The Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) has announced a major recruitment drive for candidates looking for government jobs in Karnataka. With 5,431 vacancies across different departments, boards and corporations, the KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026 offers opportunities for both PUC-qualified and graduate candidates.
The online application process began on 30 October 2026, and eligible candidates can submit their forms up to 25 November 2026. The last date for fee payment is 26 November 2026.
KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026: Overview
The recruitment is being conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority for various posts in state government departments, boards and organisations. The vacancies include First Division Assistant (FDA), Second Division Assistant (SDA), Accounts Assistant, Warden, Hostel Supervisor and other equivalent positions.
| KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026 | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Authority | Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) |
| Recruitment Name | KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026 |
| Posts | FDA, SDA and equivalent posts |
| Total Vacancies | 5,431 |
| Notification Date | 29 October 2026 |
| Application Start Date | 30 October 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 25 November 2026 |
| Fee Payment Last Date | 26 November 2026 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Recruitment Cadres | RPC and Kalyana Karnataka |
| Selection Process | Competitive examination and document verification, as applicable |
| Job Location | Karnataka |
| Official Website | cetonline.karnataka.gov.in |
KEA FDA SDA Notification 2026
KEA has issued four separate notifications covering the 5,431 vacancies. These notifications relate to degree-level and PUC-level posts under the Residual Parent Cadre (RPC) and Kalyana Karnataka (KK) cadre.
This distinction matters. A candidate applying for a post under the RPC cadre should not automatically assume that the same vacancy conditions apply to a KK cadre post.
The four recruitment categories are:
- RPC degree-level posts: 2,163 vacancies.
- RPC PUC-level posts: 2,070 vacancies.
- Kalyana Karnataka degree-level posts: 563 vacancies.
- Kalyana Karnataka PUC-level posts: 635 vacancies.
KEA SDA FDA Vacancy 2026: Post-Wise Distribution
The total number of vacancies is one of the biggest reasons candidates are interested in this recruitment. However, it is equally important to understand how these vacancies are divided.
| Recruitment Category | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Degree-level posts under RPC | 2,163 |
| PUC-level posts under RPC | 2,070 |
| Degree-level posts under KK | 563 |
| PUC-level posts under KK | 635 |
| Total | 5,431 |
The degree-level categories together account for 2,726 vacancies, while the PUC-level categories account for 2,705 vacancies.
KEA SDA FDA Eligibility Criteria 2026
Eligibility is one area where candidates should avoid making assumptions. The recruitment includes different qualification levels, and one educational qualification may not be accepted for every advertised post.
Educational Qualification
For degree-level posts: Candidates are generally required to possess a recognised bachelor’s degree. The exact degree requirements may vary depending on the post.
For PUC-level posts: Candidates are generally required to have passed the 2nd PUC or an equivalent qualification recognised for the relevant post.
For specialised posts: Certain positions may require additional subject knowledge, computer-related qualifications or other specific eligibility conditions.
Age Limit
The minimum and maximum age requirements, along with category-wise relaxations, are mentioned in the official recruitment notifications.
Candidates should check the prescribed age calculation date and applicable relaxation rules before submitting the form. Do not calculate eligibility using your age on the day you happen to fill out the application if the notification specifies a different cut-off date.
The application process is online. Candidates can access the registration and application facility through the official KEA website.
Before starting, keep your basic details, educational information and required documents ready. Filling out a recruitment form in a hurry can lead to mistakes, particularly when entering marks, selecting a category or choosing a post.
How to Apply Online for KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026
Follow these steps to complete your application.
Step 1: Visit the official KEA website at https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/.
Step 2: Look for the recruitment notification or application link related to FDA and SDA Recruitment 2026.
Step 3: Open the relevant recruitment link and read the instructions displayed on the portal.
Step 4: Complete the registration process using the details requested by KEA.
Step 5: Log in to the application portal and enter your personal information, educational qualifications and other required details.
Step 6: Select the appropriate post and cadre after checking the eligibility conditions in the notification.
Step 7: Upload your photograph, signature and other documents in the prescribed format and size.
Step 8: Review the complete application form. Pay special attention to your name, date of birth, category, qualification and post preference.
Step 9: Pay the application fee through the payment option available on the official portal.
Step 10: Submit the application and download or print the confirmation page for future reference.
Application Fee
The application fee depends on the candidate’s category and the applicable recruitment notification. Published recruitment details indicate the following fee structure:
| Candidate Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General and specified categories | ₹750 |
| SC/ST/Category-1 and specified eligible categories | ₹500 |
| Eligible Persons with Disabilities | ₹250 |
Check the fee table in your relevant official notification before making payment. Category eligibility and exemptions must be confirmed from the official rules.
Keep the payment receipt or transaction reference number. If money is deducted but the application portal does not show a successful payment, do not immediately make another payment without checking the transaction status and the instructions provided by KEA.
KEA SDA FDA Selection Process 2026
The selection process is based on the recruitment rules and the requirements of the advertised posts. The process includes a competitive examination and document verification, as applicable.
