Karnataka PGCET — Exam Pattern, Syllabus, Registration and Counselling (KEA)
Karnataka Post Graduate Common Entrance Test
State-level entrance for MBA, MCA and M.Tech/ME admissions in Karnataka
- Conducting body
- Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA)
- Level
- State
- Mode
- Offline (Pen-and-paper OMR)
- Frequency
- Once a year
- Duration
- 120 minutes (MBA/MCA); up to 150 minutes for some M.Tech streams
Last updated: 27 Aug 2026
Summary
What is Karnataka PGCET?
Karnataka PGCET is the Karnataka Post Graduate Common Entrance Test conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) for admission to MBA, MCA and M.Tech/ME/M.Arch programmes in Karnataka. The exam is used by government and private colleges in the state for state-level postgraduate admissions.
- Conducted by
- Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA)
- Level
- State
- Mode
- Offline (Pen-and-paper OMR)
- Frequency
- Once a year
- Duration
- 120 minutes (MBA/MCA); up to 150 minutes for some M.Tech streams
- Exam date
- 14 June 2026
Last updated
Karnataka PGCET at a glance
- What is Karnataka PGCET?
- Karnataka PGCET is the Karnataka Post Graduate Common Entrance Test conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) for admission to MBA, MCA and M.Tech/ME/M.Arch programmes in Karnataka. The exam is used by government and private colleges in the state for state-level postgraduate admissions.
- What is the Karnataka PGCET exam mode and paper type?
- Karnataka PGCET is conducted offline as a pen-and-paper test using OMR sheets. The question paper consists of objective multiple-choice questions with four options each.
- How long is the Karnataka PGCET exam?
- Karnataka PGCET candidates for MBA and MCA get 120 minutes to complete the paper. Some M.Tech/ME/M.Arch papers can have durations up to 150 minutes depending on the discipline as per past information.
- How many questions and marks are in the Karnataka PGCET MBA paper?
- The Karnataka PGCET MBA paper contains 100 objective questions carrying 1 mark each, for a total of 100 marks. All questions are compulsory and there is no negative marking.
- What are the main sections of the Karnataka PGCET MBA syllabus?
- Karnataka PGCET MBA includes five sections: Computer Awareness, Analytical Ability & Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Analysis, English Language, and General Knowledge. Each section typically has 20 questions.
- Is there negative marking in Karnataka PGCET?
- No. Karnataka PGCET follows a marking scheme where each correct answer is awarded +1 mark and there is no negative marking for incorrect or unattempted answers.
- Who is eligible to appear in Karnataka PGCET?
- Karnataka PGCET eligibility requires a recognised bachelor's degree (minimum percentage requirements as per KEA criteria). GATE-qualified candidates for M.Tech admission are usually treated specially (GATE-qualified candidates need not appear in PGCET but must submit application details) — consult KEA for the exact eligibility wording for the current year.
- Where are Karnataka PGCET results and cutoffs published?
- KEA publishes Karnataka PGCET results and counsellings/ cutoff details on the official portal (https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/). Round-wise college and category cutoffs are released on the KEA portal during counselling.
- How is Karnataka PGCET used for admissions?
- Karnataka PGCET ranks and scores are used in KEA's centralised counselling process for seat allocation to MBA, MCA and M.Tech/ME/M.Arch programmes across participating Karnataka colleges. Colleges also publish category-wise cutoffs based on these ranks.
- What languages is Karnataka PGCET offered in?
- Karnataka PGCET is primarily administered in English. Candidates should consult the KEA information bulletin for any additional language provisions for specific papers.
