
• S-Block Elements
• Some P- Block Elements
• Organic Chemistry (Some Basic Principles And Techniques)
• Hydrocarbons
• Environmental Chemistry

Chemistry Chapters for 2nd PUC

• Solid State
• Solutions
• Electrochemistry
• Chemical Kinetics
• Surface Chemistry
• General Principles And Processes Of Isolation Of Elements
• p-Bloock Elements
• d And f Block Elements
• Coordination Compounds
• Haloalkanes And Haloarenes
• Alcohols, Phenols, And Ethers
• Aldehydes, Ketones, And Carboxylic Acids
• Organic Compounds Containing Nitrogen (Amines)
• Biomolecules
• Polymers
• Chemistry In Everyday Life

KCET 2026 Mathematics Syllabus: Chapter-Wise List

The Mathematics syllabus for KCET is split into 1st PUC and 2nd PUC. The 1st PUC portion has 16 chapters, and the 2nd PUC portion has 12 chapters.

Mathematics Chapters for 1st PUC

• Sets
• Relations And Functions
• Trigonometric Functions
• Principle Of Mathematical Induction
• Complex Numbers And Quadratic Equations
• Linear Inequalities
• Permutations And Combinations
• Binomial Theorem
• Sequences And Series
• Straight Lines
• Conic Sections
• Introduction To Three-Dimensional Geometry
• Limits And Derivatives
• Mathematical Reasoning
• Statistics
• Probability

Mathematics Chapters for 2nd PUC

• Relations And Functions ( Inverse Trigonometric)
• Matrices
• Determinants
• Continuity And Differentiality
• Application Of Derivatives
• Integrals
• Application Of Integrals
• Differential Equations
• Vector Algebra
• Three-Dimensional Geometry
• Linear Programming
• Probability

KCET 2026 Biology Syllabus: Chapter-Wise List

The Biology syllabus for KCET is divided into 1st PUC and 2nd PUC sections. The 1st PUC portion has 22 chapters, and the 2nd PUC portion has 16 chapters.

Biology Chapters for 1st PUC

• The Living World
• Biological Classification
• Plant Kingdom
• Animal Kingdom
• Morphology Of Flowering Plants
• Anatomy Of Flowering Plants
• Structural Organisation In Animals
• Cell: The Unit Of Life
• Biomolecules
• Cell Cycle And Cell Division
• Transport In Plants
• Mineral Nutrition
• Photosynthesis In Higher Plants
• Respiration in Plants
• Plant Growth And Development
• Digestion And Absorption
• Breathing And Exchange Of Gases
• Body Fluids And Circulation
• Excretory Products And Their Elimination
• Locomotion And Movement
• Neural control and coordination
• Chemical coordination and integration

Biology Chapters for 2nd PUC

• Reproduction In Organisms
• Sexual Reproduction In Flowering Plants
• Human Reproduction
• Reproduction Health
• Principles Of Inheritance And Variation
• Molecular Basis Of Inheritance
• Evolution
• Human Health And Diseases
• Strategies For Enhancement In Food Production
• Microbes In Human Welfare
• Biotechnology: Principles And Processes
• Biotechnology And Its Applications
• Organisms And Populations
• Ecosystem
• Biodiversity And Conservation
• Environmental Issues

KCET 2026: Chapter-Wise Weightage

The source provides the chapter-wise syllabus for Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. It does not provide specific weightage percentages for each chapter.

KCET 2026 Chapter-Wise Weightage: Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Biology

Knowing the topic-wise weightage helps students prepare strategically. It allows you to focus on high-weightage topics and make a study plan that matches the exam pattern.

Physics Weightage

The table below shows the estimated weightage for Physics chapters in KCET. The expected questions are out of 60.

Chemistry Weightage

The table below shows the estimated weightage for Chemistry chapters in KCET. The expected questions are out of 60.

Mathematics Weightage

The table below shows the estimated weightage for Mathematics chapters in KCET. The expected questions are out of 60.

