Latest Update (10 June 2026)
The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has officially released the KEA Group A and B Exam Date 2026 schedule. The HK cadre exam will be held on 4 July 2026, while the NHK cadre exam is scheduled for 5 July 2026.
The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has officially published the competitive examination schedule for various Group A and B posts across different departments, corporations, and boards. Released on June 8, 2026, this comprehensive notification provides critical updates for candidates applying under both the Kalyana Karnataka (HK) and the Remaining Parent Cadre (NHK).
This detailed guide provides a complete breakdown of the exam dates, timings, paper structure, and the stringent new rules introduced by KEA, including the implementation of the fifth option and specific negative marking schemes. Candidates are advised to carefully review this schedule to structure their final preparation strategy effectively.
KEA Group A and B Exam Date 2026: Overview
For quick reference, below is the consolidated overview of the upcoming KEA Group A and B competitive examinations. This structured format ensures candidates can quickly grasp the essential details of the upcoming recruitment drive.
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Conducting Authority | Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) |
| Post Category | Group A & B Posts |
| Cadres Covered | Kalyana Karnataka (HK) & Remaining Parent Cadre (NHK) |
| Notification Date | June 8, 2026 |
| Reference Notification Date | May 20, 2026 |
| Total Marks per Post | 600 Marks (Paper 1: 300, Paper 2: 300) |
| Official Website | http://kea.kar.nic.in |
| Job Location | Karnataka |
KEA Group A and B Exam 2026: Important Dates
Keeping track of the official schedule is crucial for all applicants to ensure they do not miss any critical deadlines. Below is the complete timeline for the KEA Group A and B recruitment process, organized for quick reference.
| Important Events | Scheduled Dates |
| Official Exam Schedule Release Date | June 8, 2026 |
| KEA Admit Card Release Date | Last week of June 2026 (Expected) |
| Exam Date: Kalyana Karnataka (HK) Cadre | July 4, 2026 (Saturday) |
| Exam Date: Remaining Parent Cadre (NHK) | July 5, 2026 (Sunday) |
KEA Group A and B Exam Schedule 2026
The examination will be conducted over two days, divided strictly by cadre. Candidates must carefully check their applied cadre and report to the examination center accordingly.
1. Kalyana Karnataka (HK) Cadre Exam Date
The HK cadre examination is dedicated entirely to the BWSSB engineering posts. The exam features two papers conducted in a single day.
- Exam Date: July 4, 2026 (Saturday)
- Posts Covered: Assistant Engineer (Civil) and Assistant Engineer (Mechanical) for BWSSB.
| Paper Type | Subject | Shift Timings | Maximum Marks |
| Paper-1 | General Knowledge (ಸಾಮಾನ್ಯ ಜ್ಞಾನ) | 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM | 300 Marks |
| Paper-2 | Specific Subject (ನಿರ್ದಿಷ್ಟ ಪತ್ರಿಕೆ) | 02:30 PM to 04:30 PM | 300 Marks |
2. Remaining Parent Cadre (NHK) Exam Date
The NHK cadre examination covers a broader range of departments and disciplines, including Computer Science, Civil, and Mechanical Engineering.
- Exam Date: July 5, 2026 (Sunday)
- Posts Covered: Assistant Executive Engineer (Civil), Assistant Engineer (Mechanical), Assistant Engineer (Computer Science), and Assistant Engineer (Civil) across Agriculture Marketing, BWSSB, and KSSIDC.
| Paper Type | Subject | Shift Timings | Maximum Marks |
| Paper-1 | General Knowledge (ಸಾಮಾನ್ಯ ಜ್ಞಾನ) | 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM | 300 Marks |
| Paper-2 | Specific Subject (ನಿರ್ದಿಷ್ಟ ಪತ್ರಿಕೆ) | 02:30 PM to 04:30 PM | 300 Marks |
KEA Group A and B Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme
Understanding the exam pattern is critical for clearing KEA competitive exams. The 2026 exam introduces strict guidelines regarding marking and OMR sheet filling.
- Two-Paper System: The exam consists of two papers. Paper 1 tests General Knowledge, while Paper 2 tests the core technical knowledge required for the specific post (Civil, Mechanical, or Computer Science).
- Total Marks: Each paper carries 300 marks, making the total evaluation out of 600 marks.
- Negative Marking Penalty: Accuracy is highly important. For every incorrect answer, 1/4th of the marks assigned to that question (0.75 marks) will be deducted from your total score.
The Mandatory “Fifth Option” Rule
KEA has introduced a mandatory fifth option on the OMR sheet to prevent malpractice and ensure fairness.
- If you do not know the answer to a question and wish to skip it, you cannot leave the OMR sheet blank.
- You must shade the 5th option/circle corresponding to that question.
- KEA will provide an additional 5 minutes after the final bell specifically to allow candidates to shade the fifth option for unattempted questions.
- Penalty: If a question is left entirely blank (meaning neither an answer nor the 5th option is shaded), a penalty of 1/4th or 0.75 marks will be applied, treating it as an incorrect answer.
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KEA Admit Card 2026: Expected Release Date and Download process
The KEA Hall Ticket is a mandatory document for entry into the examination hall. Without it, candidates will not be permitted to take the test under any circumstances.
Admit Card Release Date: To Be Announced
KEA has not yet announced the hall ticket release date. However, the Karnataka Examinations Authority releases admit cards 7 to 10 days prior to the written exam. For the exams scheduled on July 4 and 5, candidates can expect the KEA Group A and B Admit Card link to be activated by the last week of June 2026.
Steps to Download the KEA Group A & B Hall Ticket
Once the link is live, follow these exact steps to download your admission ticket securely:
- Visit the official Karnataka Examinations Authority website at kea.kar.nic.in.
- Navigate to the “Latest Announcements” or “Admissions” section on the homepage.