Karnataka PGCET highlights
Exam name
Karnataka PGCET
Conducting body
Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA)
Official website
cetonline.karnataka.gov.in
Open official pageExam level
State-level
Exam mode
Computer Based Test (CBT)
Frequency
Annual
Typical duration
180 minutes
Programs covered
MBA, MCA, other PG professional courses
Question type
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Language
English
Admit card
Download from KEA portal
Result basis
KEA-declared merit and rank
Counselling
Conducted by KEA using Karnataka PGCET rank
Helpdesk
cetonline.karnataka.gov.in
Open official pageKarnataka PGCET important dates
| Event | Date | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official information bulletin release (typical timing) | Mar 2027 | Based on prior-year official reference | KEA publishes the official PGCET brochure on the KEA portal; candidates should check the KEA website for confirmation. |
| Application form release (reference year 2026) | 24 Mar 2026 | Reference | Past-year KEA opening date for PGCET application; check KEA for current year dates. |
| Application form last date (reference year 2026) | 30 Apr 2026 | Reference | Past-year extended fee/payment completion deadline; confirm current year on KEA site. |
| Application correction window (reference 2026) | 03 Jul 2026 - 06 Jul 2026 | Reference | KEA allowed limited correction window in 2026; check the current bulletin for exact dates. |
| Admit card release (reference 2026) | 15 May 2026 | Reference | KEA released admit cards on the official portal in 2026; candidates must download from KEA site. |
| Karnataka PGCET exam day (reference MBA/MCA 2026) | 14 Jun 2026 | Reference | KEA scheduled MBA/MCA papers on this date in 2026; check current-year schedule on KEA portal. |
| Karnataka PGCET rescheduled window (reference 2026) | 24 May 2026 - 14 Jun 2026 | Reference | KEA issued rescheduling notices for some PGCET 2026 sessions; check KEA updates for current year. |
| Result declaration (reference 2026/2026 updates) | Aug–Sep 2026 | Reference | KEA published results and scorecards on the official portal in 2026; exact dates vary by year. |
| Counselling / Document verification (reference 2026) | Post-result rounds (2026) | Reference | KEA conducts centralised counselling and document verification; candidates must follow KEA portal instructions. |
| Graduation marks entry deadline (reference 2026) | Jun 2026 | Reference | KEA opened the graduation marks entry process in 2026 during result/counselling preparation. |
Dates may be revised by the conducting authority — always cross-check the latest official notification.
What is Karnataka PGCET?
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Karnataka PGCET: exam definition and purpose
Karnataka PGCET is the Karnataka Post Graduate Common Entrance Test conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) to allocate seats for postgraduate programmes such as MBA, MCA and M.Tech/ME/M.Arch in Karnataka colleges. Karnataka PGCET ranks and scores are used in KEA's centralised counselling process to determine admissions to government, university and private institutes across the state.
Karnataka PGCET: conducting authority and portal
Karnataka PGCET is administered by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) and official notifications, the information bulletin, application portal, admit card, result and counselling updates are published on the KEA CET portal: https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/. Candidates must rely on the KEA portal for authoritative schedules and documents.
Karnataka PGCET: exam mode, structure and timing
Karnataka PGCET is conducted as a paper-based test using OMR answer sheets. For MBA and MCA papers, candidates are allotted 120 minutes to answer the paper. Some M.Tech/ME/M.Arch papers in past years have been allotted up to 150 minutes depending on the discipline. Each question in the Karnataka PGCET paper is objective with four options; candidates shade one option on the OMR sheet.
Karnataka PGCET: question count and marking scheme
- The Karnataka PGCET MBA/MCA/M.Tech papers have historically consisted of 100 questions carrying 1 mark each, making the total 100 marks for those papers.
- Karnataka PGCET award +1 mark for every correct response and has no negative marking for incorrect or unattempted responses.
- All questions in the Karnataka PGCET paper are compulsory; candidates should attempt as many as accurately as possible because there is no penalty for wrong answers.
Karnataka PGCET: MBA sectional breakdown and topics
The Karnataka PGCET MBA paper is divided into five equal sections of 20 questions each: Computer Awareness, Analytical Ability and Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Analysis, English Language and General Knowledge. Important topics for Karnataka PGCET MBA based on past-year analyses include data interpretation, puzzles, blood relation problems, basic networking concepts, current affairs, basic grammar and vocabulary.
Karnataka PGCET: MCA and M.Tech paper patterns
Karnataka PGCET MCA question distribution has historically included topics such as Mathematics, Computer Awareness, General English, Analytical Ability and Logical Reasoning, and General Awareness (for example: 20 questions each from Mathematics, Computer Awareness and English, 25 from Analytical Ability/Logical Reasoning and 15 from General Awareness as per past papers). Karnataka PGCET M.Tech papers combine technical subject questions specific to the branch along with aptitude/analytical questions; exact sectional splits vary by discipline and are specified in the KEA information bulletin for each year.
Karnataka PGCET: syllabus guidance and preparation focus
Karnataka PGCET aspirants should prioritise fundamentals and past-year question practice. For the Karnataka PGCET MBA syllabus, focus on quantitative aptitude (algebra, coordinate geometry, DI), logical reasoning (puzzles, seating arrangements, blood relations), computer awareness (DBMS basics, networking), English language (grammar, vocabulary, comprehension) and current affairs. For Karnataka PGCET MCA, candidates should prioritise mathematics topics, DBMS, computer networks, coding-decoding fundamentals and basic grammar. For Karnataka PGCET M.Tech aspirants, concentrate on core technical subjects from the undergraduate curriculum plus aptitude practice.
