PESSAT 2026 (PES Scholastic Aptitude Test) is a university-level entrance exam conducted by PES University, Bengaluru, for admission to non-engineering undergraduate and postgraduate programmes such as BCA, BBA, MBA, MCA, M.Tech, B.Des, B.Pharm, and several others. The exam was held in online CBT mode from April 21 to May 12, 2026, and results were declared on a rolling basis with the main batch result out on May 15, 2026. Round 1 counselling for non-engineering UG and PG programmes concluded on May 26, 2026, and Round 2 is now expected in June/July 2026 for programmes with remaining seats.
- Round 2 Counselling (Non-Engineering UG/PG): PESSAT 2026 Round 2 counselling for BCA, BBA, MBA, MCA, and other non-engineering programmes is expected in June/July 2026 for seats remaining after Round 1 (which concluded on May 26, 2026). PES University will announce the exact date on admissions.pes.edu. In 2025, Round 2 was held in July.
- B.Tech Registration Closes: The last date to register for B.Tech 2026 at PES University via JEE Main or KCET scores is June 30, 2026. Candidates must complete the process on the official admissions portal at admissions.pes.edu before this deadline.
- PESU KCET Rank List and B.Tech Round 2: PES University will release the KCET-based B.Tech rank list on July 8, 2026, followed by B.Tech Round 2 counselling on July 18, 2026. This is the same pattern as the 2025 cycle.
- PESSAT Registration Still Open: Online registration for PESSAT 2026 remains open until July 2026 for programmes where the exam window is still active. The PESSAT exam window runs from November 2025 to July 2026. The application fee is Rs. 1,200.
What is PESSAT 2026?
PESSAT stands for PES Scholastic Aptitude Test. It is a university-level entrance exam conducted by PES University, Bengaluru. The exam is the primary selection test for admission to non-engineering undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at PES University’s two Bangalore campuses — Electronic City (EC) and Ring Road (RR).
Programmes admitted through PESSAT 2026 include BCA, BBA, B.Com, BBA-LLB, BA-LLB, B.Des, B.Pharm, BPT, MBA, MCA, M.Tech, M.Des, M.Com, M.Pharm, and M.Sc. From the academic year 2025, PES University discontinued PESSAT for B.Tech admissions. B.Tech is now admitted exclusively through JEE Main and KCET scores.
PES University is one of Bangalore’s well-regarded private universities. It holds NAAC ’A+’ Grade accreditation and is ranked in the 101–150 band in the NIRF Engineering category for 2025. Thousands of candidates appear for PESSAT every year to secure seats across the university’s diverse programme portfolio. You can visit the official PESSAT portal at pessat.com or the admissions portal at admissions.pes.edu.
PESSAT 2026 Key Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | PES Scholastic Aptitude Test |
| Commonly Known As | PESSAT |
| Conducting Body | PES University, Bengaluru |
| Exam Level | University-level (Bangalore) |
| Programmes Covered | BCA, BBA, MBA, MCA, M.Tech, B.Des, B.Pharm, and others (non-engineering) |
| B.Tech Admission | Via JEE Main / KCET (PESSAT discontinued for B.Tech from 2025) |
| Mode of Exam | Online CBT (B.Des: Offline pen-and-paper) |
| Duration | 2 hours (120 minutes) for non-engineering UG/PG |
| Total Questions | 120 |
| Total Marks | 120 |
| Negative Marking | No |
| Application Fee | Rs. 1,200 |
| PESSAT 2026 Exam Window | November 2025 – July 2026 |
| PESSAT 2026 Result (Main Batch) | May 15, 2026 (Out) |
| Round 1 Counselling | May 25–26, 2026 (Over) |
| Round 2 Counselling | Expected June/July 2026 |
| Official Website | pessat.com / admissions.pes.edu |
PESSAT 2026 Important Dates
The table below lists all key PESSAT 2026 and PES University admission dates. Upcoming events appear first in chronological order, followed by past events in the order they occurred.
