How do I crack the Karnataka PGCET for MBA?

The KEA annually conducts the Karnataka PGCET an entrance examination for postgraduate admission. The following expert tips can help you clear the Karnataka PGCET for MBA: 1. Prepare the study plan according to the time available for the Karnataka PGCET. 2. You can start by reviewing the topics in which you have some knowledge. 3. Later, you can study the difficult topics by reviewing the fundamentals. 4. Select your study material to understand the basics and practice for the exam. 5. You can use online resources such as YouTube to understand complex topics like Statistics. 6. For the English section of KPGCET, regular newspaper reading may help. 7. For the general knowledge section, you can pick up any GK book like one by Arihant, Odisha Experts, or Lucent. 8. Practice well before the actual exam to maintain accuracy in every section. 9. You can also create short tricks for the reasoning and quant sections of the PGCET. 10. Devote one-third of your time to correcting and improving on your mistakes. You can view the experts' decoded strategy on this Shiksha Page: https://www.shiksha.com/mba/karnataka-pgcet-exam-preparation.

Which are the best books to refer for PGCET exam preparation?

Books for general knowledge: For general knowledge part of PGCET, you can refer to these books: 1. First in India 2. First in World 3. Current Affairs 4. Awards Books for reasoning and general intelligence: R.S.Agarwal is one of the best books for PGCET Verbal Reasoning. 1. R.S. Agarwal Verbal Reasoning 2. R.S. Agarwal Logical Reasoning Books for Quantitative Technique: Arun Sharma Apart from practising the questions and the concepts, keep an eye on the time so that you have an estimate of which questions take more time and likewise you will be able to have a SWOT analysis of yours. Keep taking mock tests as these are actually helpful, also helps to build your confidence level and make you more prepared for the test. Hope it helps you in having some insight for the same. All the best for all your future endeavours.

How much time should I devote to practice Karnmataka PGCET question papers?

Candidates need to devote a minimum of two hours to practice the Karnataka PGCET exam paper daily without a any miss. This will help them in increasing the accuracy level to answer questions in less time with proficiency. The actual exam duration of the Karnataka PGCET exam is 150 minutes. However, candidates will have to answer all questions within 120 minutes. The remaining 30 minutes are required for frisking and mentioning the details on the answer booklet.

What is the Karnataka PGCET admit card download process?

To download the Karntaka PGCET admit card candidates have to use Karnataka PGCET registration number and password. The password is the same as generated at the time of registration process. After the admit card has been downloaded, candidates have to cross-check the details filled in the application form with the details furnished on the Karnataka PGCET hall ticket before taking a printout. Any discrepancy in the Karnataka PGCET admit card must be reported immediately. To print Karnataka PGCET hall ticket immediately after downloading the same, the system must be connected with a printer beforehand.

Where can I download my PGCET Karnataka admit card?

Karnataka PGCET hall ticket is downloadable from the official website hosted by Karnataka Examinations Authority. Candidates who completed the registration process before the last date are allowed to download the PGCET hall ticket Karnataka. The landing page of the KEA website hosts an 'Admissions' tab in the main menu. Candidates can Access PGCET admissions link from the drop-down under the 'Admissions' tab. the PGCET hall ticket download link is available on the PGCET exam page.

What are the login credentials for Karnataka PGCET hall ticket download?

Candidates can login using their PGCET number and date of birth to download the Karnataka PGCET hall ticket. Candidates can find login link to download the PGCET hall ticket on official website.

What are the books that cover the Karnataka PGCET syllabus for Reasoning and General Intelligence section?

Candidates preparing for the Karnataka PGCET Reasoning and General Intelligence section must refer to the following bools while preparation: Logical Reasoning by Arihant Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning by Arun Sharma Verbal & Non Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Agarwal Reasoning by Mukesh Khanna In addition to preparation using the above mentioned books, candidates must solve practice question papers to improve their resoning skills. Solving more and more questions will help candidates develop a logical apoproach towards answering questions.