Karnataka PGCET: examination day and OMR instructions
Karnataka PGCET exam day instructions historically emphasise strict OMR-filling rules: shade only one circle per question with the specified pen type, follow the bell schedule, carry the admit card and authorised photo ID, and adhere to KEA's dress and conduct guidelines. Candidates must consult the KEA admit card and information bulletin for the precise exam-day bell timings, permitted items, and reporting time for the current year.
Karnataka PGCET: result processing and counselling
Karnataka PGCET results and rank lists are published on the KEA portal. KEA conducts document verification and centralised counselling rounds after result declaration; participating colleges publish category-wise cutoffs and seat-allotment lists during counselling. Candidates needing M.Tech seats with valid GATE scores are treated according to rules stated by KEA in the information bulletin; GATE-qualified candidates typically need not appear in PGCET but must follow KEA application/submission procedures where applicable.
Karnataka PGCET: data-driven notes and historical references
Past-year official and authoritative references show that KEA has used an annual pen-and-paper OMR format with 100-question, 100-mark MBA and MCA papers and no negative marking. Dates, session times and counselling steps have varied year to year; aspirants should consult the KEA official portal for the current year's authoritative timetable, brochure and updates.
Top institutions accepting Karnataka PGCET
Institutes that use the Karnataka PGCET score for admission.
| Institution | Location | Course | Cutoff | Fees | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RV Institute of Management | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA | 109–267 (GM; recent reported range) | — | Historically among top private MBA colleges in Karnataka accepting Karnataka PGCET ranks in the low hundreds (GM). |
| PES University | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA | 277–557 (GM; recent reported range) | — | PES University admits MBA candidates through Karnataka PGCET centralised counselling with mid-hundreds rank ranges for GM in recent cycles. |
| Ramaiah Institute of Technology | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA | 339–386 (GM; recent reported range) | — | Ramaiah Institute of Technology admits MBA candidates via Karnataka PGCET; GM cutoffs have appeared in the 300s in recent reports. |
| BMS College of Engineering | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA / MCA | MBA: ~400–600 (GM); MCA: ~150–300 (GM) | — | BMSCE accepts Karnataka PGCET ranks for both MBA and MCA with differing cutoff ranges by programme. |
| BNM Institute of Technology (BNMIT) | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA | 3,000–5,500 (GM; reported range) | — | BNMIT appears in published PGCET rank-wise lists with higher rank ranges compared with top Bengaluru colleges. |
| UVCE (University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering) | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MCA | Around 120 (GM; reported example) | — | UVCE's MCA admissions via Karnataka PGCET show comparatively low rank cutoffs for GM in recent reports. |
| CMR Institute of Technology | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA | SC/ST example: ~7,132 (reported) | — | CMR Institute of Technology appears in category-wise cutoff lists published in past cycles. |
| Sahyadri College of Engineering and Management | Mangalore/Belagavi area, Karnataka | MBA | SC/ST example: ~10,362 (reported) | — | Sahyadri appears in extended category-wise cutoff tables in public reports. |
| Reva University | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA / MCA | MBA / MCA: reported in mid thousands for some categories | — | Reva University accepts Karnataka PGCET ranks; cutoffs vary by programme and category. |
| Mount Carmel College | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA / MCA | MBA: reported ~2,300s (GM examples); MCA: reported in 2,000s (GM examples) | — | Mount Carmel College admissions via Karnataka PGCET have appeared in published cutoff tables. |
Karnataka PGCET eligibility criteria
Karnataka PGCET eligibility is defined by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) and applies to candidates seeking admission to MBA, MCA and M.Tech/ME/M.Arch programmes in Karnataka. General eligibility requires a recognised bachelor's degree; exact minimum percentage, domicile, age or category-specific relaxations and GATE-related provisions are specified in the KEA information bulletin for the relevant year. GATE-qualified candidates for M.Tech admissions are typically handled under a separate provision by KEA and are not required to appear in the PGCET exam but must submit necessary application details as per KEA instructions.
Candidates must consult the KEA official information bulletin on the KEA portal for definitive, year-specific eligibility clauses including minimum marks, recognised university lists, qualification equivalence and reservations. The KEA bulletin is the sole authority for final eligibility decisions and document requirements for counselling.
KEA also publishes category-wise reservations, special quota rules (such as PwD, ex-servicemen, and other state-specified categories) and any gender/transgender concessions in the information bulletin for the current year. Candidates should retain official certificates confirming category and eligibility for counselling verification.
