KCET Exam Dress Code: What to Wear and What Not to Wear

Every year, the KCET authorities release a specific dress code to maintain discipline, ensure transparency, and prevent unfair practices during the exam. In this article we'll cover what to wear and what to avoid during the KCET exam 2026, helping you avoid unnecessary stress on exam day.

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The KCET 2026 is a crucial state-level exam for admission into engineering, pharmacy, and agriculture courses in Karnataka. Along with preparing for the exam, follow the KCET exam dress code 2026 and other guidelines set by the Karnataka Examination Authority.

Every year, the KCET authorities release a specific dress code to maintain discipline, ensure transparency, and prevent unfair practices during the exam. We'll cover what to wear and what

to avoid during the KCET exam 2026, helping you avoid unnecessary stress on exam day.

Importance of Following the KCET Dress Code

The KCET dress code 2026 is an important part that needs to be taken care of on the day of the KCET 2026 exam. The main purpose of the release of the KCET dress code is to

Maintain fairness and transparency in the examination process
Facilitate smooth frisking during security checks
Prevent the use of hidden communication or cheating devices
Ensure uniformity and discipline among candidates

KCET Dress Code 2026 for Male and Female Candidates

The KCET 2026 dress code is released by the KEA authorities along with the KCET information brochure. It contains all the information about the dress code that is allowed for candidates appearing in the KCET 2026 exam. The dress code for the KCET 2026 exam is as follows:

KCET Dress Code 2026 for Male and Female Candidates
Category	Male Candidates	Female Candidates
Dress Code Theme	Simple, light, and comfortable clothing	Modest, simple, and comfortable attire
Allowed Clothing	• Half-sleeve shirts or plain T-shirts • Light-coloured trousers or pants • Simple kurta-pyjama without pockets or embroidery	• Salwar kameez or kurta with leggings • Short-sleeve tops or kurtis with simple patterns • Hair neatly tied; minimal accessories
Allowed Footwear	• Slippers or open sandals (preferable for easy frisking)	• Simple sandals or slippers (without heels or thick soles)
Not Allowed Clothing	• Full-sleeve shirts, jackets, hoodies, or coats • Clothes with pockets, metal buttons, or decorative zippers • Trousers with multiple layers or deep pockets	• Full-sleeve or layered dresses • Heavy embroidery or decorative clothing • Dupattas or scarves (unless medically or religiously required)
Not Allowed Accessories	• Shoes or footwear with thick soles • Watches, chains, bracelets, or rings	• Jewelry such as earrings, nose pins, bangles, or anklets • Shoes, high heels, or boots
Additional Tip	Choose plain cotton shirts or T-shirts to stay comfortable during the summer heat in May, when KCET 2026 is expected.	Avoid wearing outfits with metallic elements like zippers or sequins, as they can delay frisking and may not comply with KEA exam centre rules.

General Guidelines for All Candidates

Both male and female candidates must follow certain general KCET dress guidelines 2026 to ensure a hassle-free attempt at the KCET exam 2026 on exam day.

Wear light and plain clothes: Avoid bright or layered clothing.
Avoid metallic items: Don't wear metallic items - they can trigger security scanners and delay entry.
No caps, hats, or sunglasses: Caps, hats, and sunglasses aren't allowed inside the KCET exam centre; they'll be taken from you at entry.
Clothing comfort :The exam's 2 hours per session, so wear breathable fabrics to stay comfortable.

Footwear Rules for KCET 2026

The KEA releases separate footwear guidelines in the KCET information brochure, which often causes confusion among candidates. Here are the official footwear guidelines for KCET 2026:

Allowed: Open slippers, flat sandals, plain footwear with thin soles
Not Allowed: Sports shoes, sneakers, boots, high heels, or thick-soled shoes

KCET Prohibited Accessories and Items

Some items are strictly prohibited inside the KCET exam hall. These include:

Electronic devices (mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, digital watches)
Earphones, Bluetooth devices, or pens with cameras
Any form of written material, chits, or notes
Bags, wallets, or purses
Food items or drinks (except a transparent water bottle)
Metal jewelry, religious threads, or ornaments
Caps, scarves, or shawls (unless approved for religious reasons)

Religious and Cultural Exceptions

Candidates wearing religious or cultural attire like Hijab, Turban, or Kada are permitted to follow their tradition, but they mus

Report early at the exam centre for extended frisking
Inform the invigilator or centre superintendent in advance
Avoid carrying metallic or electronic accessories with religious wear

Final Exam-Day Preparation Tips

Following the KCET dress code 2026 is just one part of exam-day preparation. Here are some final tips for candidates:

Pack your KCET 2026 admit card, a valid photo ID proof, and pens the night before.
Dress simply and comfortably according to KEA’s rules.
Avoid wearing any item that could raise suspicion or delay frisking.
Arrive at least 60 minutes before the exam to complete entry procedures.
Stay calm and confident — your comfort and focus are the real keys to success.

The KCET exam dress code 2026 is designed to ensure a fair and disciplined environment at the exam centre. By wearing simple, modest, and comfortable clothes, you'll comply with KEA guidelines and reduce exam day stress. Check your KCET admit card 2026 and official notification before the exam to avoid last-minute surprises regarding dress code or exam protocol.