Karnataka Diploma Common Entrance Test

The test is an objective, multiple-choice paper set on the diploma syllabus of the candidate's own branch, so a candidate answers questions from the engineering discipline they studied rather than a common science paper, and language and communication topics may also be included. Candidates apply online through the Karnataka Examinations Authority portal, verify their documents, sit the paper at an allotted centre and receive a rank. That rank, combined with the state's eligibility and reservation rules, is used in online counselling with option entry and seat allotment rounds for lateral entry into the second year of engineering and technology degree programmes at participating colleges in Karnataka.

Some cycles include lateral entry into other professional degrees on similar terms. Candidates must complete document verification and pay the prescribed fees at the counselling stage, and the sequence of rounds is published by the authority.