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AKTU Entrance Exam 2026: Dates, Eligibility, Courses & Application Guide
Updated on 12 January 2026
location
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

The race for professional education in Uttar Pradesh begins on January 15, 2026, when applications open for the AKTU Entrance Exam 2026. Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University in Lucknow conducts this exam, which serves as the primary selection mechanism for undergraduate and postgraduate programs across hundreds of affiliated colleges. This state-level examination determines access to both government and private technical institutions through a rigorous computer-based testing format lasting three hours. The exam provides access to programs like B.Tech, B.Pharm, MBA and MCA. 

 

As the May 2026 examination dates approach, you must follow a precise timeline. Applications close on March 31, followed by admit card releases and a multi-round counseling process beginning June 25. This guide breaks down the critical eligibility requirements and application procedures through aktu.ac.in. It also explains the MCQ-based exam pattern featuring negative marking. Whether you are targeting engineering, pharmacy, or management programs, understanding these dates and documentation requirements will determine your seat allotment in the competitive merit-based counseling rounds.

 

Table of Contents

AKTU Entrance Exam Overview 2026

The Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU) Entrance Examination serves as the primary gateway for aspiring engineers, pharmacists, architects, and management professionals. The exam provides access to over 800 affiliated institutions across Uttar Pradesh. This state-level competitive assessment replaced the former Uttar Pradesh State Entrance Examination (UPSEE) under the new UPCET format. It evaluates candidates for diverse undergraduate and postgraduate professional programs including B.Tech, B.Pharm, MBA, and MCA.

 

Name

Description

Key Details

Conducting Authority

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University, Lucknow

State technical university established in 2000

Examination Name

AKTU Entrance Exam 2026 (UPCET)

State-level entrance assessment for professional courses

Exam Mode

Computer Based Test (CBT)

Online examination conducted at designated centers

Exam Duration

3 hours (180 minutes)

Single session examination without breaks

Question Pattern

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

150 questions for B.Tech, 100 for MBA/MCA

Medium of Instruction

Bilingual examination format

English and Hindi language options available

Participating Institutes

800+ affiliated colleges across UP

Includes government, aided, and private institutions

Courses Offered

B.Tech, B.Arch, B.Pharm, MBA, MCA, M.Tech

Four-year UG and two-year PG professional degrees

Application Fee

Online payment gateway

₹1,300 for General/OBC candidates

Eligibility Criteria

Academic qualification requirements

10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics for B.Tech with 50% aggregate

Reservation Policy

As per Uttar Pradesh government norms

21% for SC, 2% for ST, 27% for OBC categories

Counseling Process

Online centralized seat allotment

Multi-round counseling through aktu.ac.in portal

Score Validity

Academic session limitation

Valid exclusively for 2026-27 academic year

Exam Centers

75+ examination cities across state

Major centers in Lucknow, Kanpur, Varanasi, Agra, Noida, Meerut

Official Website

Primary information and application portal

aktu.ac.in and upcet.aktu.ac.in

 

Monitor the official AKTU portal regularly for notification releases regarding examination schedules. Maintain organized documentation for the subsequent counseling phase. Strategic preparation aligned with the official syllabus, coupled with thorough understanding of reservation policies and institutional preferences, remains crucial for securing admission into premier technical institutions affiliated with this prestigious Uttar Pradesh state university.

AKTU Entrance Exam Courses Offered 2026

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU), Lucknow, offers a diverse range of professional programs through its affiliated colleges across Uttar Pradesh. For the 2026 academic session, the university facilitates admissions to over 800 institutes through a structured entrance examination process.

The course portfolio spans traditional engineering disciplines, emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, pharmaceutical sciences, architecture, hospitality management, and business administration. The following table details the specific courses available through AKTU's 2026 admission cycle, including eligibility criteria and examination requirements.

 

Course Name

Level

Duration

Required Qualification

Specific Requirements

Exam Accepted

B.Tech (Computer Science and Engineering)

UG

4 Years

10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics

Minimum 45% aggregate (40% for SC/ST)

JEE Main 2026 / CUET UG 2026 / AKTU Entrance Exam 2026

B.Tech (Artificial Intelligence and Data Science)

UG

4 Years

10+2 with PCM

Mathematics compulsory at 10+2 level

JEE Main 2026 / AKTU Entrance Exam 2026

B.Tech (Electronics and Communication Engineering)

UG

4 Years

10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics

Physics and Mathematics mandatory subjects

JEE Main 2026 / AKTU Entrance Exam 2026

B.Arch (Bachelor of Architecture)

