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The Karnataka PGCET exam for MBA and MCA is scheduled on 14th May, 2026, and M.E/M.Tech on 23rd May, 2026. The Karnataka PGCET Registration 2026 is yet to open. It is expected to start in April 2026. Karnataka PGCET 2026 notification will be released soon on the KEA official website: cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea.
The Karnataka PGCET 2026 exam has 100 MCQ-type questions. You need to answer all the questions for the PGCET exam within 120 minutes. There are 5 sections, each with 20 marks, which are Computer Awareness, Proficiency in English Language, General Knowledge, Reasoning and General Intelligence and Quantitative Analysis.
- Candidates with a bachelor's degree are eligible for the Karnataka PGCET 2026.
- Students with Karnataka state domicile and All India category candidates can appear in the Karnataka MBA PGCET 2026 entrance exam.
- Non-Karnataka candidates are eligible to select ONLY the seats surrendered by the management, if any, for admission to MBA / MCA courses.
- Last year, the Karnataka PGCET received a total of 52020 applications for MBA and MCA.
- There were 18,738 applications for MCA and 33,282 applications for MBA.
Karnataka PGCET 2026 exam provides admission into PG courses offered by more than 170 institutes in Karnataka.
Also Check:
- Karnataka PGCET 2026 Registration to Start Soon: Check Required Details Here
- KEA Announces KCET & PGCET 2026 Exam Dates; Check Schedule Here!
What is the Karnataka PGCET Exam 2026?
The Karnataka Post Graduate Common Entrance Test (PGCET) 2026 is a state-level entrance exam conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA).
- The Karnataka PGCET 2026 is used for admission into postgraduate courses like MBA, MCA, M.E., M.Tech, and M.Arch in colleges across Karnataka.
- The PGCET 2026 exam is a 100-mark, offline (pen-and-paper) test
- The Karnataka PGCET 2026 covers subjects like Quantitative Analysis, Reasoning, and General Knowledge.
The video by “Rio Classes” explains the details about the Karnataka PGCET 2026 exam.
What is Karnataka PGCET 2026 Exam Dates?
Last year, the Karnataka PGCET was held on June 22, 2025, for MBA and MCA courses, and May 31, 2025, for M.E./M.Tech/M.Arch courses. This year, both exams are in the month of May. You can check the complete schedule of the Karnataka PGCET Exam Date 2026 here.
| Dates | Upcoming Exam Dates |
|---|---|
| Apr ' 26 | Karnataka PGCET Registration |
| 14 May ' 26 | Karnataka PGCET exam date (MBA/MCA) |
| 23 May ' 26 | Karnataka PGCET exam date (ME/MTech) |
| May ' 26 | Karnataka PGCET admit card download (MBA/MCA) |
| Jun ' 26 | Release of Karnataka PGCET Provisional Answer Key |
| Aug ' 26 | Release of Karnataka PGCET Result |
Source: Official Website
Karnataka PGCET 2026 Registration
Karantaka PGCET 2026 application form has not been released yet. Last year, the Karnataka PGCET registration started on April 25, 2025. Before Filling Application, Please be ready with the following Certificates:
- SSLC / 10th MARKS CARD to Enter Register Number and Date of Birth.
- 12th / 2nd PUC MARKS CARD ( In case of Previous year students).
- All the Reservation Certificates to enter RD Number /Caste (Category, Income, Hyderabad-Karnataka(HK) Certificates), whichever if you want to claim.
- Details of the study in Karnataka.
- Degree Marks Card
- Degree Completion Certificate
- Candidate Latest Passport size photograph in .jpg format (Max 50 KB Size)
- Candidate Signature in .jpg format (Max 50 KB Size).
- Candidate Left hand thumb in .jpg format (Max 50 KB Size).
Karnataka PGCET Registration Statistics
In 2024, Karnataka PGCET saw the highest number of students appearing, which was almost 70,000. Last year, the number was reduced to 52,020. This year, we can expect more than 60,000 students registering for Karnataka PGCET.
| Year | Total Registration | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 52,020 | MBA Applicants: ~33,282.MCA Applicants: ~18,738. |
| 2024 | 69,500 | MBA: 47,436 MCA: 19,000+ MTech/ME Applicants: 7,000+ |
| 2023 | 34,782 | - |
| 2022 | 60,000 | - |
| 2021 | 55,000 | - |
Ques: How to apply for PGCET exam 2026?
