KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026: The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has announced a major recruitment drive for 2026, offering 5,431 vacancies for First Division Assistant (FDA), Second Division Assistant (SDA) and other equivalent Group C posts across various Karnataka government departments, boards and corporations.
The KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026 notification was released on 29 October 2026. The online application process started on 30 October 2026, and eligible candidates can submit their applications until 25 November 2026. The last date for payment of the application fee is 26 November 2026.
This recruitment is an important opportunity for candidates with PUC or degree-level qualifications who want to work in Karnataka government departments. The vacancies are divided between the Residual Parent Cadre (RPC) and the Kalyana Karnataka (KK) cadre. Separate notifications have been issued for graduate-level and PUC-level posts.
Candidates should carefully select the correct recruitment notification according to their educational qualification and cadre eligibility before submitting the application form.
KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026: Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruiting organisation | Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) |
| Recruitment name | KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026 |
| Post categories | FDA, SDA and equivalent Group C posts |
| Total vacancies | 5,431 |
| Recruitment year | 2026 |
| Notification date | 29 October 2026 |
| Application starting date | 30 October 2026 |
| Last date to apply online | 25 November 2026 |
| Last date for fee payment | 26 November 2026 |
| Examination dates | 8, 9, 10, 16 and 17 January 2027 |
| Application mode | Online |
| Examination mode | As specified in the KEA examination instructions |
| Job location | Karnataka |
| Official website | https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/ |
KEA FDA SDA Vacancy 2026
KEA has announced a total of 5,431 vacancies through four separate recruitment notifications. These vacancies cover degree-level and PUC-level posts under the Residual Parent Cadre and Kalyana Karnataka cadre.
The category-wise vacancy distribution is given below.
| Recruitment category | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| RPC Degree-Level Posts | 2,163 |
| RPC PUC-Level Posts | 2,070 |
| Kalyana Karnataka Degree-Level Posts | 563 |
| Kalyana Karnataka PUC-Level Posts | 635 |
| Total | 5,431 |
The recruitment covers multiple departments, boards and government organisations. Depending on the individual notification, the available positions may include:
- First Division Assistant (FDA)
- Second Division Assistant (SDA)
- Accounts Assistant
- Junior Assistant
- Accounts-related posts
- Warden
- Hostel Supervisor
- Departmental assistant positions
- Other equivalent Group C posts
The exact post names and vacancy distribution are provided in the four individual notifications. Candidates should check the relevant PDF rather than assume that every post is included in all four recruitment categories.
Understanding RPC and Kalyana Karnataka Cadres
One important aspect of KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026 is the division of vacancies between RPC and Kalyana Karnataka cadres.
1. Residual Parent Cadre (RPC)
The Residual Parent Cadre covers vacancies that are not specifically reserved for the Kalyana Karnataka local cadre under the applicable recruitment provisions.
KEA has announced 4,233 vacancies under the RPC category, divided into:
- 2,163 degree-level vacancies.
- 2,070 PUC-level vacancies.
Candidates should read the RPC notification to understand the post-wise eligibility, reservation and other conditions.
2. Kalyana Karnataka Cadre
The Kalyana Karnataka cadre includes vacancies covered by the applicable local reservation provisions for eligible candidates from the designated region.
A total of 1,198 vacancies have been announced under this category:
- 563 degree-level vacancies.
- 635 PUC-level vacancies.
Candidates claiming eligibility under the Kalyana Karnataka local cadre should carefully check the required local eligibility documents and reservation conditions in the official notification.
KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026: Important Dates
Candidates should keep track of the application and examination schedule to avoid missing important deadlines.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification release | 29 October 2026 |
| Online application begins | 30 October 2026 |
| Last date to submit application | 25 November 2026 |
| Last date for application fee payment | 26 November 2026 |
| Kannada Language Test | 8 January 2027 |
| Graduate-level KK examination | 9 January 2027 |
| Graduate-level RPC examination | 10 January 2027 |
| PUC-level KK examination | 16 January 2027 |
| PUC-level RPC examination | 17 January 2027 |
The examination schedule should be checked again on the official KEA website before making travel or examination arrangements. Any revised timetable or examination instructions issued by KEA will take priority over earlier information.
