KCET Reservation 2026: Full Breakdown of Reservation Percentages
Introduction
The KCET Reservation 2026 system is designed to ensure fair and equal access to professional education for students across Karnataka. One of the most important aspects of this system is the reservation percentages, which determine how seats are distributed among different categories. Understanding these percentages helps candidates know their chances of admission and plan their counselling strategy effectively.
Reservation Percentages in KCET 2026
The Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) follows government-approved reservation rules. Here is a clear breakdown of the major reservation percentages:
- General Merit (GM):
This category is open to all candidates based on merit. Remaining seats after reservation are filled under this category. - Scheduled Caste (SC):
Approximately 15% of seats are reserved for SC candidates. - Scheduled Tribe (ST):
Around 3% of seats are reserved for ST candidates. - Other Backward Classes (OBC):
The OBC category is divided into sub-groups:
- 2A: ~15%
- 2B: ~4%
- 3A: ~4%
- 3B: ~5%
- Economically Weaker Section (EWS):
Around 10% reservation for economically weaker candidates from the general category.
Horizontal Reservation Percentages
These reservations apply across all categories:
- Women Quota: ~30% of seats in each category
- Rural Quota: ~15% for students from rural backgrounds
- Kannada Medium: ~5% for students who studied in Kannada medium
- Persons with Disabilities (PwD): ~5% reservation
- Special Categories: Includes NCC, Sports, Defence, and Ex-Servicemen (varies as per rules)
Key Points to Understand
- Reservation percentages may slightly vary based on government updates.
- Vertical reservations (SC, ST, OBC, EWS) are fixed, while horizontal reservations cut across all categories.
- Candidates can benefit from multiple horizontal reservations if eligible.
- Proper documentation is mandatory to claim any reservation benefit.
- Seat allocation depends on both rank and category-wise availability.
Conclusion
The KCET Reservation 2026 percentages provide a structured and balanced system for seat allocation. By dividing seats among various categories, the system ensures inclusivity and equal opportunities for all students. Understanding these percentages helps candidates set realistic expectations and make informed decisions during counselling. To make the most of these benefits, students should verify their eligibility, prepare the required documents, and stay updated with official KEA announcements.