Minimum qualification
Recognised bachelor’s degree (see KEA bulletin for percentage criteria)
GATE-qualified candidates (M.Tech)
GATE-qualified candidates need not appear in Karnataka PGCET for M.Tech but must follow KEA application instructions
Domicile
Karnataka domicile and All-India candidates considered as per KEA rules (see bulletin)
Reservation categories
KEA follows state reservation norms; category certificates required for verification
Age limit
No separate age limit mentioned in past KEA PGCET bulletins (refer current bulletin)
Number of attempts
No attempt limit specified by KEA in referenced materials
Language proficiency
Exam generally in English; candidates should be proficient in English
Final year students
Candidates in final year of qualifying degree permitted subject to KEA conditions (check current bulletin)
Can I apply?
Karnataka PGCET registration & application
- 1
Step 1 - Read KEA information bulletin
Read the Karnataka PGCET information bulletin on the KEA portal (https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/) to confirm eligibility, documents, fees and schedule for the current year.
- 2
Step 2 - Online registration
Register on the KEA PGCET application portal with a valid email and mobile number and create login credentials as directed in the KEA application page.
- 3
Step 3 - Fill application form
Complete personal, academic and category details in the online application form exactly as per supporting documents; choose the course(s) you are applying for (MBA/MCA/M.Tech).
- 4
Step 4 - Upload documents
Upload scanned photograph, signature, left thumb impression and other required certificates in the specified format and size as per KEA instructions.
- 5
Step 5 - Pay application fee
Pay the Karnataka PGCET application fee online using the accepted payment modes on the KEA portal and obtain the transaction receipt.
- 6
Step 6 - Final submission and printout
Submit the completed application and download/print the confirmation page and copy of the application for future reference.
- 7
Step 7 - Correction window (if applicable)
Use the KEA-provided correction window (if declared) to rectify any permissible errors in the submitted application as per KEA timelines.
- 8
Step 8 - Admit card download
Download the Karnataka PGCET admit card from the KEA portal when released and check all details; follow KEA exam-day instructions printed on the admit card.
Photo/Signature/Thumb specifications: KEA specifies photograph, signature and left thumb impression file formats and size limits in the information bulletin and application portal (refer to the KEA portal for exact dimensions and file-size limits). Use a clear, recent passport-style coloured photograph and a plain white background for the image; sign in black or blue ink and scan at adequate resolution. Thumb impressions must be clear and taken in black or blue ink.
Correction window: KEA has provided a limited correction window in past years to correct certain fields; candidates should use that opportunity when announced and must follow the KEA instructions precisely. Not all fields may be editable during correction; check the bulletin.
Common mistakes to avoid: Do not submit inconsistent data (name, date of birth, parent names) that does not match official documents; ensure category certificates are valid and correctly uploaded; do not miss payment and final submission steps; keep transaction receipts and application printouts safe for counselling and verification.
Documents required
- Recent coloured photograph (digital) as per KEA specs
- Scanned signature (black/blue ink) as per KEA specs
- Scanned left thumb impression as per KEA specs
- Proof of identity (Aadhaar / PAN / Passport / Voter ID) for admit card verification
- Class X or birth certificate for date of birth proof
- Graduation degree or provisional certificate
- Marksheets of qualifying examination (all years/semesters)
- Caste/category certificate (if applicable) issued by competent authority
- Income certificate (if required for fee concession)
- PwD / Ex-Serviceman / other quota certificates (if applicable)
Karnataka PGCET application fee
Category-wise Karnataka PGCET registration fee, accepted payment modes and refund rules.
| Category | Application fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General | INR 0 | Please refer to KEA official portal for the exact application fee for the current year. |
| OBC-NCL | INR 0 | KEA publishes category-wise application fees in the information bulletin; check KEA portal. |
| EWS | INR 0 | KEA publishes category-wise application fees in the information bulletin; check KEA portal. |
| SC | INR 0 | KEA publishes category-wise application fees in the information bulletin; check KEA portal. |
| ST | INR 0 | KEA publishes category-wise application fees in the information bulletin; check KEA portal. |
| PwD | INR 0 | KEA publishes category-wise application fees and concessions in the information bulletin; check KEA portal. |
| Female / Transgender concession | INR 0 | Any concession for female or transgender candidates is specified by KEA in the information bulletin; consult KEA portal. |
| Late fee (if applicable) | INR 0 | KEA specifies late fee slabs (if any) for delayed payment or late registration in the information bulletin. |
| Per additional programme fee | INR 0 | If applying for multiple programmes, KEA fee rules for additional programme entries are published in the bulletin; check KEA portal. |
| International/Overseas centre fee | INR 0 | If overseas centres are offered (subject to KEA decisions), fees and procedures will be detailed by KEA on the official portal. |
| GST / Tax | INR 0 | Applicable taxes on application fees (if any) are included in the fee payment gateway and detailed by KEA. |
Fees are as published by the conducting authority — verify on the official portal before paying.
