The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has released the official notification for Diploma Common Entrance Test (DCET) 2026, inviting online applications from diploma holders seeking lateral entry admission to 2nd year / 3rd semester Engineering courses in Karnataka. The DCET 2026 application process started on March 17, 2026, and eligible candidates can apply through the official KEA website. This entrance exam is important for students who want to continue higher technical education after diploma and secure admission in engineering colleges across Karnataka under the Lateral Entry Scheme.
The DCET exam allows diploma graduates and working professionals to join engineering courses directly in the second year, saving one academic year and providing faster career growth opportunities.
Admission Through Lateral Entry Scheme
As per the Government of Karnataka rules, diploma holders can select engineering branches and get admission to second year / third semester engineering courses through DCET 2026.
Eligible candidates include:
- Diploma holders from recognized institutions
- Diploma working professionals (subject to government conditions)
- Candidates seeking admission to engineering colleges in Karnataka
For Architecture courses, candidates must have appeared for NATA-2026 conducted by the Council of Architecture. Without NATA qualification, admission to Architecture will not be allowed.
DCET 2026 Important Dates
- Application Start Date: 17 March 2026 (12:00 Noon)
- Last Date to Apply: 03 April 2026 (11:59 PM)
- Last Date to Pay Fee: 04 April 2026 (6:00 PM)
- Admit Card Download: From 07 May 2026
- Exam Date: 23 May 2026 (Saturday)
Candidates should complete the application early to avoid server issues.
How to Apply for DCET 2026
- Visit the official website of KEA
- Open DCET 2026 application link
- Fill personal and academic details
- Upload required documents
- Pay application fee online
- Submit the form and save print copy
All applications must be submitted online only.
DCET 2026 Exam Pattern
The DCET exam will be conducted for 100 marks with duration of 3 hours.
Subjects included:
- Engineering Mathematics
- Statistics & Analytics
- IT Skills
- Electrical & Electronics Fundamentals
- Project Management Skills
Exam Time: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Kannada Language Test
- For Horanadu & Gadinadu candidates
- Date: 23 May 2026
- Time: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
- Marks: 50
- Centre: Bengaluru only
Online Verification System
KEA has introduced application-cum-verification module, so most candidates do not need physical verification.
Details will be verified through:
- SATS database
- Revenue Department records
- SSLC marks database
- Caste / income records
Candidates must enter correct details to avoid rejection.
Quick Reference Summary
| Details | Information |
| Exam Name | DCET 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Karnataka Examinations Authority |
| Application Dates | 17 Mar – 03 Apr 2026 |
| Exam Date | 23 May 2026 |
| Mode | Offline |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Marks | 100 |
| Admit Card | From 07 May 2026 |
| Official Website | kea.kar.nic.in |
Why DCET is Important for Diploma Students
DCET helps diploma students:
- Join engineering directly in 2nd year
- Save one academic year
- Upgrade qualification
- Get better career opportunities
- Continue higher technical education
Thousands of diploma holders apply every year for lateral entry in Karnataka engineering colleges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| What is DCET 2026? |
| DCET is an entrance exam for diploma holders to get lateral entry into engineering courses in Karnataka. |
| When does DCET 2026 application start? |
| Application starts on 17 March 2026. |
| What is the last date to apply for DCET 2026? |
| 03 April 2026. |
| When is DCET 2026 exam? |
| 23 May 2026. |
| Is DCET compulsory for lateral entry? |
| Yes, admission is based on DCET marks. |
| Is NATA required for Architecture? |
| Yes, NATA-2026 is compulsory. |
| What is exam duration? |
| 3 hours. |
| Is verification online? |
| Yes, most verification is online through government databases. |
The release of DCET 2026 notification by KEA is an important opportunity for diploma holders who want to continue their engineering education through lateral entry admission in Karnataka. Candidates should apply before 03 April 2026 and prepare for the exam scheduled on 23 May 2026. For latest updates, candidates must visit the official KEA website regularly and bookmark this page for future information, for more details and apply CLICK HERE
