Karnataka PGCET 2026 Notification Released – Apply for MBA, MCA, M.Tech

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has released the official PGCET 2026 notification inviting online applications for admission to various postgraduate professional courses including MBA, MCA, M.E., M.Tech, and M.Arch for the academic year 2026-27. Eligible candidates from Karnataka and other states can apply through the official KEA website cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea. The notification includes the exam timetable, eligibility rules, application dates, and instructions, which aspirants must read carefully before submitting the form.

As per the notification dated 18-03-2026, admissions will be given to the 1st year / 1st semester full-time or part-time postgraduate programmes offered in universities and affiliated institutions across Karnataka.

PGCET 2026 Courses Covered

The entrance test will be conducted for admission into the following courses:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Computer Applications (MCA)
• Master of Engineering (M.E.)
• Master of Technology (M.Tech)
• Master of Architecture (M.Arch)

Candidates must qualify in PGCET-2026 conducted by KEA as per PGCET Rules 2005 and subsequent amendments (2011) to become eligible for admission.

For M.E. / M.Tech, the entrance exam will be conducted only for selected branches:

• Civil Engineering
• Computer Science Engineering
• Mechanical Sciences
• Electrical Sciences

Entrance test will not be conducted for some branches such as:

• Biotechnology
• Chemical Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Polymer Science
• Textile Technology

For these branches, admission may be based on qualifying degree marks.

PGCET 2026 Exam Dates & Timetable

• Exam Mode: OMR Based
• Question Type: Objective MCQs
• Non-programmable calculators allowed only for M.E./M.Tech

PGCET 2026 Application Dates

• Application Start: 23-03-2026 (11:00 AM)
• Last Date to Apply: 08-04-2026 (11:59 PM)
• Last Date for Fee Payment: 10-04-2026

Candidates must complete registration through the official KEA portal before the deadline.

How to Apply for PGCET 2026

1. Visit the official website – https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/
2. Click on PGCET 2026 Application Link
3. Register using basic details
4. Fill the application form carefully
5. Upload required documents
6. Pay the application fee
7. Submit and save confirmation copy

Important Instructions for Candidates

• Read the PGCET 2026 Information Bulletin before applying.
• Admission is subject to approval of:
  • Government of Karnataka
  • VTU
  • Concerned Universities
• Candidates not fulfilling Karnataka eligibility rules will be treated as Non-Karnataka candidates.
• Such candidates may be eligible only for management quota seats (MBA/MCA).
• For M.Arch admission, candidates must qualify PGETA-2026 (Council of Architecture).
• GATE qualified candidates can apply for M.E./M.Tech without appearing for PGCET.

Quick Reference Summary

Why PGCET 2026 is Important

PGCET is the main entrance test for admission to top universities and engineering colleges in Karnataka, including institutions affiliated with VTU, state universities, and government colleges. Qualifying this exam allows candidates to secure merit-based seats in PG professional courses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The release of the PGCET 2026 notification marks the start of the admission process for postgraduate professional courses in Karnataka. Candidates interested in MBA, MCA, M.Tech, M.E., and M.Arch should apply between 23 March and 8 April 2026 and prepare for the exam scheduled on 23 & 24 May 2026. Always check the official KEA website for updates and bookmark this page for future notifications, for more details and apply CLICK HERE