What is CUET-PG?

The Common University Entrance Test – Postgraduate (CUET-PG) is a centralized examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admissions to postgraduate programs across participating universities in India. It replaces individual university entrance tests, offering students a unified platform to apply to multiple institutions with a single exam score.

CUET-PG is designed for graduates seeking admission into Master's programs across various disciplines. It streamlines the admission process, reduces the burden of appearing for multiple exams, and ensures standardized evaluation for PG aspirants nationwide.

Courses Covered Under CUET-PG

Arts & Humanities
Languages, literature, history, philosophy, and cultural studies
Science & Technology
Physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, and computer science
Commerce & Management
Business administration, finance, economics, and accounting
Social Sciences
Sociology, psychology, political science, and anthropology
Education & