KEAM 2026: Day 1 Engineering Exam Held on April 17, 2026
KEAM 2026 day 1 for engineering was held on April 17, 2026 , with the paper running from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM . Candidates were required to report to centres by 12:00 PM as per admit card instructions.
KEAM 2026 exam pattern and marking
The engineering test was conducted as a single Computer-Based Test (CBT). The paper had 150 MCQs , to be answered in 180 minutes , with a total of 600 marks .
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 75 | 300 |
| Physics | 45 | 180 |
| Chemistry | 30 | 120 |
Each correct answer carries +4 marks and each wrong answer has -1 mark .
Key dates and result deadline
- Engineering exam day 1: April 17, 2026
- Engineering exam days: April 17–22, 2026
- Pharmacy exams: April 18–20, 2026
- Admit card release: April 8, 2026
- Answer keys (provisional): Released after exams in April 2026
- KEAM result (CEE): To be released on or before May 10, 2026
These dates and the result deadline are per the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations (CEE).
What to carry and exam hall rules
You must bring the printed KEAM 2026 admit card and one valid photo ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Driving Licence, PAN, Passport). Electronic devices including mobile phones, smart watches and calculators are strictly prohibited in the exam hall.
Parents are not allowed inside the exam building; they should drop candidates and leave the premises. Rough sheets are provided at the centre — you must write your name and roll number on them, sign, and return them at the end.
Answer keys and challenge process
CEE will upload provisional answer keys and candidate response sheets after the exams. If you find an error, you can challenge the answer key via the candidate portal. The challenge fee is INR 200 per question ; paid challenges accepted within the deadline. Valid challenges may get refunds to the bank account you gave in the application.
Qualifying score and rank list
To appear in the engineering rank list you must secure a minimum normalised score of 10 in the engineering exam. SC/ST candidates are exempt from this minimum score requirement. There will be no re-examination for absentees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there negative marking in KEAM?
Yes. Each wrong answer attracts -1 mark.
How many marks for a correct answer?
Each correct answer gives +4 marks.
What is the KEAM engineering exam pattern?
One CBT paper with Maths (75), Physics (45), Chemistry (30) — total 150 MCQs , 180 minutes .
Can I get a re-exam if I miss the KEAM test?
No. CEE will not conduct re-examination for absentees.
How do I challenge the KEAM answer key?
Use the candidate portal, submit details and pay INR 200 per question before the deadline.
When will provisional answer keys and response sheets be released?
Provisional answer keys and response sheets will be uploaded after the exams in April 2026 .
What time should I report for the 2 PM shift?
Report to the centre by 12:00 PM for the 2 PM shift as printed on your admit card.
Are rough sheets provided at the centre?
Yes. You must sign and return the rough sheet at the end of the exam.