KEAM 2026: Application, Eligibility, Results, Rank, Cutoff, Counselling & Admission Guide

KEAM 2026 is a state-level entrance exam conducted by the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations (CEE), Kerala, for admission to professional courses like Engineering, B.Pharm, Architecture, and Medical & Allied programs in Kerala. This comprehensive guide by AUBSP covers everything candidates need to know — from application dates, eligibility criteria, and the step-by-step registration process to KEAM 2026 result declaration, marks vs rank analysis, counselling phases, seat allotment, and cutoff trends for top colleges.

It also includes resources for preparation, syllabus download, last rank details, and tools like rank and college predictors. For B.Arch and medical admissions, NATA and NEET scores are used respectively, followed by KEAM-based centralized counselling.

KEAM 2026: Kerala Engineering Architecture Medical Entrance Exam – A Comprehensive Guide

The Kerala Engineering Architecture Medical (KEAM) Entrance Examination is a prestigious state-level entrance exam conducted annually by the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations (CEE), Kerala. It serves as the gateway for admissions to various undergraduate professional degree courses in the state of Kerala, spanning Engineering, Architecture, Pharmacy, and Medical & Allied Sciences.

For aspiring candidates eyeing the academic year 2026-27, understanding the intricacies of KEAM 2026 is paramount. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the examination, including important dates, eligibility criteria, application process, syllabus, exam pattern, and preparation tips.

KEAM 2026: Key Highlights

• Examining Body: Commissioner for Entrance Examinations (CEE), Kerala.
• Exam Level: State-level.
• Frequency: Once a year.
• Mode of Examination: Online (Computer Based Test – CBT) for Engineering and Pharmacy. The Architecture Aptitude Test (NATA score) and NEET (UG) score are considered for Architecture and Medical admissions respectively.
• Courses Offered: Engineering, Architecture, Pharmacy, Agriculture/Medical and Allied Sciences.  

Important Dates for KEAM 2026 (Tentative)

Keeping track of the important dates is crucial for all KEAM aspirants. Based on the previous year’s trends and available information, the tentative schedule for KEAM 2026 is as follows:

Note: These dates are tentative and subject to change based on the official notification released by CEE Kerala. Candidates are advised to regularly visit the official website (cee.kerala.gov.in) for the latest updates.

Eligibility Criteria for KEAM 2026

To be eligible for KEAM 2026, candidates must fulfill certain criteria related to nationality, age, and academic qualifications. The specific requirements vary depending on the course.

General Eligibility:

Nationality: Only Indian nationals or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)/Person of Indian Origin (PIO) candidates are eligible to apply.

Age Limit: Candidates must have completed 17 years of age as on 31st December 2026. There is no upper age limit for Engineering, Architecture, B.Pharm, and other allied courses. For MBBS and BDS courses, the upper age limit will be as per the Information Bulletin of NEET (UG) 2026.

Course-Specific Academic Requirements:

For Engineering Courses:

• Candidates must have passed the 12th standard examination or equivalent from a recognized board.
• Compulsory subjects: Physics and Mathematics.
• Optional subject: Chemistry or Biotechnology or Biology or Computer Science.
• Minimum Marks: A minimum of 45% aggregate marks in Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry/Biotechnology/Biology/Computer Science put together. For SC/ST candidates, the minimum is 40%.

For Pharmacy (B.Pharm) Course:

• Candidates must have passed the 10+2 examination or equivalent from a recognized board.
• Mandatory subjects: Physics and Chemistry.
• Any one of the following as the third subject: Mathematics or Biology.
• English as one of the optional subjects at the 10+2 level.

For Architecture (B.Arch) Course:

• Candidates must have qualified in the National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) conducted by the Council of Architecture (CoA).
• They must have passed the 10+2 examination with Mathematics as a compulsory subject, securing at least 50% aggregate marks.
• OR passed a 10+3 diploma examination with Mathematics as a compulsory subject, securing at least 50% aggregate marks.

For Medical & Allied Science Courses (excluding B.Arch & B.Pharm):

Admissions to MBBS/BDS and other medical allied courses like BAMS, BSMS, BHMS, BUMS, Agriculture, Veterinary, and Fisheries will be based on the rank obtained in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET UG) 2026 conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). Candidates must fulfill the eligibility criteria prescribed for NEET (UG) 2026. They must have passed the 10+2 examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as compulsory subjects.

Nativity:

Candidates of Kerala origin are given preference. However, there are provisions for Non-Keralite (NK) candidates under specific categories. Detailed information regarding nativity criteria can be found in the official prospectus.

