Karnataka PGCET Exam 2026: Exam Dates, Eligibility, Application Form, Exam Pattern, Admit Card, Syllabus, Result, Counselling

The Karnataka Post Graduate Common Entrance Test (Karnataka PGCET) is a state-level common entrance test for admission into MBA/MCA/M.Tech/M.E./M. Arch courses in Karnataka are conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA). The PGCET 2025 result is expected by July or August 2025. The official notification for PGCET 2026 is expected to be released in April 2026, with the application window likely from late April to mid-May 2026.

The Karnataka PGCET is the offline mode of examination with 100 questions, all multiple-choice, with no negative markings. The number of students appearing for the PGCET 2026 exam for MBA and other PG courses is over 40,000. The MBA papers consist of Quant, Reasoning, English, GK, and Computer Awareness, while the M.Tech/M.E. tests consist of technical subjects.

The answer key is released within one week of the date of the exam, and the results are expected in July-August. Many colleges in Karnataka accept PGCET scores. Admissions are done on the basis of rank, course preference, and reservation rules. Knowing the trends will help predict cutoffs and plan for counselling.

Karnataka PGCET: Quick Highlights

The table below highlights some of the key points of Karnataka PGCET.

Karnataka PGCET Admit Card 2026

The Karnataka PGCET admit card 2026 is an essential document required for sitting in the exam. It has details such as exam date, time, centre, and candidate details. Candidate can download their admit card from their official website once it is released by KEA, by following the steps indicated below.

• Log on to the KEA site: kea.kar.nic.in 
• Click on ‘Hall Ticket Download Link’.
• Enter your Application Number and Date of Birth (DOB).
• Click on “Submit”.
• Your Karnataka PGCET Admit Card will be displayed on the screen.
• Cross-check each detail on the admit card for any discrepancies.
• Download and save a printout of the admit card for the exam day.

The Karnataka PGCET 2026 syllabus varies from course to course, that is, MBA, MCA, or M.Arch. Each course has different subject areas to test the candidate’s knowledge and skills in that field. A general list of important syllabus topics is given below to help candidates prepare accordingly.

Karnataka PGCET Eligibility Criteria 2026

The Karnataka PGCET 2026 eligibility criteria vary depending on the courses, like MBA, MCA, M.E., M.Tech, or M.Arch. To help candidates clearly understand the specific requirements, including academic qualifications, minimum marks, and category-based relaxations, a detailed course-wise eligibility table is provided below.

Karnataka PGCET Application/Registration Process 2026

For the Karnataka PGCET 2026 registration process, candidates must register online on the official website. Fill in your personal and academic details, upload the required documents, pay the fee, and submit the form. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you complete the application on time.

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

• Go to: cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/

Step 2: Registration

• Click on the Link for PGCET 2026 Registration.
• Enter some basic details:

1. Name, Gender, Date of Birth
2. Mobile Number, Email ID
3. Academic Qualification
4. Exam Centre Preference
5. Submit to generate your User ID and Password.

Step 3: Application Number Generation

• Once you submit your registration details, you should receive:
• Application Number (via SMS/email)
• You must then use the User ID & Password to log in & Continue.

Step 4: Fill Application Form

Log in and enter:

• Educational qualifications
• Category details (if applicable)
• Course preference (MBA/MCA/M.Tech/etc.)

Step 5: Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies as specified:

• Passport-size Photograph
• Signature

Step 6: Pay Application Fee

• Download the E-challan or pay via the online payment gateway. 

Step 7: Final Submission & Printout

• Submit the completed form.
• Download and print a copy of the filled application form.
• Paste a recent passport-size photo (if required) and keep it for counselling/admit card verification.

Application  Fees 2026

Candidates who want to appear for Karnataka PGCET 2025 must pay a non-refundable fee based on their category. The fee can be paid online or through an e-challan during registration. The application fee details are given below.

Karnataka PGCET  Exam Pattern 2026

The 2026 Karnataka PGCET examination pattern is set differently for the various courses in order to assess the candidates in their specialised area of knowledge. It is always in offline mode, and multiple-choice questions are given. The duration of the examination usually ranges around 120 to 150 minutes, depending on the program. The table below shows course-wise detailed exam patterns. 

Karnataka PGCET  Previous Years' Question Papers

Practising Karnataka PGCET previous years' question papers helps candidates understand the exam pattern, question types, and difficulty level while improving time management and accuracy. It is a useful tool for self-assessment and focused preparation. You can check the papers below.