UG

5 Years

10+2 with Mathematics as compulsory subject

Minimum 50% aggregate + NATA eligibility criteria

NATA 2026 / AKTU Entrance Exam 2026

B.Pharm (Bachelor of Pharmacy)

UG

4 Years

10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Mathematics

PCB or PCM subject combination required

CUET UG 2026 / AKTU Entrance Exam 2026

BHMCT (Hotel Management and Catering Technology)

UG

4 Years

10+2 in any stream (Science/Commerce/Arts)

English proficiency required for communication skills

AKTU Entrance Exam 2026

B.Des (Fashion and Apparel Design)

UG

4 Years

10+2 in any stream from recognized board

Portfolio evaluation required for some affiliated colleges

UCEED 2026 / AKTU Entrance Exam 2026

Integrated MBA (BBA+MBA)

UG

5 Years

10+2 in any stream from recognized board

Minimum 50% aggregate without subject restrictions

AKTU Entrance Exam 2026

B.Voc (Software Development)

UG

3 Years

10+2 with Mathematics or Information Technology

Industry-integrated program with practical training modules

AKTU Entrance Exam 2026

MBA (Master of Business Administration)

PG

2 Years

Bachelor's degree in any discipline from recognized university

Minimum 50% aggregate (45% for SC/ST/OBC categories)

CAT 2025 / MAT 2026 / CMAT 2026 / XAT 2026 / AKTU Entrance Exam 2026

MCA (Master of Computer Applications)

PG

2 Years

Bachelor's degree with Mathematics at 10+2 or graduation level

Mathematics compulsory background for programming aptitude

NIMCET 2026 / AKTU Entrance Exam 2026

M.Tech (Structural Engineering)

PG

2 Years

B.Tech or B.E. in Civil Engineering or equivalent

GATE qualification preferred for scholarship eligibility

GATE 2026 / AKTU Entrance Exam 2026

M.Pharm (Pharmaceutics)

PG

2 Years

B.Pharm degree from PCI-approved institute

Minimum 55% aggregate marks in B.Pharm program

GPAT 2026 / AKTU Entrance Exam 2026

M.Arch (Urban Design)

PG

2 Years

B.Arch degree from COA-approved recognized institute

Valid B.Arch degree mandatory for architectural registration

AKTU Entrance Exam 2026 / GATE 2026

Verify the specific eligibility criteria for your chosen specialization, as requirements differ significantly between engineering, pharmacy, and architecture streams. National-level exams like JEE Main and CAT provide wider recognition for premier institutes.

The AKTU Entrance Exam 2026 offers a dedicated pathway for state quota seats and affiliated private college admissions. Align your preparation strategy with the specific entrance test mentioned for your target program. Note that some courses require additional portfolio reviews or practical assessments beyond written examinations.

AKTU Entrance Exam Eligibility Criteria 2026

Admission to Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU) affiliated technical institutions requires meeting academic, subject, and category-specific criteria. Check aktu.ac.in or uptac.admissions.nic.in for latest updates, as requirements align with AICTE norms.

Key general rules:

  • No upper age limit for most programs (e.g., B.Tech).
  • 85% seats reserved for Uttar Pradesh domicile holders (valid domicile certificate required).
  • 15% All India quota open to candidates nationwide.
  • Reservations: Follow GOI norms (SC/ST/OBC/EWS); OBC needs non-creamy layer certificate; EWS needs family income < ₹8 lakh certificate.
  • Prepare documents early for counseling (typically July 2026 onward).

Program-Wise Eligibility Summary

Program

Qualifying Exam

Minimum Marks (General)

Minimum Marks (SC/ST)

Compulsory Subjects

Additional Requirements

B.Tech

10+2 or equivalent

45% aggregate

40%

Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics

Valid JEE Main score; UPTAC counseling

B.Arch

10+2 or equivalent

50% aggregate

50% (no relaxation mentioned in some sources)

Mathematics

Valid NATA 2026 score

B.Pharm

10+2 or equivalent

45% aggregate

40%

Physics, Chemistry + Biology/Mathematics

CUET UG or equivalent

MBA

Bachelor's degree (3+ years)

50% aggregate

45%

Any discipline

Valid CAT/MAT/CMAT/CUET-PG score

MCA

Bachelor's degree

50% aggregate

45%

Mathematics at 10+2 or graduation level

Valid CUET-PG/NIMCET score

M.Tech

B.Tech/BE or equivalent

55% aggregate

As per norms

Relevant engineering discipline

Valid GATE score preferred

M.Pharm

B.Pharm

55% aggregate

As per norms

Pharmacy

Valid GPAT score preferred

Meeting these criteria is mandatory for application validity and seat allocation. Focus on entrance exam performance and verify program-specific details on the official website to avoid disqualification during counseling.

