Karnataka CET 2026 Scheduled for April 23-24 with Enhanced Security Measures
The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has officially announced that the Common Entrance Test (CET) for admission to professional courses in 2026 will be conducted on April 23 and 24. This crucial examination serves as the gateway for students seeking entry into engineering, agricultural sciences, and veterinary sciences programs across the state.
Unprecedented Security and Monitoring Protocols
In a significant move to maintain exam integrity, KEA Executive Director H Prasanna revealed that each examination center will have a dedicated dress code officer for the first time. This initiative aims to eliminate confusion and ensure strict adherence to prescribed attire guidelines.
To combat malpractice effectively, the authority will implement comprehensive surveillance systems:
- CCTV monitoring at all 745 examination centers
- Webcasting for real-time remote observation
- District-level oversight by Deputy Commissioners, Police Commissioners, and Zilla Panchayat CEOs
A central command center has been established at the KEA office to coordinate these extensive monitoring efforts.
Examination Schedule and Participation Details
The two-day testing schedule is structured as follows:
- April 23: Physics and Chemistry examinations
- April 24: Mathematics and Biology examinations
Bengaluru emerges as the largest examination hub with 77,604 candidates scheduled to appear across 163 centers. Special provisions have been made for 970 differently abled candidates, including necessary facilities and accommodations.
Strict Dress Code and Prohibited Items
KEA has issued detailed guidelines regarding appropriate examination attire:
- Students should wear half-sleeve clothing preferably without collars
- Male candidates are not permitted to wear kurta-pyjama, jeans, or shoes
- Strictly banned items include:
- Cellphones and all electronic gadgets
- Bluetooth devices, earphones, and microphones
Advanced Verification Procedures
The examination authority has implemented foolproof verification mechanisms to prevent impersonation:
- Facial recognition technology combined with QR code verification
- This same verification system will be utilized during subsequent college admissions
- Students using hearing aids must report two hours early for additional verification procedures
All candidates have been advised to arrive at examination centers two hours before the scheduled start time to accommodate thorough security checks.
Opportunities for Academic Improvement
KEA officials have emphasized that students who performed poorly or failed their II PU first examination still have opportunities for redemption. These candidates are strongly encouraged not to skip the CET, as marks from their second examination will be considered in the final CET results calculation.
The comprehensive security measures, combined with technological innovations in verification, represent KEA's commitment to conducting fair and transparent examinations that accurately assess student capabilities for professional course admissions across Karnataka.