KEAM 2026 Application Process

The application process for KEAM 2026 will be entirely online. Candidates need to follow the steps mentioned below:

1. Registration: Visit the official website of CEE Kerala (cee.kerala.gov.in) and click on the “KEAM 2026 – Online Application” link. Register by providing basic details such as name, date of birth, email ID, and mobile number. Upon successful registration, an application number and password will be generated.
2. Filling the Application Form: Log in using the generated credentials and fill in the detailed application form with personal, academic, and contact information. Choose the desired courses and exam centers carefully.
3. Uploading Documents: Upload scanned images of your passport-size photograph, signature, Class X certificate (mandatory for date of birth proof), proof of nativity, and other relevant certificates in PDF format as per the prescribed specifications (size and format).
4. Payment of Application Fee: Pay the application fee online using a credit card, debit card, net banking, or through designated post offices in Kerala. The fee amount varies based on the category of the candidate and the courses applied for.
   • General Category: ₹700 (for Engineering only/B.Pharm only/both), ₹625 (for Architecture only/Medical & Allied only/both), ₹1125 (for all courses).
   • SC Category: ₹300 (for Engineering only/B.Pharm only/both), ₹250 (for Architecture only/Medical & Allied only/both), ₹500 (for all courses).
   • ST Category: Nil.
   • All Female Candidates: ₹300 (for Engineering only/B.Pharm only/both), ₹250 (for Architecture only/Medical & Allied only/both), ₹500 (for all courses).
5. Print Acknowledgement: After successful submission of the application form and fee payment, take a printout of the application acknowledgement page for future reference. Do not send the hard copy to the CEE office.

KEAM 2026 Exam Pattern

The exam pattern for KEAM 2026 varies for Engineering and Pharmacy. For Architecture and Medical admissions, NATA and NEET (UG) scores are considered respectively.

For Engineering:

• Mode: Online (CBT)
• Number of Papers: One paper with three sections: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
• Number of Questions: 150 (Physics: 45, Chemistry: 30, Mathematics: 75).
• Type of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
• Duration: 180 minutes (3 hours).
• Marking Scheme: +4 marks for each correct answer, -1 mark for each incorrect answer, 0 for no answer.  
• Total Marks: 600.

For Pharmacy:

• Mode: Online (CBT)
• Number of Papers: One paper with two sections: Physics and Chemistry.
• Number of Questions: 75 (Physics: 45, Chemistry
• Duration: 90 minutes (1.5 hours).
• Marking Scheme: +4 marks for each correct answer, -1 mark for each incorrect answer, 0 for no answer.
• Total Marks: 300.

Architecture and Medical:

Admissions to B.Arch will be based on the NATA score. Admissions to MBBS/BDS and other medical allied courses will be based on the NEET (UG) score.

KEAM 2026 Syllabus

The syllabus for KEAM 2026 Engineering and Pharmacy exams is primarily based on the Class 11 and Class 12 syllabi of the Kerala State Education Board and similar syllabi of CBSE and other recognized boards.

Physics: Covers topics from Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Optics, Electromagnetism, Waves, Modern Physics, etc., including Units and Measurements, Kinematics, Laws of Motion, Work, Energy & Power, Rotational Motion, Gravitation, Properties of Solids and Liquids, Heat and Thermodynamics, Oscillations and Waves, Electrostatics, Current Electricity, Magnetic Effects of Current and Magnetism, Electromagnetic Induction and Alternating Currents, Electromagnetic Waves, Optics, Dual Nature of Matter and Radiation, Atoms and Nuclei, Semiconductor Electronics.

Chemistry: Includes topics from Physical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry, such as Basic Concepts and Atomic Structure, States of Matter, Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure, Thermodynamics, Equilibrium, Redox Reactions, Hydrogen, s-Block Elements, p-Block Elements, d & f Block Elements, Coordination Compounds, Purification and Characterization of Organic Compounds, Basic Principles of Organic Chemistry, Hydrocarbons, Haloalkanes and Haloarenes, Alcohols, Phenols and Ethers, Aldehydes, Ketones and Carboxylic Acids, Organic Compounds Containing Nitrogen, Polymers, Biomolecules, Chemistry in Everyday Life.

Mathematics: Encompasses topics from Algebra, Calculus, Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry, Vectors, Probability, etc., including Sets, Relations and Functions, Algebra, Trigonometric Functions, Inverse Trigonometric Functions, Principle of Mathematical Induction, Complex Numbers and Quadratic Equations, Linear Inequalities, Permutations and Combinations, Binomial Theorem, Sequences and Series, Coordinate Geometry, Straight Lines, Conic Sections, Introduction to Three Dimensional Geometry, Limits and Derivatives, Mathematical Reasoning, Statistics, Probability.

