Home/News/College News/KCET 2026: Schedule, Timings, Admit Card Rules and Exam Day Guidelines for Candidates

KCET 2026: Schedule, Timings, Admit Card Rules and Exam Day Guidelines for Candidates

KCET 2026 begins on April 22, 2026. KEA will conduct pen-and-paper OMR tests across Karnataka; know subject dates, timings, what to carry, dress code and strict monitoring rules.

Edited by Pooja Reddy

Updated April 18, 2026 8:11 AM

KCET 2026 begins on April 22, 2026

KCET 2026 will start on April 22, 2026 , conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA). The test is pen-and-paper OMR and will run on multiple days at centres across Karnataka.

KCET 2026 Exam Schedule

Below are the subject-wise dates and timings issued by KEA. Each paper lasts 1 hour 20 minutes .

Exam	Date	Timing
Kannada Language Test	April 22, 2026	10:30 AM – 11:50 AM
Physics	April 23, 2026	10:30 AM – 11:50 AM
Chemistry	April 23, 2026	2:30 PM – 3:50 PM
Mathematics	April 24, 2026	10:30 AM – 11:50 AM
Biology	April 24, 2026	2:30 PM – 3:50 PM

KCET 2026 Exam Timings and Reporting Rules

Most sessions run 10:30 AM–11:50 AM and 2:30 PM–3:50 PM . You must report to the centre at least 30 minutes before the session start. Gates close 10 minutes before the exam begins; late entry may not be allowed.

KCET 2026 Admit Card, ID and What to Carry

Carry a printed copy of your KCET 2026 admit card and one government-issued photo ID. KEA permits only blue or black ballpoint pen for marking the OMR. Do not bring electronic devices, calculators or smartwatches.

KCET 2026 Exam Day Guidelines

The OMR is fragile — do not fold or damage it. Do rough work only on the question paper. Wear light, comfortable clothing and avoid outfits with large buttons, badges or heavy embroidery that may delay security checks.

KEA has announced strict monitoring at all centres. CCTV surveillance and flying squads will operate during the exam to prevent malpractice. Any candidate found using unfair means may be disqualified and face legal action.

Prohibited Items (selected)

Item	Reason
Mobile phones & smartwatches	Prevent malpractice
Calculators & electronic devices	Maintain exam integrity
Books, notes	Avoid unfair advantage
Bags, large wallets	Security and storage reasons

Missing details KEA has not published here

KEA's public instructions do not list fee details, centre-wise city lists, PwD accommodations, result dates or sample dress images. Check the official KEA portal for any late updates.

Article updated on: Apr 17, 2026

FAQs

What is the KCET 2026 start date? A: KCET 2026 begins on April 22, 2026 .

What items are permitted in the exam hall? A: Only blue/black ballpoint pen , printed admit card and one government photo ID are permitted.

When should candidates report to the exam centre? A: Report at least 30 minutes before the start; gates close 10 minutes prior.

What is the duration of each KCET paper? A: Each paper is 1 hour 20 minutes long.

Is the KCET OMR pen rule strict? A: Yes. KEA allows only blue or black ballpoint pens for marking the OMR.

Will there be CCTV at centres? A: Yes. KEA has confirmed CCTV surveillance and flying squads at all centres.

Can I use rough sheets provided by the centre? A: Do rough work only on the question paper; do not mark the OMR outside permitted areas.

What if I arrive after gates close? A: KEA states gates close 10 minutes before start; late entry may be denied. Check official KEA notices for exceptions.