The Karnataka State Eligibility Test (KSET) determines eligibility for Assistant Professor posts in Karnataka universities and colleges. It is conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) and follows the UGC-NET format.
KSET at a glance
| Conducting body | Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) |
|---|---|
| Notification (2026) | 10 August 2026 |
| Exam date (2026) | 11 October 2026 |
| Qualification | Master's degree, 55% (50% reserved) |
| Upper age limit | None |
| Papers | Paper 1 (100) + Paper 2 (200), 3 hours |
KSET eligibility
Educational qualification
- A Master's degree with at least 55% marks for General and OBC candidates.
- 50% for SC, ST, Category-1, persons with disabilities and transgender candidates.
- Candidates in the final year of their Master's degree can generally apply — see the notification for conditions.
Age limit
- There is no upper age limit for KSET.
KSET selection process
- Paper 1 & Paper 2 (same sitting)Objective exam, 300 marks.
- ResultCandidates who meet the qualifying criteria are declared eligible for Assistant Professor.
KSET exam pattern
Examination pattern
| Paper | Content | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Teaching and research aptitude — common to all subjects | 50 | 100 |
| Paper 2 | The candidate’s chosen subject | 100 | 200 |
- Both papers are written in a single 3-hour sitting with no break.
- Each question carries 2 marks; there is no negative marking.
KSET syllabus
Paper 1
- Teaching aptitude
- Research aptitude
- Reading comprehension
- Communication
- Mathematical and logical reasoning
- Data interpretation
- Information and communication technology
- People, development and environment
- Higher education system
Paper 2
- Follows the UGC-NET syllabus for the chosen subject
How to prepare for KSET
- Paper 1 is common to everyone and very scoring — practise UGC-NET Paper 1 questions.
- There is no negative marking, so attempt every question.
- Manage the single 3-hour window: finish Paper 1 in about an hour to leave time for Paper 2.
Prepare for KSET with Sadhisu
Previous year papers, subject-wise practice tests, daily current affairs and bilingual study notes in Kannada and English.
KSET — frequently asked questions
Is there an age limit for KSET?
No. KSET has no upper age limit.
What percentage is required in PG for KSET?
55% for General and OBC candidates; 50% for SC, ST, Category-1, persons with disabilities and transgender candidates.
When is KSET 2026?
KEA scheduled KSET 2026 for 11 October 2026. Check the KEA website for admit cards and any changes.
Is there negative marking in KSET?
No.