Ans: To apply for Karnataka PGCET 2026, you must visit the respective official website cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea and register as a new user. Then, you need to fill the application form with required details, upload documents (photo, signature, etc.), pay the fee (online), and submit the form. Once submitted, you can download the confirmation for your records.
Ques: What is the website for Pgcet application?
Ans: To register for KEA PGCET exam 2026, candidates must fill Karnataka PGCET application form 2026 on KEA official website (cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea)
Ques: When to apply for PGCET?
Ans: KEA will release the Karnataka PGCET 2026 application form somewhere in April or May. Last year, the Karnataka PGCET registration started on April 25, 2025. The registration form will be available on the PGCET official website. Eligible applicants must complete the KPGCET 2026 registration before the second week of July 2026.
Karnataka PGCET 2026 Documents Specifications
You will be required to submit multiple documents during Karnataka PGCET registration. These documents will have specific guidelines that need to be followed:
| Documents | Format | Dimensions | Specifications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Signature | JPG/JPEG | File Size: 5KB to 40KBFile Dimension: 3.5 cm × 1.5 cm | Signatures should be written in black or blue ink on plain white paper. |
| Photograph | JPG/JPEG | File Size: 5KB to 40KBFile Dimension: 3.5 cm × 4.5 cm | The photo should be recent, not very old, and it should be colorful. |
| Left thumb impression | JPG/JPEG | File Size: 5KB to 40KBFile Dimension: 3.5 cm × 1.5 cm | The thumb impression should be made with black or blue ink. It should not be blurry. |
Karnataka PGCET 2026 Application Fees
Application fees for different categories of students for the exam are given below:
| Categories | Application Fees |
|---|---|
| General and OBC | INR 650 |
| SC/ST/Category I | INR 500 |
Karnataka PGCET 2026 Exemption of Fees
If you are a resident of Karnataka, you will be exempt from the fees. This depends on the annual income of the family. The eligibility for Karnataka PGCET fee exemption is:
| Category | Payment of Fees |
|---|---|
| Annual Income above ₹2.5 Lakhs but below ₹10.00 Lakhs | Students falling under this category are exempted from paying 50% of fees in Government / Aided / Unaided / Deemed University Colleges. |
| Annual Income below ₹2.50 Lakhs | Students falling under this category are exempted from paying 100% of fees in Government College seats and to the extent of Government College fees in Private / Deemed University Colleges. |
Also Read:
Karnataka PGCET Reservation 2026: Categories, Eligibility, Documents, Seats & More
Karnataka PGCET 2026 Eligibility Criteria
For most of the exams, you must require atleast 50% in the previous qualifying exam. The detailed eligibility is provided subject wise. The eligibility for the MBA, MCA, M.E., M.Tech, and M.Arch. is as follows:
| Course Type | Details |
|---|---|
| MBA |
|
| MCA |
|
| M.E, M.Tech, M.Arch |
|
Ques: Who can apply for Karnataka PGCET?
Ans: You can apply for Karnataka PGCET if you have done your graduation in any discipline from a recognised university or institution. In order to be eligible for Karnataka PGCET MBA 2026, candidates should score at least 50% marks and (45% for the reserved category) in a 3-year bachelor's degree.
Ques: Can I join an MBA in Karnataka without PGCET?
Ans: Yes, you can join an MBA program in Karnataka without the PGCET exam, particularly through direct admission in many private, autonomous, and deemed universities. These institutions often accept other national-level exams (CAT, MAT, CMAT, KMAT) or base admission on graduation marks (typically 50%+) and direct applications.
Ques: How many times can I take karnataka PGCET?
Ans: You can take the Karnataka PGCET exam multiple times in different years, as there is no specific limit on the number of attempts. However, the exam is conducted only once per year, and the rank obtained is valid only for the academic year in which you appear.
Karnataka PGCET 2026 Syllabus
The following table outlines the syllabus for MBA, MCA, and M.E. / M.Tech. / M.Arch. papers:
M.E. / M.Tech / M.Arch. Syllabus
| Courses | Syllabus |
|---|---|
| Civil Engineering | Download Here |
| Chemical Engineering | Download Here |
| Computer Science Engineering | Download Here |
| Environmental Engineering | Download Here |
| Textile Technology | Download Here |
| Polymer Science and Technology | Download Here |
| Architecture | Download Here |
| Biotechnology | Download Here |
| Electrical Science | Part A: Download Here Part B: Download Here |
| Mechanical Science | Part A: Download Here Part B: Download Here |
Karnataka PGCET Syllabus 2026: Weightage
Karnataka PGCET 2025 comprises five sections with equal weightage to all. The Karnataka PGCET question paper will have questions from the sections below.