KEA FDA SDA Eligibility Criteria 2026
Candidates must satisfy the educational qualification, age limit, reservation and other conditions specified in the relevant recruitment notification.
The eligibility requirements differ between degree-level and PUC-level posts.
Educational Qualification
The educational qualification depends on the post and recruitment category.
For degree-level posts:
Candidates generally need a recognised bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification prescribed for the relevant position. Some departmental posts may require additional subject-specific qualifications or professional credentials.
For PUC-level posts:
Candidates generally need to have passed the Second Pre-University Course (2nd PUC) or an equivalent qualification recognised by the relevant authority.
Certain posts may require additional qualifications, computer knowledge or specific subject combinations. Candidates must check the post-wise requirements in the notification.
Age Limit
The age limit for KEA FDA SDA Recruitment 2026 is governed by the applicable Karnataka recruitment rules and the conditions stated in the individual notifications.
The commonly reported age limits for the recruitment are:
| Category | Age limit |
|---|---|
| General Merit (GM) | 18–40 years |
| Category 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B | 18–43 years |
| SC, ST and Category 1 | 18–45 years |
The prescribed age calculation date and any additional concessions must be verified in the official notification. Candidates should not calculate eligibility using their age on the date they submit the application unless the notification specifically requires it.
Kannada Language Requirement
Knowledge of Kannada is an important consideration for candidates applying for Karnataka government positions.
Where the notification requires a Kannada Language Test, candidates must appear for and qualify in that test according to the prescribed rules. Applicants should carefully read the language-test provisions, including any exemptions or conditions applicable to particular candidates.
Candidates from outside Karnataka should not assume that they are automatically exempt from Kannada requirements.
KEA SDA FDA Application Fee 2026
Candidates must pay the prescribed application fee according to their category.
The reported fee structure is:
| Category | Application fee |
|---|---|
| General Merit | ₹750 |
| Category 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B | ₹750 |
| SC, ST and Category 1 | ₹500 |
| Eligible Ex-servicemen | ₹500 |
| Third Gender | ₹500 |
| Eligible Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) | ₹250 |
Candidates should verify the exact category-wise fee and any applicable concession in the official notification and online application portal.
The fee must be paid through the payment methods made available by KEA. Applicants should save the payment receipt after completing the transaction.
KEA FDA SDA Salary 2026
The salary for KEA FDA and SDA posts depends on the post, department and applicable pay scale.
The reported pay scales for the two broad qualification levels are:
| Post category | Reported pay scale |
|---|---|
| PUC-level assistant posts | ₹34,100–₹67,600 |
| Degree-level assistant posts | ₹44,425–₹83,700 |
| Certain specialised or supervisory posts | ₹49,050–₹92,500 |
| Certain higher-pay posts | ₹54,175–₹99,400 |
These pay scales should not be applied indiscriminately to every vacancy. Some posts may have a different salary structure depending on the department and designation.
In addition to basic pay, eligible government employees may receive allowances and other benefits according to the applicable service rules. Actual monthly in-hand salary will depend on deductions, allowances, posting and the relevant pay structure.
Candidates should consult the post-wise salary information in the official notification before making a decision.
KEA SDA FDA Selection Process 2026
The selection process for KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026 is based on the examination and recruitment rules specified by the Karnataka Examinations Authority.
The main stages may include the following.
1. Written Examination
Candidates are required to appear for the prescribed competitive examination. The examination schedule has been announced for January 2027.
The examination is organised according to the candidate’s recruitment category and qualification level. Candidates should check the relevant notification for the number of papers, subjects, marks, duration and qualifying requirements.