Biology Weightage

The table below shows the estimated weightage for Biology chapters in KCET. The expected questions are out of 60.

KCET 2026: Added Syllabus for Physics, Chemistry, and Biology

The Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) has released the added syllabus for Physics, Chemistry, and Biology for KCET 2026. These are available as separate PDF documents.

• Added Physics Syllabus
• Added Chemistry Syllabus
• Added Biology Syllabus

KCET 2026: Exam Pattern

The KCET exam pattern will be similar to that of previous years. It will consist of three parts: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Biology, each with 60 marks.

• Mode of Exam: Offline (Pen and Paper)
• Medium of exam: English and Kannada
• Number of Sessions: 4 sessions in total, one for each subject
• Total Questions: Each session has 60 MCQs
• Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes (80 minutes) per section
• Total Mark (PCM): 180 marks (60 per subject x 1 mark each)
• Question Type: MCQs with 4 options and 1 correct answer
• Marking Scheme: +1 mark for each correct answer, no negative marking for wrong answers

KCET 2026: Best Books

Students should start with NCERT textbooks as they cover 80-90% of the questions directly. After that, they can move to KCET-specific reference books for practice.

KCET 2026: Preparation Tips

KCET 2026 requires disciplined preparation for at least 6 months. A six-month plan is given below.

Timeline Division:

• Months 1-2: Build strong fundamentals using NCERT textbooks and clear basic concepts.
• Months 3-4: Focus on advanced problem-solving and mastering important topics.
• Months 5-6: Intensive revision, full-length mocks, error analysis, and previous year questions (PYQs).

Daily Routine: Study consistently for 6-8 hours, giving around 2 hours per subject.

Subject-Specific Tips

• Physics: Daily numerical practice with strong conceptual understanding.
• Chemistry: Use flashcards for reactions and periodic tables.
• Mathematics: Create formula sheets and practice questions in a time-bound manner.
• Biology: Master diagrams and use mnemonics for better retention.

KCET 2026: Mock Tests

Mock tests simulate the actual exam, helping improve time management, accuracy, identify weak areas, reduce anxiety, and build exam temperament.

Find below the KCET 2026 Mock tests:

KCET: Previous Year Papers

Previous year question papers are available for download. The 2025 papers for Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology are listed below, along with Kannada language papers from 2024 and 2023.

KCET 2026: Frequently Asked Questions

Ques. Is the KCET syllabus 2026 the same as JEE Main?

KCET 2026 Syllabus vs JEE Main Syllabus

The KCET 2026 syllabus is not the same as the JEE Main syllabus, though there is some overlap.

JEE Main covers concepts in greater depth and includes more application-based questions with higher difficulty. KCET focuses more on fundamental concepts and direct questions.

Is Biology Compulsory in KCET 2026?

No, Biology is not compulsory for all courses in KCET 2026.

Biology is only required for certain specific courses, such as Farm Sciences.

Where to Find the KCET 2026 Syllabus

The KCET 2026 syllabus is available on the official website of the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA).

The official website address is https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/.

KCET Biology Syllabus vs NEET Syllabus

The KCET Biology syllabus is very similar to the NEET syllabus.

In NEET, the syllabus is covered in depth and includes more analytical questions. In KCET, the questions are more direct and concept-based.

What is KCET Cutoff 2026?

KCET cutoff is the closing rank for admission to a particular course in a college. For example, if BMS College of Engineering admits students for CSE up to rank 500, the cutoff rank for CSE at BMSCE is 500.

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) will release the KCET 2026 cutoffs after counselling. Cutoffs are determined by factors such as the number of students appearing and the difficulty level of the exam.

KCET cutoffs are divided into two parts: qualifying cutoff and admission cutoff. The qualifying cutoff is the minimum percentage required to appear for the KCET exam. The admission cutoff is based on ranks derived from a 50:50 weightage of KCET marks and 2nd PUC marks.

