Karnataka Common Entrance Test
Secure Admission in RVCE, PES, and BMSCE
KCET is the primary state-level entrance exam for admission to undergraduate Engineering, Pharmacy, Agriculture, and Veterinary programs in Karnataka. It is a mandatory test for candidates seeking government and quota seats in both private and government institutes across the state.
Exam Level
State-Level
Frequency
Once Yearly
Mode
Offline (OMR)
Conducted By
KEA
About KCET
What is the KCET Exam?
The Karnataka Common Entrance Test is a state-level exam designed to assess academic readiness for professional degree courses. It evaluates candidates in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (for Engineering) or Biology (for Agriculture/Pharmacy) based on the 1st and 2nd PUC syllabus.
Why Take KCET?
KCET is the most critical pathway for students in Karnataka to access prestigious institutes like RV College of Engineering and BMS College of Engineering. It offers highly subsidized fee structures for government quota seats and follows a transparent merit-based allocation system through the KEA portal.
Key Highlights
State Merit Based Admissions
No Negative Marking Policy
PUC Syllabus (Class 11 & 12)
80 Minutes per Subject Section
No Negative Marking Policy
State Merit Based Admissions
Sectional time limits enforced
2 Lakh+
Annual Applicants
180
Maximum Marks (PCM/PCB)
217
Participating Institutes
100%
State Quota Reservation
Eligibility Criteria
Mandatory
State Study Requirement
Must have studied in Karnataka for at least seven academic years between 1st standard and 2nd PUC/12th standard.
Mandatory
Educational Foundation
Candidates must have passed 2nd PUC / 12th standard with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects.
Mandatory
Mandatory Language
English must be one of the studied languages in the qualifying examination for engineering eligibility.
Mandatory
Merit Marks Aggregate
General category requires 45% in PCM; 40% is required for SC, ST, and OBC (Category-1, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B) of Karnataka.
Relaxed Rule
Upper Age Restriction
There is no upper age limit for candidates to apply for professional courses through this state-level entrance.
Good to Know
NIOS/Open School Status
Candidates from Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) are generally not eligible for the examination.
Application Process
Visit cetonline.karnataka.gov.in
Upload Photo, Sign & Thumb Impression
Pay Application Fee Online
Enter Personal & Aadhaar Details
Application Process
Choose Exam Centers & Preferred Courses
Documents Required
Keep these documents ready before starting your application
SSLC / 10th Marks Card
Candidate's Scanned Photograph
Class 12 Marksheet (or appearing certificate)
PwD Certificate (if applicable)
2nd PUC / 12th Marks Card
Candidate's Scanned Signature
Aadhaar Card / Study Certificate
Scribe Request Letter (if required)
Exam Pattern
Understanding the structure and marking scheme
Section 1: Physics (60 MCQs)
Section 2: Chemistry (60 MCQs)
Section 4: Biology (60 MCQs)
1 for Correct, No Negative Marking
180 Marks (per stream)
Section 3: Mathematics (60 MCQs)
80 Minutes per Section
Confused About Exam Selection?
Chat with our experts and get personalized Exams recommendations based on your profile and choices.
Important Dates
Keep note of the important dates regarding the examination.
Jan 17 – Feb 17, 2026
April 23 – 24, 2026
June 2026 (Online)
April 10, 2026
May 2026
Preparation
Tips
Master 1st & 2nd PUC Textbooks
Focus on High-Weightage Calculus
Solve Last 10 Years of PYQs
Start Prep
Attempt KEA Official Mock Tests
Focus on Accuracy (Zero Negative)
Focus on High-Weightage Calculus
Focus on High-Weightage Calculus
Top Colleges
RV College of Engineering (RVCE)
PES University, Bangalore
BMS College of Engineering
MS Ramaiah Institute of Technology
UVCE Bangalore
Bangalore Institute of Technology
Dayananda Sagar College of Engg
BMSIT Bangalore
NITTE Meenakshi (NMIT)
Sir M. Visvesvaraya (MVIT)
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