KCET 2026: Application Window Opens on January 17, Exams Set for April 23-24

Bengaluru, January 13, 2026 – The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has officially announced the schedule for the Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) 2026, a crucial gateway for students aspiring to secure seats in engineering, pharmacy, and other professional courses across the state. With applications commencing on January 17, 2026, and the exams slated for April 23 and 24, 2026, this year’s test is poised to attract thousands of candidates, particularly from urban hubs like Bangalore seeking affordable local admissions.

Key Dates and Timeline

The KCET 2026 timeline has been released to ensure smooth preparation for applicants. Registration will begin on January 17, 2026, and is expected to close in the third week of February 2026, with the fee payment deadline aligning shortly after. For candidates from Horanadu and Gadinadu Kannadiga communities, a separate Kannada language test is scheduled for April 22, 2026. The main exams will follow on April 23 and 24, 2026, covering subjects like Biology, Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry in a structured two-day format.

Event	Date
Application Starts	January 17, 2026
Last Date to Apply	Third Week of February 2026
Last Date for Fee Payment	Third Week of February 2026
Kannada Language Test	April 22, 2026
KCET Exams	April 23-24, 2026

Application Process and Eligibility

Prospective candidates can apply online through the official KEA website (kea.kar.nic.in). The process involves filling out the application form, uploading necessary documents such as academic certificates, photographs, and signatures, and paying the requisite fee. Eligibility criteria remain consistent with previous years: applicants must have completed their 10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Biology as core subjects, depending on the course. A minimum aggregate of 45% (40% for reserved categories) is required for engineering and pharmacy streams.

Students are advised to review the detailed notification on the KEA portal for any updates on reservation policies, including those for rural, Kannada medium, and other special categories.

Exam Pattern and Preparation Tips

The KCET 2026 will follow a multiple-choice question format, with each subject paper lasting 80 minutes and carrying 60 marks. There is no negative marking, encouraging thorough attempts. For engineering aspirants, the focus will be on Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, while pharmacy candidates will tackle Biology alongside the sciences.

Experts recommend starting preparations early, leveraging resources like NCERT textbooks and previous years’ question papers. Coaching centers in Bangalore, such as those in Malleswaram and Jayanagar, are already gearing up with specialized KCET batches to help students navigate the competitive landscape.

Significance for Bangalore Students

For students in Bangalore and surrounding areas, KCET remains a vital pathway to prestigious institutions like RV College of Engineering, BMS College of Engineering, and government medical colleges. With rising competition in national exams like JEE and NEET, KCET offers a localized advantage, securing seats under the state quota at subsidized fees. This is especially beneficial for middle-class families aiming for quality education without the burden of high capitation fees in private institutions.

As the application window approaches, KEA urges applicants to apply early to avoid last-minute technical glitches. Stay tuned to official channels for any amendments to the schedule.