KCET 2026: Qualifying Cutoff

Qualifying cutoff is the minimum aggregate percentage required in 2nd PUC or Class 12th to be eligible for the KCET exam and counselling. Candidates must meet this requirement to participate in the admission process.

KCET 2026: Expected Cutoff Course and College-Wise

KCET cutoffs vary by course and college. Engineering has over 65,000 statewide seats, while Veterinary has only around 200-300 total statewide seats, making Veterinary more competitive per seat.

For RVSC College of Engineering, the CSE closing rank for General Merit increased by approximately 30% from 2023 to 2025. For PES University, Bangalore, the CSE cutoff dropped about 52% in 2025 compared to 2024.

In top CSE seats at colleges like RVCE or BMSCE, SC/ST closing ranks reach around 5,000 to 10,000, while General Merit stays under approximately 1,000. This shows a 5-10 times difference between categories.

Last year, RVCE Bangalore CSE General Merit closed at approximately 234-500, one of the lowest in KCET history. Pharmacy and allied streams saw final overall closing ranks around 70,000 for Government College of Pharmacy Bangalore.

Private mid-tier colleges such as Vydehi, Acharya, and B.M. Reddy College saw late round jumps of around 150-250%, indicating vacant seats even after extended counselling.

KCET 2026: Expected Cutoff Category-Wise

Category-wise cutoffs show significant variation. The gap between General Merit and SC/ST closing ranks in top CSE colleges is one of the largest category gaps in any state entrance exam.

• General Merit closing ranks in top CSE colleges stay under approximately 1,000.
• SC/ST closing ranks in top CSE colleges reach around 5,000 to 10,000.

KCET 2026: Cutoff Shifts

Overall cutoffs have remained stable to slightly higher due to increased competition and high demand for branches like CSE, AI, and ML. In 2025, cutoffs were released round-wise by KEA after counselling began in July.

The final round cutoffs showed maximum relaxation due to withdrawals, upgrades, and vacant seats. Private mid-tier colleges saw massive late round jumps of around 150-250%, indicating vacant seats even after multiple counselling rounds.

KCET 2026: Marks Vs Ranks

KCET ranks are determined by combining KCET marks and 2nd PUC marks with 50:50 weightage. The rank determines admission to a particular branch in a particular college.

KCET 2026: Safe Score

A safe score is the marks required to secure admission to a desired branch in a desired college. Understanding cutoffs is essential for strategic preparation to get a desired branch in a desired college.

KCET 2026: Factors Influencing Cutoffs

KEA determines cutoffs based on several factors, including the number of students appearing and the difficulty level of the exam. In 2025, around 3 lakh+ candidates appeared for KCET, and the difficulty of the exam was moderate.

KCET 2026: Important Dates

The KCET 2026 exam is scheduled for 23rd and 24th April. Results are anticipated in May 2026.

KCET 2025 Round-Wise Cutoffs

KCET 2025 cutoffs were released round-wise by KEA. The table below shows the cutoff PDFs for each round.

Key Summary

• Overall cutoffs have remained stable to slightly higher due to increased competition and high demand for branches like CSE/AI/ML.
• Last year, RVCE Bangalore CSE General Merit closed at approximately 234-500, one of the lowest in KCET history.
• Pharmacy and allied streams saw final overall closing ranks around 70,000 for Government College of Pharmacy Bangalore.
• Private mid-tier colleges such as Vydehi and Acharya & B.M. Reddy College saw massive late round jumps of around 150-250%, indicating vacant seats even after extended counselling.

Related Articles

• KCET 2026 College Predictor
• KCET 2026 Seat Matrix
• KCET 2026 Marks Vs Rank

KCET 2026: Frequently Asked Questions

KCET cutoffs are the closing ranks for a particular branch or course. They are released by KEA after counselling for admissions to professional courses such as Engineering/Technology, Farm Science, and Veterinary and Animal Husbandry courses.