Which topic from the Karnataka PGCET exam take the maximum time to solve?

The Reasoning and General Intelligence, as well as the Quantitative Analysis section. It will take maximum time to complete all the topics from these sections of Karnataka PGCET 2023. This is primarily because the problems will be tricky and memorizing different shortcut formulas is not easy. Building logical ability skills takes time and it is acquired only through extensive practice.

What are the broad topics to prepare for Karnataka PGCET exam?

Candidates need to prepare for Proficiency in the English Language, General Knowledge, Reasoning, and Quantitative Analysis for PGCET exam. Karnataka PGCET syllabus is similar to other MBA entrance exams.

What After the declaration of Karnataka PGCET result?

Candidates who pass the Karnataka PGCET exam are eligble to appear for the centralised counselling process to be conducted by Karnataka Examinations Authority. Candidates are called for the document verification process based on their ranks in the Karnataka PGCET exam. Candidates are advised to attend the counselling only if they have the required percentage of marks in the qualifying exam (50 per cent for unreserved categories and 45% for reserved categories).

How can a candidate check the Karnataka PGCET results online?

Candidates can check Karnataka PGCET result online through the user account and by entering the PGCET number. The result displays the rank and score of the candidate. KEA releases the result on the official website only. Hard copy of the Karnataka PGCET result or mark sheet is not sent to the candidates. They will have to take printouts of the mark sheet and preserve it till the counselling and admission process is over.

What is the method to prepare the inter-se merit list for Karnataka PGCET?

Inter-se-merit is prepared based on the scores of the candidates in the Karnataka PGCET exam. When two or more candidates secure the same merit position, inter-se-merit is determined with reference to the total aggregate marks obtained by the candidate in the qualifying exam, that is the graduation degree. If the marks still continue to be equal, then in such a case, inter-se-merit is created based on the age of the candidates. Here, the older candidates are given preference over the younger ones.

When will PGCET Karnataka counselling start?

The dates for Karnataka PGCET will be announced after the result separately. Qualified candidates need to appear for Karnataka PGCET counselling. Candidates are called for the counselling process based on their ranks. Candidates are advised to attend the counselling only if they have the required percentage of marks in the qualifying exam (50 per cent for unreserved categories and 45% for reserved categories).

What is Karnataka PGCET counselling process?

Karnataka PGCET counselling is conducted for admission to MBA, MCA and M.Tech courses in Karnataka. The space below mentions the Karnataka PGCET counselling process: Document verification Option entry Mock seat allotment Modification of options First round seat allotment Choice filling Payment of fees Reporting at allotted colinstitute KEA also conducts second round of Karnataka PGCET counselling to fill vacant seats.

When is Karnataka PGCET Counselling scheduled for?

Karnataka PGCET counselling is conducted every year for admission to MBA, MCA, M.Tech and MArch courses. Candidates who pass the Karnataka PGCET exam are eligible to participate in the documenty verification process. KEA starts Karnataka PGCET counselling 30 to 40 days after the result date. The official website hosts the Karnataka PGCET counselling schedule.

Do I need any login credentials to check Karnataka PGCET answer keys?

No login credentials are required to check the Karnataka PGCET answer keys. Candidates will find the Karnataka PGCET answer key in a PDF format available on the official website. The admissions tab under the main menu will host a web page for PGCET admissions. Candidates can find the PDF of Karnataka PGCET answer key under PGCET admissions tab. Anyone accessing the PGCET website can check the Karnataka PGCET answer keys.

How is Karnataka PGCET rank list prepared?

KEA prepares the PGCET rank based on the performance of the candidate in the entrance test. KEA provides one mark for each correct response marked by the candidate. The candidates with more marks get higher rank. In case tweo or more candidates have an equal score, tie breaking criteria is applied. Karnataka PGCET inter se merit is determined with reference to the total aggregate marks obtained in the qualifying exam. In the case where marks obtained are equal, the inter-se-merit is determined based on the age of the candidates. Older candidates are preferred over younger ones.

