Karnataka PGCET 2026 Registration Now Live: Apply for MBA & MCA Admissions via KEA
The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has officially activated the online registration portal for the Karnataka Post Graduate Common Entrance Test (PGCET) 2026. As of March 23, 2026, eligible management and computer application aspirants can submit their applications at the official website, kea.kar.nic.in.
This state-level entrance exam is the mandatory gateway for admission into MBA, MCA, M.E., M.Tech, and M.Arch programs across government, aided, and private unaided colleges in Karnataka for the 2026-27 academic session.
Karnataka PGCET 2026: Key Dates and Deadlines
Aspirants should keep a close watch on the following timeline to ensure their candidacy is registered:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Start Date | March 23, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply (Online) | April 22, 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | April 23, 2026 |
| Correction Window | Fourth week of April 2026 |
| PGCET 2026 Exam Date | June 13 – June 14, 2026 |
The exam is traditionally conducted in two sessions: MCA and M.Tech papers on the first day, followed by the MBA paper on the second day. For regular updates on the detailed information bulletin, follow Only Education News.
Eligibility and Application Fee
To be eligible for the Karnataka PGCET 2026, candidates must meet the following basic criteria:
- Academic: A minimum of 50% marks aggregate in a 3-year Bachelor’s degree (45% for SC, ST, and Category-I of Karnataka candidates).
- Domicile: While there are seats for non-Karnataka candidates, most government seats are reserved for those who meet the Karnataka domicile criteria (studying in the state for at least 7 years).
Registration Fees:
- General / OBC Candidates: ₹650 per subject.
- SC / ST / Category-I (Karnataka only): ₹500 per subject.
Step-by-Step Registration Process
The KEA has streamlined the application process into a few simple steps:
- New Registration: Visit kea.kar.nic.in and select "PGCET 2026 Online Application."
- Fill Details: Enter personal info, academic history, and contact details. Ensure your mobile number and email are active for receiving the application number and password.
- Upload Documents: Provide scanned copies of a recent passport-size photograph, signature, and left-hand thumb impression.
- Fee Payment: Pay the application fee through the integrated online payment gateway (UPI, Credit/Debit card, or Net Banking).
- Final Submission: Download and print the "Final Submission Page" for use during the counseling process.
Exam Pattern for MBA Aspirants
The Karnataka PGCET MBA paper is a 120-minute test consisting of 100 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). One of the most student-friendly aspects of this exam is that there is no negative marking.
The paper is divided into four equal sections:
- Proficiency in English Language: Grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.
- General Knowledge: Indian business environment, sports, and current affairs.
- Test of Reasoning and General Intelligence: Logical deductions and puzzles.
- Quantitative Analysis: Basic arithmetic, algebra, and data interpretation.
For a comprehensive list of top MBA colleges in Bangalore under PGCET or to check the previous year's cutoff ranks, visit the Only Education Management Exams List or explore the Management Course List.