Step 1: Verify Local Person Status (Oct 2025-Jan 2026). Article 371(J) qualifies a candidate as a "Local Person" if: candidate completed at least 10 academic years of study (Class 1 to 10) in schools located in Kalyana Karnataka, OR parents are domiciled in the region.
Step 2: Apply for Annexure-A Eligibility Certificate (Dec 2025-Feb 2026). Apply via Nadakacheri portal (https://nadakacheri.karnataka.gov.in) OR direct application at Assistant Commissioner''s office. Documents: 10th and 12th marksheets, study certificates from schools attended, parents'' residence certificate, Aadhaar, photographs. Processing time: 7-15 working days.
Step 3: Apply for KCET 2026 (Feb-Mar 2026). Tick the 371(J) claim box. Enter the RD number from Annexure-A.
Step 4: KCET Exam (Apr 2026). Same exam for all candidates regardless of 371-J status.
Step 5: Counselling Strategy (Jun-Jul 2026). Pool A: 70% Regional Seats in engineering colleges located within Kalyana Karnataka districts. Pool B: 8% Supernumerary Seats in statewide engineering colleges (Bangalore, Mysuru, Mangalore). Most strong-rank candidates target Pool B.
Step 6: Document Verification at Counselling. KEA verifies the Annexure-A''s RD number digitally + physically inspects the originals.
Common Mistakes: Applying for Annexure-A in March or April; not understanding the 70% vs 8% split; mismatch between 12th marksheet name and 371-J certificate name.
Pool B Cutoffs (8% supernumerary): RVCE CSE 371(J) GM rank 8,000-12,000 (vs general 200-500); BMSCE CSE 371(J) GM rank 10,000-15,000; MSRIT CSE 371(J) GM rank 15,000-20,000.