For detailed topic-wise syllabus, candidates are advised to refer to the official KEAM 2026 prospectus.

KEAM 2026 Preparation Tips

Cracking KEAM requires a strategic approach and consistent hard work. Here are some essential preparation tips:

Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern: Thoroughly familiarize yourself with the detailed syllabus and the exam pattern for your chosen stream.

Create a Study Plan: Develop a realistic and effective study timetable, allocating sufficient time for each subject based on your strengths and weaknesses.

Focus on Concepts: Emphasize understanding the fundamental concepts rather than rote learning.

Practice Regularly: Solve problems and numerical exercises regularly to strengthen your understanding and improve speed and accuracy.

Solve Previous Years’ Papers: Practice previous years’ KEAM question papers to get familiar with the exam format, difficulty level, and important topics.

Take Mock Tests: Participate in mock tests to simulate the actual exam environment and assess your preparation level. Analyze your performance and identify areas needing improvement.

NCERT Books are Crucial: For Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, NCERT textbooks form the foundation. Ensure you have a strong grasp of these.

Time Management: Learn to manage your time effectively during the exam. Practice solving questions within the stipulated time limit.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Get enough sleep, eat nutritious food, and exercise regularly to stay physically and mentally fit. Avoid stress and stay motivated throughout your preparation.

Stay Updated: Keep track of the official KEAM website or AUBSP.com for any announcements or changes in the exam schedule or pattern.

KEAM 2026 Counselling

After the declaration of results and release of rank lists, the CEE will conduct online counselling for seat allotment in the participating colleges. The counselling process typically involves multiple rounds. Candidates need to register online for counselling, fill in their choices of courses and colleges, and participate in the seat allotment process based on their rank and preferences. Document verification will be conducted before the final admission.

In conclusion, KEAM 2026 is a crucial examination for students aspiring to pursue professional degrees in Engineering, Architecture, Pharmacy, and Medical & Allied Sciences in Kerala. By staying informed about the important dates, eligibility criteria, application process, syllabus, and exam pattern, and by following a disciplined and strategic preparation plan, candidates can significantly enhance their chances of success in this competitive examination. Remember to always refer to the official website of CEE Kerala for the most authentic and up-to-date information. Good luck to all the KEAM 2026 aspirants!

FAQs about KEAM 2026

What is KEAM 2026?
KEAM 2026 is a state-level entrance exam conducted by the CEE Kerala for admissions into Engineering, B.Pharm, Architecture, and Medical & Allied courses in Kerala.

Who conducts KEAM 2026?
The Commissioner for Entrance Examinations (CEE), Kerala, is the official authority conducting KEAM.

Which courses are offered through KEAM?
KEAM offers admissions to Engineering (B.Tech), B.Pharm, B.Arch (through NATA), and Medical/Allied courses (through NEET).

What is the mode of KEAM 2026 exam?
KEAM 2026 will be conducted as a computer-based test (CBT) for Engineering and B.Pharm aspirants.

When will KEAM 2026 application form be released?
The KEAM 2026 application form is expected to be released in the first week of February 2026.

What is the last date to apply for KEAM 2026?
The last date to submit the KEAM 2026 application form is tentatively in the last week of March 2026.

How can I apply for KEAM 2026?
You can apply online at the official website of CEE Kerala by registering, filling the form, uploading documents, and paying the fee.

What are the eligibility criteria for Engineering in KEAM 2026?
Candidates must have passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects and 45% aggregate in PCM.

Is KEAM 2026 compulsory for MBBS in Kerala?
No, MBBS admissions in Kerala are based on NEET (UG) scores, but KEAM registration is required for state counselling.

Can I apply for multiple courses through KEAM 2026?
Yes, you can apply for Engineering, B.Pharm, Architecture, and Medical/Allied courses by selecting the appropriate options in the form.

Do I need to qualify NATA for B.Arch through KEAM?
Yes, you must qualify NATA and also register for KEAM for Architecture admissions in Kerala.

Is NEET required for B.Pharm admission in Kerala?
No, B.Pharm admission is based on KEAM scores, not NEET.

What is the age limit for KEAM 2026?
Candidates must be 17 years old by December 31, 2026. There is no upper age limit except for NEET-based courses.

What is the application fee for KEAM 2026?
General category: ₹875 (Engg/B.Pharm), ₹625 (Arch/Medical), ₹1125 (all courses). SC: ₹375, ST: No fee.

