KCET 2026 exam timings: April 23-24 schedule and key rules
The Karnataka Common Entrance Test is being held on April 23–24, 2026 , with the optional Kannada language test conducted on April 22, 2026 (ended 11:30 AM ), according to the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA).
KCET 2026 exam timings: official shift schedule
Use this table to check the subject-wise shifts and session timings. All sessions are offline OMR pen-and-paper tests.
| Date | Session | Subject | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 22, 2026 | Morning | Kannada (optional) | 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM |
| April 23, 2026 | Morning | Physics | 10:30 AM - 11:50 AM |
| April 23, 2026 | Afternoon | Chemistry | 2:30 PM - 3:50 PM |
| April 24, 2026 | Morning | Mathematics | 10:30 AM - 11:50 AM |
| April 24, 2026 | Afternoon | Biology | 2:30 PM - 3:50 PM |
Each subject carries 60 marks . PCM/B candidates will have Physics and Chemistry compulsory , and must choose either Mathematics or Biology , making the KCET total referenced out of 180 marks.
KCET 2026 exam timings — entry, OMR and exam-room rules
Arrive 30–60 minutes before the reporting time printed on your admit card. Bring your admit card and a valid photo ID for verification.
During the first 10 minutes of each session you must fill personal and exam details on the OMR sheet (CET number, name in CAPITAL letters, question booklet version code and serial number). Use only a blue or black ballpoint pen to darken bubbles. Submit the original OMR to the invigilator; you may keep the lower carbon copy.
Biometric verification is being used at centres. Calculators are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall.
What scores mean (referenced estimates)
Scoring guidance referenced from official exam analysis: roughly 50–60 marks may place you near a 50,000 rank , while 95–115+ marks can correspond to around a 15,000 rank . Remember these are approximations and final rank depends on total scores and tie-break rules.
Counselling and next steps
Counselling for KCET admissions is expected to begin in May 2026 . Keep your admit card, OMR carbon copy and other required documents safe for the counselling process.
FAQs
What are KCET 2026 shift timings for Physics?
Physics morning shift on April 23 is 10:30 AM to 11:50 AM .
When is KCET Chemistry scheduled?
Chemistry is on April 23 in the afternoon from 2:30 PM to 3:50 PM .
Which subjects are compulsory in KCET?
Physics and Chemistry are compulsory; candidates must choose either Mathematics or Biology as the third subject.
What pen is allowed for OMR?
Only blue or black ballpoint pen is allowed to fill the OMR bubbles.
Are calculators allowed in KCET?
No. Calculators are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall.
Do I get to keep the OMR sheet?
You must submit the original OMR; you may keep the lower carbon copy for your records.
Is biometric verification used at centres?
Yes. Biometric verification may be conducted at exam centres.
When will counselling start?
Counselling is expected to begin in May 2026 , as per official timelines.