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 positions across various Karnataka government departments, boards and organisations.

The KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026 notification was issued 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, degree-level and other prescribed qualifications who want to work in Karnataka government departments. The vacancies are divided between the Residual Parent Cadre (RPC) and Kalyana Karnataka (KK) cadre. KEA has released four separate notifications covering graduate-level and PUC-level posts under these two cadres.

Candidates should carefully check the relevant notification before applying because educational qualifications, post names, reservation conditions and other eligibility requirements may differ.

KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026: Overview

Important: KEA has published four separate notifications. Candidates must choose the correct notification according to their qualification level and cadre eligibility.

KEA FDA SDA Vacancy 2026

KEA has announced 5,431 vacancies through four recruitment notifications. These vacancies cover degree-level and PUC-level positions under the Residual Parent Cadre and Kalyana Karnataka cadre.

The vacancy distribution is given below.

The recruitment covers different departments, boards and government organisations. Depending on the individual notification, the available positions include:

• First Division Assistant (FDA).
• Second Division Assistant (SDA).
• Accounts Assistant.
• Junior Assistant.
• Warden.
• Hostel Supervisor.
• Computer-related posts.
• Other equivalent Group C positions.

The exact post names and department-wise vacancy distribution are provided in the individual notification PDFs. Candidates should check the relevant document before selecting a post.

Understanding RPC and Kalyana Karnataka Cadres

One important part of KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026 is the division of vacancies between RPC and Kalyana Karnataka cadres.

Candidates should understand these categories before submitting their applications.

1. Residual Parent Cadre (RPC)

The Residual Parent Cadre covers vacancies under the applicable general state cadre recruitment arrangements.

KEA has announced 4,233 vacancies under the RPC category, divided into:

• 2,163 degree-level vacancies.
• 2,070 PUC-level vacancies.

Candidates applying under RPC should check the relevant notification for educational qualifications, reservation conditions and post-wise eligibility.

2. Kalyana Karnataka Cadre

The Kalyana Karnataka cadre covers vacancies under 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 Kalyana Karnataka local reservation benefits should carefully check the required eligibility conditions and supporting documents.

Do not select the KK cadre simply because it has separate vacancies. Applicants must satisfy the applicable local eligibility requirements mentioned in the official notification.

KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026 Important Dates

Candidates should keep track of the application schedule and examination dates to avoid missing important deadlines.

Candidates should regularly check the KEA website for admission tickets, examination instructions and any revised timetable. The latest official examination notice will take priority if KEA changes the schedule.

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 positions may require additional subject-specific qualifications, professional credentials or technical knowledge.

For PUC-level posts:

Candidates generally need to have passed the Second Pre-University Course (2nd PUC) or an equivalent qualification recognised by the competent authority.

Certain positions may require additional qualifications, computer knowledge or specific subject combinations. Candidates should carefully read the post-wise requirements in the notification.

Age Limit

The age limit for KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026 is governed by the applicable Karnataka recruitment rules and the conditions stated in the individual notifications.

The commonly reported age limits are:

The prescribed age calculation date and any additional concessions must be checked in the official notification.

Candidates should calculate their age using the cut-off date specified by KEA rather than the date on which they submit the application.

Kannada Language Requirement

Knowledge of Kannada is an important consideration for candidates applying for Karnataka government positions.

The recruitment schedule includes a Kannada Language Test on 8 January 2027. Candidates who are required to appear for this test must qualify 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:

Candidates should verify the exact category-wise fee and applicable concessions in the relevant 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.

Application fees are generally non-refundable, subject to the terms specified by the authority.

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:

These pay scales should not be applied to every vacancy. Some positions may have different salary structures depending on the department and designation.

In addition to basic pay, eligible government employees may receive allowances and other benefits according to applicable service rules.

The actual monthly in-hand salary depends on the post, allowances, deductions and place of posting. Candidates should consult the relevant notification for the exact salary information.

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. Kannada Language Test

Candidates who are required to take the Kannada Language Test must appear for and 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 the test pattern, qualifying marks and exemptions.

2. Competitive Written Examination

Candidates are required to appear for the prescribed competitive examination.

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 examination instructions.

3. Merit List and Shortlisting

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 provisional lists, examination results and other recruitment announcements.

4. Document Verification

Shortlisted candidates may be required to attend document verification.

They should carry 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.

Candidates should download their examination admission tickets when KEA makes them available.

The admission ticket will provide important information such as the examination centre, reporting time, candidate details and examination instructions.

Candidates should check the examination mode and any updated instructions in the official KEA notice. Do not rely on unofficial information about the examination format.

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:

1. Visit the official KEA website at https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/.
2. Open the recruitment section.
3. Find the FDA, SDA and other Group C recruitment notification.
4. Select the correct notification for RPC or Kalyana Karnataka cadre.
5. Choose the appropriate degree-level or PUC-level application.
6. Read the notification carefully before registration.
7. Complete registration using the required personal and contact information.
8. Log in using the registration credentials.
9. Enter educational qualifications and other required details.
10. Upload the photograph, signature and supporting documents in the prescribed format.
11. Review the application form carefully.
12. Pay the applicable application fee.
13. Submit the application before 25 November 2026.
14. Save or print the application confirmation and payment receipt.

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.

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 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.

Important Instructions for KEA SDA FDA Applicants

Candidates should keep the following points in mind before applying:

• KEA has released four separate recruitment notifications.
• Select the correct cadre and qualification level.
• Check the post-wise educational requirements.
• Verify age eligibility using the prescribed cut-off date.
• Submit the application before the deadline.
• Pay the application fee by 26 November 2026.
• Use the official KEA website for registration and payment.
• Check the Kalyana Karnataka local eligibility conditions before claiming reservation.
• Keep a copy of the submitted application and payment receipt.
• Regularly check the KEA portal for examination and result updates.

Candidates should not wait until the last date to submit their applications. Completing the process early provides time to correct any application or payment-related issues.

FAQ about KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026

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.