The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has officially released the seat matrix for Master of Science in Nursing (M.Sc Nursing) admission for the academic year 2026–27. This is the first round of counselling, and eligible candidates can now begin the online option entry and seat allotment process starting 7 November 2026.
Overview
KEA's M.Sc Nursing Seat Matrix 2026 marks the commencement of the first counselling round for postgraduate nursing admissions across Karnataka institutions. The entire admission process is conducted online through the KEA portal, offering transparency and ease of access to candidates. The seat matrix outlines the total number of seats available across participating colleges, enabling aspirants to make informed choices during option entry.
This admission cycle follows a structured schedule designed to ensure fair allocation of seats based on merit and candidate preferences. All candidates who have qualified in the entrance examination and meet KEA's eligibility criteria are entitled to participate. The counselling process comprises option entry, mock allotment, option modification, and final seat allotment—each stage with clearly defined dates and times to help candidates plan accordingly.
First-round counselling commences with the release of the official schedule and verification slip download on 7 November 2026. Candidates must complete their option entry within the stipulated five-day window (7–12 November) and can further refine their choices during the modification period (12–14 November) based on the mock allotment preview.
Important Dates
| Event | Date and Time |
|---|---|
| First-Round Schedule Published | 7 November 2026 |
| Verification Slip Download Starts | 7 November 2026, 11:00 AM |
| Option Entry Starts | 7 November 2026, 1:00 PM |
| Option Entry Closes | 12 November 2026, 11:00 AM |
| Mock Seat Allotment Result | 12 November 2026, After 3:00 PM |
| Option Modification Starts | 12 November 2026, 4:00 PM |
| Option Modification Ends | 14 November 2026, 11:00 AM |
| First-Round Actual Seat Allotment | 14 November 2026, After 4:00 PM |
All timings are in Indian Standard Time (IST). Candidates must adhere strictly to these deadlines as KEA does not typically grant extensions. Mark these dates in your calendar and set reminders to avoid missing any critical window.
Vacancy Details
The seat matrix has been released showing the total number of M.Sc Nursing seats available across participating colleges in Karnataka for 2026–27. Specific vacancy numbers and breakdown by college and category are available in the detailed seat matrix document on the KEA portal. Candidates should download and review the seat matrix to identify colleges matching their preferences and eligibility.
Eligibility
To participate in KEA M.Sc Nursing counselling, candidates must have qualified in the entrance examination conducted by the authority. General eligibility for M.Sc Nursing programmes typically requires a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.Sc Nursing) degree with a minimum aggregate percentage as specified by KEA. Category-wise reservations (General, SC, ST, OBC, EWS, Disabled) and other criteria as per official guidelines apply.
Candidates are advised to verify their exact eligibility status by reviewing the official notification and comparing their academic credentials against KEA's specified requirements. Those unsure about their eligibility should contact KEA directly or visit the official website for clarification before the option entry deadline.
Application Fee
See the official notification for information on applicable counselling fees, if any.
How to Apply
- Visit the portal: Navigate to the KEA official website from your computer or mobile device.
- Log in: Use your registered application number and password to access your counselling portal account.
- Download verification slip: From 11:00 AM on 7 November 2026, download your verification slip. This document contains essential details needed during counselling and admission.
- Start option entry: Beginning 1:00 PM on 7 November 2026, log in and start entering your preferred colleges and courses.
- Rank your preferences: List all your preferred colleges and specializations in order of priority. You may enter multiple options based on available seats and your merit position.
- Submit before deadline: Complete your option entry by 11:00 AM on 12 November 2026. Late submissions are not accepted.
- Review mock allotment: After 3:00 PM on 12 November, KEA releases the mock allotment result. Log in to see which seat might be allocated based on your current options and merit.
- Modify if needed: If you wish to change your options, log in between 4:00 PM on 12 November and 11:00 AM on 14 November 2026 to edit your preferences.
- Download final allotment: On 14 November 2026 after 4:00 PM, your final seat allotment will be published. Download and save it immediately.
- Follow further instructions: KEA will issue separate notifications regarding admission confirmation, document verification, and college reporting dates. Check the official website regularly for updates.
Important Links
KEA Official Website – Counselling Portal
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Who is eligible to participate in this M.Sc Nursing counselling?
Candidates who have qualified in the entrance examination and meet KEA's eligibility criteria can participate in the counselling process. See the official notification for specific eligibility requirements including educational qualifications and merit thresholds.
Q. What is the verification slip and when should I download it?
The verification slip is a document containing your registration details and counselling-related information. You must download it from 11:00 AM on 7 November 2026 from the KEA portal before beginning option entry. Keep a copy for your records.
Q. Can I change my options after the initial submission deadline?
Yes. Although option entry closes on 12 November 2026 at 11:00 AM, KEA provides an option modification window from 4:00 PM on 12 November until 11:00 AM on 14 November 2026, allowing you to reorder or change your preferences based on the mock allotment result.
Q. What does the mock allotment result tell me?
The mock allotment result, released on 12 November after 3:00 PM, is a preview of your likely seat allocation based on your entered options, merit rank, and current cut-off marks. It helps you decide whether to modify your preferences before the final allotment.
Q. When will the final seat allotment be declared?
The final seat allotment for the first round will be published on 14 November 2026 after 4:00 PM. You must download and retain a copy, and then follow KEA's instructions for admission confirmation and document verification.
Q. What documents do I need to bring for counselling and admission?
Typically, you will need your hall ticket, verification slip, qualifying degree certificates, mark sheets, identity proof, community certificate (if applicable), and any other documents specified by KEA. Verify the complete document list on the official notification.
Disclaimer: Candidates must verify all details including dates, eligibility requirements, vacancy numbers, and procedures on the official KEA website before taking any action.