| Sections | Number of Questions and Marks |
|---|---|
| Computer Awareness | 20 |
| Proficiency in the English Language | 20 |
| General Knowledge | 20 |
| Test of Reasoning and General Intelligence | 20 |
| Quantitative Analysis | 20 |
| Total | 100 |
Check: Karnataka PGCET Exam Pattern, Syllabus, Marking Scheme, and Important Topics
Karnataka PGCET 2026 Marks Vs Ranks
Karnataka Post Graduate Common Entrance Test marks vs ranks is determined based on the previous year's obtained scores. If you score above 95, you are expected to remain in the top 100 students. Detailed analysis of the marks vs ranks is given below:
| Marks | Expected Rank 2025 |
|---|---|
| 95-100 | Between 1 and 100 |
| 90-94 | Between 101 and 500 |
| 80-89 | Between 501 and 1000 |
| 70-79 | Between 1001 and 1400 |
| 60-69 | Between 1401 and 2000 |
| 50-59 | Between 2001 and 7000 |
| 40-49 | Between 7001 and 15000 |
| 30-39 | 15000+ |
Also Read:
Top MBA Colleges Accepting Karnataka PGCET 2026
We have provided a list of colleges with their cutoff rank, fees and average placements. You can also check the List of Top Colleges in India Accepting Karnataka PGCET here.
| College Name (Location) | PGCET Rank (General Cat.) | Tuition Fees (2 Years) | Avg. Placement (LPA) |
|---|---|---|---|
| RV Institute of Management (Bangalore) | 70 – 300 | INR 3.91 – 11.3 Lakh | INR 6.80 |
| PES University (Bangalore) | 200 – 600 | INR 10.50 – 14 Lakh | INR 11.05 |
| M S Ramaiah Inst. of Tech (Bangalore) | 300 – 600 | INR 1.17 – 6.8 Lakh | INR 7.50 |
| BMS College of Engineering (Bangalore) | 350 – 700 | INR 1.17 – 9 Lakh | INR 7.00 |
| Bangalore University (CBSMS) | 400 – 900 | INR 58,000 – 60,000 | INR 5.50 |
| Dayananda Sagar University (Bangalore) | 450 – 1500 | INR 9.50 – 12 Lakh | INR 6.50 |
| Kristu Jayanti College (Bangalore) | 1500 – 2500 | INR 8.50 – 9 Lakh | INR 7.10 |
| Presidency College (Bangalore) | 3000 – 5000 | INR 6.00 – 8 Lakh | INR 6.20 |
| Acharya AIMS (Bangalore) | 5000 – 8000 | INR 1.10 – 1.3 Lakh | INR 5.00 |
Ques: Does IIM accept PGCET?
Ans: Yes, IIMs does accept PGCET scores. Students can take admission in MBA programs at IIMS Bangalore based on Karnataka-PGCET score. As per IIMS Bangalore Karnataka-PGCET Cutoff, the overall cutoff for MBA programs in Round 2 is 13957 - 27168 across all categories.
Ques: What is the rank for 40 marks in PGCET MBA?
Ans: Analysis of Karnataka PGCET 2025 Score Vs Rank
| Karnataka PGCET Marks Vs Rank | |
|---|---|
| Score | Rank |
| 50 to 59 | 2001-7000 |
| 40 to 49 | 7001-15000 |
| 30 to 39 | Above 15000 |
Karnataka PGCET Exam Centres 2026
Karnataka PGCET 2026 exam centers are primarily located within Karnataka, including major cities like Bangalore, Belgaum, Bellary, Dharwad, Mangalore, Mysore, Udupi, Hubli, and Kalaburgi (Gulbarga).