How to raise objections against Karnataka PGCET answer keys?

Individuals file their objections in Karnataka PGCET 2023 answer key, if any, addressed to the “Executive Director, Karnataka Examinations Authority, Bangalore” either in person, or through e-mail, or by speed post. Candidates have to attach supporting documents / justification with the objection sent. Objections received from the candidates without justification shall not be considered. The objections received by KEA will be placed before an Expert Committee, whose decision will be final for determination of the right answer key.

Can I leave exam centre if I complete all questions in Karnataka PGCET before time?

No. Candidates are not allowed to leave the Karnataka PGCET exam centre before the last bell rings. Immediately after the last bell rings, invigilator will collect the answer sheet and provide a replica of the OMR sheet for future references. Candidates have to sign the sheet before leaving the PGCET exam centre to acknowledge receiving the OMR answer sheet. PGCET has an exam duration of 120 minutes.

How many test centres are there for Karnataka PGCET exam?

Karnataka Examinations Authority conducts the PGCET exam every year across multiple cities in the state. While filling the application form, candidates have to choose the test centre preference. KEA will try allocatring a test centre in the prefered exam city. KEA mighty allocate multiple exam centres in one city. In the past exam session candidates had to choose a test city preference among 29 test cities.

What all documents are required for the exam along with Karnataka PGCET admit card?

Candidates must carry photo identity proof such as college ID card/ driving license/ PAN card/ Aadhaar Card/ Voters ID card on the exam day along with Karnataka PGCET admit card. candidates must carry a hard copy of the Karnataka PGCET admit card on the exam day along with a valid photo ID proof on the exam day. Failing this, applicants will face denial in entry to the exam hall. Officials at the exam centre verifies the identity of the candidates after looking at the ID proof and the admit card.

When will the official Karnataka PGCET answer key release?

As per the official Karnataka PGCET brochure, the answer key is available within three days after the completion of the entrance test on the KEA website. Karnataka PGCET official answer keys are released on the official website for all courses, including MBA and MCA. The candidates / parents / lecturers, are allowed to file their objections, if any, within three days in respect of any of the published answer key. Candidates are also required to submit all the supporting documents & justification for the objection filed. Objections filed by the candidates without justification shall not be considered. Objections received after the last date fixed shall not be considered. Objections received by the KEA will be placed before an Expert Committee, whose decision will be final in this regard.

Is it mandatory to have studied Mathematics at the graduation level to apply for Karnataka PGCET MCA?

Candidates must have studied Mathematics either at the 10+2 level or during graduation. Candidates from courses like B.Sc., B.A., or B.Com with Mathematics in Class 12 also qualify. As long as the subject was covered in one of the stages, they are eligible

What is the qualifying marks for Karnataka PGCET exam?

There is no qualifying marks in PGCET. However, note that, candidates must get at least 50% marks in qualifying exam (45% marks in QE in case of SC/ST and Category I of Karnataka candidates) to be eligible for admission. Candidates must refer to the eligibility criteria mentioned in the admission brochure issued by desired college for MBA admissions. The eligibility will be checked during the counselling and admission process.

Where can I find the Karnataka PGCET syllabus?

Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has released the Karnataka PGCET syllabus for MBA, MCA and Engineering courses. Candidates can find the Karnataka PGCET syllabus for all the courses on the official website. Candidates must check the PGCET Karnataka syllabus before starting the exam preparation. Alternatively, Karnataka PGCET syllabus article from Shiksha can provide a detailed section wise syllabus of Karnataka PGCET exam. The questions in the Karnataka PGCET exam are framed from the pre defined syllabus of the exam.

What is the frequency of the Karnataka PGCET exam?

