KCET 2026 Registration Extended & Exam Dates Revised: Check New Schedule @ cetonline.karnataka.gov.in

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has released a major update for students planning to pursue professional undergraduate courses in Karnataka. KEA has officially revised the schedule for KCET 2026, extending the application deadline and withdrawing the previously announced exam dates.

If you are aiming for admission into Engineering, Pharmacy, Agriculture, or Allied Science courses through KCET 2026, this update is extremely important. Read below for the revised dates, step-by-step application process, fee structure, eligibility, exam pattern, and preparation strategy.

KCET 2026: What Has Changed?

On January 20, 2026, KEA issued an update stating that the timeline for UGCET (KCET) 2026 has been modified. The changes are mainly in two areas:

• Application Window Extended: The last date to submit the online application has been extended to February 17, 2026.
• Exam Dates Postponed: The earlier exam dates of May 25 and 26, 2026 have been cancelled. KEA has stated that new dates will be announced shortly.

KCET 2026 Revised Schedule: Important Dates

Tracking deadlines is the first step to a smooth KCET journey. Here is the revised schedule based on the latest update:

Why is KCET 2026 Important?

The Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) is a state-level entrance exam conducted by KEA for admission to the first year of full-time undergraduate professional courses in Karnataka, including:

• Engineering / Technology (B.E. / B.Tech)
• Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm)
• Pharma-D
• Agriculture (B.Sc. Agriculture)
• Sericulture
• Horticulture
• Veterinary Sciences
• Other Allied Science courses

How to Apply for KCET 2026: Step-by-Step Process

With the last date extended to February 17, 2026, eligible candidates who have not registered should apply as soon as possible.

Step 1: Registration

1. Visit the official KEA portal cetonline.karnataka.gov.in. Use only the official KEA website.
2. Click on “UGCET-2026 Online Application”.
3. Select “New User? Register Here”.
4. Enter Name, Date of Birth, Email ID, and Mobile Number.
5. Create a User ID and Password.

Step 2: Fill the Application Form

• Login using your User ID and Password
• Fill personal details and academic qualifications (SSLC/10th and 2nd PUC/12th)
• Enter reservation category (if applicable)
• Fill study history in Karnataka (for the 7-year rule, if applicable)

Step 3: Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies as per the specified size and format:

• Recent passport-size photograph
• Candidate signature
• Left-hand thumb impression

Step 4: Fee Payment

Pay the application fee online using Net Banking, Credit Card, Debit Card, or UPI.

Step 5: Final Submission

Review all details carefully and submit the form. Download and print the confirmation page for future reference. Any corrections (if allowed) may be possible only during the official correction window.

KCET 2026 Application Fee

Eligibility Criteria for KCET 2026

• Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen
• Academic Qualification: Passed 2nd PUC / 12th or equivalent with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects, along with Chemistry / Biotechnology / Biology / Electronics / Computer Science
• Minimum Marks: 45% aggregate in optional subjects (40% for SC/ST/OBC/Category-1 of Karnataka)
• Domicile Rule (7-year rule): Generally, a candidate should have studied in Karnataka for a minimum period of 7 years between 1st standard to 2nd PUC. (Exemptions may apply for specific categories such as J&K migrants, children of defence personnel, etc.)

KCET 2026 Exam Pattern (What to Expect)

While exam dates are postponed, the exam pattern typically remains the same. KCET is conducted in offline mode (pen & paper).

Typical Exam Schedule (Subject to Change)

• Day 1: Biology (Morning), Mathematics (Afternoon)
• Day 2: Physics (Morning), Chemistry (Afternoon)
• Day 3: Kannada Language Test (only for Horanadu & Gadinadu Kannadiga candidates)

Preparation Tips for the Extended Period

With the exam dates postponed, students get a bonus window for preparation. Use it wisely:

• Revise Class 11 & 12 syllabus: KCET is heavily based on PUC-level concepts. Strengthen NCERT basics.
• Mock Tests: Since there is no negative marking, practice speed. Aim to solve 60 questions in 70 minutes for buffer.
• Work on weak areas: Use the extra time to fix low-scoring chapters.
• Stay updated: Check the KEA portal weekly for official new exam dates and admit card announcements.