KCET Registration 2026: Important Dates, Eligibility, Registration, Fees

KCET Registration 2026: Are you planning to appear for the KCET Exam 2026? Here, we have provided all the details related to the KCET Registration 2026, including the eligibility criteria, important documents, application process, and more. It is scheduled to start from January 20, 2026, on the official website. The last date for registration will be February 20, 2026. 

KCET Registration 2026 Overview

Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) is one of the most important state-level entrance exams for students who are looking to join engineering, pharmacy, agriculture, veterinary, and other professional courses in Karnataka. 

• Every year, lakhs of students apply for the KCET exam. The KCET scores are used for admission to several government and private colleges across the state of Karnataka.

• KCET Registration 2026 is the official process through which candidates can register for the exam. 

• The registration process is done completely online through KEA’s official website. Completing the form correctly and submitting the required documents on time is very important.

• A small error can result in the rejection of the registration of the candidate for the KCET exam. 

KCET Registration Dates 2026

Before applying, candidates preparing to appear for the KCET 2026 exam must know about all the important dates and events related to the exam. The important dates regarding the KCET Registration 2026 are provided in the table below:

These dates are tentative, and KEA may change them. Candidates should check the official KEA website regularly for further updates.

KCET 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, candidates must ensure that they meet all the eligibility criteria for KCET 2026. These criteria ensure that only valid candidates apply for the exam and admission process.

Age and Citizenship

• The applicant must be an Indian citizen.

• For most courses offered under KCET, there is no upper age limit.

Educational Qualification

The basic educational requirements depend on the course:

For Engineering:

• Candidates must have passed 10+2 / 2nd PUC or an equivalent exam.

• Required subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

For Pharmacy:

• Candidates must have passed 10+2 with Physics and Chemistry, along with Biology or Mathematics.

Candidates awaiting their Class 12/PUC results can also apply, but must upload their marks later as per KEA instructions.

Minimum Marks Required

These marks may vary slightly depending on KEA’s official notification, so students should verify once the brochure is released.

• General category candidates: At least 45% aggregate in the qualifying exam.

• SC/ST/Category-I candidates (from Karnataka): At least 40% aggregate.

Domicile Criteria

To claim a Karnataka reservation, applicants must satisfy KEA’s domicile rules. Students must keep these documents ready before registration. Common acceptable proofs include:

• Study certificates from Karnataka

• Parent’s domicile certificate

• Certificates from the Karnataka government employees

Additional Requirements

Certain special categories, such as NCC, sports quota, or physically disabled quota, may need extra certificates. Candidates belonging to these categories must carefully read the KEA brochure to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria and upload the accurate documents.

KCET 2026 Registration Process

Candidates preparing to appear for the KCET 2026 exam can follow the steps mentioned below to complete KCET Registration 2026:

Step 1: Visit the Official KEA Portal

Visit the official KEA website. Look for the active link titled “KCET 2026 Registration” on the homepage.

Step 2: Create a New User Account

Click on the registration option and enter:

• Full name

• Mobile number

• Email ID

• Date of birth

• Other required personal details

A User ID and Password will be sent to the registered mobile number or email. Note them down carefully.

Step 3: Log In to the Application Portal

Use the generated login credentials to access the KCET 2026 application form.

Step 4: Fill in Personal Details

Enter all required information:

• Candidate’s name

• Gender

• Date of birth

• Address

• Parent/guardian details

Step 5: Enter Academic Details

Provide your Class 10 and Class 12 details:

• Name of the board

• Year of passing

• Registration numbers

• Obtained marks

Step 6: Select Preferred Exam Centres

KCET allows candidates to choose multiple exam centres. Select centres that are convenient and easy to travel to. 

Step 7: Upload Required Documents

Documents required generally include the following:

• Passport-size photograph

• Candidate’s signature

• Left-hand thumb impression

• Class 10 marksheet

• Class 12 marksheet (or provisional details)

• Caste certificate (if applicable)

• Domicile certificate (if claiming Karnataka quota)

Step 8: Pay the Application Fee

Pay the KCET application fee using:

• Debit card

• Credit card

• Net banking

• UPI

Step 9: Review the Application

Check all sections of the form carefully:

• Spelling errors

• Date mismatches

• Incorrect category selection

• Wrong document uploads

Step 10: Download and Print the Confirmation Page

After successful submission, download the confirmation page. 

Step 11: Get the Application Form Attested

KEA usually requires students to get a printed copy attested by a school principal or a gazetted officer. 

Preparation Tips for KCET 2026

Preparing for the KCET 2026 exam is also important as completing the registration. Some of the practical and effective tips for candidates to prepare for the exam are as follows:

• Build a Study Plan: Divide your study schedule into daily tasks for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Consistent study helps improve memory and accuracy.

• Understand the Full Syllabus: KCET questions come from Class 11 and 12 topics. Identify the most important chapters and start preparing early.

• Solve Previous Year Papers: Past papers reveal the style of questions and difficulty level. Solving them will improve your speed and confidence.

• Focus on Weak Areas: Identify the topics you find difficult and spend extra time improving them. Regular practice turns weak topics into strengths.

• Practice Numerical Questions: Physics and Mathematics contain many numerical problems. Accurate and fast calculations help you score better.

• Regular Revision: Prepare short notes for every chapter. These notes help you revise faster during the last few weeks.

• Attempt Mock Tests: Mock tests simulate real exam conditions. They help you reduce exam stress and improve performance.