The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has released the first round of seat allotment results for CET-2026. Candidates must complete admission formalities by July 24.

Key Takeaways

  • KEA has allotted 1,22,512 seats out of 1,41,872 available in the first round.
  • The deadline for fee payment and college reporting is July 24.
  • New flexibility allows candidates to modify choice options (Choice 2, 3, and 4).
  • Sports quota allotments are deferred to the second round due to administrative delays.

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has officially announced the results for the first round of seat allotment for professional courses, including engineering, under the CET-2026 cycle. In a massive scale-up of academic placements, out of the total 1,41,872 seats available across various disciplines, 1,22,512 seats have been successfully allotted in this initial phase.

Enhanced Flexibility in Choice Options

In a move aimed at reducing candidate anxiety, KEA has introduced a significant policy shift by allowing students to modify their preference options within the stipulated timeframe. Candidates holding 'Choice-2', 'Choice-3', or 'Choice-4' status have the liberty to switch between these options before the deadline. Notably, even those who initially opted for 'Choice-4' can re-enter the counseling stream by updating their preferences. However, the authority has clarified that candidates who have already secured 'Choice-1', completed their fee payments, and reported to their allotted colleges are ineligible for any further changes.

NEET-Based Courses and Sports Quota Status

For aspirants seeking admission into Medical, Dental, AYUSH, and other NEET-dependent professional courses, the KEA has issued specific guidance. Candidates allotted seats in non-medical courses are advised to opt for 'Choice-2' to keep their medical aspirations alive. The fresh option entry for medical streams will commence only after the official release of NEET results and the subsequent seat matrix.

Regarding the Sports Quota, the allotment process was notably absent from the first round. This omission is attributed to a delay in receiving the verified list of eligible candidates from the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports. These specific seats will be integrated into the second round of the counseling process.

Critical Deadlines for Candidates

Success in the counseling process hinges on strict adherence to timelines. All allotted candidates must complete their choice selection, remit the necessary admission fees, and report to their respective institutions no later than July 24. Failure to comply with these administrative requirements will result in the forfeiture of the allotted seat.