KCET 2026: Expected Cutoff Course and College-Wise

As per the 2025 exam trend, CSE and AI courses are expected to remain highly competitive with high cutoffs, especially at popular colleges like RVCE. Emerging branches such as AI/ML and Data Science often have ranks that are ~500-1000 higher than CSE in the same college.

For Engineering Courses

For Farm Sciences Courses

For Pharmacy Courses

For Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Courses

KCET 2026: Expected Cutoff Category-Wise

The minimum aggregate required in PCM/PCB for the General Category is 45%. For Reserved Categories, the minimum aggregate required in PCM/PCB is 40%.

Kannada Language Test: This is a mandatory qualifying test only for certain candidates (Horanadu & Gadinadu Kannadigas). A candidate needs 12 marks out of 50 to qualify in this test.

Around 456 candidates out of 1520 failed the Kannada Language Test. 12 candidates scored 0 out of 50 in the test.

Category-wise Closing Ranks for KCET

Reserved category students get significant rank relaxation in KCET counselling. The closing ranks for SC, ST, and OBC categories can be 2-5 times higher than the closing ranks for unreserved category students.

This relaxation is provided to ensure social justice and equality. The categories that come under the reserved category include SC, ST, OBC, and EWS.

Engineering Courses: Closing Ranks for Reserved Categories

The closing ranks for engineering branches vary by college and category. The table below shows the expected closing ranks for CSE, AI/ML, ECE, and Mechanical or other core branches.

Farm Sciences Courses: Closing Ranks for Reserved Categories

The closing ranks for farm science courses depend on the university and the course. UAS Bangalore is the top preference for these courses.

KCET Result 2025

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) declared the KCET Result 2025 on 24 May 2025. The result is available on the official website cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea along with the KCET Scorecard 2025.

The KCET result link became active from 2 PM onwards. Candidates can log in using their application number and password to download the scorecard.

• Direct link to check KCET Result 2025 - (Out)

Bhavesh Jayanthi tops the engineering rank. Satwik B Biradar and Dhinesh Gowthami Shankar Arunachalam follow, all from Bengaluru schools.

Eligibility Numbers for KCET 2025

The number of students eligible for KCET 2025 courses has decreased compared to last year.

• A total of 2,62,195 students are eligible for engineering courses in KCET 2025, compared to 2.75 lakh students last year.
• A total of 2,14,588 people were eligible for B.Sc. (Agri) in KCET 2025, compared to 2.15 lakh students in KCET 2024.
• In KCET 2025, 1,98,679 students were accepted for the BNYS course, out of 2.19 lakh students who were eligible.

KEA posted on their X handle: "UGCET-25 results will be announced on May 24 from 2 PM. Higher Education Minister Dr. M.C. Sudhakar will declare them at 11:30 AM at the KEA office. Result links go live post 2 PM."

Qualifying Marks for Counselling

To participate in KCET 2025 counselling, a candidate must achieve specific qualifying marks in the exam. The general category requires a minimum of 50%.

Candidates from SC/ST/OBC/EWS categories need to secure at least 40%.

KCET 2025 Result Dates

The KCET 2025 exam was scheduled for April 16-17, 2025, with the Kannada language test on April 15, 2025. The result was expected in the third week of April 2025, with the provisional answer key anticipated in the third week of May 2025.

KCET Result 2025 Latest Trends

• KCET Marks vs Rank 2025
• KCET 2025 Cutoff
• KCET Answer Key 2025

KCET Result 2025

The Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) 2025 result was released on May 24, 2025. The Kannada Language Test result was released on April 25, 2025.

How to Check KCET Result 2025?

Follow the steps below to download your KCET 2025 scorecard. Visit the official website – kea.kar.nic.in.

Click on the KCET Result 2025 link on the homepage. The candidate needs to enter their Registration Number and the First Four Characters of their Name.