| Exam Centres 2026 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Bagalkot | Bangalore | Belgaum | Bellary |
| Bidar | Bijapur | Chamarajnagar | Chikkaballapur |
| Chikmagalur | Chitradurga | Davangere | Dharwad |
| Gadag | Gulbarga | Hassan | Haveri |
| Kodagu | Kolar | Koppal | Mandya |
| Mangalore | Mysore | Shimoga | Raichur |
| Ramanagara | Tumkur | Udupi | Uttara |
| Kannada | Yadgir | ||
Karnataka PGCET 2026 Cutoff
The Cutoff scores for the 2026 entrance examination will be released after the results are released. You can check the expected Karnataka PGCET cutoff of top participating colleges accepting the Karnataka Post Graduate Common Entrance Test score:
| Colleges | Expected Cutoff |
|---|---|
| CMR Center For Business Studies | 6200-7200 |
| BNM Institute of Technology | 3000-5500 |
| Kristu Jayanti College of Management and Technology | 2700-4000 |
| KLE Society's Institute of Management Studies and Research | 2700-4000 |
| SDM College of Engineering and Technology | 6000-6500 |
| Reva University | 2900-4900 |
| JSS Science and Technology University | 1900-2500 |
| New Horizon College of Engineering | 2900-4300 |
| Vidyavardhaka College of Engineering | 4900-5500 |
| Christ Academy Institute for Advanced Studies | 2300-3200 |
Karnataka PGCET Cutoff for Top MBA Colleges
Check the below-mentioned previous year’s cutoff for the top MBA colleges accepting Karnataka Post Graduate Common Entrance Test scores:
| Colleges | Cutoff |
|---|---|
| Acharya Institute Of Management and Sciences, Peenya | 2714 |
| Acharya Institute of Technology, Soldevanahalli | 4285 |
| KLE Technological University | 2087 |
| BNM Institute of Technology | 2309 |
| Acharyas Bangalore Business School | 2684 |
| CMR Institute of Technology | 3326 |
| Dr Ambedkar Institute of Technology | 3693 |
| SDM College of Engineering and Technology | 4672 |
| NITTE Meenakshi Institute of Technology | 3012 |
| JSS Science and Technology University | 2168 |
Karnataka PGCET Cutoff for Top MCA Colleges
The previous year’s Cutoff for Karnataka PGCET of the top MCA colleges are tabulated below:
| Colleges | Cutoff |
|---|---|
| Angadi Institute of Technology and Management | 4625 |
| Krupanidhi Group of Institutions | 3815 |
| Presidency College | 2172 |
| East West College of Management | 3697 |
| R S College of Management and Science | 5819 |
| Rajarajeswari College of Engineering | 2514 |
| Community Institute of Management Studies | 4788 |
| St. Agnes College | 5165 |
| SEA College of Science, Commerce, and Arts | 5551 |
| SECAB Institute of Engineering and Technology | 9403 |
Karnataka PGCET Question Papers: Previous Years
We have provided the Karnataka PGCET question paper for 2025 below. You can also check Karnataka PGCET Question Papers Pdf with Solutions (2024-2010) here.
| Paper Name | Question Paper | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Karnataka PGCET 2025 MCA Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| Karnataka PGCET 2025 MBA Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
| Karnataka PGCET 2025 M.E/M.Tech Question Paper | Download PDF | Check Solutions |
Karnataka PGCET FAQs
Ques: What are the changes in Karnataka PGCET 2026?
Ans: There are no changes as of now in the Karnataka PGCET 2026 exam.
- The Karnataka PGCET exam for MBA/MCA is expected to maintain its structure with 100 MCQs in 120 minutes
- The exam remains offline (OMR-based) with no negative marking.
- The five-section syllabus (Computer Awareness, Reasoning, Quant, English, GK) is maintained..
Ques: What domicile or residency requirements must a student meet for Karnataka PGCET 2026 eligibility?
Ans: To claim Karnataka reservation benefits in Karnataka PGCET 2026, the candidate must be
- A Karnataka-domiciled student as per KEA rules.
- Must have studied for a minimum number of years in Karnataka (usually 7 years) or have parents domiciled in Karnataka.
- Relevant study certificates or domicile certificates must be submitted during document verification.
- Non-Karnataka candidates may apply, but reservation benefits are generally available only to Karnataka candidates.
Ques: When will Karnataka PGCET 2026 registration start?
Ans: The Karnataka PGCET 2026 registration is expected to begin in May 2026.
Candidates must apply online through the official KEA website. The application form, fee payment, and document upload must be completed before the deadline.
Ques: Can diploma holders apply for Karnataka PGCET 2026 and what are the age or attempt limits?
Ans: Yes, diploma holders can apply for Karnataka PGCET 2026 only if they have completed a recognized bachelor’s degree through lateral entry (such as B.E./B.Tech).
- A standalone diploma is not sufficient for M.Tech eligibility.
- There is no upper age limit for Karnataka PGCET.
- There is no restriction on the number of attempts.
Ques: Is Karnataka PGCET 2026 compulsory for MBA admission in Karnataka?
Ans: Yes, Karnataka PGCET is mandatory for candidates seeking admission under the state quota in Karnataka colleges.
However, candidates with valid national-level scores like CAT, MAT, or CMAT may also be eligible for MBA admission, depending on college policies.