AKTU Entrance Exam Dates 2026

Securing admission into Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU) affiliated colleges depends on successfully navigating the AKTU entrance exam. If you are an aspiring student in 2026, staying informed about key dates is crucial. The table below outlines the critical events and their corresponding tentative dates, along with links to the official announcements for verification.

Event

Tentative Date

Official Announcement Link

Remarks

 

Online Application Start Date

January 15, 2026

aktu.ac.in

Check the official website for updates.

Last Date to Apply Online

March 31, 2026

aktu.ac.in

Apply before the deadline.

Admit Card Release Date

May 1, 2026

aktu.ac.in

Download from the official website.

Exam Date (B.Tech)

May 15, 2026

aktu.ac.in

Check the admit card for exact timings.

Exam Date (MBA)

May 16, 2026

aktu.ac.in

Check the admit card for exact timings.

Exam Date (B.Pharm)

May 17, 2026

aktu.ac.in

Check the admit card for exact timings.

Answer Key Release Date

May 25, 2026

aktu.ac.in

Download from the official website.

Objection Window

May 26-28, 2026

aktu.ac.in

Raise objections if any.

Result Declaration Date

June 15, 2026

aktu.ac.in

Check the official website for results.

Counseling Registration Start Date

June 25, 2026

aktu.ac.in

Register for counseling.

Counseling Round 1

July 5-10, 2026

aktu.ac.in

Choice filling and seat allotment.

AKTU Entrance Exam Application 2026

Applying for the AKTU Entrance Exam 2026 is a crucial first step towards securing admission into your desired program at an AKTU-affiliated college. This process, conducted online, requires attention to detail and adherence to guidelines.

Successfully navigating the application ensures your eligibility for the exam and subsequent counseling rounds. The application form requires accurate information, scanned documents, and timely payment of the application fee.

The online application is the gateway to the exam, and the application fee must be paid to complete the process. The following steps will guide you through each stage of the application, ensuring a smooth experience.

  • Visit the official AKTU website: aktu.ac.in
  • Click on the "AKTU Entrance Exam 2026" link.
  • Register by providing basic details like name, email, and mobile number.
  • Fill out the online application form with accurate information.
  • Upload scanned copies of required documents (mark sheets, ID proof, photograph, signature).
  • Pay the application fee online through Net Banking/Credit Card/Debit Card.
  • Review the application form carefully before submitting.
  • Download and print the confirmation page for future reference.
  • Ensure that the photograph and signature are as per the specified dimensions.
  • Keep the registration number and password safe.
  • Check the official website regularly for updates and notifications.
  • Read the instructions carefully before filling the form.

AKTU Entrance Exam Syllabus 2026

The AKTU Entrance Exam 2026 syllabus is the roadmap for aspirants targeting programs across Uttar Pradesh's technical institutions. Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University in Lucknow administers this state-level examination.

 

The exam encompasses subject combinations tailored to specific courses ranging from B.Tech and B.Pharm to MBA and MCA. Understanding the subject-wise weightage and topic distribution is essential for strategic preparation.

 

Different papers carry varying marks allocations and question patterns based on academic stream requirements. The syllabus differs between engineering, pharmacy, architecture, and management streams.

 

Some papers test advanced domain knowledge, while others emphasize aptitude and reasoning skills. A thorough grasp of the exam pattern and topic boundaries enables targeted study plans.

You should allocate preparation time proportionally to high-weightage sections while mastering fundamental concepts across Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and specialized professional domains relevant to your chosen discipline.

 

The full subject-wise breakdown including detailed topic coverage, question distribution, and marking scheme for different examination papers is presented below:

 

Subject

Topics Covered

Number of Questions

Marks per Question

Total Marks

Physics

Mechanics (Laws of Motion, Work Energy Power), Heat & Thermodynamics, Waves & Oscillations, Electrostatics & Current Electricity, Magnetism, Optics, Modern Physics

50

4

200

Chemistry

Physical Chemistry (Atomic Structure, Chemical Bonding, Thermodynamics, Equilibrium), Organic Chemistry (Hydrocarbons, Haloalkanes, Alcohols, Polymers), Inorganic Chemistry (Periodic Table, Coordination Compounds, Metallurgy)

50

4

200

Mathematics

Algebra (Complex Numbers, Quadratic Equations, Progressions), Trigonometry, Calculus (Limits, Continuity, Differentiation, Integration), Coordinate Geometry (2D & 3D), Statistics & Probability