Is there an additional fee for Dubai/Bahrain exam centers?
Yes, candidates choosing Dubai or Bahrain as exam centers need to pay ₹15,000 extra.

What documents are required during KEAM application?
Photo, signature, 10th certificate (DOB), nativity proof, category/reservation certificates, and income certificate if applicable.

What is the KEAM 2026 exam pattern for Engineering?
One paper with 150 questions: Maths (75), Physics (45), Chemistry (30); 3 hours duration; 600 total marks; negative marking.

What is the exam pattern for B.Pharm?
75 questions (Physics: 45, Chemistry: 30); 90 minutes duration; 300 total marks; negative marking of 1 mark.

What is the marking scheme in KEAM 2026?
+4 marks for every correct answer and -1 mark for each wrong answer.

When will KEAM 2026 admit card be released?
KEAM 2026 admit card is expected to be released in April 2026 via the official website.

When will KEAM 2026 exam be held?
The exam is tentatively scheduled for May 2026 (first or second week).

How is the KEAM Engineering rank calculated?
The KEAM Engineering rank is prepared by combining 50% of KEAM entrance score and 50% of normalized 10+2 PCM marks.

How can I check KEAM 2026 result?
You can check your result on the official CEE Kerala website using your application number and password.

What is KEAM marks vs rank analysis?
It shows an approximate rank based on your KEAM marks. Tools like Careers360 and Colleges18 offer rank predictors.

Where can I download the KEAM 2026 rank list PDF?
The official rank list PDF will be available for download on cee.kerala.gov.in.

What is the KEAM 2026 cutoff for government engineering colleges?
Cutoffs vary by college and category. Last year’s cutoffs are available for reference on CEE Kerala.

Where can I find KEAM last rank details for Computer Science?
Last rank data for CSE and other branches are released by CEE after each allotment round.

What is the KEAM 2026 college predictor tool?
College predictor tools from platforms like Careers360 and Colleges18 help you estimate probable college options based on your rank.

What is the KEAM 2026 counselling schedule?
The counselling begins in July 2026 after rank list publication and includes multiple rounds and spot allotments.

How does KEAM seat allotment work?
Seat allotment is done through the Centralized Allotment Process (CAP) based on the candidate’s rank, choices, and availability.

How do I fill choices during KEAM counselling?
Login to the KEAM portal, list your preferred colleges/courses, and lock your choices within the specified deadline.

How many rounds of counselling are there in KEAM?
Typically, there are three main rounds followed by mop-up or spot allotment rounds.

Is there any reservation in KEAM 2026?
Yes, there are reservations for SC, ST, OBC, EWS, PwD, and other eligible categories as per Kerala government norms.

What is the syllabus of KEAM 2026?
The syllabus is based on the Kerala Higher Secondary (Class 11 & 12) curriculum for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Biology.

Where can I download the KEAM 2026 syllabus PDF?
The official syllabus PDF is available on the CEE Kerala website under the KEAM 2025 section.

Which are the best books for KEAM 2026 preparation?
NCERT textbooks, HC Verma (Physics), OP Tandon (Chemistry), and Arihant (Maths) are highly recommended.

Where can I get KEAM previous year papers with solutions?
You can download solved question papers from CEE Kerala, Careers360, and other trusted educational platforms.

Do I need to send any documents by post after applying?
No, KEAM 2026 is fully online. You only need to keep a printout of the application acknowledgment.

Can NRI students apply for KEAM 2026?
Yes, PIO/OCI candidates can apply, but they are not eligible for communal reservation benefits.

Will KEAM be conducted outside Kerala?
Yes, KEAM centers are available in other Indian states and in Dubai and Bahrain.

How can I contact KEAM helpdesk?
You can contact CEE Kerala at 0471-2525300 or email ceekinfo.cee@kerala.gov.in.

Is KEAM applicable for Veterinary, Agriculture, and Fisheries courses?
Yes, through NEET scores and KEAM counselling, admissions are done to courses like B.VSc, BSc Agriculture, and BFSc.

How do I qualify for B.Arch through KEAM?
You must pass 10+2 with PCM, score at least 50% aggregate, qualify NATA, and apply through KEAM counselling.

Can I edit my KEAM 2026 application after submission?
CEE usually opens a correction window for limited fields. Check notifications regularly.

What happens if I forget my KEAM application number or password?
Use the “Forgot Application Number/Password” option on the login page to retrieve your credentials.

Is there any mock test for KEAM 2026?
CEE Kerala may release official practice tests on their portal before the exam.

Is KEAM tougher than JEE Main?
KEAM is generally considered slightly easier than JEE Main, but the competition is still intense within Kerala.