The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has released the much-awaited notification for the recruitment of Village Administrative Officers (VAO) for the year 2026. This is a golden opportunity for 12th-pass candidates to secure a prestigious Group-C government job in the Karnataka Revenue Department.
This comprehensive guide covers all the essential details you need to know, including important dates, vacancy breakdown, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, syllabus, and the application process.
KEA VAO Recruitment 2026: Overview
Recruiting Body: Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA)
Post Name: Village Administrative Officer (VAO) / Village Accountant
Department: Revenue Department, Government of Karnataka
Total Vacancies: 572
Official Website: cetonline.karnataka.gov.in
----------
Important Dates
Notification Release: July 10, 2026
Online Application Start: July 11, 2026
Extended Last Date to Apply: August 20, 2026
Exam Date (RPC Cadre): October 4, 2026
Exam Date (Kalyana-Karnataka): October 25, 2026
----------
Vacancy Details
Residual Parent Cadre (RPC): 505
Kalyana-Karnataka Cadre: 67
Total Vacancies: 572
----------
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification:
- Must have passed PUC (10+2) or equivalent from a recognized board.
- Equivalent qualifications: CBSE/ICSE Class 12, NIOS Senior Secondary, 3-year Diploma, 2-year ITI, JOC/JODC/JLDC.
Age Limit:
- 18 to 40 years as of the notification date.
- Age relaxation available for SC/ST/Cat-I/OBC as per government rules.
----------
Exam Pattern 2026
Competitive Written Exam (200 Marks)
Paper 1: General Knowledge - 100 Marks - 2 Hours
Paper 2: General Kannada (35) + General English (35) + Computer Knowledge (30) - 100 Marks - 2 Hours
Key Points:
- Both papers are objective (MCQ) – OMR sheet based.
- Negative marking: 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer.
- Minimum qualifying marks: 35% (70 out of 200).
----------
Syllabus Overview
Paper 1: General Knowledge
- History: Ancient, Medieval, Modern India, with emphasis on Karnataka.
- Geography: Indian and Karnataka geography – rivers, climate, resources.
- Polity: Constitution, Citizenship, Elections, Panchayati Raj.
- Economics: Indian Economy, Karnataka economy, Agriculture.
- Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology basics.
- Current Affairs: National and state-level events.
Paper 2: Kannada, English, Computer
- Kannada (35 marks): Grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, sentence correction.
- English (35 marks): Grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, sentence correction.
- Computer (30 marks): Basics, MS Office, internet, emerging tech.
----------
How to Apply
1. Visit cetonline.karnataka.gov.in.
2. Register with mobile number and email.
3. Fill all personal, educational, and contact details.
4. Select ONE preferred district.
5. Upload photo, signature, and certificates.
6. Pay the fee online: General/OBC: ₹500, SC/ST/Cat-I: ₹250.
7. Submit and download the confirmation page.
----------
Preparation Strategy
- Understand the syllabus – know exactly what to study.
- Practice previous year papers – get familiar with the pattern.
- Take mock tests – simulate the real exam environment.
- Focus on Karnataka – state history, geography, current affairs.
- Revise regularly – consistency is key.
----------
Conclusion
The KEA VAO Recruitment 2026 is a fantastic opportunity for Karnataka government job aspirants. With 572 vacancies, a clear selection process, and good pay, this is a recruitment drive you should not miss. Check your eligibility, gather documents, and apply before the extended deadline of August 20, 2026.
Start your preparation today!
----------
Disclaimer: This information is based on the official KEA notification. Candidates are advised to visit the official KEA website (cetonline.karnataka.gov.in) for the most accurate and up-to-date information.