KEAM 2026 exam analysis: Paper pattern, timings, marking, what to carry and day-one highlights for engineering and pharmacy aspirants

KEAM 2026 exam analysis: Engineering papers ran April 17–22 (2 PM–5 PM) and Pharmacy April 18–20 (10 AM–11:30 AM). Find question splits, marking rules, arrival rules and what you must carry on exam day.

Edited by Pooja Reddy

Updated April 18, 2026 12:51 PM

    KEAM 2026 exam analysis: Day 1 paper facts and exam-day rules

    KEAM 2026 engineering exam was conducted April 17 to 22, 2026 , with Day 1 held on April 17, 2026 . This KEAM 2026 exam analysis lists the paper pattern, timings and the strict exam-day rules you must follow.

    KEAM 2026 exam analysis — paper pattern & timing

    Key schedule and duration:

    Event Date & time
    Engineering exam window April 17 to 22, 2026 (daily 2 PM – 5 PM )
    Pharmacy exam window April 18 to 20, 2026 ( 10 AM – 11:30 AM )

    Question paper and marks:

    Paper Questions Subject split Total weightage
    Engineering 150 Math 75 , Physics 45 , Chemistry 30 600 marks
    Pharmacy (B.Pharm) 75 Physics 45 , Chemistry 30 300 marks

    Marking scheme: +4 for correct, -1 for incorrect, 0 for unattempted. Multiple bubbles or selections are penalised by 1 mark .

    The exam is an online computer-based test (CBT). Questions are multiple-choice (MCQs). A 15-minute mock familiarisation session runs before the test and a virtual keyboard is provided during the exam.

    KEAM 2026 exam analysis — what to carry and rules

    You must carry a printed KEAM 2026 admit card and an original valid photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, passport or driving licence). Bring one recent passport-sized photograph.

    Allowed and banned items are strict. Carry a simple transparent ballpoint pen and a transparent, unlabeled water bottle. Mobile phones, calculators, smartwatches, earphones and personal rough sheets are prohibited.

    Arrive at the centre at least one hour before the exam start. Before entry your thumb impression and photograph will be captured. The invigilator will give rough sheets; write your name and roll number on them and return them before leaving.

    Dress simply. Avoid heavy ornaments, flashy accessories and, for females, avoid mehendi or ink on hands as biometric verification will be done.

    Quick exam-day checklist

    • Print admit card, carry original ID and a passport photo.
    • Reach centre at least 60 minutes early; gates close on time.
    • Use the 15-minute mock session to familiarise with the CBT interface and virtual keyboard.

    FAQs

    What is the duration of the KEAM 2026 engineering exam? A: 3 hours ; scheduled 2 PM to 5 PM .
    How long is the KEAM 2026 pharmacy paper? A: 1.5 hours ; scheduled 10 AM to 11:30 AM .
    How many questions are in the engineering paper? A: 150 questions (Math 75, Physics 45, Chemistry 30).
    What is the marking scheme? A: +4 correct, -1 incorrect, 0 unattempted; multiple selections penalised by 1 mark.
    Are calculators allowed? A: No. Calculators are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall.
    Will biometric data be taken at the centre? A: Yes. Thumb impression and a photograph will be captured before entry.

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