- Click on the link titled “KEA Group A & B Admit Card / Hall Ticket 2026”.
- You will be redirected to a login portal. Enter your Application Number and Date of Birth (or Password).
- Fill in the security captcha code and click “Submit”.
- Your official admit card will appear on the screen. Verify your name, exam center, and post details.
- Download the PDF and take at least two clear printouts for exam day.
Preparation Tips for KEA Group A and B Exam 2026
With the exam dates rapidly approaching, your preparation should shift from reading new topics to intense revision and mock testing. Here is a subject-wise strategy to maximize your score in the remaining weeks.
Paper 1: General Knowledge (300 Marks)
- Current Affairs: Focus heavily on state-specific news. Brush up on recent Karnataka government schemes (like Yuvanidhi or SSP updates), state budget highlights, and major national events from the past six months.
- Static GK: Revise Karnataka history, geography, and polity. Questions related to the Indian Constitution and general science are also frequent.
- Mental Ability: Practice basic quantitative aptitude and reasoning questions daily to ensure you do not lose easy marks here.
Paper 2: Specific Subject (300 Marks)
- Stick to the Core: Whether you are appearing for Civil, Mechanical, or Computer Science, your degree-level basics will be tested. Do not study out of syllabus; stick to the exact modules prescribed by KEA.
- Formula Revision: For Civil and Mechanical engineering candidates, maintain a separate sheet for structural formulas, fluid mechanics equations, and thermodynamic cycles. Review this sheet every morning.
- Solve Previous Papers: The most effective way to gauge KEA’s question standard is by solving previous year question papers for AE and AEE posts. This also helps you manage time efficiently across 300 marks.
Strict Exam Day Guidelines and Instructions
The KEA has laid out uncompromising security rules for this recruitment drive to ensure transparency. Please read these carefully to avoid last-minute disqualification.
- Reporting Time: You must arrive at the examination center exactly two hours before the scheduled start time (i.e., arrive by 8:30 AM for the morning shift).
- Security Frisking: The early reporting time is necessary for thorough frisking. Electronic devices, smartwatches, and Bluetooth items are strictly prohibited.
- Facial Recognition: Entry will only be granted after a mandatory facial recognition (ಮುಖಚಹರೆ ಪರಿಶೀಲನೆ) process matches your application data.
- Document Checklist: Carry your printed KEA Admit Card, a valid original Photo ID proof (Aadhar Card, PAN Card, or Voter ID), and blue/black ballpoint pens for OMR shading.
KEA Contact Details and Helpdesk Information
For any queries, discrepancies in hall tickets, or technical issues regarding the Group A and B exam schedule, candidates can reach out directly to the Karnataka Examinations Authority. The official communication channels are listed below:
- Issuing Authority: Executive Director, KEA
- Official Address: 18th Cross, Sampige Road, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru – 560 012
- Helpline Number: 080-23 460 460
- Phone Number: 080-23 564 583
- Official Email ID: keauthority-ka@nic.in
- Official Website: http://kea.kar.nic.in
KEA Group A & Group B Important Links
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| Items | Direct Links |
|---|---|
| KEA Official Website | https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/ |
| Group A & B exam Schedule (NHK) | Click Here To Download |
| Group A & B exam Schedule (HK) | Click Here To Download |
Final Recommendations for Candidates
As the exam dates of July 4 and July 5 approach, candidates should finalize their revision strategies, focusing equally on General Knowledge (Paper 1) and their domain-specific subjects (Paper 2). Ensure that you are well-versed in the newly implemented fifth-option rule to avoid unwarranted mark deductions. Always carry the necessary identification documents, your official KEA admission ticket, and adhere strictly to the two-hour prior reporting protocol to ensure a seamless verification process through facial recognition. Regular monitoring of the official KEA website is advised for any last-minute circulars or updates regarding the examination centers.
Information in this article is based on the official KEA examination schedule notification released on 8 June 2026.
FAQ’s -KEA Group A anad B Exam Dates
When is the KEA Group A and B Exam 2026?
Ans: The KEA Group A and B examinations will be conducted on 4 July 2026 for HK cadre posts and 5 July 2026 for NHK cadre posts.
What is the KEA Group A and B Hall Ticket release date?
Ans: KEA has not yet announced the official hall ticket release date. Candidates should regularly visit the official website for the latest updates regarding admit card availability.
Is there negative marking in the KEA exam?
Ans: Yes. KEA has prescribed negative marking for incorrect answers. One-fourth (¼) of the marks assigned to a question will be deducted for every wrong answer.
What is the fifth option rule in KEA?
Ans: Under the fifth option rule, candidates must shade the fifth option on the OMR sheet for questions they do not wish to answer. Leaving a question completely blank may attract a penalty as per KEA guidelines.
What is the total marks for the examination?
Ans: The KEA Group A and B examination consists of two papers carrying 300 marks each, making the total examination worth 600 marks.
Which posts are covered under the HK cadre?
Ans: The HK cadre examination includes Assistant Engineer (Civil) and Assistant Engineer (Mechanical) posts under the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB).
Which posts are covered under the NHK cadre?
Ans: The NHK cadre examination covers Assistant Executive Engineer (Civil), Assistant Engineer (Civil), Assistant Engineer (Mechanical), and Assistant Engineer (Computer Science) posts in various departments and organizations.
What are the exam timings for the KEA Group A and B Exam 2026?
Ans: Paper 1 (General Knowledge) will be conducted from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM, while Paper 2 (Specific Subject) will be held from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM on the respective examination dates.
What documents should candidates carry to the KEA examination centre?
Ans: Candidates must carry their KEA Hall Ticket, a valid original photo ID proof such as Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, or Voter ID, and blue or black ballpoint pens for OMR sheet marking.