The KCET Exam Pattern 2026 is expected to be the same as the previous year without any major changes.
According to the KCET Exam Pattern, the test is scheduled to be held in an offline, pen-and-paper mode and will consist of 180 MCQs, with a total time limit of 4 hours (2 papers of 2 hours each).
- For the KCET Exam, the candidates are required to take Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics or Biology based on the stream selected (Engineering or Medical). Each subject will have 60 questions.
- KCET Exam is based on the class 11 and class 12 syllabus of the Department of Pre-University Education, Karnataka. The exam is of average difficulty level and mainly focuses on understanding, application, and numerical accuracy.
- The KCET Total marks for the PCM or PCB Subjects are 180. Each question is of 1 mark. There is no provision for negative marking in the case of a wrong answer.
The KCET Examination will be held in two languages. English and Kannada, thus serving candidates from the entire Karnataka state.
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Key Summary
- We have covered the subject-wise exam pattern, marking scheme, and syllabus along with the KCET Exam Pattern 2026 in the first place.
- For 2026, the KCET Exam Pattern will be just like last year’s, and it will be held in an offline mode with objective-type MCQ questions.
- The KCET Exam will have 3 subjects - Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Biology, each having 60 questions, and the time duration for each paper will be 80 minutes.
- The Subjects in the KCET Exam are PCM for those who want to do Engineering and PCB for medical/Agriculture aspirants.
- The KCET Passing marks are commonly 40% for the General category and are eased for the reserved category candidates as per KEA standards.
- KCET Syllabus will be based on what is taught in the 11th and 12th classes of the Karnataka State Board (PUC).
What is the KCET Exam Pattern 2026?
The KCET Exam will be held in a non-digital, traditional way, and will consist of MCQs from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Biology.
- Every individual subject will have 60 questions, and the time allotted for each subject will be 80 minutes.
- The new information regarding the KCET Exam will be available in the official KCET Exam announcement and brochure, which will be issued by KEA (Karnataka Examinations Authority).
| Parameter | Details (Expected) |
|---|---|
| Mode | Offline (Pen-and-paper) |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Duration per Paper | 80 minutes per subject paper |
| Subjects | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics (Engineering) / Biology (Medical & Agriculture) |
| Number of Questions | 60 per subject paper |
| Marks per Paper | 60 marks (1 mark per question) |
| Marking Scheme | +1 mark for each correct answer, No negative marking |
| Medium | English & Kannada |
Read More:
Ques. What is the KCET Exam Pattern 2026 for B.Tech?
Ans. The KCET Exam Pattern for B.Tech is suitable for candidates who are choosing the Engineering stream.
- Based on last year's exam, the structure will be the same, and the questions will be from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics only, and all will be Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
- Each subject will have 60 questions of 1 mark each, thus making it 60 marks per subject.
- If a person makes an incorrect choice, there will be no negative marking for that question in the KCET Exam.
- The total marks for B.Tech will be 180 if we consider all the three subjects together.
KCET Exam Pattern 2026: Subject-wise
The KCET Exam 2026 will be held traditionally with Multiple Choice Questions, and the candidates will be tested based on the stream they have chosen, that is, Engineering (PCM) or Medical/Farm Science (PCB).
So, all the subjects will carry the same weightage in the final score, thus making it necessary for the candidates to prepare evenly for all subjects. Each subject is treated as a separate entity, and the test is conducted on different days in an OMR-based format.
KCET Physics: Section-wise Pattern
- Most of the questions in the Physics section of KCET are concept-based and numerical, with the key topics being Mechanics, Electricity, and Modern Physics.
- Physics is normally considered a section of medium difficulty, as it requires the understanding of theory and the ability to solve problems.
| Physics Sections | Expected No. of Questions | Total Marks | Difficulty Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanics | 15–18 | 15–18 | Moderate |
| Heat & Thermodynamics | 6–8 | 6–8 | Moderate |
| Electricity & Magnetism | 14–16 | 14–16 | Moderate to Tough |
| Optics | 6–8 | 6–8 | Easy to Moderate |
| Modern Physics | 8–10 | 8–10 | Easy |
| Total | 60 | 60 | — |
KCET Chemistry: Section-wise Pattern
- About 40% of the questions in KCET Chemistry are directly taken from NCERT, with factual, conceptual, and application-type questions forming the major focus.