| Event | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| PESSAT Round 2 Counselling (Non-Engineering UG/PG) | Expected June/July 2026 | (Upcoming) |
| B.Tech Registration Closes | June 30, 2026 | (Upcoming) |
| Last Date of PESSAT 2026 Online Registration | July 2026 | (Upcoming) |
| PESU KCET Rank List (B.Tech) | July 8, 2026 | (Upcoming) |
| B.Tech Document Submission Deadline | July 15, 2026 | (Upcoming) |
| B.Tech Round 2 Counselling (KCET-based) | July 18, 2026 | (Upcoming) |
| Classes Begin (UG Programmes) | July / August 2026 | (Upcoming) |
| Classes Begin (PG Programmes) | August / September 2026 | (Upcoming) |
| PESSAT 2026 Registrations Open | September 5, 2025 | (Over) |
| Exam Slot Booking Begins | October 24, 2025 | (Over) |
| PESSAT Exam Window Opens | November 2025 | (Over) |
| JEE Main Test 1 Marks Update Window | February 16–23, 2026 | (Over) |
| Early Admission Commitment (EAC) Merit List | February 28, 2026 | (Over) |
| EAC Final Payment Deadline | March 25, 2026 | (Over) |
| PESSAT 2026 Exam Period (Main Batch) | April 21 – May 12, 2026 | (Over) |
| PESSAT 2026 Result Declared (Main Batch) | May 15, 2026 | (Out) |
| JEE Main Test 2 Score Submission Deadline | May 19, 2026 | (Over) |
| PESU JEE Main Rank List (B.Tech) | May 25, 2026 | (Over) |
| PESSAT Round 1 Counselling (Non-Engineering) | May 25–26, 2026 | (Over) |
| B.Tech Round 1 Counselling (JEE Main-based) | June 6, 2026 | (Over) |
PESSAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria
You must check the eligibility criteria before applying for PESSAT 2026. The criteria differ based on whether you are applying for a UG or PG programme.
Eligibility for UG Programmes
- BCA: You should have at least 50% marks in Class 12 (10+2) from any stream. Mathematics is mandatory as one of the subjects in Class 12.
- BBA / BBA (Hons): 50% marks in Class 12 from any stream. There is no specific subject restriction.
- B.Com (including Hons, CA-embedded, CFA, ACCA variants): 50% marks in Class 12 from any stream.
- BBA-LLB / BA-LLB / LLB: 50% marks in Class 12 from any recognised board.
- B.Des (Design): 50% marks in Class 12 from any stream. English must be one of the studied subjects. PESSAT DAT (Design Aptitude Test) is conducted for B.Des in offline mode from January to July 2026.
- B.Pharm: You must have studied Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) or Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) in Class 12.
- BPT (Physiotherapy): 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology at Class 12 level.
- B.Sc (Medical Science, Psychology, etc.): 50% aggregate in Class 12 with relevant subjects.
Eligibility for PG Programmes
- MBA: A Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks from any UGC-recognised university. Valid MAT, CAT, CMAT, ATMA, NMAT, or GMAT scores are also accepted as an alternative to PESSAT for MBA.
- MCA: A relevant Bachelor’s degree with Mathematics as a subject at graduation or Class 12 level.
- M.Tech: 50% marks in a relevant engineering or technology degree. GATE scores are also accepted for M.Tech admission.
- M.Des: 50% marks in any Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university. CEED scores can give additional weightage.
- M.Com: 50% marks in a B.Com or equivalent degree.
- LLM: 45% marks in an LLB or equivalent law degree.
- M.Pharm: A B.Pharm degree from a recognised university.
General Eligibility Notes
- Indian nationals from all states can apply. NRIs, PIOs, and foreign nationals are also eligible.
- The minimum age for UG programmes is 17 years. There is no upper age limit for UG or PG.
- Candidates who completed Class 12 through distance learning, online mode, or part-time mode are not eligible.
- International board students (IGCSE, IB, Cambridge A-Level) have specific transcript requirements — check the official admissions page for details.
Candidates with an active "Compartment" result in Class 12 cannot apply for PESSAT 2026 until they clear all subjects and receive a final passing certificate.
PESSAT 2026 Application Process and Fee
The PESSAT 2026 application is available only in online mode. You can apply at admissions.pes.edu. The registration window for most non-engineering UG and PG programmes remains open until July 2026.
How to Apply for PESSAT 2026 — Step by Step
- Register: Go to admissions.pes.edu and click the PESSAT 2026 Registration link. Create your account with a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill the Form: Enter your personal details (name, date of birth, address) and academic details (Class 12 board, subjects, marks or percentage).
- Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your recent passport-size photograph, signature, and Class 10/12 mark sheets as per the size and format specified on the portal.
- Pay the Fee: Pay Rs. 1,200 online using a debit card, credit card, or net banking. This fee is non-refundable.
