The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has released the schedule for Karnataka DCET 2026 counselling. Candidates seeking admission through the Diploma Common Entrance Test (DCET) can now begin the option entry process for course and college selection.
The window for option entry opens on July 21, 2026, at 11 AM . Applicants must prioritize their choices for courses and colleges. The results of a mock allotment will be published on July 24, 2026 .
Students will have the opportunity to adjust their selected options from July 24 to July 27, 2026 . The final seat allotment results for the first round will be declared on July 27, 2026 .
Karnataka DCET 2026 Counselling Schedule: Round 1
The KEA has outlined the following key dates for the first round of counselling:
| Particulars | Date and Time |
| Downloading of Verification Slip | July 18, 2026 |
| Publication of Seat Matrix and Fee Details | July 20, 2026, 4:00 PM |
| Options Entry | July 21, 2026, 11:00 AM to July 24, 2026, 11:00 AM |
| Publication of Mock Seat Allotment | July 24, 2026, after 6:00 PM |
| Provision to Add/Modify/Re-order Options | July 24, 2026, 6:00 PM to July 27, 2026, 11:00 AM |
| Publication of Real Seat Allotment Results | July 27, 2026, after 6:00 PM |
| Choice Selection by Allotted Candidates (Choice-1 & Choice-2) | July 28, 2026, 11:00 AM to July 31, 2026, 11:59 PM |
| Downloading of Challan (Choice-1 & Choice-2) | July 28, 2026, 12:00 PM to August 1, 2026, 11:00 AM |
| Payment of Fees (Choice-1 & Choice-2) | July 28, 2026, 1:00 PM to August 3, 2026, 4:00 PM |
| Downloading of Seat Confirmation Slip and Reporting to College (Choice-1) | Up to August 4, 2026 |
Option Entry Process
Candidates who have qualified for the DCET 2026 exam can follow these steps to enter their preferences:
- Visit the official KEA website.
- Navigate to the DCET 2026 section.
- Locate and click on the option entry link.
- Log in using your CET number.
- Access the choice filling module and enter your preferred courses and colleges.
- Review all entered choices carefully.
- Save and submit your selections.
Following the allotment, candidates selected in Choice-1 and Choice-2 must make their selections and download the challan. Fee payment for these candidates is scheduled from July 28 to August 3, 2026. Choice-1 candidates who have paid their fees must download their seat confirmation slip and report to their allotted college for admission by August 4, 2026 .
