The Lal Bahadur Shastri (LBS) Centre for Science and Technology in Kerala has published the provisional first round seat allotment results for the Kerala Design Aptitude Test (KS DAT) 2026. Candidates who participated in the KS DAT counselling process can now access their seat allotment status on the official portal.
The first round has seen 182 seats allotted across various design and architecture colleges in Kerala. Those allotted seats must complete the next steps, including payment of a token fee and the option to rearrange their preferences, within the specified timeframe from July 24 to July 26, 2026.
Understanding KS DAT and Its Role in Design Admissions
The Kerala Design Aptitude Test (KS DAT) is a state-level entrance exam conducted by the LBS Centre for Science and Technology. It serves as the gateway for admission into undergraduate design and architecture programs across participating institutes in Kerala. The test evaluates candidates’ aptitude in areas relevant to design education, such as creativity, visualization, and problem-solving.
Following the exam, candidates enter a counselling phase where they submit their preferred colleges and courses. Based on merit and seat availability, the LBS Centre conducts seat allotment rounds to assign seats to candidates. This process ensures a transparent and merit-based admission system for design aspirants in the state.
Key Details of the KS DAT 2026 First Round Seat Allotment
- The provisional first round seat allotment results are now available on the official website.
- Candidates must log in using their registered ID or email and password to view their allotment status.
- After checking results, allotted candidates need to pay a token fee to confirm their seats.
- There is an option to rearrange choices between July 24 and July 26, 2026, allowing candidates to improve their seat allocation.
- The highest number of seats allotted is at the College of Architecture with 42 seats.
- Other notable allotments include 30 seats at Kerala State Institute of Design and 26 at DC School of Architecture and Design.
- Overall, 182 seats have been distributed among various participating institutes in this round.
Why This Seat Allotment Matters for KS DAT Candidates
The release of the first round seat allotment marks a critical milestone for KS DAT candidates. It determines which college and course a candidate has secured, shaping their academic path in design education. Timely action is essential, as candidates must complete fee payments and confirm their seats to avoid losing their allotment.
The option to rearrange preferences offers flexibility for candidates who wish to improve their chances of getting into a more preferred institute or program. This feature reflects the dynamic nature of the counselling process, allowing adjustments based on seat availability and candidate priorities.
Institutes like the College of Architecture and Kerala State Institute of Design are popular choices, indicating strong competition for seats. The allotment results help candidates understand their standing and plan accordingly for the next steps in their admission journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can candidates check their KS DAT 2026 first round seat allotment?
A: Candidates can visit the official website and log in using their registered ID or email and password to view and download their seat allotment results.
Q: What should candidates do after receiving their seat allotment?
A: Allotted candidates must pay the token fee to confirm their seat and have the option to rearrange their preferences between July 24 and July 26, 2026.
Q: How many seats were allotted in the first round of KS DAT 2026?
A: A total of 182 seats were allotted across various participating design and architecture institutes in Kerala during the first round.

