KEAM 2026 Engineering Exam LIVE: Engineering Paper Today from 2 PM; Guidelines, Dress Code, and Timings

KEAM 2026 Engineering exam kicks off today at 2 PM across Kerala with strict adherence to a 12 PM reporting time and a "no-shoes" preferred dress code. Candidates must carry a printed hall ticket and original ID to ensure entry into the 3-hour computer-based test

The Commissioner for Entrance Examinations (CEE) Kerala is all set to conduct the KEAM 2026 Engineering Entrance Exam today, April 17. Thousands of engineering aspirants across Kerala and in select centers outside the state are appearing for the Computer-Based Test (CBT) as the gateway to professional degree courses.

The examination is scheduled to begin at 2:00 PM and will conclude at 5:00 PM. With the high-stakes exam just hours away, candidates are advised to complete their final preparations and reach their respective centers well in advance to avoid last-minute hurdles.

KEAM 2026 Exam Schedule & Timings

Candidates must strictly adhere to the following timeline for the Day 1 Engineering paper:

• Reporting Time: 12:00 PM (Candidates are advised to reach by this time for biometric verification).

• Gate Closing Time: Entry will not be permitted once the examination commences at 2:00 PM.

• Exam Duration: 180 Minutes (3 Hours).

• Exam Finish Time: 5:00 PM.

KEAM 2026 Key Exam Day Guidelines

The CEE has issued a set of mandatory instructions to ensure the smooth conduct of the CBT.

1. Admit Card is Mandatory: No candidate will be allowed into the hall without a physical printout of the KEAM 2026 Admit Card. Digital copies on phones will not be accepted.

2. Identity Proof: Along with the hall ticket, carry a valid original photo ID (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN Card, Driving License, or Passport).

3. Stationery: While the exam is computer-based, candidates should carry a blue or black ballpoint pen for rough work. Rough sheets will be provided inside the hall.

4. No Late Entry: Entry is strictly prohibited after the start of the exam. Similarly, students will not be allowed to leave the hall until the full 3 hours have passed.

Dress Code for KEAM 2026

To facilitate quick frisking and maintain the sanctity of the exam, the CEE has recommended a simple dress code for both male and female candidates.

For Male Candidates:

• Clothing: Wear light-colored, comfortable clothes like T-shirts or shirts. Half-sleeves are preferred.

• Avoid: Clothes with many pockets, hoodies, or large buttons.

• Footwear: Sandals or slippers are recommended. Shoes and boots are generally discouraged as they may require removal during security checks.

For Female Candidates:

• Clothing: Simple Kurtis, tops, or salwar suits. Avoid heavy embroidery or metallic embellishments.

• Jewelry: It is advised to avoid earrings, necklaces, or bracelets to prevent delays during metal detector frisking.

• Footwear: Open-toed sandals or flat slippers are the best choice.

Prohibited Items for for KEAM 2026 Exam Day

Strict action, including disqualification, will be taken against anyone found with the following:

• Electronic Gadgets: Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, Bluetooth devices, and earphones.

• Study Material: Notes, books, bits of paper, or geometry boxes.

• Personal Belongings: Wallets, handbags, and belts with large metallic buckles.

KEAM 2026 Exam Pattern Highlights

The Engineering paper today consists of 150 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) covering Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

• Total Marks: 600

• Marking Scheme: +4 for every correct answer; -1 for every incorrect response.

• Subject Breakdown: Mathematics (75 questions), Physics (45 questions), and Chemistry (30 questions).

What’s Next?

Immediately after the exam ends at 5:00 PM, several coaching institutes are expected to release memory-based question papers and unofficial answer keys. The official answer keys by CEE Kerala will be uploaded on the official portal cee.kerala.gov.in shortly after the entire exam cycle concludes.

Written by Simran

Simran is currently working as a Senior Content Writer at Findmycollege , where she creates engaging and research-driven learning resources for students. She has completed her Graduation in Journalism from Delhi University. With 4 years of experience in the EdTech industry, she has previously contributed to leading platforms like Leverage Edu and Aakash. Her expertise lies in simplifying Engineering and Medical entrance exam content to guide aspirants in their preparation journey. Beyond writing, Simran enjoys sketching, watching movies, and finding creative inspiration in everyday life.

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