Accepted payment modes: KEA's application portal accepts online payments through net banking, debit card, credit card and other online gateways as specified on the KEA portal. Use the payment options presented on the official KEA payment page during application.
Refund and non-refundable policy: Application fees paid to KEA are non-refundable and non-transferable as per past KEA practice; confirm the current year's refund policy in the KEA information bulletin.
Payment-failure handling: In case of payment failure, candidates should check the transaction status in their KEA application dashboard and retain bank/payment gateway transaction references; failed payments typically do not result in application submission and candidates should reattempt payment following KEA instructions. Contact details and helpdesk procedures are published on the KEA portal for transaction disputes.
Fee-waiver / concessions: Any fee concessions for reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC-NCL/PwD/female/transgender) or special quotas are declared by KEA in the information bulletin; applicants must upload valid supporting certificates during registration and verification.
Karnataka PGCET exam pattern
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Conducting body | Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) |
| Exam name | Karnataka PGCET |
| Mode | Offline (Pen-and-paper, OMR-based) |
| Question type | Objective multiple-choice (4 options) |
| Total questions | 100 (MBA / MCA / MTech papers as per KEA pattern) |
| Total marks | 100 |
| Duration | 120 minutes (MBA / MCA) |
| Sections (MBA) | Computer Awareness; Analytical Ability & Logical Reasoning; Quantitative Analysis; English Language; General Knowledge — 20 questions each |
| Sections (MCA) | Mathematics; Computer Awareness; General English; Analytical Ability & LR; General Awareness (distribution as per KEA past pattern) |
| Options per question | 4 |
| Exam frequency | Once a year (KEA PGCET cycle) |
Karnataka PGCET is conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) as an OMR-based objective test. Karnataka PGCET MBA paper contains 100 questions divided into five equal sections of 20 questions each; the MBA paper time is 120 minutes. Karnataka PGCET MCA and MTech papers follow KEA’s subject-specific distributions (MCA: Mathematics, Computer Awareness, General English, Analytical Ability & LR and General Awareness). All details above are based on the latest KEA / KEA-published PGCET information bulletins and official KEA notifications hosted on the KEA/CET portal.
Karnataka PGCET marking scheme
Marks for correct answer
+1 mark per correct answer
Marks for incorrect answer
0 (no negative marking for wrong answers)
Marks for unattempted question
0 (no negative marking)
Total marks
100
Number of questions
100 (each question carries 1 mark)
Scoring instructions
Shade only one circle corresponding to the chosen option on OMR sheet; only one answer is correct per question
OMR handling
Responses are evaluated from OMR answer sheets as per KEA OMR evaluation procedures
Karnataka PGCET syllabus
Official downloads & resources
Karnataka PGCET previous year papers
Karnataka PGCET difficulty analysis
| Course | Perceived difficulty | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MBA | Moderate | Karnataka PGCET MBA paper tests basic-to-intermediate aptitude across five sections; considered moderate compared with national-level MBA exams |
| MCA | Moderate to moderately difficult | Karnataka PGCET MCA paper emphasises mathematics and computer awareness; focus areas include DBMS, networks and coding-decoding |
| M.Tech / ME | Varies by discipline (Moderate to Difficult) | Karnataka PGCET technical papers include core engineering topics and aptitude; difficulty depends on branch |
How to prepare for Karnataka PGCET
Score, percentile & college prediction tools
Karnataka PGCET cutoffs
| College / Institute | Course | Category | Typical PGCET Rank Range (recent years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| RV Institute of Management | MBA | General (GM) | 109–267 |
| PES University | MBA | General (GM) | 277–557 |
| Ramaiah Institute of Technology | MBA | General (GM) | 339–386 |
| BMS College of Engineering | MBA | General (GM) | 400–600 |
| BNM Institute of Technology (BNMIT) | MBA | General (GM) | 3,000–5,500 |
| UVCE (University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering) | MCA | General (GM) | Around 120 |
| BMS College of Engineering | MCA | General (GM) | Around 150–300 |
| CMR Institute of Technology | MBA | SC / ST | Around 7,132 (SC/ST examples reported) |
| Sahyadri College of Engineering and Management | MBA | SC / ST | Around 10,362 (SC/ST examples reported) |
| IISc Bangalore | MBA (where applicable via PGCET seats) | General (GM) | Around 150–300 (reported expectation) |
The cutoffs table summarises Karnataka PGCET rank ranges reported by KEA releases and consolidated public cut-off reports for recent years. Karnataka PGCET cutoffs vary by round, category, course and seat availability. KEA publishes official college-wise, course-wise and category-wise Karnataka PGCET cutoffs on the official portal; candidates should consult the KEA PGCET counselling and cutoff PDFs on the official KEA portal for authoritative, round-wise cutoffs.