Competitive Examination
Candidates who submit valid applications will have to appear for the examination according to the schedule and instructions issued by KEA.
The papers, subjects, marks distribution and examination pattern should be checked in the relevant notification or subsequent examination notice. Since the recruitment covers multiple posts and qualification levels, candidates should not assume that every post will necessarily have identical examination requirements.
Document Verification
Candidates who qualify for the next stage will be required to produce documents supporting the information entered in their applications.
These may include educational certificates, identity proof, category or reservation certificates, and other documents specified by the authority.
Make sure that the details in your application match your original certificates. A mismatch in name, date of birth or category information can create problems during verification.
KEA FDA SDA Exam Date 2026-27
The examination schedule is expected to be followed according to the post-wise and cadre-wise arrangements announced by KEA. Published recruitment updates mention examination dates in January 2027, including 8, 9, 10, 16 and 17 January 2027.
Candidates should not assume that all applicants will appear on the same date. The applicable date and examination details must be checked through the official schedule and later notices.
Documents to Keep Ready Before Applying
It is much easier to complete an online application when your documents are already organised. Keep clear digital copies of the documents required by your selected recruitment category.
Commonly required details and documents may include:
- Recent passport-size photograph.
- Scanned signature.
- 2nd PUC or degree marks cards and certificates, as applicable.
- Date-of-birth proof.
- Category or reservation certificate, if applicable.
- Local-cadre or eligibility documents, where required.
- Valid mobile number and email address.
- Identity and other supporting documents specified in the notification.
The exact list, file size and image format should be checked on the application portal. Avoid uploading blurry photographs or documents that are cut off at the edges.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Filling Out the Form
A recruitment application may look simple, but small errors can cause unnecessary trouble later. These are some mistakes worth avoiding.
Choosing the wrong cadre: RPC and Kalyana Karnataka vacancies have separate conditions. Check the relevant eligibility and reservation rules before selecting a category.
Applying for a post without checking the qualification: A degree may be required for one post, while another may accept 2nd PUC. Read the post-specific qualification carefully.
Entering incorrect personal details: Your name, date of birth and other information should match your supporting documents.
Uploading unclear documents: Check every uploaded image before submitting the form. A photograph that looks fine on a phone may become difficult to read when opened on a computer.
Waiting until the final day: Heavy traffic, payment issues or internet problems can interrupt the application process. Try to submit your form well before 25 November 2026.
Ignoring the payment confirmation: Save the payment receipt and application confirmation. These can be useful if you need to check your submission later.
How to Prepare for the KEA SDA FDA Recruitment Exam
Once the application is submitted, shift your attention towards preparation. Do not wait for the admit card announcement to start studying.
Begin by reading the examination pattern in the official notification. Make a list of the subjects relevant to your selected post and prepare a realistic study routine.
If you are working or attending college, even a fixed daily study slot can help you stay consistent. Use a notebook or a simple spreadsheet to track the topics you have completed and the areas that need more revision.
Practise questions under timed conditions. This helps you understand how quickly you can solve questions and where you tend to lose time.
Candidates should also pay attention to Kannada-related requirements, language papers or tests wherever they apply under the relevant recruitment rules. Do not rely on a preparation plan made for a different KEA examination without checking whether its syllabus matches this recruitment.
Important Dates to Remember
| SDA FDA Recruitment | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 29 October 2026 |
| Online Application Begins | 30 October 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 25 November 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 26 November 2026 |
| Examination Schedule | January 2027 dates as notified by KEA |
Keep checking the official portal in case KEA publishes a revised schedule or additional instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many vacancies are announced under KEA SDA FDA Recruitment 2026?
A total of 5,431 vacancies have been announced across different Karnataka government departments, boards and corporations.
2. When did the KEA SDA FDA application process start?
The online application process started on 30 October 2026.
3. What is the last date to apply for KEA FDA SDA Recruitment 2026?
The last date to submit the online application is 25 November 2026. The reported last date for fee payment is 26 November 2026.
4. What qualifications are required for FDA and SDA posts?
The recruitment includes degree-level and PUC-level posts. A bachelor’s degree is generally required for degree-level posts, while 2nd PUC or an equivalent qualification is generally required for PUC-level posts. The exact conditions depend on the selected post.
5. Can 2nd PUC-qualified candidates apply?
Yes, candidates who meet the prescribed conditions can apply for eligible PUC-level posts. They should check the relevant notification for the exact qualification and other requirements.
6. Where can I download the KEA SDA FDA notification PDF?
Candidates can visit the official KEA portal at https://cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea/ and look for the four recruitment notifications covering RPC and Kalyana Karnataka vacancies.
7. What is the selection process?
The recruitment process includes a competitive examination and document verification, as applicable to the advertised posts. Candidates should read their relevant notification for the complete selection rules.
8. Are all 5,431 vacancies for FDA and SDA posts only?
The recruitment includes FDA, SDA and other equivalent or department-specific positions. The exact post names and vacancy distribution are given in the separate notifications.