If you belong to the OEC (Other Eligible Communities) – Kumbharan category and are applying for KEAM 2026, you need to follow the Kerala Government–prescribed procedure carefully, as OEC is different from OBC and SC/ST categories.

For KEAM, the category certificate is not issued automatically through the application. You must first obtain a valid OEC Certificate / Non-Creamy Layer Certificate in the prescribed Kerala Government format. This certificate is issued by the Village Officer or Tahsildar of your area in Kerala. While applying, clearly mention that you belong to the OEC–Kumbharan community, which is listed under OEC in the Kerala reservation rules. The certificate should specifically state that you are eligible for educational concessions meant for OEC candidates.

During the KEAM 2026 online application process, you need to select your category correctly as OEC (not OBC or General). After filling in personal and academic details, you will be required to upload scanned copies of supporting documents. At this stage, upload your valid OEC certificate, along with other mandatory documents like SSLC, Plus Two certificates, nativity certificate, and income certificate if fee concession is applicable.

Once the application submission is complete, KEAM conducts document verification, either online or at designated facilitation centres, depending on the admission year’s guidelines. During verification, authorities will check whether your OEC certificate is valid, issued by the competent authority, and matches the community listed under OEC. If there is any mismatch or if the certificate format is incorrect, your category claim may be rejected and you may be considered under the General category.

It is important to note that OEC candidates are eligible for fee concessions and reservation benefits, but only if the certificate is produced and approved during verification. Also, ensure that the certificate is recent and valid for the admission year 2026, as outdated certificates may not be accepted.

To avoid issues, it is strongly advised to check the official KEAM 2026 prospectus once released and, if needed, contact the KEAM helpdesk or your local Village Office/Taluk Office well in advance. Applying early and uploading the correct certificate in the correct format will ensure that your OEC–Kumbharan category benefits are considered properly during KEAM counselling and seat allotment.