Institutions you can target at different Karnataka PGCET scores
Use the shortlister to map your expected score to safe, target and reach institutes.
| Institution | Location | Course | Cutoff | Fees | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RV Institute of Management | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA | 109–267 (GM; recent reported range) | — | Historically among top private MBA colleges in Karnataka accepting Karnataka PGCET ranks in the low hundreds (GM). |
| PES University | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA | 277–557 (GM; recent reported range) | — | PES University admits MBA candidates through Karnataka PGCET centralised counselling with mid-hundreds rank ranges for GM in recent cycles. |
| Ramaiah Institute of Technology | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA | 339–386 (GM; recent reported range) | — | Ramaiah Institute of Technology admits MBA candidates via Karnataka PGCET; GM cutoffs have appeared in the 300s in recent reports. |
| BMS College of Engineering | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA / MCA | MBA: ~400–600 (GM); MCA: ~150–300 (GM) | — | BMSCE accepts Karnataka PGCET ranks for both MBA and MCA with differing cutoff ranges by programme. |
| BNM Institute of Technology (BNMIT) | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA | 3,000–5,500 (GM; reported range) | — | BNMIT appears in published PGCET rank-wise lists with higher rank ranges compared with top Bengaluru colleges. |
| UVCE (University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering) | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MCA | Around 120 (GM; reported example) | — | UVCE's MCA admissions via Karnataka PGCET show comparatively low rank cutoffs for GM in recent reports. |
| CMR Institute of Technology | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA | SC/ST example: ~7,132 (reported) | — | CMR Institute of Technology appears in category-wise cutoff lists published in past cycles. |
| Sahyadri College of Engineering and Management | Mangalore/Belagavi area, Karnataka | MBA | SC/ST example: ~10,362 (reported) | — | Sahyadri appears in extended category-wise cutoff tables in public reports. |
| Reva University | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA / MCA | MBA / MCA: reported in mid thousands for some categories | — | Reva University accepts Karnataka PGCET ranks; cutoffs vary by programme and category. |
| Mount Carmel College | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA / MCA | MBA: reported ~2,300s (GM examples); MCA: reported in 2,000s (GM examples) | — | Mount Carmel College admissions via Karnataka PGCET have appeared in published cutoff tables. |
| Christ Academy Institute for Advanced Studies | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA | Reported mid-thousands (GM examples) | — | College appears in KEA PGCET cutoff compilations. |
| Acharya Institute Of Management And Science | Bengaluru, Karnataka | MBA | Reported around 4,000s (GM examples) | — | Participates in Karnataka PGCET counselling and admits via KEA seat allotment. |
Compare institutions
Karnataka PGCET vs CAT (Common Admission Test)
| Parameter | Karnataka PGCET | CAT (Common Admission Test) |
|---|---|---|
| Exam level | State-level (Karnataka) for postgraduate admissions | National-level management entrance for IIMs and many B-schools |
| Mode and format | Pen-and-paper OMR-based MCQ test (120 minutes, 100 questions for MBA) | Computer-based test, multiple sections and variable duration |
| Marking scheme | +1 for correct answer; no negative marking in Karnataka PGCET | Sectional scoring with negative marking for wrong answers in CAT |
| Usage | Used for admission to MBA/MCA/M.Tech within Karnataka through KEA counselling | Used for admission to IIMs and many national B-schools; not used for state centralised counselling |
Karnataka PGCET vs GATE (for M.Tech admissions)
| Parameter | Karnataka PGCET | GATE (for M.Tech admissions) |
|---|---|---|
| Intended programmes | MBA, MCA, M.Tech/ME/M.Arch (state admissions via KEA) | Primarily M.Tech/M.E./PhD and PSU recruitment (national) |
| Eligibility impact | GATE-qualified candidates need not appear for Karnataka PGCET for M.Tech admissions but must follow KEA application instructions | GATE is the direct qualifying test for national M.Tech admissions and many institutes; KEA accepts GATE-qualified candidates in place of PGCET |
| Exam format | PGCET: OMR MCQ papers with 100 marks for MBA; subject-specific papers for M.Tech | GATE: Subject-wise computer-based numerical and MCQ/NA questions with subject-specific syllabus |
Karnataka PGCET admission & counselling process
- 1
Check KEA notifications and result
Karnataka PGCET candidates must check the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) official portal (https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/) for the Karnataka PGCET result and counselling schedule. KEA publishes rank lists, counselling dates, and required documents on the official portal.