- Submit: Review all details carefully before final submission. Corrections after submission may not be possible.
- Book Exam Slot: After successful registration, log back in and book your preferred exam date and time. Slot booking for PESSAT 2026 opened on October 24, 2025, and continues until the exam window closes in July 2026.
PESSAT 2026 Application Fee
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| PESSAT 2026 Application Fee (All Candidates) | Rs. 1,200 |
| Counselling Registration Fee | Rs. 500 |
The PESSAT 2026 application fee of Rs. 1,200 must be paid online only. It is non-refundable in all circumstances, even if you withdraw your application or do not appear for the exam.
PESSAT 2026 Admit Card
The PESSAT 2026 admit card is issued after you complete the slot booking process. You can download it from the official portal using your registration number and password. Since the PESSAT exam window runs through July 2026, admit cards are issued on a rolling basis before each scheduled exam date.
How to Download the PESSAT 2026 Admit Card
- Visit pessat.com or admissions.pes.edu.
- Log in with your PESSAT registration number and password.
- Click on the "Download Admit Card" or "Hall Ticket" option in your dashboard.
- Download and take a printout of the admit card.
Details Printed on the PESSAT 2026 Admit Card
- Candidate’s name and registration number
- Exam date and reporting time
- Exam centre name and full address
- Candidate’s photograph and signature
- Important exam day instructions
You must carry a printout of the PESSAT 2026 admit card along with a valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar card, PAN card, or passport) to the exam centre. Entry is not permitted without both documents.
PESSAT 2026 Exam Pattern
The PESSAT 2026 exam is conducted in online CBT (Computer Based Test) mode for most programmes. B.Des is an exception — its design aptitude test (DAT) is conducted offline in pen-and-paper mode. All questions are Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). There is no negative marking in PESSAT 2026.
PESSAT 2026 General Exam Rules
- Mode: Online CBT (except B.Des, which is offline)
- Language: English
- Question Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Negative Marking: None
- Marking Scheme: +1 for each correct answer; 0 for wrong or unattempted questions
PESSAT 2026 Exam Pattern for BCA / BBA / B.Com
| Subject | Number of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| English Comprehension / Verbal Ability | 30 | 30 |
| Analytical & Logical Reasoning | 45 | 45 |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 45 | 45 |
| Total | 120 | 120 |
Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes)
PESSAT 2026 Exam Pattern for MBA / M.Com
| Subject | Number of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| English Comprehension / Verbal Ability | 30 | 30 |
| Analytical & Logical Reasoning | 40 | 40 |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 40 | 40 |
| General Awareness | 10 | 10 |
| Total | 120 | 120 |
Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes)
PESSAT 2026 Exam Pattern for MCA / M.Tech
| Subject | Number of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 60 | 60 |
| Analytical & Logical Ability | 20 | 20 |
| English Comprehension | 20 | 20 |
| Computer Awareness | 20 | 20 |
| Total | 120 | 120 |
Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes)
PESSAT 2026 Exam Pattern for B.Pharm
| Subject | Number of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | 30 | 30 |
| Chemistry | 30 | 30 |
| Mathematics / Biology | 30 | 30 |
| English Comprehension | 30 | 30 |
| Total | 120 | 120 |
Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes)
There is no negative marking in PESSAT 2026. You should attempt all 120 questions — even on uncertain answers, eliminating wrong options and making your best choice can add marks to your total.
PESSAT 2026 Syllabus
The PESSAT 2026 syllabus is based on the CBSE Class 11 and Class 12 curriculum. Around 30% of questions come from Class 11 topics and 70% from Class 12. The specific syllabus differs by programme and the section breakdown of the exam.
Syllabus for BCA / BBA / B.Com
- English Comprehension / Verbal Ability: Reading comprehension passages, vocabulary (synonyms, antonyms), grammar rules, sentence correction, fill in the blanks, jumbled sentences, and error spotting.
- Quantitative Reasoning: Number system, percentages, profit and loss, time and work, time and distance, ratio and proportion, averages, simple and compound interest, mensuration, and data interpretation.
- Analytical & Logical Reasoning: Number series, letter series, analogies, coding and decoding, direction tests, blood relations, syllogisms, puzzles, seating arrangements, and statement-conclusion problems.
