As per the latest update, students need to pay attention to the KCET 2026 (Karnataka Common Entrance Test) application form, which is set to start soon on January 17, 2026, as confirmed by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA). The official notification and exam schedule were released earlier in January 2026, with registration commencing on this date.
Key Details from Official Announcement
Application Start Date: January 17, 2026 (registration and form filling begin).
Official Website: https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea (or cetonline.karnataka.gov.in) The direct link for KCET 2026 registration will be activated here.
Exam Dates: Kannada Language Test (for Horanadu/Gadinadu Kannadiga candidates): April 22, 2026 (10:30 AM – 11:30 AM).
Main KCET Exam: April 23 and 24, 2026 (Physics & Chemistry on April 23; Mathematics & Biology on April 24; dual shifts each day, 80 minutes per session).
Purpose: For admission to UG professional courses in Karnataka, including B.E./B.Tech, B.Pharm, B.Arch (via separate aptitude test if needed), B.Sc (Agriculture/Forestry), Veterinary, Nursing, and other allied fields.
Eligibility Criteria: Candidates must have passed or be appearing in 10+2 (PUC/equivalent) with required subjects (PCM for Engineering, PCB for others). Domicile rules apply for the Karnataka quota; non-Karnataka candidates can apply, but may have limited seats.
Application Fee (Approximate, based on patterns):
- General: INR 500.
- SC/ST/Category-1: INR 250.
- Outside Karnataka: INR 750.
- Outside India: INR 5,000 (varies; confirm on site). Payment via online modes (net banking, card) or challan.
How to Apply online: Steps are given below:-
Step 1. Visit cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea.
Step 2. Register with details like SSLC register number, year, name, DOB, email, mobile, etc., to generate login credentials (OTP/face verification may be used).
Step 3. Log in, fill in personal/academic details, and upload scanned documents (photo, signature, marksheets, etc.).
Step 4. Pay the fee and submit.
Step 5. Download confirmation page/printout.