2. Kannada Language Test
Candidates who are required to take the Kannada Language Test must qualify according to the applicable rules.
The announced schedule includes the Kannada Language Test on 8 January 2027. Applicants should check the official instructions for eligibility, exemptions and the test pattern.
3. Merit List
KEA will prepare merit or selection lists according to the prescribed examination rules, reservation provisions and post-specific requirements.
Candidates should regularly check the official website for examination results, provisional lists and other recruitment announcements.
4. Document Verification
Shortlisted candidates may be required to attend document verification.
They should carry the original documents and the required copies to establish their age, educational qualifications, category, local cadre eligibility and other claims made in the application.
5. Final Selection
The final selection will be completed according to the applicable recruitment rules and vacancy requirements. Candidates should wait for official KEA instructions regarding department allocation, appointment and joining formalities.
KEA SDA FDA Exam Date 2027
KEA has announced the examination schedule for January 2027.
| Examination | Scheduled date |
|---|---|
| Kannada Language Test | 8 January 2027 |
| Graduate-level KK examination | 9 January 2027 |
| Graduate-level RPC examination | 10 January 2027 |
| PUC-level KK examination | 16 January 2027 |
| PUC-level RPC examination | 17 January 2027 |
Candidates should download their examination admission ticket when KEA makes it available. The admission ticket will provide important information such as the examination centre, reporting time, candidate details and examination instructions.
The examination dates may be subject to changes through official notices. Therefore, applicants should monitor the KEA portal regularly.
How to Apply Online for KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026?
Eligible candidates can submit their applications through the official Karnataka Examinations Authority website.
Follow these steps:
- Visit the official KEA website at https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/.
- Open the recruitment section or the relevant FDA/SDA recruitment notification.
- Select the correct notification for RPC or Kalyana Karnataka cadre.
- Choose the appropriate degree-level or PUC-level application.
- Read the notification carefully before registration.
- Complete the registration using the required personal and contact information.
- Log in using the registration credentials.
- Enter your educational qualifications and other required details.
- Upload the photograph, signature and supporting documents in the prescribed format.
- Review the application form carefully.
- Pay the applicable application fee.
- Submit the application form and save the confirmation page.
Candidates should ensure that their personal information, educational details and category claims are accurate. Incorrect information may cause problems during document verification or lead to rejection of the application.
Documents Required for KEA FDA SDA Application
Candidates should prepare the following documents before starting the online application:
- Recent passport-size photograph.
- Scanned signature.
- Aadhaar card or another accepted identity document.
- SSLC or equivalent marks card.
- PUC or 2nd PUC marks card, where applicable.
- Degree certificate and marks cards for graduate-level posts.
- Caste certificate, if applicable.
- Income and category certificates, where required.
- Kalyana Karnataka local eligibility certificate, if applicable.
- Kannada language-related documents, where required.
- PwBD certificate, if applicable.
- Ex-servicemen certificate, if applicable.
- Other documents specified in the recruitment notification.
The required documents may differ depending on the post and candidate category. Follow the upload instructions displayed on the official portal.
Important Links for KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026
Candidates can use the following official links to access recruitment information and application services.
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| KEA official website | https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/ |
| KEA recruitment portal | https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/ |
| RPC FDA/SDA application portal | https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/gpcfdasdarpc2026 |
| Karnataka government website | https://karnataka.gov.in/ |
| KEA notifications and updates | https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/ |
Notification PDFs: KEA has issued four separate notifications covering RPC degree-level, RPC PUC-level, Kalyana Karnataka degree-level and Kalyana Karnataka PUC-level posts. Candidates should download the relevant PDF from the official KEA portal rather than rely on an unrelated or outdated notification.
Preparation Tips for KEA FDA SDA Recruitment 2026
Candidates should begin their examination preparation early because the announced examination dates fall in January 2027.