Syllabus for MBA / M.Com
The MBA PESSAT covers the same three areas as BCA/BBA, with an additional General Awareness section. This section tests knowledge of current events, Indian economy, business news, general science, and static GK from the past 6–12 months. Reading a newspaper daily in the months before the exam is the best way to prepare for this section. The three-section structure for English, Reasoning, and Quantitative is the same as for BCA/BBA, though the number of questions per section differs slightly for MBA.
Syllabus for MCA / M.Tech
- Mathematics: Algebra, calculus, coordinate geometry, statistics, discrete mathematics, probability, matrices, and linear programming.
- Computer Awareness: Basics of computers and operating systems, programming concepts (C/C++/Python/Java basics), data structures, algorithms, and MS Office basics.
- Analytical & Logical Ability: Logical sequences, data interpretation, reasoning puzzles, and decision-making problems.
- English Comprehension: Grammar, sentence structure, vocabulary, and short reading passages.
Syllabus for B.Pharm
The B.Pharm PESSAT syllabus covers Class 11 and 12 topics in Physics (mechanics, waves, optics, electricity, magnetism), Chemistry (organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry), and Mathematics or Biology (based on your Class 12 stream). English Comprehension follows the same pattern as other UG programmes.
Syllabus for B.Des (DAT — Design Aptitude Test)
The PESSAT DAT for B.Des is conducted offline. It tests design aptitude, spatial reasoning, creative thinking, and basic drawing skills. It also covers general knowledge about art, design, and visual culture. UCEED score holders get additional credit during B.Des admission, on top of their DAT performance.
PESSAT 2026 Result
PESSAT 2026 results are declared on a rolling basis — you receive your result within 3 days of taking the exam. For the main batch that appeared between April 21 and May 12, 2026, results were declared on May 15, 2026. Candidates who appear later in the exam window (which runs until July 2026) will get their results within 3 days of their specific exam date.
How to Check the PESSAT 2026 Result
- Visit pessat.com or admissions.pes.edu.
- Log in with your registered email ID and password.
- Go to "My Dashboard" or the "Result" section.
- Your PESSAT 2026 score and rank will appear on screen.
- Download and save your rank card — you will need it for counselling.
What Does the PESSAT 2026 Result Show?
- Total PESSAT 2026 score (out of 120)
- PESSAT 2026 overall rank
- Subject-wise score breakdown
- Qualifying status for your preferred programme
You need a valid rank card to participate in PESSAT 2026 counselling. Save your rank card immediately after results are declared and keep both a printed and a digital copy.
PESSAT 2026 Cutoff
PES University does not release a formal programme-wise cutoff rank for PESSAT before counselling — unlike national exams such as JEE Main or CAT. The effective PESSAT cutoff is the last rank at which a seat was allotted in a given programme and campus during each counselling round. This changes every year.
What Affects the PESSAT 2026 Cutoff?
- Number of applicants: A larger applicant pool generally means the last admitted rank is higher (more competitive), tightening the effective cutoff.
- Exam difficulty level: A harder paper shifts average scores down and can influence where the last rank falls.
- Seats available per programme: Programmes with fewer seats tend to have stricter effective cutoffs.
- Programme popularity: BCA, BBA, and MBA are high-demand programmes at PES University. Their last admitted ranks in previous years have been competitive. Less popular programmes may have more relaxed cutoffs.
- Campus preference: The EC and RR campuses may have slightly different cutoffs for the same programme, depending on student demand for each location.
How to Estimate Your Admission Chances
You can estimate your chances by comparing your PESSAT 2026 rank against the previous year’s seat allotment lists. PES University publishes allotment results on its official portal after each counselling round. The last rank visible in each round’s allotment is the de facto cutoff for that round. Checking the Round 1 allotment list (available since May 26, 2026) gives you the best benchmark for your Round 2 prospects.
PES University does not publish a pre-counselling cutoff list for PESSAT. The real cutoff becomes clear only after each round of counselling is complete. Do not rely on unofficial cutoff estimates from third-party coaching websites.
PESSAT 2026 Counselling
PESSAT 2026 counselling for non-engineering UG and PG programmes is conducted exclusively in Bangalore. Physical attendance at the PES University campus is mandatory — there is no online-only counselling option. Round 1 concluded on May 26, 2026. Round 2 is expected in June/July 2026 for programmes with vacant seats after Round 1.
As of June 18, 2026, PES University has not officially announced the Round 2 counselling date for non-engineering UG/PG programmes. Check admissions.pes.edu for the official schedule as soon as it is released.
