In a bid to improve transparency and prevent malpractices, the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has released detailed plans to redesign the Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) 2025 procedures. The test, for the first time, will employ the same dress code and security practices observed in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). They are adopting features such as obligatory facial recognition, QR code-enabled identity checks, CCTV monitoring, and webcast broadcasting at every test center.

KCET 2025 will be held on April 15, 16, and 17. The test will begin with the Kannada language test on April 15 between 10:30 am and 11:30 am. This will be followed by the core subject tests—Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology—on April 16 and 17. There will be two sessions per day: morning session from 10:30 am to 11:50 am, and afternoon session from 2:30 pm to 3:50 pm.

In the wake of growing anxiety over examination-related malpractices, KEA has made the important move of implementing technologically sound and tight security measures. The measures are designed to create a culture of fairness and integrity in one of Karnataka’s most significant entrance examinations. Officials say that the move has been well-received by students, parents, and teachers, all of whom have appreciated the focus on security and transparency.

Among the biggest changes is the application of facial recognition technology. This mechanism will be utilized across all centres to authenticate candidates. On exam day, each candidate’s facial features will be matched against information that was furnished at the application level. This further level of verification is anticipated to discourage impersonation and help make sure only authentic candidates turn up for the test.

Another significant update is the addition of a QR code on every candidate’s admit card. When scanned, this QR code will flash the candidate’s photograph and personal information, which will enable officials to quickly authenticate their identity. This electronic verification will be carried out at the entrance of every exam center, and entry will only be granted after both the QR code has been verified and the candidate has been frisked.

Apart from all these online improvements, KEA also assured that all the centres of examination will remain under constant CCTV camera coverage. Live webcasting at centres will enable higher authorities to keep track of proceedings in real time. The step is likely to enable any suspicious activity to be detected and resolved immediately.

To ensure uniformity and equality, KCET 2025 will also adhere to the dress code guidelines of NEET. Yet, KEA has relaxed some of the rules to ensure students’ comfort slightly. Candidates will be allowed to wear full-sleeved attire. Yet, the wearing of watches—digital, analogue, or smartwatches—is not allowed within the exam halls. Students will also not be allowed to bring mobile phones or any other electronic devices to the centres.

KEA officials explained that the dress code is being introduced not just for security purposes but also to minimize exam-day stress among students. By providing a uniform dress, the objective is to eliminate any scope for suspicion and to make the checking process at gates more efficient. Additionally, these regulations will help invigilators to have a concentrated and impartial atmosphere within the exam halls.

KEA emphasized that the revised measures have been carefully planned and are the result of consultations with various stakeholders, including educational institutions, parent associations, and security experts. They believe that the adoption of such protocols will significantly enhance the credibility of the KCET examination and reduce the chances of irregularities.

Many students and parents have welcomed these changes, stating that such proactive steps by the authorities will improve trust in the examination system. Educators have also appreciated the move, as it aligns KCET with national-level exams and reflects a commitment to adopting best practices in assessment procedures.

With only one day remaining for the KCET 2025 exams to start, candidates have been instructed to get acquainted with the new rules in depth. Admit cards need to be downloaded beforehand, and students are requested to reach the centres early so that the identity check and frisking process can be done without any inconvenience.

The KEA again stated that the new protocols are not done to inconvenience the students but rather to ensure the KCET 2025 takes place in a secure and honest manner. The authority is, with these new systems, planning to maintain the integrity of the exam and helping deserving candidates get their academic targets.