50

4

200

Biology

Zoology (Animal Physiology, Human Anatomy, Genetics, Evolution) and Botany (Plant Physiology, Ecology, Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Plant Diversity)

50

4

200

English Language & Comprehension

Grammar (Parts of Speech, Tenses, Voice, Narration), Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms, One Word Substitution), Reading Comprehension Passages, Sentence Completion & Rearrangement

25

2

50

Numerical Ability & Quantitative Aptitude

Arithmetic (Percentage, Profit Loss, Simple & Compound Interest, Ratio Proportion), Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration, Data Interpretation (Tables, Bar Graphs, Pie Charts, Line Graphs)

25

2

50

Logical Reasoning & Thinking

Verbal Reasoning (Series, Coding-Decoding, Blood Relations, Direction Sense), Non-Verbal Reasoning (Pattern Recognition, Mirror Images, Paper Folding), Analytical Ability, Decision Making & Problem Solving

25

2

50

General Knowledge & Current Affairs

Static GK (Indian History, Geography, Constitution, Polity), Current Events (National & International Affairs, Sports, Awards), General Science, Economic & Business Awareness

25

2

50

Computer Awareness & Applications

Computer Fundamentals, Hardware & Software Components, Operating Systems (Windows, Linux), Networking & Internet Technologies, MS Office Applications, Cyber Security Basics

25

4

100

Engineering Mechanics

Statics (Equilibrium of Forces, Friction, Center of Gravity), Dynamics (Kinematics of Particles, Kinetics, Work-Energy Method), Properties of Materials, Simple Machines & Mechanisms

25

4

100

Basic Electrical Engineering

DC Circuits (KCL, KVL, Network Theorems), AC Circuits (Phasors, Resonance, Power Factor), Electrical Machines (Transformers, DC Motors, Induction Motors), Electrical Measurements & Instruments

25

4

100

Basic Electronics Engineering

Semiconductors (Diodes, Transistors, FETs), Digital Electronics (Logic Gates, Boolean Algebra, Flip-Flops), Analog Circuits (Amplifiers, Oscillators), Communication Systems Basics

25

4

100

Engineering Graphics & Drawing

Projections of Points & Straight Lines, Projections of Solids (Prisms, Pyramids, Cones), Sections of Solids, Development of Surfaces, Isometric Views, Orthographic Projections, Perspective Drawing

25

4

100

Architectural Aptitude & Awareness

Architectural Terminology & History, Famous Buildings & Architects (Indian & International), 2D & 3D Perception, Spatial Visualization & Mental Ability, Aesthetic Sensitivity, Drawing Composition

25

4

100

Pharmacy Aptitude

Pharmaceutical Chemistry (Organic, Inorganic, Physical Chemistry), Pharmacology (Drug Action, Classification, Dosage), Pharmaceutics (Formulations, Dosage Forms, Stability), Pharmacognosy (Plant-based Drugs)

25

4

100

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. When is the last date to apply for AKTU 2026?

Submit your application before March 31, 2026. The portal opens on January 15, 2026, giving you 75 days to register. Visit aktu.ac.in to complete your form and pay the fee.

Q2. What courses can I get through AKTU entrance exam?

You can apply for 12 programs: B.Tech, B.Arch, B.Pharm, MBA, MCA, M.Tech, M.Pharm, B.Des, BHMCT, MBA (Integrated), B.Voc, and M.Arch. These cover undergraduate and postgraduate levels in engineering, pharmacy, and management. Each program requires you to take the specific entrance test scheduled in May 2026.

Q3. What is the exam pattern for AKTU 2026?

You will answer multiple-choice questions. The B.Tech paper covers Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Physics and Chemistry each contain 25 questions worth 4 marks (100 marks each), while Mathematics includes 50 questions worth 4 marks (200 marks). You have 3 hours to complete the exam, and negative marking may apply for incorrect answers.

Q4. When will AKTU 2026 exam be conducted?

You'll take the B.Tech exam on May 15, 2026, the MBA exam on May 16, 2026, and the B.Pharm exam on May 17, 2026. AKTU will declare your results on June 15, 2026, and counseling registration starts on June 25, 2026. Download your admit card from aktu.ac.in starting May 1, 2026.

Q5. How to apply for AKTU entrance exam 2026?

Visit aktu.ac.in and click the AKTU Entrance Exam 2026 link to register using your name, email, and mobile number. Upload scanned copies of your mark sheets, ID proof, photograph, and signature, then pay the application fee via Net Banking, Credit Card, or Debit Card. Print the confirmation page after submission and store your registration number safely

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Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University Entrance Exam 2026: Accepted Exams, Cutoff & Admission Process