PESSAT 2026 Counselling Schedule
| Round | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Round 2 Counselling (Non-Engineering UG/PG) | Expected June/July 2026 | (Upcoming — date not yet announced) |
| Round 1 Counselling (Non-Engineering UG/PG) | May 25–26, 2026 | (Over) |
How to Participate in PESSAT 2026 Counselling
- Register for Counselling: Log in to the PESSAT counselling portal using your registration number and date of birth. Pay the counselling registration fee of Rs. 500.
- Fill Course Preferences: Enter your preferred programmes and campus (EC or RR). You should fill in multiple preferences in order of priority — this improves your chances of getting a seat.
- Seat Allocation: Seats are allocated based on your PESSAT 2026 rank and the preferences you submitted. Results are published on the official portal.
- Report to Campus: After receiving a seat allotment, you must come physically to the PES University Bangalore campus for document verification. Carry all original documents listed below.
- Pay Admission Fee: Pay the required admission fee at the campus to confirm your seat. Failure to pay within the deadline will result in cancellation of the allotment.
Documents Required for PESSAT 2026 Counselling
- PESSAT 2026 admit card (original printout)
- PESSAT 2026 rank card (original printout)
- Class 10 mark sheet and passing certificate (original)
- Class 12 mark sheet and passing certificate (original)
- Aadhaar card (original)
- PAN card (for fee payment)
- Six passport-size photographs
- Six stamp-size photographs
- Transfer certificate (original, from Class 12 school)
- Migration certificate (if applicable)
- Cancelled cheque (for fee payment verification)
All documents must be originals. Carry self-attested photocopies as well. Seats may be cancelled if original documents are not presented on the day of counselling.
B.Tech Admissions at PES University 2026
From 2025, PES University no longer uses PESSAT for B.Tech admissions. If you want a B.Tech seat at PES University, you need either a JEE Main score or a KCET (Karnataka CET) score. This shift aligns PES University’s engineering intake with national and state entrance exam norms and gives students one less exam to prepare for separately.
Eligibility for B.Tech at PES University 2026
- You must have passed Class 12 (10+2) with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- A minimum of 60% marks in Physics + Chemistry + Mathematics combined at Class 12 is required.
- A valid JEE Main score (Session 1 or Session 2) or KCET 2026 score is mandatory.
B.Tech 2026 Admission Key Dates
| Event | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| B.Tech Registration Closes | June 30, 2026 | (Upcoming) |
| PESU KCET Rank List Announcement | July 8, 2026 | (Upcoming) |
| B.Tech Document Submission Deadline | July 15, 2026 | (Upcoming) |
| B.Tech Round 2 Counselling (KCET-based) | July 18, 2026 | (Upcoming) |
| B.Tech Registrations Opened | September 5, 2025 | (Over) |
| JEE Main Test 1 Score Window | February 16–23, 2026 | (Over) |
| EAC Merit List Released | February 28, 2026 | (Over) |
| JEE Main Test 2 Score Submission Deadline | May 19, 2026 | (Over) |
| PESU JEE Main Rank List | May 25, 2026 | (Over) |
| B.Tech Round 1 Counselling (JEE Main-based) | June 6, 2026 | (Over) |
How B.Tech Admission Works at PES University 2026
- Register on admissions.pes.edu and complete the B.Tech application form.
- Submit your JEE Main Session 1 or Session 2 score during the respective window.
- PES University generates the PESU JEE Main Rank List from submitted scores.
- Candidates on the rank list participate in counselling and choose their preferred B.Tech branch.
- KCET scorers follow a separate but parallel process via the PESU KCET Rank List (expected July 8, 2026).
- Submit original documents and pay the admission fee to confirm your seat.
An Early Admission Commitment (EAC) route was available for JEE Main Session 1 scorers who wanted to commit early. The EAC merit list was released on February 28, 2026, with a payment deadline of March 25, 2026. This route is now closed for 2026. The regular JEE Main and KCET routes remain the active pathways until June 30, 2026.
Source: PES University — Important Dates for 2026 Admissions
Courses at PES University
PES University offers a wide range of programmes across two Bangalore campuses — Electronic City (EC) and Ring Road (RR). The university covers Engineering, Management, Design, Law, Computer Applications, Pharmacy, Health Sciences, and more. Most non-engineering programmes use PESSAT as the admission test, while engineering and a few specialist programmes use national or state-level scores.
