The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to undergraduate programs in central universities and other participating institutions across India.
CUET UG 2026 registration will commence shortly at cuet.nta.nic.in. The application process of CUET will be completely online. Candidates seeking admission to UG courses offered by all central universities, state, private and deemed universities must fill the CUET UG application form 2026. Candidates filling the application form must ensure to fulfil the prescribed CUET 2026 eligibility criteria. CUET UG exam pattern 2026 has been revised. The drafted changes have been updated regarding the exam duration, number of subjects, CUET subject choice and mode of examination.Â
Key Highlights
Feature
Details
Exam Name
Common University Entrance Test (CUET)
Conducting Body
National Testing Agency (NTA)
Mode of Exam
Online (Computer-Based Test)
Duration
Varies as per subject selection
Type of Questions
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Total Marks
Varies (Generally 800)
Marking Scheme
+5 per correct answer, -1 for incorrect answer
Medium of Exam
13 languages
Eligibility Criteria
Must be an Indian citizen.
Must have passed Class 12th (or equivalent) from a recognized board.
Minimum marks requirement varies based on university and category.
Exam Pattern
Section
No. of Questions
Marks per Question
Total Marks
Language Test
40
5
200
Domain-Specific Subjects
40
5
200
General Test
60
5
300
Total
140
–
700
Duration
Varies by subject selection
–
–
Syllabus
The syllabus for CUET varies depending on the subject selection but follows NCERT guidelines for Class 12. Below is the section-wise syllabus:
Language Test
Reading Comprehension
Verbal Ability
Vocabulary and Grammar
Domain-Specific Subjects
Based on Class 12 NCERT syllabus for respective subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology, Economics, etc.)
General Test
Logical Reasoning
General Knowledge
Quantitative Aptitude
Important Dates
Events
Dates 2026
Application Form Start
1st March 2026​
Last Date to Apply
22nd March 2026
Application Correction Window
26th to 28th March 2026
CUET Admit Card Release
10th May 2026
CUET 2026 Exam Dates
May 13 – June 3, 2026
Answer Key Release
Late June 2026 (expected)
Result Declaration
Early July 2026 (expected)
Counselling Sessions
July 2026 (expected)
Cutoff (Previous Year Trends)
University Name
CUET Cutoff (Percentile)
Delhi University
98+
Banaras Hindu University
95+
Jawaharlal Nehru University
92+
Aligarh Muslim University
90+
Jamia Millia Islamia
88+
Colleges Accepting CUET
Delhi University (DU)
Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)
Aligarh Muslim University (AMU)
Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI)
Many other participating universities
Central University of Andhra Pradesh
Central University of Jharkhand
Central University of Karnataka
Central University of Kashmir
Central University of Kerala
Central University of Odisha
Central University of Rajasthan
Key Differences Between CUET & JEE Main
Aspect
CUET
JEE Main
Level of Difficulty
Moderate
High
Syllabus Focus
NCERT Class 12
CBSE Class 11 & 12
Exam Pattern
Language, Domain-Specific & General Test
PCM Focused
Number of Attempts
Once a Year
Twice a Year
Application Fees
Lower
Higher
Acceptance
Central Universities
NITs, IIITs, and Other States
Final Tips for CUET Preparation
Understand the Syllabus: Focus on Class 12 NCERT topics relevant to your selected subjects.
Practice Mock Tests: Attempt previous year papers and mock tests regularly.
Time Management: Allocate time for each section strategically.
Concept Clarity: Strengthen fundamental concepts in Domain-Specific Subjects.
Use NCERT Books: NCERT textbooks are the primary reference for preparation.
Stay Updated: Regularly check official notifications for updates.
Conclusion
CUET is a key entrance exam for securing admission into top central universities in India. With a well-planned preparation strategy and consistent practice, candidates can achieve excellent scores and secure admission to their desired courses. Stay focused and prepare efficiently for success! 🚀