Karnataka PGCET Preparation Tips 2026

Preparing effectively for the Karnataka PGCET 2026 requires a structured approach, time discipline, and the right resources. With a clear understanding of the syllabus and regular practice, candidates can increase their chances of scoring well. Below are some key preparation tips to help you score well in Karnatak PGCET 2025 exam:

• Understand the syllabus and exam pattern – Focus on sections like Quantitative Ability, Logical Reasoning, General Awareness, and English.
• Create a study plan – Set daily targets, schedule revision time, and keep buffer days for full-length practice tests.
• Solve previous year papers and take mock tests – These help in understanding question trends and improving time management.
• Work on weak areas – Identify topics you struggle with and allocate extra time to strengthen them.
• Manage your time efficiently – Practice solving complete papers within the allotted time to build exam stamina.
• Use reliable study material – Stick to one or two trusted books and one quality online source; avoid unnecessary materials.
• Take care of your health – Get enough sleep, eat well, and avoid overexerting yourself before the exam.

Exam Day Guidelines And Dress Code

Below are a few guidelines that are provided for candidates appearing in the Karnataka PGCET 2025 exam. It is vital to follow the start time, documents required, dress code, and items that are not allowed inside. 

• Reach the centre at least 1 hour early to avoid last-minute stress.
• Carry your admit card and a valid photo ID (Aadhar card, PAN, DL, etc.).
• Only black or blue ballpoint pens are allowed to fill OMR sheets.
• Dress Code:

1. Prefer light-colored, plain clothes.
2. Avoid clothes with large buttons, metallic prints, or scarves.
3. Wear open sandals or slippers (if strict frisking is followed).
4. Electronic gadgets like mobile phones, calculators, smartwatches, and Bluetooth devices are not allowed.
5. Avoid using caps, hoodies, sunglasses, or heavy accessories.

Things to Avoid During the Exam

To maintain fairness and discipline during Karnataka PGCET 2025, candidates must avoid certain conduct that could lead to disqualification or interfere with their performance. Below are some important things to avoid on exam day for a smooth, successful experience.

• Do not bring in banned items like electronic gadgets, chits, books, or calculators.
• Avoid wearing prohibited clothes or accessories that could hinder security checks.
• Do not panic and rush through the questions; keep a wise track of time.
• Don't cram at the very last minute because it can easily confuse you instead of helping.
• Don't argue with the invigilators or break exam rules-they could lead to disqualification.

Karnataka PGCET  Answer Key 2026

After the Karnataka PGCET exam is held for MBA, MCA, M.Tech, and other courses, the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) releases the provisional answer key on its official website. You can download it as a PDF without logging in. If you find any mistakes, you can submit objections online with proof. Once all objections are reviewed, the final answer key is published along with the results.

Karnataka PGCET Result 2026

The Karnataka Examination Authority will announce the Karnataka PGCET 2026 result online. Candidates can check the scores on the Karnataka PGCET official website by entering their credentials. The result is made available in the form of a scorecard that is needed later for counselling and admission. The detailed procedure to check the result is as follows.

Karnataka PGCET Counselling 2026

After the Karnataka PGCET 2026 results are announced, all qualified candidates must attend the KEA counselling to get admission into MBA, MCA, M.Tech, or M.Arch programs. The counselling process includes several steps such as registration, document verification, seat allotment, and reporting to the college. Below is a quick look at the counselling stages and the essential documents needed for verification.

Karnataka PGCET 2026 Counselling Stages

• Complete online registration on the KEA portal.
• Attend document verification at the designated centre.
• Fill in college and course preferences through option entry.
• Participate in seat allotment based on merit and preferences.
• Pay the admission fee after seat allotment.
• Download the admission letter from the portal.
• Report to the allotted college within the given timeline.

Colleges Accepting Karnataka PGCET Score 2026

The result of Karnataka PGCET 2026 is accepted for admission to MBA, MCA, M.Tech, and many other courses by various government, private, and deemed universities of Karnataka. These colleges provide good quality education, good industry exposure, and very good placement opportunities. Hence, here is a list of top institutions from across Karnataka where admission is through PGCET 2026 merit.

Candidates should keep an eye on the important dates related to the application, exam, result, and counselling to ensure that the process of admission into the various courses of MBA, MCA, M.Tech, M.E., and M.Arch is smooth. Below is the tentative schedule for Karnataka PGCET 2026.

The Karnataka PGCET cutoff indicates the lowest rank for securing entrance to the top colleges in MBA, MCA, and M.Tech (CSE) programs. These ranks vary from year to year depending on the difficulty of the exam, the number of applicants, and the availability of seats. Below is a complete list of 2024 cutoff ranks for top colleges in Karnataka, which will be of great help to candidates estimating their chances of admission and setting expectations for the PGCET 2026. 

Karnataka PGCET Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who conducts Karnataka PGCET?

Karnataka PGCET is administered by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA).

2. For what courses does Karnataka PGCET work?

This exam offers admission to MBA, MCA, M.E., M.Tech., and M.Arch. courses.

3. Is there any negative marking in Karnataka PGCET?

No, Karnataka PGCET does not allow negative marking for wrong answers.

4. Can students from other states apply for Karnataka PGCET?

Yes, though only Karnataka-domiciled candidates are eligible for the seats under the government quota. The others can apply for the management quota, subject to availability.