Undergraduate Programmes
| Programme | Duration | Admission Route |
|---|---|---|
| B.Tech (CSE, ECE, Mechanical, Civil, EEE, and others) | 4 years | JEE Main / KCET |
| BCA | 3 years | PESSAT 2026 |
| BBA / BBA (Hons) | 3 years | PESSAT 2026 |
| B.Com (Hons, CA-embedded, CFA, ACCA, CMA variants) | 3 years | PESSAT 2026 |
| BBA-LLB / BA-LLB (5-Year Integrated Law) | 5 years | PESSAT 2026 |
| LLB (3-Year) | 3 years | PESSAT 2026 |
| B.Des (Bachelor of Design) | 4 years | PESSAT DAT / UCEED |
| B.Arch | 5 years | NATA / KCET |
| B.Pharm | 4 years | PESSAT 2026 |
| Pharm.D | 6 years | PESSAT 2026 |
| MBBS | 5.5 years | NEET / KEA Counselling |
| BPT (Bachelor of Physiotherapy) | 4.5 years | PESSAT 2026 |
| B.Sc (Medical Science, Psychology, Economics) | 3 years | PESSAT 2026 |
Postgraduate Programmes
| Programme | Duration | Admission Route |
|---|---|---|
| MBA | 2 years | PESSAT 2026 / MAT / CAT / CMAT / NMAT / GMAT |
| MCA | 2 years | PESSAT 2026 |
| M.Tech | 2 years | PESSAT 2026 / GATE |
| M.Des (Master of Design) | 2 years | PESSAT 2026 / CEED |
| M.Com | 2 years | PESSAT 2026 |
| M.Pharm | 2 years | PESSAT 2026 |
| LLM | 1 year | PESSAT 2026 |
| M.Sc (various specialisations) | 2 years | PESSAT 2026 |
PESSAT 2026 Preparation Tips
PESSAT is a university-level exam and is considered moderately challenging. It is less competitive than national exams like JEE Main or CAT, but you still need to prepare well to score a high rank — especially for in-demand programmes like BCA, BBA, and MBA at PES University’s campuses.
Understand the Exam Pattern for Your Programme
The syllabus and section weightage differ significantly by programme. Before you start preparing, read the official exam pattern for your specific PESSAT paper. For example, Mathematics carries 60 out of 120 marks in the MCA and M.Tech exam — making it the single highest-priority section for those candidates. For MBA, General Awareness is a differentiator because it is the only section that requires current-affairs knowledge rather than practised aptitude.
Start With the Right Books
- English / Verbal Ability: Wren and Martin’s English Grammar; Objective English by R.S. Aggarwal
- Quantitative Reasoning: Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal; Fast Track Objective Arithmetic by Rajesh Verma
- Logical Reasoning: A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal
- Mathematics (MCA / M.Tech): NCERT Class 11 and 12 textbooks; Problems in Calculus of One Variable by I.A. Maron
- Computer Awareness (MCA): Basic Computer Knowledge by Arihant Publishers
- General Awareness (MBA): Read a national newspaper daily; Manorama Yearbook for static GK
- Physics / Chemistry / Biology (B.Pharm): NCERT Class 11 and 12 textbooks are the primary reference
Use NCERT Textbooks as Your Foundation
The PESSAT syllabus draws 70% of questions from Class 12 and 30% from Class 11. NCERT textbooks are the strongest foundation for Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology sections. If you finished Class 12 recently, your school preparation already covers a large part of the PESSAT syllabus. Start with NCERT before picking up additional reference books.
Practise Previous Year Papers and Mock Tests
Previous year PESSAT question papers give you a clear sense of the question type, difficulty, and time distribution. Take at least one full-length mock test each week in the 4–6 weeks before your exam. Time yourself strictly — 120 minutes for 120 questions means one minute per question on average. Identify your weak areas from mock tests and improve them before the actual exam.
Attempt Every Question — No Negative Marking
Since PESSAT 2026 has no negative marking, you should never leave a question blank. On questions you are uncertain about, eliminate the clearly wrong options first and then make your best guess from the remaining choices. This strategy can realistically add 5–10 extra marks on exam day — a significant advantage in a 120-mark test where every rank matters.
Build a 4-Month Study Schedule
You can prepare effectively for PESSAT in 4 months. Use the first month to build fundamentals in all sections. Spend the second and third months on intensive practice, solving chapter-wise questions and full-length mock tests. Reserve the final month for full syllabus revision, weak area focus, and timed mock tests. Take regular short breaks within study sessions — 45 minutes of focused study followed by a 10-minute break improves retention and reduces fatigue on exam day.