Karnataka PGCET exam is conducted once every year. The exam score is valid for one exam session only. Karnataka PGCET is an offline exam with as many as 100 MCQs to be answered within 150 minutes. Karnataka Post Graduate Common Entrance Test is administered annually by Karnataka Examination Authority. Karnataka PGCET acts as the gateway exam for admission into PG courses, including MBA, MCA, M.E., M.Tech. and M.Arch in the state of Karnataka.

What documents are needed to fill the Karnataka PGCET application form?

Candidates need to keep the following details/ things handy before they proceed to fill Karnataka PGCET application form for a hassle-free registration process Class 10 mark sheet Class 12 mark sheet Scanned copy of passport-sized photograph Scanned copy of signature Scanned copy of left thumb impression Government-approved ID proof Active email ID Active mobile number Bank details to pay Karnataka PGCET application fee Category certificates Graduation degree details Choice of examination city A printer connected with the system to print the application confirmation page Good quality internet connection The online application form for Karnataka PGCET is best viewed in Internet Explorer 9 or above and the latest versions of Google Chrome & Mozilla Firefox.

When will Karnataka PGCET application form release?

Karnatka PGCET application process starts around 45 days before the exam date. Candidates are able to fill the online application form for PGCET on the official website only. Offline application forms are not released. Candidates with bachelor's degrees are eligible for MBA admission in Karnataka based on PGCET scores. Karnataka PGCET registration requires the candidates to provide personal, academic, and communication details. Additionally, candidates have to upload documents and pay the application fee. The last date to apply for Karnataka PGCET is released along with the Karnataka PGCET information bulletin.

Karnataka PGCET 2026: Exam Dates, Syllabus, Pattern, Question Papers, Eligibility, Registration, Results

532 Students Q&A

This exam is conducted for courses given below:

MBA/PGDM MCA ME, MTech, MTech Lateral Entry MArch

Updated on Dec 5, 2025 23:58 IST

By Abhishek Dhawan, Assistant Manager – Editorial Content

Karnataka PGCET 2026: Karnataka Examinations Auhority (KEA) will soon release PGCET 2026 exam dates. Candidates can expect Karnataka PGCET exam date to lie in the month of May 2026. KEA conducts Karnataka PGCET exam for admission to MBA and MCA courses. Candidates will be able to apply for Karnataka PGCET exam online on KEA website, cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea. Last year, as many as 18,738 candidates had applied for the Karnataka PGCET MCA exam, whereas MBA recorded a total registration count of 33,282 candidates. Scroll down for complete details on Karnataka PGCET 2026, including exam dates, notification, pattern, syllabus, application process, and more.

Planning to appear for PGCET in 2026? Know all about Karnataka PGCET 2026 here.

All About Karnataka PGCET 2026

Table of contents

What is Karnataka PGCET?
Karnataka PGCET 2026 Exam Dates & Schedule
Karnataka PGCET Syllabus & Exam Pattern 2026
Karnataka PGCET 2026 Preparation Tips
Karnataka PGCET Application Process 2026
Karnataka PGCET Hall Ticket Download 2026
Karnataka PGCET 2026 Exam Centres
Karnataka PGCET Answer Keys 2026
Karnataka PGCET Results 2026
Karnataka PGCET 2026 Counselling
Karnataka PGCET 2026 Contact Information
FAQs on Karnataka PGCET 2026

What is Karnataka PGCET?

Karnataka PGCET 2026 Exam Dates & Schedule

Take a look at the table below for the complete schedule of Karnataka PGCET 2026 exam

Dates	Upcoming Exam Dates
Apr ' 26	Karnataka PGCET Registration TENTATIVE
May ' 26	Karnataka PGCET admit card download (MBA/MCA) TENTATIVE
May ' 26	Karnataka PGCET exam date (ME/MTech) TENTATIVE
Jun ' 26	Karnataka PGCET exam date (MBA/MCA) TENTATIVE
Jun ' 26	Release of Karnataka PGCET Provisional Answer Key TENTATIVE
Aug ' 26	Release of Karnataka PGCET Result TENTATIVE