• Updated on 17 Mar, 2026 by Disha Yadav
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KEAM Eligibility criteria 2026 consist of age, qualifying scores, and educational background. CEE Kerala has released the eligibility criteria on its official website, cee.kerala.gov.in. The eligibility criteria for the KEAM 2026 Exam vary across different courses. Candidates appearing for engineering courses need to obtain at least 45% marks in the PCM or PCB stream. Similarly, for architecture aspirants, the passing marks criterion is 50% in the PCM stream. Read the full article to get complete details about the eligibility criteria for KEAM 2026.
KEAM Eligibility Criteria 2026: Detailed Breakdown
Understanding the eligibility criteria is critical for ensuring that applications are not rejected due to noncompliance with the standards. To avoid future problems, verify eligibility before submitting the KEAM 2026 Application Form. This section provides a complete overview of the KEAM 2026 Eligibility Criteria.
| Criteria | Details |
| Nationality | Candidates must be Indian citizens. PIO/OCI candidates are also eligible to apply, but they cannot claim reservation benefits. |
| Domicile | Candidates must belong to one of the categories: Keralite, Non-Keralite Category I (NK I), or Non-Keralite Category II (NK II). Supporting documents are required to prove domicile. |
| Age Limit | Candidates must be at least 17 years old as per the eligibility criteria for 2026. There is no upper age limit. |
| Educational Requirements | Candidates should have passed 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognised board or university with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Candidates appearing in the qualifying exam with at least 45% marks can also apply. |
| Required Marks – Engineering | Candidates must have Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects and Chemistry/Computer Science/Biology as one optional subject, with a minimum of 45% marks. |
| Required Marks – Architecture | Candidates must have passed Higher Secondary Examination or equivalent with at least 50% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, or passed a 10+3 Diploma with Mathematics with 50% aggregate marks. |
KEAM Special Reservation Criteria 2026
KEAM 2026 includes provisions for special categories such as SC/ST/OBC, PWD (Persons with Disabilities), and other reserved categories.
| Category | Relaxation / Benefits |
| SC/ST Candidates | Qualifying marks and age limits are relaxed. These candidates may also receive reduced application fees. |
| OBC Candidates | OBC candidates get a 5% relaxation in qualifying examination marks compared to the general category. |
| PwD Candidates | PwD candidates are exempted from qualifying scores in the exam and are provided extra time during the examination. |
Check: KEAM 2026 Exam Pattern
KEAM Application Limitations 2026
The KEAM 2026 (Kerala Engineering, Architecture, and Medical) test has specific application requirements that candidates must follow during the application process. Understanding these constraints is critical for ensuring that the application is valid and not rejected.
| Criteria | Details |
| Number of Attempts | There is no fixed limit on the number of attempts for KEAM 2026. However, candidates must meet the minimum age requirement. |
| Age Limits for Specific Categories | Candidates belonging to reserved categories may receive age relaxation. They may need to submit valid documents to prove their eligibility for the relaxation. |
KEAM Country-Specific Criteria for International Applicants 2026
International applicants must fulfil extra eligibility requirements for KEAM 2026. These candidates must prove their eligibility based on their country of origin.
- Educational Qualifications: The equivalent of the Kerala State Board's 12th grade examination must be verified with the Kerala State Education Board.
- Verification Process: International candidates may check with the Kerala State Education Department or KEAM authorities to learn about their country's special criteria and verification process.
Also Read: KEAM 2026 Admit Card
KEAM 2026 Eligibility Criteria FAQs
What is the age requirement for KEAM 2026 eligibility?
Candidates must be at least 17 years old by December 31, 2026, to take the KEAM 2026 exam.
Can a candidate apply for KEAM 2026 if they are in the final year of 12th grade?
Yes, candidates taking the 12th grade exam in 2026 can apply for KEAM 2026 if they meet the educational requirements.
What documentation is required to demonstrate eligibility for KEAM 2026?
Candidates must show ID proof (Aadhar card or passport), educational certificates (marksheets), and proof of age (birth certificate or school leaving certificate).
Is there any exemption for SC/ST students in the KEAM 2026 eligibility?
Yes, SC/ST candidates may be granted exemptions from the required percentage of marks and other eligibility conditions.
Can international students apply to KEAM 2026?
International candidates can apply for KEAM 2026, but they must meet the country's eligibility conditions and have their educational qualifications verified by the Kerala State Education Department.
Do OBC candidates have fewer eligibility requirements for KEAM 2026?
Yes, OBC candidates may be granted a 5% exemption in the needed marks for eligibility.
What is the minimum mark requirement for KEAM 2026 eligibility in medical courses?
For general category medical candidates, a PCB score of at least 50% is required.
Is there a maximum age for KEAM 2026 eligibility?
There is no upper age limit for candidates applying to the KEAM 2026 exam.
Can a candidate from another state apply to KEAM 2026?
Yes, individuals from other states can apply for KEAM 2026, as long as they meet the nationality and other eligibility requirements.
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