- Theoretical aspects dominate Organic and Inorganic Chemistry, whereas Physical Chemistry is a blend of theory and numerical problems.
| Chemistry Sections | Expected Questions | Total Marks | Scoring Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Chemistry | 18–20 | 18–20 | Moderate |
| Organic Chemistry | 20–22 | 20–22 | Moderate to Tough |
| Inorganic Chemistry | 18–20 | 18–20 | Easy if NCERT is strong |
| Total | 60 | 60 | — |
KCET Mathematics: Section-wise Pattern
- The KCET Mathematics section carries high weightage from Algebra, Calculus, and Coordinate Geometry.
- It is considered the most scoring subject for engineering aspirants if practiced regularly.
| Mathematics Sections | Expected Questions | Total Marks | Difficulty Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Algebra | 18–20 | 18–20 | Moderate |
| Calculus | 16–18 | 16–18 | Moderate to Tough |
| Coordinate Geometry | 10–12 | 10–12 | Tricky |
| Trigonometry & Vectors | 8–10 | 8–10 | Easy |
| Statistics & Probability | 4–6 | 4–6 | Easy |
| Total | 60 | 60 | — |
KCET Biology: Section-wise Pattern
- For PCB students, the KCET biology part mainly deals with topics of Human Physiology, Genetics, Ecology, and Cell Biology that make up nearly 45% of the total questions.
- It is a scoring section of the examination if one has thoroughly prepared the concepts from the NCERT.
| Biology Sections | Expected Questions | Total Marks | Weightage Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Botany | 28–32 | 28–32 | Plant Physiology, Cell Biology |
| Zoology | 28–32 | 28–32 | Human Physiology, Genetics |
| Total | 60 | 60 | — |
Ques. What are the Passing Marks for KCET 2026?
Ans. Passing marks for the KCET 2026 are the least qualifying scores that the candidates have to obtain to be allowed to go for the counselling and get admission into the various professional courses in Karnataka.
The minimum passing scores differ depending on the category and the course and are derived from a maximum of 180 total marks (60 marks for each subject).
Additionally, candidates are required to fulfill the conditions of eligibility laid down by KEA (Karnataka Examinations Authority) in order to be ranked in the merit list.
| Category | Minimum Passing Marks (%) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General / Unreserved | 40% | Must score around 72/180 to qualify |
| OBC (Category I, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B) | 36% | Relaxation provided for backward classes |
| SC / ST | 32% | Additional relaxation as per the reservation rules |
| PWD / PH | 32% | As per KEA and government norms |
KCET Exam Pattern 2026: Marking Scheme
In the KCET Exam, each subject will include 60 MCQs, and the marking scheme will remain uniform for all the subjects.
The KCET expected marking scheme, based on the previous year’s pattern, is as follows:
| Parameter | Details (Expected) |
|---|---|
| Total Questions per Subject | 60 |
| Marks for Correct Answer | +1 mark |
| Marks Deducted for Wrong Answer | No negative marking |
| Marks for Unattempted Question | 0 marks |
| Total Marks per Subject | 60 |
| Number of Subjects | Based on chosen stream (PCM / PCB) |
| Difficulty Implication | Accuracy and concept clarity are key, since there’s no negative marking, all questions can be attempted confidently |
KCET Exam Pattern: Topic-Wise Weightage
- The KCET Exam 2026 will test candidates on the main subjects Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology based on the 1st and 2nd PUC syllabus of the Karnataka State Board.
- Each subject will include 60 questions of 60 marks each. Knowing the topic-wise weightage helps candidates focus on high-priority areas and plan effective preparation.
KCET Physics: Topic-Wise Weightage
In KCET Physics, questions are largely conceptual and numerical, with higher weightage for Mechanics and Electrodynamics.
| Topic | Weightage (%) | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanics (Kinematics, Laws of Motion, Work, Energy, Gravitation) | 20 | 12 |
| Heat & Thermodynamics | 8 | 5 |
| Oscillations & Waves | 10 | 6 |
| Electrostatics & Current Electricity | 15 | 9 |
| Magnetism & Electromagnetic Induction | 12 | 7 |
| Optics & EM Waves | 10 | 6 |
| Modern Physics & Dual Nature of Matter | 10 | 6 |
| Communication Systems | 5 | 3 |
| Total | 100 | 60 |
KCET Chemistry: Topic-Wise Weightage
The KCET Chemistry section is mostly NCERT-based, focusing on conceptual clarity and memory-based topics.
