The Kerala Engineering Architecture Medical (KEAM) exam is a state-level entrance test conducted by the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations (CEE), Kerala. It serves as the gateway for students seeking admission to professional degree courses in engineering, pharmacy, architecture, and medical fields in Kerala.
If you're planning to appear for KEAM 2025, this article will provide all the essential details, including eligibility criteria, syllabus, exam pattern, and preparation tips.
What is KEAM Kerala?
KEAM (Kerala Engineering Architecture Medical) is conducted by CEE Kerala for admission into:
- Engineering courses (B.Tech programs in various government and private colleges in Kerala)
- Pharmacy courses (B.Pharm)
- Architecture courses (B.Arch – through NATA scores)
- Medical & Allied courses (MBBS, BDS, Ayurveda, Homeopathy, etc. – through NEET-UG)
However, only the engineering and pharmacy entrance exams are conducted by KEAM. Admissions to medical and architecture courses are based on NEET UG and NATA scores, respectively.
KEAM 2025 Eligibility Criteria
To appear for KEAM 2025, candidates must meet the eligibility requirements regarding nationality, age, educational qualifications, and nativity.
1. Nationality
- Candidates must be Indian citizens.
- Persons of Indian Origin (PIO)/Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) can apply but will not be eligible for reservation benefits.
2. Age Limit
- The candidate must be at least 17 years old as of December 31, 2025.
- There is no upper age limit for KEAM.
3. Educational Qualification
- Candidates must have passed or appeared in the 10+2 (Higher Secondary) examination with required subjects.
For Engineering Courses:
- Must have studied Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects, along with Chemistry/Computer Science/Biotechnology/Biology.
- Must have obtained at least 45% marks (40% for reserved categories) in Mathematics and aggregate in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
For Pharmacy Courses (B.Pharm):
- Must have studied Physics and Chemistry as compulsory subjects, along with Mathematics/Biology.
- Should have secured at least 50% marks in Biology/Mathematics separately and 50% in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Mathematics combined.
4. Nativity Criteria
Candidates are categorized into three groups:
1. Keralite – Candidates whose parents are from Kerala or have studied in Kerala for a specific duration.
2. Non-Keralite Category I (NK-I) – Candidates who do not fulfill "Keralite" criteria but meet specific conditions like having completed 8 years of schooling in Kerala.
3. Non-Keralite Category II (NK-II) – Candidates who do not belong to the above categories but can apply for private self-financed colleges (no reservation benefits).
KEAM 2025 Syllabus
The KEAM syllabus is based on the Class 11 and Class 12 NCERT syllabus for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
1. Physics
- Class 11 Topics:
- Physical world & Units and Measurements
- Motion in a Straight Line & Plane
- Laws of Motion
- Work, Energy & Power
- Gravitation
- Thermodynamics
- Oscillations & Waves
- Kinetic Theory of Gases
- Class 12 Topics:
- Electrostatics
- Current Electricity
- Magnetic Effects of Current
- Electromagnetic Induction
- Optics
- Dual Nature of Radiation
- Semiconductor Electronics
2. Chemistry
- Class 11 Topics:
- Some Basic Concepts of Chemistry
- Structure of Atom
- Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure
- Thermodynamics
- Equilibrium
- Hydrogen, The s-Block & Some p-Block Elements
- Organic Chemistry Basics
- Class 12 Topics:
- Solid State & Solutions
- Electrochemistry
- Chemical Kinetics
- Coordination Compounds
- Organic Compounds Containing Halogens, Oxygen, and Nitrogen
- Biomolecules, Polymers, and Chemistry in Everyday Life
3. Mathematics
- Class 11 Topics:
- Sets, Relations & Functions
- Trigonometry
- Probability
- Sequences & Series
- Permutations & Combinations
- Complex Numbers
- Coordinate Geometry
- Class 12 Topics:
- Matrices & Determinants
- Differentiation & Integration
- Vectors & 3D Geometry
- Probability & Statistics
- Linear Programming
KEAM 2025 Exam Pattern
- Mode of Exam: Offline (Pen and Paper-based)
- Type of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Number of Papers: Two (Paper 1 – Physics & Chemistry, Paper 2 – Mathematics)
- Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes per paper
- Total Questions: 120 per paper
- Total Marks: 480 per paper (4 marks per question, -1 for incorrect answers)
KEAM 2025 Preparation Tips
1. Understand the Syllabus & Exam Pattern
- Study the official KEAM syllabus thoroughly.
- Focus on high-weightage topics in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
2. Make a Study Plan
- Allocate time to each subject based on your strengths and weaknesses.
- Stick to a daily timetable to ensure proper revision.
3. Use the Right Study Material
- Refer to NCERT textbooks for all subjects.
- Use reference books like:
- Physics: HC Verma, DC Pandey
- Chemistry: OP Tandon, JD Lee (for Inorganic Chemistry)
- Mathematics: RD Sharma, ML Khanna
4. Solve Previous Year Papers & Mock Tests
- Practice KEAM previous year question papers (at least 5 years).
- Attempt mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
5. Work on Time Management
- Solve MCQs within a time limit to enhance problem-solving speed.
- Learn shortcut methods and tricks for calculations.
6. Revise Regularly
- Revise formulas, equations, and key concepts every week.
- Maintain a short notes book for quick revision before the exam.
7. Stay Healthy & Positive
- Get enough sleep and eat a balanced diet.
- Avoid stress and practice meditation or light exercise
KEAM 2025 is an important exam for students aspiring to engineering and pharmacy courses in Kerala. A well-planned preparation strategy, consistent practice, and a clear understanding of concepts can help you ace the exam.