KEA Principal Recruitment 2026: 247 Posts, Eligibility, Salary and Last Date
The Karnataka Examinations Authority has released recruitment notifications for 247 Principal posts in Government Pre-University Colleges under the Karnataka School Education Department. The vacancies are divided between the general/rest-of-state cadre and the Kalyana Karnataka local cadre. Online applications are open from 7 September 2026, with the application deadline on 4 October 2026 and fee payment scheduled through 5 October 2026.
KEA Principal Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Authority | Karnataka Examinations Authority |
| Post | Principal |
| Total Vacancies | 247 |
| General Cadre | 216 |
| Kalyana Karnataka Cadre | 31 |
| Application Start | 7 September 2026 |
| Last Date | 4 October 2026 |
| Fee Payment | 5 October 2026 |
| Pay Scale | ₹90,200–₹1,59,200 |
Who Can Apply?
This is a specialised promotional/recruitment opportunity for serving lecturers in Government Pre-University Colleges who satisfy the prescribed service and qualification conditions. It is not an open recruitment for every postgraduate candidate. Applicants should verify their lecturer service record, academic qualification and cadre eligibility against the applicable KEA notification.
Vacancy Distribution
| Notification | Cadre | Posts |
|---|---|---|
| KEA/28/NEV/2026 | General / Parent Cadre | 216 |
| KEA/29/NEV/2026 | Kalyana Karnataka Local Cadre | 31 |
| Total | 247 |
Salary
The notified Principal pay scale is ₹90,200 to ₹1,59,200 under the revised Karnataka state pay structure. Service-related benefits and pension continuity are governed by the applicable rules and the candidate’s existing service as a government lecturer.
Application Fee
The published recruitment information indicates category-based fees, with amounts varying according to the applicant category. Candidates should use the fee table in the official notification and the KEA payment page rather than relying on a third-party summary.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification | 3 September 2026 |
| Application Start | 7 September 2026 |
| Application Last Date | 4 October 2026 |
| Fee Payment Last Date | 5 October 2026 |
| Exam | To be announced separately |
Selection Process
Selection is based on a competitive examination. The published recruitment information describes a three-paper competitive examination, after which KEA prepares the merit list in accordance with the applicable recruitment rules. Candidates should check the official syllabus and paper structure before preparing.
How to Apply
- Open the KEA official website.
- Locate the Principal recruitment notifications.
- Read the applicable general or Kalyana Karnataka cadre notification.
- Register and complete the application form.
- Enter lecturer service and educational details accurately.
- Upload the required documents.
- Pay the prescribed fee before the payment deadline.
- Submit the form and save the acknowledgement.
Documents to Keep Ready
- Academic certificates
- Government lecturer appointment/service documents
- Experience/service certificate
- Cadre/local eligibility documents where applicable
- Category certificate where applicable
- Photograph and signature
- Identity proof
Preparation Strategy
Serving lecturers should begin with the official examination syllabus and divide preparation paper by paper. Build a revision calendar around education administration, relevant academic subjects, general knowledge and the areas specifically prescribed by KEA. Practise previous-style objective questions and keep a record of weak topics. Since this is a promotion-oriented competitive process, candidates should also organise service-related documents well before the examination.
Cadre Choice Matters
The two notifications have different cadre scopes. Candidates should not select a cadre merely because it shows a higher vacancy count. Read the local-cadre conditions and documentary requirements carefully before submitting the application.
Common Application Mistakes
- Applying under the wrong cadre
- Entering incorrect lecturer service dates
- Ignoring the fee-payment deadline
- Uploading incomplete service records
- Assuming an exam date before KEA announces it
Principal Recruitment Application Checklist
Serving lecturers should begin by identifying which of the two KEA notifications applies to their service cadre. The general/parent cadre and Kalyana Karnataka local cadre have separate vacancy pools and eligibility conditions. Review the service records before entering the number of years completed, appointment date or other service particulars. Any mismatch between the online form and the official service record can create problems during verification.
Keep the academic certificates, lecturer appointment order, service certificate, category documents and cadre/local eligibility records together. Complete the application well before the closing date and separately note the fee-payment deadline. After submission, save the acknowledgement and application number. Candidates should also check KEA notices later for the examination schedule, admit card and any corrigendum affecting the syllabus or selection process.
Three Things to Check Before Submission
- Correct cadre and vacancy notification
- Accurate lecturer service and qualification details
- Successful fee payment and final submission status
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Principal vacancies are there?
There are 247 vacancies: 216 in the general/parent cadre and 31 in the Kalyana Karnataka local cadre.
What is the pay scale?
The notified pay scale is ₹90,200–₹1,59,200.
Can fresh graduates apply?
No. The recruitment is intended for eligible serving Government Pre-University College lecturers with the prescribed service conditions.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is 4 October 2026, with fee payment through 5 October 2026.
Official Links
Karnataka Jobs on CareerSphere
State-wise Government Jobs 2027-28
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