| Topic | Weightage (%) | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Chemistry (Thermodynamics, Equilibrium, Kinetics, Electrochemistry) | 20 | 12 |
| Inorganic Chemistry (Periodic Table, s-, p-, d-block Elements, Coordination Compounds) | 25 | 15 |
| Organic Chemistry (Hydrocarbons, Alcohols, Aldehydes, Carboxylic Acids, Amines) | 30 | 18 |
| Biomolecules, Polymers & Environmental Chemistry | 10 | 6 |
| Surface Chemistry & Miscellaneous Topics | 15 | 9 |
| Total | 100 | 60 |
KCET Mathematics: Topic-Wise Weightage
The KCET Mathematics section gives high priority to Algebra and Calculus, which together form nearly 60% of the paper.
| Topic | Weightage (%) | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Algebra (Quadratic, Sequences, Matrices, Determinants) | 25 | 15 |
| Calculus (Limits, Differentiation, Integration, Application) | 30 | 18 |
| Coordinate Geometry | 15 | 9 |
| Trigonometry & Vectors | 10 | 6 |
| Probability & Statistics | 10 | 6 |
| 3D Geometry & Miscellaneous | 10 | 6 |
| Total | 100 | 60 |
KCET Biology: Topic-Wise Weightage
In KCET Biology, Human Physiology, Genetics, and Cell Biology are the most important and high-weightage topics.
| Topic | Weightage (%) | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Diversity in the Living World | 10 | 6 |
| Structural Organisation in Plants & Animals | 8 | 5 |
| Cell Structure & Function | 10 | 6 |
| Plant Physiology | 6 | 4 |
| Human Physiology | 10 | 6 |
| Reproduction & Genetics | 12 | 7 |
| Ecology & Environment | 8 | 5 |
| Biology in Human Welfare & Biotechnology | 10 | 6 |
| Evolution & Applied Biology | 6 | 4 |
| Total | 100 | 60 |
Check:
- KCET 2025 April 16 Physics Question Paper with Solutions
- KCET 2025 April 16 Chemistry Question Paper with Solutions
Ques. What is a Good Rank in KCET?
Ans. KCET 2026 top rank is a relative matter i.e. it depends on the course and college you choose.
If you want admission in the best 4 government engineering colleges of Karnataka, then you must have a rank of less than 1000, and in the case of private colleges, you may get admission with a rank of 5000–6000.
| Course / Stream | Good Rank Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| B.Tech (Top Govt. Colleges like UVCE, RVCE, BMSCE) | 1–1000 | Ensures admission in top-tier government and reputed private colleges |
| B.Tech (Other Colleges) | 1000–6000 | Suitable for state-level private engineering colleges |
| B.Sc. Agriculture / Veterinary | 500–2000 | Depends on course and quota |
| B.Pharm / Allied Health Courses | 1000–4000 | Moderate competition level |
Ques. How Many Questions Are Asked in the KCET Exam?
Ans. The KCET Exam includes 180 questions in total, with 60 questions per subject.
Each question carries 1 mark, and there is no negative marking.
| Stream | Subjects | Questions per Subject | Total Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| B.Tech / Engineering | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics | 60 each | 180 |
| Medical / Farm Science | Physics, Chemistry, Biology | 60 each | 180 |
Ques. How to Prepare for the KCET Exam?
Ans. To prepare effectively for KCET 2026, candidates should focus on the Karnataka PUC syllabus, understand topic-wise weightage, and practice rigorously.
| Strategy | Data-Oriented Tips |
|---|---|
| Know the Syllabus | Cover the full 1st & 2nd PUC syllabus of Physics, Chemistry, and Math/Biology |
| Analyze Weightage | Prioritize high-weightage topics — Calculus (30%), Organic Chemistry (30%), Human Physiology (10%) |
| Daily Time Table | Study 2–3 hours per subject; allocate more time to weaker areas |
| Practice Previous Papers | Solve past 5 years’ KCET papers; understand recurring question types |
| Mock Tests & Time Management | Practice full-length papers under timed conditions (80 minutes per subject) |
| Revision | Revise formulas, reactions, diagrams, and theory multiple times before the exam |
| Shortcut & Tricks | Learn formula-based shortcuts and conceptual hacks for quick solving |
| Self-Assessment | Track accuracy and aim for 85–90% in practice tests |
Check more: KCET Preparation
KCET Syllabus 2026
- The syllabus for KCET 2026 will be the 1st and 2nd PUC (Pre-University Course) syllabus of the Department of Pre-University Education, Karnataka.
