KCET 2026 Application Process Continues for Engineering and Pharmacy Courses

The KEA continues the KCET 2026 application process. Eligible students can register for engineering and pharmacy courses on the official portal today.

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) is currently facilitating the registration phase for the Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) 2026. This state-level entrance examination is the mandatory gateway for students seeking admission into professional undergraduate programs, specifically for engineering and pharmacy courses across various government and private aided colleges in Karnataka. With the portal remaining open for new submissions, thousands of eligible candidates are completing their profiles to secure a spot in the upcoming academic session.

Eligibility Criteria and Academic Requirements

To ensure a smooth registration, the KEA has outlined specific eligibility benchmarks that all applicants must meet. The KCET 2026 serves not only those interested in technical disciplines but also those aiming for careers in the medical and paramedical fields, excluding MBBS/BDS which are governed by NEET.

• Educational Qualifications: Candidates must have cleared their 2nd PUC or Class 12 equivalent with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects for engineering and pharmacy courses.
• Domicile Rules: Applicants must satisfy at least one of the domicile criteria set by the KEA to be eligible for seat allotment under the state quota.
• Minimum Marks: A general category student typically requires an aggregate of 45% in the optional subjects, while reserved categories require 40%.
• Language Proficiency: For those claiming Horanadu or Gadinadu Kannadiga status, a separate Kannada language test will be administered to verify proficiency.

Important Dates and Registration Overview

The KEA has provided a comprehensive schedule to help students keep track of the multi-stage application process. Beyond the initial registration, the authority will also open a window for document verification and correction of particulars.

Documentation and Digital Submission

The application process for engineering and pharmacy courses is entirely web-based, requiring candidates to upload scanned copies of their academic and personal records. The KEA has integrated the RD (Revenue Department) numbers for caste and income certificate verification, making the process more streamlined for residents of Karnataka.

• Identity Proof: Candidates are required to use their Aadhaar number to link their profile, ensuring a secure and unique identification for the examination.
• Photograph and Signature: Specific dimensions and file sizes are mandated for the digital upload of the candidate’s photograph and signature.
• Payment Gateway: The registration fee can be paid through multiple online modes, including UPI, net banking, or credit/debit cards.
• Confirmation Page: After successful payment, the system generates a confirmation page which must be preserved for future counseling and seat allotment rounds.

Conclusion

The continuation of the KCET 2026 application window provides a significant opportunity for students across the state to finalize their entry into professional education. As the KEA manages the intake for diverse engineering and pharmacy courses, the focus remains on maintaining a transparent and accessible registration system. Prospective students are encouraged to complete their submissions well before the deadline to avoid technical delays often associated with high traffic on the server. This initial step of the 2026 entrance cycle is vital for those aspiring to contribute to the technical and healthcare sectors of the region, setting the stage for the rigorous competitive exams scheduled for April.