Karnataka PGCET 2026: Provisional Seat Matrix Released for First Round Counselling

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has officially released the provisional seat matrix for the 2026 Karnataka Post Graduate Common Entrance Test (PGCET) counselling process. This announcement marks a significant step for students seeking admission into various postgraduate professional programmes across the state, providing them with the necessary data to evaluate their options for the first round of seat allocation.

According to the official data, the KEA intends to fill a total of 33,809 seats across a range of disciplines, including MBA, MCA, MTech, and MArch. Of this total intake, the MBA programme accounts for the largest share, with 19,934 seats designated for candidates. The newly released matrix provides a comprehensive breakdown of these seats, categorised by course, college, and reservation status, allowing applicants to better understand the landscape of available opportunities.

Understanding the Seat Matrix and Upcoming Mock Allotment

The provisional seat matrix is now available on the official KEA website. Candidates are encouraged to navigate to the PGCET 2026 section of the portal to view the specific distribution of seats. The document includes detailed information regarding regional reservation quotas, specifically distinguishing between seats reserved for the Hyderabad-Karnataka (HK) region under Article 371-J and those available for the Rest of Karnataka (RK). It is important for students to note that this matrix is currently provisional and remains subject to potential revisions or updates by the authorities.

With the seat matrix now public, the focus shifts toward the choice-filling process. Many candidates are currently awaiting the mock allotment results, which are expected to be released by the KEA in the near future. The mock allotment serves as a critical trial exercise, offering students an early indication of the college and course they might secure based on their specific PGCET rank and the preferences they have submitted.

The KEA has emphasised that the mock allotment is strictly a preliminary step and does not constitute a final admission offer. Instead, it is designed to help students gauge their standing and provides them with a window to modify, add, or delete their entered options before the final submission deadline. As of now, the KEA has not announced a specific date for the mock allotment results. Candidates are advised to monitor the official KEA portal regularly and rely solely on verified notifications for updates regarding the counselling schedule.