FAQs
Ques. Is PESSAT 2026 conducted for B.Tech admissions?
Ans. No. PES University discontinued PESSAT for B.Tech admissions from 2025. B.Tech admissions at PES University are now done exclusively through JEE Main and KCET scores. PESSAT 2026 continues for all non-engineering UG and PG programmes including BCA, BBA, MBA, MCA, M.Tech, B.Des, B.Pharm, and others.
Ques. What is the PESSAT 2026 application fee?
Ans. The PESSAT 2026 application fee is Rs. 1,200. This is paid online through the official portal (admissions.pes.edu) and is completely non-refundable. An additional counselling registration fee of Rs. 500 applies separately when you register for counselling after the result.
Ques. Is there negative marking in PESSAT 2026?
Ans. No. There is no negative marking in PESSAT 2026. Each correct answer gives +1 mark. Wrong or unattempted questions carry 0 marks. You should attempt all 120 questions to maximise your score — even on uncertain questions, a guess from eliminated options can earn you marks without any penalty.
Ques. When will PESSAT 2026 Round 2 counselling be held?
Ans. PESSAT 2026 Round 2 counselling for non-engineering UG and PG programmes is expected in June/July 2026 for seats remaining after Round 1 (which concluded on May 26, 2026). As of June 18, 2026, PES University has not officially announced the Round 2 date. You should check admissions.pes.edu regularly for the official announcement.
Ques. What documents are needed for PESSAT 2026 counselling?
Ans. You need the following documents for PESSAT 2026 counselling — all originals plus self-attested photocopies:
- PESSAT 2026 admit card and rank card
- Class 10 and Class 12 mark sheets and passing certificates
- Aadhaar card and PAN card
- Transfer certificate and migration certificate (if applicable)
- Six passport-size and six stamp-size photographs
- Cancelled cheque for fee payment
Ques. Can students from outside Karnataka apply for PESSAT 2026?
Ans. Yes. PESSAT 2026 is open to Indian nationals from all states, not just Karnataka. NRIs, PIOs, and foreign nationals are also eligible to apply. PES University accepts students from across India and abroad for both UG and PG non-engineering programmes.
Ques. What is the mode of the PESSAT 2026 exam?
Ans. PESSAT 2026 is conducted in online CBT (Computer Based Test) mode for all programmes except B.Des. The B.Des Design Aptitude Test (DAT) is the only programme conducted in offline pen-and-paper mode. The exam window runs from November 2025 to July 2026, so you can choose a date within this window that suits your preparation schedule.
Ques. When is the PESSAT 2026 result declared?
Ans. PESSAT 2026 results are declared within 3 days of appearing in the exam. For the main batch that appeared between April 21 and May 12, 2026, results were declared on May 15, 2026. Candidates who appear later in the exam window will receive their results within 3 days of their specific exam date. Results are available on pessat.com and admissions.pes.edu.
Ques. What is the eligibility for MBA through PESSAT 2026?
Ans. To be eligible for MBA at PES University through PESSAT 2026, you need a Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks from any UGC-recognised university. Alternatively, valid scores in MAT, CAT, CMAT, ATMA, NMAT, or GMAT are also accepted in place of PESSAT for MBA admission. Both routes (PESSAT and national management exam scores) are valid and treated at par.
Ques. Where is PESSAT 2026 counselling held?
Ans. PESSAT 2026 counselling is conducted only in Bangalore at PES University campuses (Electronic City or Ring Road). Physical attendance is mandatory for document verification and seat confirmation. There is no remote or online-only counselling route for PESSAT 2026.
Ques. How many rounds of counselling does PESSAT 2026 have?
Ans. PESSAT 2026 typically conducts two rounds of counselling for non-engineering UG and PG programmes. Round 1 was held on May 25–26, 2026, and is now over. Round 2 is expected in June/July 2026 for seats remaining after Round 1. If seats are still vacant after Round 2, an additional round may be announced. For B.Tech (via JEE/KCET), separate rounds are held in June and July 2026 with distinct dates and rank lists.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is based on data from official sources including PES University and is updated as of June 18, 2026. Exam schedules, counselling dates, and eligibility criteria are subject to change. Candidates should always verify the latest information directly from the official PES University website at pes.edu or admissions.pes.edu before making any decisions.
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