The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has published the provisional seat matrix for the second round of BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) counselling under NEET UG 2026. This document shows the total number of vacant seats available in each BDS college across all categories — General, SC, ST, OBC, and others — for the second round of allotment. The seat matrix is the official reference that tells you how many seats are open in each institution and category, and is essential for understanding your chances and making informed choices during counselling registration. Candidates who participated in the first round and did not get a seat, as well as those registering for the first time in the second round, must check this matrix to plan their college and category preferences.
The BDS second round seat matrix is now live on the KEA portal — check it immediately to see vacant seats by college and category before you register for counselling.
What is the Seat Matrix?
The seat matrix is an official table published by KEA that lists every BDS college in Karnataka and shows exactly how many seats are vacant in each category (General, SC, ST, OBC, etc.) for the second round of counselling. It is NOT a merit list or allotment result — it is a snapshot of availability before counselling begins.
This matrix helps you understand the real supply of seats. If a college shows zero seats in your category, you cannot be allotted there in the second round, no matter how high your rank. If it shows multiple seats, your chances depend on your rank, category, and how many other candidates rank higher and choose that college before you.
Who Should Check This Matrix?
All candidates who are eligible for BDS counselling in Karnataka under NEET UG 2026 must check this matrix. This includes:
• Candidates who registered in the first round but did not receive an allotment and are now registering for the second round.
• Candidates who registered in the first round, received an allotment, but are now choosing to participate in the second round to try for a better college or category.
• Candidates who are registering for BDS counselling for the first time in the second round.
Even if you are unsure whether you will participate in the second round, checking the matrix now gives you a clear picture of what is available and helps you make a better decision.
How to Access the Seat Matrix
The provisional seat matrix for BDS second round is published on the official KEA counselling portal at cetonline.karnataka.gov.in. You do not need to log in to view the matrix — it is a public document.
Visit the portal, navigate to the NEET UG 2026 section, and look for the link to the BDS second round seat matrix. The document is in PDF format and contains a detailed table of all colleges and their vacant seats by category. Download it or view it online, and save a copy for your reference during counselling registration.
What Information Does the Matrix Show?
The seat matrix displays the following for each BDS college:
• College name and code.
• Total number of vacant seats in each category: General, SC, ST, OBC, and any other applicable category.
• The breakdown helps you see at a glance which colleges have seats in your category and how many competitors you may face.
Use this information to shortlist colleges where seats are available in your category and where your rank gives you a realistic chance of allotment.
Why the Matrix is 'Provisional'
The matrix is labeled 'provisional' because the exact number of vacant seats can change slightly before the second round counselling begins. Seats may become available or unavailable due to:
• Candidates from the first round accepting or rejecting their allotments.
• Last-minute withdrawals or admissions.
• Administrative adjustments by KEA.
The provisional matrix gives you the most current picture as of the publication date (7 September 2026), but KEA may release an updated version closer to the second round registration date. Always check for the latest version before you register.
How to Use the Matrix to Plan Your Preferences
The seat matrix is a planning tool. Here's how to use it effectively:
1. Identify your category (General, SC, ST, OBC, etc.) based on your certificate.
2. Look at the matrix and note all colleges that have at least one vacant seat in your category.
3. Cross-reference these colleges with your NEET rank. If your rank is higher than the expected cutoff for a college (based on first round allotments), that college is a realistic choice.
4. Prepare a preference list in order of your choice — colleges you most want to attend should be listed first.
5. During second round registration, enter your preferences in the order you have prepared. KEA's algorithm will allot you the highest-ranked college on your list where you are eligible and seats are available.
Important: This is Not a Cutoff or Merit List
Do NOT confuse the seat matrix with a cutoff list or merit list. The matrix only tells you how many seats are vacant — it does NOT tell you what rank will get you into a particular college. Cutoffs are determined by the actual ranks of candidates who apply and the algorithm KEA uses during allotment.
For example, if a college shows 10 vacant seats in the General category, it does not mean the first 10 candidates who apply will get in. It means up to 10 candidates can be allotted, depending on their ranks, preferences, and the preferences of other candidates.
What to Do Next
1. Visit cetonline.karnataka.gov.in and download or view the BDS second round seat matrix.
2. Identify your category and note all colleges with vacant seats in that category.
3. Compare the available colleges with your NEET rank and first-round cutoff trends to shortlist realistic options.
4. Prepare your preference list in order of preference.
5. Wait for KEA to announce the second round registration dates and follow the registration process as instructed.
Keep the matrix and your preference list ready so you can register quickly when the portal opens.
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See My CollegesFrequently asked questions
What is the BDS second round seat matrix?
It is an official table published by KEA showing the number of vacant BDS seats available in each college across all categories (General, SC, ST, OBC, etc.) for the second round of counselling. It helps candidates see where seats are available before they register.
Where can I find the seat matrix?
The matrix is published on the official KEA counselling portal at cetonline.karnataka.gov.in. It is a public PDF document that you can view or download without logging in.
Is the seat matrix the same as a merit list or cutoff?
No. The matrix only shows how many seats are vacant in each college and category. It does not show cutoffs or your rank position. Cutoffs are determined during the allotment process based on the ranks of candidates who apply.
Why is the matrix called 'provisional'?
It is provisional because the exact number of vacant seats may change before the second round begins, due to candidates accepting or rejecting first-round allotments or other administrative changes. KEA may release an updated version closer to the second round registration date.
How do I use the seat matrix to choose my colleges?
Identify your category in the matrix, note all colleges with vacant seats in that category, compare them with your NEET rank and first-round cutoff trends, and prepare a preference list in order of your choice. During registration, enter your preferences in this order.
If a college shows 10 vacant seats in my category, does that mean I will definitely get in if I apply?
No. The 10 seats mean up to 10 candidates can be allotted, but only if their ranks are high enough and they choose that college. Your allotment depends on your rank, your preferences, and the preferences of other candidates.
What should I do if a college I want shows zero seats in my category?
If a college shows zero vacant seats in your category in the second round, you cannot be allotted there in this round. You can either choose other colleges or wait for a possible third round if KEA announces one.
Can the seat matrix change after it is published?
Yes, it is provisional and may be updated. Always check the KEA portal for the latest version before you register for the second round to ensure you have the most current information.
Do I need to register to view the seat matrix?
No. The seat matrix is a public document available on the KEA portal without login. However, you will need to register and log in to participate in the second round counselling.
When will the second round registration begin?
The seat matrix does not specify the second round registration dates. KEA will announce these dates separately on the official portal. Check the portal regularly for updates.
Download the BDS second round seat matrix from cetonline.karnataka.gov.in today and use it to plan your college preferences. Identify colleges with vacant seats in your category, compare them with your rank, and prepare your preference list. Watch the KEA portal for the second round registration announcement and be ready to register as soon as it opens.
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