KCET Scorecard

The scorecard displays the candidate's performance in the exam. It is available for download online only.

KCET 2025 Details Mentioned

Candidates must verify the following details on their scorecard:

• Candidate's Name
• Subject-wise Marks
• Total Marks
• Rank Secured
• Qualifying Status

In case of discrepancies, candidates must immediately contact KEA for corrections.

KCET Result 2025: Important Points

• The result will be available online only.
• Candidates will need their registration number and name to check results.
• Only shortlisted candidates can move forward in the admission process.
• Objections against the result can be raised within three days of declaration.

How to Challenge KCET Result 2025?

KEA allows candidates to raise objections to their results within three days of declaration. If found valid, a revised result will be issued to those candidates separately.

KCET 2025 Marks vs Rank

The KCET Marks vs Rank shows a relation between the marks scored by a candidate and what rank they can get. Candidates scoring above 120 marks are expected to fall in the top 100-200 ranks, making them eligible for admission to top-tier institutes and high-demand branches.

Those with 100-119 marks fall in the 200-500 rank range, suitable for reputable institutes but slightly lower-ranked branches. Candidates with 85-99 marks will fall in the 500-1000 rank range, typically securing seats in less competitive branches like Mechanical or Civil Engineering.

KCET Marks vs Rank for Engineering Courses (General Category)

The table below shows the expected rank range for different mark ranges. This is an estimate and the actual rank may vary based on the number of candidates and their performance.

KCET Marks vs Rank for Engineering Courses

The table below shows the approximate rank for different KCET marks ranges in engineering courses.

KCET Marks vs Rank for Medical & Pharmacy Courses

The table below shows the approximate rank for different KCET marks ranges in medical and pharmacy courses.

Key Points for Different Candidate Groups

• Engineering Candidates: Scoring above 100 marks is crucial for getting admission into top engineering institutes for competitive branches like CSE and EE.
• Medical and Pharmacy Candidates: Candidates with scores above 120 marks are likely to secure seats in top medical courses (MBBS), while pharmacy courses are more accessible with scores ranging from 70–90 marks.
• Reserved Categories: Reserved category candidates generally have lower cutoff marks than the General category, meaning a given score will translate to a better rank.

What is the rank for 70 marks in KCET?

A score of 70 marks results in a rank between 1000 and 2500 in the engineering courses with less competitive branches like Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and IT at mid-tier or private institutes.

• Engineering (70 marks): A rank between 1000 and 2500 for less competitive branches.
• Medical (70 marks): Likely to be beyond 5000 rank, so securing MBBS/BDS is difficult.
• Pharmacy (70 marks): Possible admission to pharmacy programs in private colleges or lower-ranked institutes.

Is 70 a good score in KCET?

A score of 70 is not enough for top engineering or medical institutes. It is suitable for less competitive engineering branches and pharmacy courses in mid-tier or private colleges.

What Does a 70 Mark Score in KCET Mean?

A score of 70 marks in KCET is generally considered a moderate score. This score falls in the rank range of 5,500-6,000 for engineering courses.

With this rank, admission is possible in less competitive branches like Civil and Mechanical Engineering at mid-tier or private institutions. A score of 70 marks is generally insufficient for securing a seat in MBBS or BDS programs at reputable medical colleges.

Candidates with 70 marks may find opportunities in pharmacy programs (e.g., B.Pharm) at various institutions. However, options may be limited to private colleges or less competitive programs.

KCET Cutoff 2025 Category-wise

The category-wise cutoff can differ significantly. Reserved categories like OBC, SC, ST, and EWS typically have a lower cutoff than the General category.

KCET Cutoff Course wise

The KCET cutoff varies across different institutes, courses, and categories. The following data insights provide a rough estimate of what the cutoffs might look like in 2025 based on trends from previous years.

What is the cutoff for KCET 2025?