- 2
Document verification and claim slip
Karnataka PGCET aspirants must complete document verification as per KEA instructions; after successful verification, KEA issues a claim slip which allows access to the KEA option-entry dashboard for Karnataka PGCET counselling.
- 3
Option entry / choice filling
Using the KEA counselling portal, Karnataka PGCET candidates must log in and complete option entry (choice filling) for colleges and courses in order of preference within the deadlines announced by KEA.
- 4
Seat allotment and fee payment
KEA publishes round-wise Karnataka PGCET seat allotment results; allotted candidates must accept the seat and pay the admission/acceptance fee and follow institute reporting rules within the dates specified by KEA.
- 5
Reporting to college and document submission
After seat allotment in Karnataka PGCET counselling, candidates must report to the allotted college with original documents and pay college fees as required to confirm admission.
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Subsequent rounds / seat upgradation
KEA conducts multiple rounds of counselling for Karnataka PGCET; candidates can participate in further rounds if eligible for upgradation or if they surrender earlier allotments as per KEA rules.
Karnataka PGCET counselling is conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) and all official circulars, schedules, claim-slip procedures and seat allotment lists are published on the KEA PGCET portal at https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/. GATE-qualified candidates for M.Tech programmes are handled according to KEA guidelines; GATE-qualified candidates generally need not appear in Karnataka PGCET but must follow KEA application and admission instructions. Candidates should retain copies of claim slips and admission receipts and follow KEA deadlines strictly.
Karnataka PGCET admit card
Karnataka PGCET admit card is issued by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) and must be downloaded from the official KEA PGCET portal at https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/. The Karnataka PGCET admit card contains candidate name, roll number, exam centre address, date and time, photo, signature and specific instructions for the Karnataka PGCET exam day.
Karnataka PGCET aspirants must carry a printed copy of the Karnataka PGCET admit card to the exam centre along with one valid original photo identity proof as specified by KEA (for example, Aadhar card, Driving Licence, Passport, PAN card, or Voter ID). KEA requires the admit card and ID to be presented to invigilators during entry and verification at the Karnataka PGCET centre.
KEA also provides specific pre-exam instructions on the Karnataka PGCET admit card regarding permitted stationery (ballpoint pen for OMR shading), reporting time, bell schedule, and dress-code exceptions. Candidates must follow the Karnataka PGCET admit card instructions exactly; any discrepancy in candidate details on the Karnataka PGCET admit card should be reported to KEA through the official portal before the exam as per KEA guidance.
Exam day guidelines
Before the exam
- Download and print the Karnataka PGCET admit card from https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/ and verify personal details well before the exam day.
- Carry the printed Karnataka PGCET admit card and an original photo ID (Aadhaar/Passport/Driving Licence/Voter ID/PAN) to the exam centre.
- Reach the Karnataka PGCET exam centre as per the reporting time on the admit card; KEA publishes bell timings including first bell and exam start times.
- Carry only permitted items (transparent water bottle, ballpoint pen) as instructed on the Karnataka PGCET admit card; leave prohibited items at home.
- Follow the Karnataka PGCET dress code guidance provided by KEA (KEA published dress-code rules for PGCET centres in official exam-day instructions).
At the centre
- Present the Karnataka PGCET admit card and an original photo ID to centre staff for verification.
- Follow invigilator instructions for seating and OMR-sheet handling during the Karnataka PGCET exam.
- Shade only one circle per question on the Karnataka PGCET OMR sheet with the specified ballpoint pen; KEA emphasises careful shading to ensure accurate OMR reading.
- Adhere to KEA's Karnataka PGCET bell schedule and do not leave the exam hall before the invigilator permits.
- If any discrepancy appears on the Karnataka PGCET admit card or OMR sheet, immediately inform the invigilator and follow KEA centre procedures.
Not allowed
- Electronic devices including mobile phones, calculators and smart watches are not allowed inside the Karnataka PGCET exam hall.
- Paper notes, books, written material, and printed or handwritten sheets are not permitted in the Karnataka PGCET exam hall.
- Any communication devices or gadgets that can store or transmit data are strictly prohibited during the Karnataka PGCET exam.
- Any form of malpractice, impersonation or possession of unauthorised material will attract disciplinary action under KEA regulations for Karnataka PGCET.
