The Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) has officially released the Diploma in Drama Arts (DDA) Examination Notification and Time Table for May 2026. This announcement is significant for students pursuing theatre and performing arts education in Karnataka, as it provides a complete overview of exam dates, application process, subjects, and marks distribution. The DDA 2026 examinations will be conducted from May 4 to May 11, 2026, covering both theory and practical components.
The structured examination aims to assess students’ academic understanding of theatre along with their practical performance skills, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation.
KSEAB DDA 2026 Important Dates
The board has released a detailed schedule for application and examination:
- April 2, 2026: Application process begins
- April 8, 2026: Last date to submit applications through institutions
- April 9, 2026: Last date with penalty fee
- April 13, 2026: Final submission of application data
- May 4–9, 2026: Theory examinations
- May 11, 2026: Practical exam (Theatre Practice & Viva Voce)
Candidates must strictly adhere to these deadlines to avoid disqualification.
DDA 2026 Subjects and Marks Distribution
The Diploma in Drama Arts programme includes a mix of theoretical and practical subjects:
- Indian Theatre (DDA-01)
- Kannada Plays & Traditions of Literature (DDA-02)
- Western Theatre (DDA-03)
- Acting (DDA-04)
- Aharya – Costume & Stage Design (DDA-05)
- Theatre in Education (DDA-06)
- Theatre Practice & Viva Voce (DDA-07)
Marks Distribution
- Theory Subjects: 100 marks (50 theory + 50 internal/practical)
- Performance Subjects (Acting, Aharya): 200 marks
- Practical & Viva: Separate evaluation
This balanced structure ensures equal focus on academic knowledge and stage performance skills.
KSEAB DDA 2026 Detailed Time Table
| Date | Subject & Timing |
| May 4, 2026 (Monday) | Indian Theatre (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM) |
| May 5, 2026 (Tuesday) | Kannada Plays & Traditions (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM) |
| May 6, 2026 (Wednesday) | Western Theatre (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM) |
| May 7, 2026 (Thursday) | Acting (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM) |
| May 8, 2026 (Friday) | Aharya (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM) |
| May 9, 2026 (Saturday) | Theatre in Education (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM) |
| May 11, 2026 (Monday) | Theatre Practice & Viva Voce (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM) |
All exams will be conducted in the morning session, and candidates must report early to their exam centres.
Application Process for DDA 2026
The application process will be conducted online through the KSEAB portal. Institutions are responsible for submitting student data.
Steps to Apply
- Institutions upload student details and documents online
- Upload photograph (JPEG format) within size limits
- Verify all details before final submission
- Pay the exam fee (~₹1000) online
- Download and verify the Nominal Roll
Applications will be accepted only after successful payment confirmation.
Important Instructions for Candidates
- Ensure accurate personal and academic details during application
- Follow document upload guidelines strictly
- Prepare according to the prescribed syllabus
- Reach exam centres well before reporting time
- Carry required documents on exam day
Quick Reference Summary
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Name | Diploma in Drama Arts (DDA) 2026 |
| Conducting Body | KSEAB |
| Exam Dates | May 4 – May 11, 2026 |
| Application Start | April 2, 2026 |
| Last Date | April 8, 2026 |
| Mode | Offline (Theory + Practical) |
| Exam Fee | ~₹1000 |
| Official Authority | Karnataka School Examination Board |
Why DDA 2026 is Important
The Diploma in Drama Arts is a specialized program designed to nurture creative talent in theatre and performing arts. The inclusion of practical assessments, acting, stage design, and viva ensures students gain real-world performance experience, making them industry-ready.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| When will the DDA 2026 exam be conducted? |
| From May 4 to May 11, 2026. |
| What is the last date to apply for DDA 2026? |
| April 8, 2026 (April 9 with penalty). |
| What is the exam fee for DDA 2026? |
| Approximately ₹1000. |
| What subjects are included in DDA 2026? |
| Indian Theatre, Kannada Plays, Western Theatre, Acting, Aharya, Theatre in Education, and Viva. |
| Is the exam conducted online or offline? |
| The exam is conducted offline with theory and practical components. |
| Who conducts the DDA exam? |
| Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB). |
| What is the duration of the Acting exam? |
| 3 hours (10:00 AM to 1:00 PM). |
| When is the practical exam scheduled? |
| May 11, 2026. |
The release of the KSEAB DDA 2026 Examination Notification and Time Table provides a clear roadmap for students pursuing drama and performing arts education. With defined schedules, structured subjects, and a balanced evaluation system, candidates can now plan their preparation effectively. Students are advised to visit the official KSEAB website for updates and bookmark this page for future notifications.
MORE INFO
| Notification | CLICK HERE |
| Time Table | CLICK HERE |