As per the previous years trends, the expected qualifying marks for KCET 2025 are:

• General Category: Minimum of 50% in the qualifying examination.
• SC/ST/OBC/EWS Categories: Minimum of 40% in the qualifying examination.

KCET Engineering Courses (General Category)

KCET Pharmacy Courses

KCET Medical & Dental Courses (For Biology Students)

KCET Result 2025 Previous Years' Analysis

KEA will release the KCET 2025 statistics post-result announcement. Meanwhile, check the stats from previous years:

KCET 2024 Statistics

KCET 2022 Result Statistics

The KCET 2022 result statistics show the number of candidates who appeared and passed the exam.

KCET 2021 Rank List Eligibility

The KCET 2021 rank list included candidates from several streams. The number of eligible candidates varied by stream.

KCET 2020 Subject-Wise Attendance

The attendance percentage for KCET 2020 differed across subjects. Mathematics had the highest attendance.

KCET 2025 Toppers List

The KCET topper list will be available on the official website after the result is declared. Some toppers are confirmed below.

Who got the first rank in CET?

Harsha Karthikeya Vutukuri secured the first rank in the engineering stream in KCET 2024. He is affiliated with Narayana Olympiad School in Sahakara Nagar, Bangalore.

The top performers in the KCET 2024 engineering examination are as follows:

• Rank 1: Harsha Karthikeya Vutukuri
• Rank 2: Manoj Sohan Gajula
• Rank 3: Abhinav P J
• Rank 5: Animesh Singh Rathore
• Rank 6: Prabhav P
• Rank 7: Videep Reddy Jalapally

KCET Toppers 2024 (Engineering Stream)

KCET Toppers 2023 – Engineering

KCET Toppers 2023 – BPharma

KCET Toppers 2023 – Pharma D

The topper list for Pharma D in 2023 is not provided in the source.

KCET Toppers 2023 – BSc Nursing

The following candidates secured the top three ranks in KCET 2023 for BSc Nursing.

KCET Toppers 2022

The list below shows the top nine candidates of KCET 2022 with their percentages.

KCET Answer Key 2025

KEA will release the KCET 2025 provisional answer key soon after the exam. Candidates can download it from kea.kar.nic.in.

Candidates can raise objections within the stipulated deadline. The KCET 2024 final answer key will be released after resolving objections.

The final KCET result 2025 will be based on this final answer key.

KCET Counselling 2025

After the results are out, KCET 2024 counselling process will begin. Only qualified candidates will be eligible to participate in the counselling process.

KCET Counselling Steps

• Register online for counselling
• Fill and lock choices of colleges/courses
• Check seat allotment results
• Report to the allotted institute for document verification

FAQs

1. When will the KCET Result 2025 be declared?

The KCET Result 2025 date is yet to be officially announced by KEA. Candidates are advised to regularly check the official websites — kea.kar.nic.in and cetonline.karnataka.gov.in — for updates.

2. How can I check my KCET 2025 result online?

You can check your KCET 2025 result by visiting kea.kar.nic.in, clicking on the KCET result link, and entering your registration number and the first four characters of your name.

3. What details are mentioned in the KCET 2025 scorecard?

The KCET 2025 scorecard will contain the candidate’s name, subject-wise marks, total marks secured, rank obtained, and qualifying status. Ensure all details are correct.

4. Can I challenge the KCET result 2025?

Yes, candidates can raise objections or challenge their KCET 2025 result within three days of its declaration. The revised result will be issued after evaluation by KEA.

5. What happens after the KCET result is announced?

After the declaration of KCET 2025 results, qualified candidates will be eligible for the KCET counselling process which includes registration, choice filling, seat allotment, and document verification.

Disclaimer: The dates, fees, reservation percentages, and process details in this article are based on official announcements from the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) and publicly available sources as of July 25, 2026. Counselling schedules are subject to revision at KEA’s discretion. Always verify the latest information on the official KEA portal at cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/ before taking any action related to registration, option entry, or college reporting.