- The subjects of the syllabus are divided according to the streams of the students. Engineering (PCM) or Agriculture/Medical (PCB).
- The included topics are core ones from Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology to keep the content at par with NCERT/State Board standards.
| Subject | Topics / Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Physics | Mechanics (Laws of Motion, Work, Energy, Power), Heat & Thermodynamics, Electrostatics & Current Electricity, Magnetism & Electromagnetic Induction, Waves & Oscillations, Optics, Modern Physics |
| Chemistry | Physical Chemistry (Atomic Structure, Thermodynamics, Equilibrium, Chemical Kinetics), Organic Chemistry (Hydrocarbons, Alcohols, Aldehydes, Acids, Biomolecules), Inorganic Chemistry (Periodic Classification, Coordination Compounds, p-Block, s-Block, d-Block Elements) |
| Mathematics | Algebra (Complex Numbers, Quadratic Equations, Matrices & Determinants), Calculus (Limits, Continuity, Differentiation, Integration, Differential Equations), Coordinate Geometry, Trigonometry, Probability & Statistics, Vectors & 3D Geometry |
| Biology | Botany (Cell Biology, Plant Physiology, Genetics, Ecology), Zoology (Human Physiology, Reproduction, Evolution, Biotechnology), Ecology & Environment, Applied Biology (for Agriculture-related courses) |
KCET Paper Analysis
| Subject | Difficulty Level | Question Paper PDF |
|---|---|---|
| Kannada | Moderate | Download PDF |
| Physics | Easy to Moderate | Download PDF |
| Chemistry | Moderate | Download PDF |
| Biology | To be Updated | Download PDF |
| Mathematics | To be Updated | Download PDF |
FAQs For the KCET Exam Pattern 2026
Ques. When should I apply for the KCET exam in 2026?
Ans. The release of the KCET 2026 application form is planned for March 2026, and the registration period will be available for around 3 to 4 weeks.
Applicants must ensure that they submit their applications and make their fee payments before the deadline so as not to incur any late fees.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | March 2026 (Expected) |
| Last Date to Apply | April 2026 (Expected) |
| Application Mode | Online through the KEA website |
| Correction Window | Available after registration closes |
| Fee Payment Mode | Online (Credit/Debit/UPI/Net Banking) |
Ques. How many rounds are there in KCET 2025?
Ans. The KCET 2025 counselling process is expected to include three main rounds, along with one extended round and one special round if seats remain vacant.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Counselling Rounds | 3 Regular + 1 Extended + 1 Special |
| Mode of Counselling | Online (KEA Portal) |
| Seat Allotment Basis | KCET Rank, Preferences, and Seat Availability |
| Document Verification | Offline at KEA Centres |
Ques. What is the syllabus of KCET Maths 2026?
Ans. The KCET 2026 Maths syllabus is based on the Class 11 and 12 Karnataka Board curriculum, covering both fundamental and advanced topics.
| Class 11 Topics | Class 12 Topics |
|---|---|
| Sets, Relations & Functions | Algebra, Matrices & Determinants |
| Trigonometric Functions | Calculus (Derivatives, Integrals) |
| Straight Lines & Conic Sections | Vectors & 3D Geometry |
| Permutations & Combinations | Probability & Statistics |
Ques. Is the KCET of 200 marks?
Ans. Yes, the KCET exam is conducted for a total of 200 marks, with 100 marks each for Physics & Chemistry and Mathematics (or Biology for PCB students).
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Marks | 200 |
| Physics | 60 Marks |
| Chemistry | 60 Marks |
| Mathematics/Biology | 80 Marks |
| Type of Questions | MCQs |
Ques. Is the KCET exam MCQ or written?
Ans. The KCET exam is offline (pen-and-paper) and conducted in the Multiple-Choice Question (MCQ) format. Each question carries one mark, and there is no negative marking.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode of Exam | Offline (OMR Sheet) |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions |
| Marks per Question | 1 |
| Negative Marking | No |
| Total Papers | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics/Biology |
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
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