The following preparation suggestions may help:
Understand the examination pattern: Read the relevant notification and identify the subjects, paper structure, marks and qualifying requirements.
Prepare according to your qualification level: Graduate-level and PUC-level recruitment may have different examination requirements. Use the syllabus applicable to your selected category.
Practise previous examination questions: Previous papers and mock tests can help candidates understand question styles, improve accuracy and manage time.
Improve Kannada language skills: Candidates who must appear for the Kannada Language Test should prepare according to the prescribed test requirements.
Revise regularly: Prepare a realistic study timetable and revise important topics consistently.
Follow official announcements: Keep checking the KEA website for examination instructions, admission tickets, syllabus updates and changes to the timetable.
FAQ about KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026
What is KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026?
KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026 is a recruitment drive conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority for 5,431 FDA, SDA and equivalent Group C vacancies across Karnataka government departments, boards and corporations.
How many vacancies are announced under KEA FDA SDA Recruitment 2026?
A total of 5,431 vacancies have been announced. These include 2,163 RPC degree-level posts, 2,070 RPC PUC-level posts, 563 Kalyana Karnataka degree-level posts and 635 Kalyana Karnataka PUC-level posts.
What is the last date to apply for KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026?
The last date to submit the online application is 25 November 2026. The last date for payment of the application fee is 26 November 2026.
What is the educational qualification for KEA FDA posts?
Candidates generally need a recognised bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification for degree-level posts. Additional requirements may apply to specific departmental positions.
What is the qualification required for KEA SDA posts?
Candidates generally need to have passed 2nd PUC or an equivalent qualification for PUC-level posts. The exact qualification depends on the post and official notification.
What is the age limit for KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026?
The reported age limits are 18–40 years for General Merit, 18–43 years for Category 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B, and 18–45 years for SC, ST and Category 1 candidates. Candidates should verify the prescribed cut-off date and relaxation rules in the official notification.
What is the application fee for KEA FDA SDA Recruitment 2026?
The reported application fee is ₹750 for General Merit and applicable non-concessional categories, ₹500 for eligible reserved and special-concession categories, and ₹250 for eligible PwBD candidates. Applicants should confirm the exact fee displayed for their category on the KEA portal.
What is the KEA SDA FDA examination date?
The announced examination schedule includes 8, 9, 10, 16 and 17 January 2027. The Kannada Language Test is scheduled for 8 January, followed by the graduate-level and PUC-level examinations on their respective dates.
Can candidates from outside Karnataka apply?
Candidates should check the eligibility, reservation and Kannada language requirements in the relevant notification. Applying for a post does not automatically provide eligibility for Karnataka local-cadre reservations.
What is the salary for KEA FDA and SDA posts?
The reported pay scale for PUC-level assistant posts is ₹34,100–₹67,600, while degree-level assistant posts have a reported scale of ₹44,425–₹83,700. The exact pay depends on the post and department.
How can I download the KEA FDA SDA notification PDF?
Visit the official KEA website, open the recruitment section and select the relevant notification for RPC or Kalyana Karnataka cadre and degree-level or PUC-level posts.
Where can I apply online for KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026?
Candidates can apply through the official KEA website at https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/. Select the relevant recruitment notification and follow the online application instructions.
Conclusion
KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026 is a significant opportunity for candidates seeking government employment in Karnataka. With 5,431 vacancies across RPC and Kalyana Karnataka cadres, the recruitment covers degree-level and PUC-level assistant positions and other equivalent Group C posts.
The online application process began on 30 October 2026 and will continue until 25 November 2026. Candidates should also remember the 26 November fee-payment deadline and the January 2027 examination schedule.
Before applying, carefully read the relevant notification and confirm your educational qualification, age limit, category eligibility and local-cadre requirements. Select the correct application category, submit accurate information and save the application confirmation for future reference.
For the latest notifications, examination updates, admission tickets and results, candidates should regularly visit the official Karnataka Examinations Authority website.
