KCET Counselling 2026: KEA Opens Option Entry for NEET UG Students; Check Complete UGCET Seat Allotment Schedule

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has started the KCET (UGCET) 2026 counselling process by opening the option entry facility for eligible candidates. Students who qualified through KCET and NEET UG can now participate in the counselling process and submit their preferred college and course choices online. KEA has also enabled the download of verification slips, which are mandatory for participating in seat allotment rounds.
Candidates are advised to carefully review the seat matrix, fee structure, and counselling guidelines before locking their preferences. The option entry process is a crucial step in determining seat allotment for engineering, agriculture, veterinary science, nursing, physiotherapy, and other professional courses offered through Karnataka UGCET counselling.

KCET 2026 Counselling Schedule

According to the schedule released by KEA, the counselling process will follow these key dates: 

Verification Slip Mandatory for Counselling

KEA has clarified that candidates must download their verification slips before participating in the counselling and seat allotment process. Those facing issues in obtaining the slip were earlier instructed to contact KEA for resolution. Without a valid verification slip, candidates will not be able to exercise web options or participate in seat allotment rounds.

How to Complete KCET Option Entry 2026

Candidates can follow these steps to submit their choices:

1. Visit the official KEA counselling cetonline.karnataka.gov.in.
2. Log in using the CET number and required credentials.
3. Access the option entry section.
4. Select preferred colleges and courses in order of priority.
5. Save and review all entered options.
6. Lock the choices before the deadline.
7. Download and keep a copy of the submitted options for future reference.

Direct Link: KCET Option Entry 2026 Link 1

Direct Link: KCET Option Entry 2026 Link 2

With the opening of option entry for NEET UG students from June 22, the Karnataka UGCET Counselling 2026 process has entered a critical phase. Candidates must complete their choice filling before June 30 and ensure that all required documents, including the verification slip, are in order. The mock allotment on July 6 and the first-round seat allotment on July 15 will determine admission opportunities for thousands of aspirants across Karnataka's professional colleges.