Karnataka PGCET exam centres
| City | State | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Bengaluru | Karnataka | Available (major PGCET centre) |
| Mysuru | Karnataka | Available |
| Mangalore | Karnataka | Available |
| Hubballi-Dharwad | Karnataka | Available |
| Belagavi | Karnataka | Available |
| Kalaburagi | Karnataka | Available |
| Ballari | Karnataka | Available |
| Davangere | Karnataka | Available |
| Tumakuru | Karnataka | Available |
| Bijapur (Vijayapura) | Karnataka | Available |
| Shivamogga | Karnataka | Available |
| Chitradurga | Karnataka | Available |
| Kolar | Karnataka | Available |
| Chikkamagaluru | Karnataka | Available |
| Udupi | Karnataka | Available |
| Shimoga | Karnataka | Available |
| Hassan | Karnataka | Available |
| Raichur | Karnataka | Available |
| Koppal | Karnataka | Available |
| Bagalkot | Karnataka | Available |
Karnataka PGCET result
Karnataka PGCET results and scorecards are published by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) on the official KEA PGCET portal. The Karnataka PGCET result includes section-wise marks, total marks and rank for allocation in KEA counselling rounds. Candidates must download the Karnataka PGCET scorecard from the KEA website using their login credentials.
What after Karnataka PGCET?
After the Karnataka PGCET exam, candidates should first download and retain the Karnataka PGCET answer key if KEA issues a provisional answer key on the official portal; check the KEA portal for dates and challenge procedures. Next, candidates must monitor the Karnataka PGCET result announcement on the KEA PGCET portal (https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/) and download their Karnataka PGCET scorecard and rank certificate when released.
Successful Karnataka PGCET aspirants must follow KEA instructions for document verification, obtain the KEA claim slip after verification, and participate in the Karnataka PGCET counselling rounds by completing option entry on the KEA counselling dashboard within the specified windows. KEA publishes round-wise seat allotment lists and college-wise, category-wise cutoffs; candidates who receive a seat allotment for Karnataka PGCET must pay fees and report to the allotted institute with original documents by the dates announced by KEA to confirm admission.
If any candidate is GATE-qualified for M.Tech admissions, the candidate must follow KEA's published process for GATE-qualified applicants in place of PGCET rank-based counselling as specified on the KEA portal. Keep digital and printed copies of all Karnataka PGCET counselling claim-slips, allotment orders, receipts and submitted documents for future reference.
Latest Karnataka PGCET updates
Karnataka PGCET 2026 exam pattern and syllabus published on KEA portal
Karnataka PGCET exam pattern for MBA/MCA/MTech was published by the Karnataka Examinations Authority on the official KEA portal; the MBA/MCA papers are 100 questions, OMR‑based, 120 minutes duration, with no negative marking.
Official sourceKarnataka PGCET MBA and MCA exam held (official schedule reported)
KEA conducted the Karnataka PGCET MBA and MCA sessions in 2026 as a pen‑and‑paper OMR test with the two‑hour time slot; bell timings and centre instructions were issued on the KEA admit card advisory.
Official sourceKarnataka PGCET 2026 results and cutoffs published on KEA portal
Karnataka Examinations Authority released Karnataka PGCET 2026 results and started publishing college‑wise and category‑wise cutoff PDFs for counselling and seat allotment on the official KEA site.
Official sourceKarnataka PGCET 2027 information bulletin expected on KEA site
The Karnataka Examinations Authority is expected to publish the official Karnataka PGCET 2027 information bulletin on the KEA portal around March 2027; candidates should refer to the KEA site for the authoritative brochure.
Official sourceKarnataka PGCET 2026 application form correction window opened
KEA opened a correction window for Karnataka PGCET 2026 applications allowing candidates to edit specified fields for a limited period as announced on the KEA registration pages.
Official sourceKarnataka PGCET FAQs
Sources & editorial information
Last updated: 27 Aug 2026
Reviewed by: MBA Compass Editorial Team
- Karnataka PGCET Exam Pattern 2027: Marking Scheme for MBA ...
- Karnataka PGCET Pattern 2026: Subjects, Topics, Marking Scheme
- Karnataka PGCET Exam Pattern 2026: Latest Marking ... - Shiksha
- Karnataka PGCET 2026 Exam Pattern - Vidyavision.com
- KEA PGCET 2026: Result (Declared), Cutoff, Counselling, Dates ...
- Karnataka PGCET 2026 Exam Day Guidelines (June 14)
- Karnataka PGCET Hall Ticket 2026 - Release Date, Download ...
- Karnataka PGCET Application Form 2026 - Online Link, Date, Fees ...
- Check PGCET Cutoff Rank for MBA & MCA - Shiksha.com
- Karnataka PGCET MBA Cutoff 2026: Expected Ranks, College-wise ...
- Karnataka PGCET 2026 Result: Score, Cutoff & Counselling Process
- Karnataka PGCET Cutoff 2026: Check MBA, MCA, M ... - Collegedunia
Information on this page is compiled from official notifications and authoritative sources and should be verified against the latest official announcement before applying.