KCET Exam 2026 begins on April 22, 2026 with the Kannada Language Test, conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA). The three-day window ends on April 24, 2026 and includes morning and afternoon shifts.
KCET Exam 2026: Key dates and subject schedule
| Event | Date & Time |
|---|---|
| Kannada Language Test (start) | April 22, 2026 — 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM |
| Physics (morning) | April 23, 2026 — Morning shift |
| Chemistry (afternoon) | April 23, 2026 — Afternoon shift |
| Mathematics (morning) | April 24, 2026 — Morning shift |
| Biology (afternoon) | April 24, 2026 — Afternoon shift |
The Kannada Language Test is mandatory only for Horanadu and Gadinadu Kannadiga candidates. KEA has scheduled 80 minutes for each main paper.
KCET Exam 2026: Papers, marks and marking scheme
Physics, Chemistry and your choice of Mathematics or Biology form the main set of papers. Each main subject paper carries 60 marks . The Kannada Language Test has been reported as 50 marks and is optional for most candidates except those from the specified Kannadiga groups.
Marking rules are simple: +1 for every correct answer and no negative marking for wrong or unanswered questions. The estimated time available works out to about 1.33 minutes per question based on paper length and duration.
KCET OMR and exam-day rules
KEA uses OMR answer sheets. Follow these rules exactly:
- Use only black or blue ballpoint pens to shade circles; gel pens and pencils are not allowed.
- Shade one circle per question; multiple shades for the same question score zero.
- Fill header details (name, hall ticket number, version code) carefully in the first 10 minutes.
- Affix thumb impression under invigilator supervision and sign where required.
- Carry a printed KCET hall ticket and an original ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID or PAN). Bring two black/blue ballpoint pens.
- Reach the exam centre 45–60 minutes before the scheduled time for security checks.
Quick exam-day facts and high-yield notes
- Mediums: English and Kannada .
- Each main paper duration: 80 minutes .
- Physics and Chemistry: mandatory for all candidates.
- Choose either Mathematics or Biology as the third paper.
Subject weightages and high-yield areas (from recent patterns): Calculus carries heavy weight in Mathematics (around 15–18 questions ), Biology units like Genetics and Human Physiology often contribute 10–12 questions , and Physics units such as Current Electricity and Optics can yield 30–35 marks collectively.
What KEA has not published yet
KEA has not released official timelines for results, answer keys, objection windows, counselling or cutoffs. Check KEA notices on the day of result for those updates.
FAQs
Is the Kannada Language Test mandatory for all?
No. It is mandatory only for Horanadu and Gadinadu Kannadiga candidates.
What is the marking scheme for KCET 2026?
Each correct answer earns +1 mark . There is no negative marking for wrong or unanswered questions.
How long is each subject paper?
Each main paper is 80 minutes long.
What mediums are available for the KCET papers?
Papers are available in English and Kannada .
What should I use to fill the OMR sheet?
Use only black or blue ballpoint pens . Do not use gel pens or pencils.
Do I have to bring my hall ticket and ID?
Yes. Carry a printed KCET hall ticket and an original photo ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, PAN).
How early should I reach the exam centre?
Plan to arrive 45–60 minutes before the exam to clear security and seating.
Are Physics and Chemistry compulsory?
Yes. Physics and Chemistry papers are mandatory for all KCET candidates.