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You can check here for the Karnataka PGCET Question Papers- Download Previous Year Question Paper Pdf with Solutions (2024-2010). Also, to download official past Karnataka PGCET Electrical Engineering question papers, visit the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) official website at cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea and look for the “Previous Year Question Papers / Sample Papers” section. The site publishes past PDFs for different streams, including M.Tech Electrical Sciences, which you can download.
You can download Karnataka PGCET (Post Graduate Common Entrance Test) M.Pharm question papers from the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) websites, such as cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea or the main KEA portal kea.kar.nic.in
To download official sample question papers for the Karnataka Post Graduate Common Entrance Test (PGCET) in Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) for M.Tech preparation, follow these steps:
If sample papers are not directly available, you can refer to previous years' question papers, which are often used as practice material. These can be found on the KEA website or other educational portals.
In the 2025 Karnataka PGCET MCA exam, approximately 18,738 candidates registered specifically for the MCA entrance test, and roughly the same number (about 18,700+) actually appeared for the exam conducted on June 22, 2025, by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA).
PGCET (Post Graduate Common Entrance Test) is an entrance exam for admission into postgraduate courses like MBA, MCA, M.Tech, M.Arch, and M.Pharm in many universities and colleges. Eligibility requires a relevant bachelor’s degree with minimum marks. Admission is based on PGCET score, counselling, and seat allotment.
You can check here for the Karnataka PGCET Question Papers- Download Previous Year Question Paper Pdf with Solutions
Preparing for the Karnataka PGCET requires a strategic approach. Here are some essential tips to help you excel in the exam:
Understand the Syllabus:
Know the Exam Pattern:
Create a Study Plan:
Refer to Relevant Study Material:
Practice Mock Tests:
Improve Logical Ability:
Prepare Short Notes:
Remember, consistent effort and a positive mindset are crucial for success in the Karnataka PGCET.
Karnataka PGCET 2024 exam is scheduled to be conducted in the second week of September 2024. The online application form will be made available by first week of August 2024 and must be submitted by the third week of August 2024. An OMR sheet is used to administer the exam offline.
Candidates must meet the minimum aggregate mark requirement of 50% in order to be eligible for the Karnataka PGCET exam. Students in the reserved group must have a minimum of 45% overall. Aspirants who wish to enrol part-time must be employed for at least three years.
Candidates who meet the requirements will be accepted into government and private colleges to pursue programmes including M.Tech, ME, MBA, MCA, and M.Arch.
Karnata PGCET will be administered in the second week of September 2024. The first week of August 2024 will mark the availability of the online application form for the Karnataka PGCET entrance exam.The third week of August 2024 is the deadline for submitting the Karnataka PGCET online application.
Yes, students from outside of Karnataka are allowed to take the Karnataka PGCET MCA entrance exam. They are only able to choose seats that the management has given up for MCA admission, if any.
These are some alternatives that you can consider:
Please be aware that the requirements for eligibility and the application process vary for each award. To ensure you get the most recent and accurate information, it's a good idea to visit the official websites or get in touch with the scholarship authorities.
The online application form for the Karnataka PGCET M.Tech entrance exam was available from the first week of August 2024. The application form must have been submitted by the third week of August 2024.
Here are a few entrance exams for M.Sc. in Allied Health Sciences:
Note that the particular requirements may change according on the course and the year; these are only broad suggestions. For the most precise and current information, it's always a good idea to visit the official website or get in touch with the admissions office of the university.
The Karnataka PGCET 2024 is tentatively scheduled as follows:
The online application form will be available from the first week of August 2024.
The application form must be submitted by the third week of August 2024.
The exam will be conducted in the second week of September 2024.
Examinations accepted by Christ University, Bangalore for admission to different degrees include:
Typically an MBA degree has a duration of two years spread over four semesters. However, there also other insitutions that offers one-year MBA programs.
want 2022 question papers
To download the repsective question papers for the year 2022, you can visit Karnataka PGCET 2022 Question Papers. You will be asked to sign in to your Collegedunia profile to complete the download.
You can download the question papers for M.Tech programs from Collegedunia. To download the previous years’ M.Tech question papers, please visit to Karnataka PGCET Question Papers.
The application process for Karnataka PGCET 2023 has already been closed. The last date to apply for Karnataka PGCET 2023 was September 1, 2023.
You cannot register to take the Karnataka PGCET 2023 now. The registration deadline for Karnataka PGCET 2023 was September 1, 2023.