Introduction to KCET for Nursing
The Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) is a state-level entrance examination conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) for admission into various undergraduate professional courses in Karnataka. One of the important courses offered through KCET is B.Sc. Nursing, which is available in government and private nursing colleges across the state.
KCET plays a crucial role for students who wish to pursue a career in nursing within Karnataka, especially for those seeking admission under government quota seats. The exam tests candidates on their knowledge of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, based on the Class 12 syllabus.
KCET Nursing Course Overview
- Course Name: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.Sc. Nursing)
- Course Duration: 4 Years
- Mode of Admission: Entrance-based (KCET)
- Regulatory Body: Indian Nursing Council (INC)
- Admission Authority: Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA)
B.Sc. Nursing prepares students for professional roles in hospitals, community health centers, educational institutions, and healthcare organizations.
KCET for Nursing – Important Dates 2026
| Event | Date (2026) |
|---|---|
| KCET Online Application Start Date | 17 January 2026 |
| Last Date to Submit Application Form | 17 February 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 18 February 2026 |
| Document Verification at Colleges | 20 January – 20 February 2026 |
| Admit Card Release Date | 10 April 2026 |
| Kannada Language Test (if applicable) | 22 April 2026 |
| KCET Examination Date | 23 & 24 April 2026 |
| Answer Key Release | Last Week of April 2026 |
| KCET Result Declaration | May 2026 |
| Counselling Registration Start | June 2026 |
| Mock Seat Allotment | June 2026 |
| First Round Seat Allotment | June–July 2026 |
| Final Round & College Reporting | July–August 2026 |
| Direct Link | https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/onlineapp2026/forms/login.aspx |
Dates are tentative and subject to official notification.
Eligibility Criteria for KCET Nursing (B.Sc. Nursing)
Candidates must fulfill the following eligibility conditions to apply for KCET Nursing:
Educational Qualification
- Must have passed 10+2 / PUC / equivalent examination
- Subjects required:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- English
- Must be from a recognized board
Minimum Marks Requirement
- General Category: Minimum 45% aggregate in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
- SC / ST / OBC Category: Minimum 40% aggregate in PCB
Age Limit
- Minimum age should be 17 years
- Age should be completed on or before 31 December of the admission year
Domicile Criteria
- Karnataka candidates are eligible for government and private quota seats
- Non-Karnataka candidates can apply but are generally eligible only for private/management quota seats
- Eligibility clauses selected during application affect seat allotment and reservation benefits
KCET Nursing Application Process
Step 1: Online Registration
Candidates must register online by entering basic details such as name, date of birth, email ID, and mobile number.
Step 2: Filling the Application Form
- Enter personal details
- Provide academic information
- Select B.Sc. Nursing as the preferred course
- Choose examination centers
Step 3: Upload Documents
Required documents include:
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Signature
- 10th and 12th mark sheets
- Study or domicile certificate (if applicable)
- Category certificate (if applicable)
Step 4: Application Fee Payment
- General / OBC candidates: Approx. ₹500
- SC / ST candidates: Approx. ₹250
- Non-Karnataka candidates: Higher application fee
Step 5: Print Application Form
After submission, candidates must download and print the confirmation page for future reference.
Official website : https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/onlineapp2026/forms/login.aspx
KCET Exam Pattern for Nursing
| Subject | Number of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | 60 | 60 |
| Chemistry | 60 | 60 |
| Biology | 60 | 60 |
| Total | 180 | 180 |
- Each question carries 1 mark
- No negative marking
- Exam conducted in offline (pen & paper) mode
- Question paper based on Class 12 syllabus
KCET Nursing Syllabus Overview
Physics
- Laws of Motion
- Work, Energy & Power
- Current Electricity
- Magnetism & Electromagnetic Induction
- Optics
- Modern Physics
Chemistry
- Atomic Structure
- Chemical Bonding
- Thermodynamics
- Organic Chemistry basics
- Biomolecules
Biology
- Cell Structure & Function
- Human Anatomy & Physiology
- Genetics
- Reproduction
- Ecology & Environment
KCET Result & Merit List
- Results are declared online in the form of rank cards
- Merit list is prepared based on KCET marks
- Separate merit ranks are issued for different categories
- Rank determines eligibility for counselling and seat allotment
KCET Nursing Counselling Process
Step 1: Counselling Registration
Candidates must register online for counselling using their KCET rank.
Step 2: Document Verification
Original documents are verified at designated centers.
Step 3: Option Entry
Candidates select preferred nursing colleges and courses.
Step 4: Seat Allotment
Seats are allotted based on:
- KCET rank
- Category
- Availability of seats
- Eligibility clause
Step 5: Fee Payment & Reporting
Selected candidates must pay the admission fee and report to the allotted college within the given time.
Career Scope After B.Sc. Nursing
Graduates can work as:
- Staff Nurse
- Community Health Nurse
- Nursing Tutor
- Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Hospital Administrator
Employment opportunities are available in:
- Government hospitals
- Private hospitals
- Nursing colleges
- NGOs
- International healthcare institutions
Conclusion
KCET is a crucial entrance examination for students aspiring to pursue B.Sc. Nursing in Karnataka. Understanding the important dates, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and counselling process helps candidates plan their preparation and admission strategy effectively. With proper preparation and timely application, KCET can open doors to reputed nursing colleges and a rewarding healthcare career.
FAQs:
Yes, KCET is the primary entrance exam for government quota B.Sc. Nursing seats in Karnataka.
Yes, but they are usually eligible only for private or management quota seats.
No, NEET is not mandatory for B.Sc. Nursing admission through KCET.
Candidates must be at least 17 years old by 31 December of the admission year.
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