KCET 2026 exam for over 3.15 lakh BTech, BPharm aspirants begins today

The Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) will hold the Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) 2026 for Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology subjects today. More than 3.15 lakh candidates are appearing for the pen-and-paper KCET 2026 exam for admission to engineering, agriculture, and pharmacy programmes at government and private universities across the Karnataka state.

The college entrance test KCET 2026 will be held today and tomorrow in dual shifts. The morning shift will be conducted from 10:30 am to 11:50 am for Physics subject, while the afternoon session will take place from 2:30 pm to 3:50 pm for Chemistry subject.

KCET 2026 Exam Pattern

The OMR-based KCET 2026 exam for Mathematics and Biology papers will be held tomorrow in morning and afternoon shifts, respectively. The exam question paper will carry a total of 60 marks. Notably, there will not be any negative marking.

What should we carry for KCET exam?

Candidates must carry their KCET hall ticket and a government-issued ID at the exam centres for verification purposes.

The KEA has listed several prohibited items that candidates cannot carry into the exam centre. These include study materials such as notes, books, calculators, and electronic pens, as well as communication devices like mobile phones, Bluetooth gadgets, earphones, and microphones. Items such as watches, wallets, bags, goggles, belts, and caps are also banned.

Additionally, food items, water bottles, and any concealed electronic devices like microchips or cameras are strictly not allowed. Candidates should note that there is no facility available at the exam centres to store these belongings.

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Dress code for KCET exam 2026

Candidates appearing for the KCET 2026 exam must follow a strict dress code at the examination centre. They are not allowed to wear full-sleeve clothing, and outfits covering the head, face, or ears are prohibited.

However, those wearing religious attire can report two hours before the exam (8:30 AM or 12:30 PM) for separate verification. Jewellery or any metallic items, except a mangalsutra, are not permitted. Candidates are advised to wear slippers or low-heeled sandals, as shoes are not allowed inside the exam hall.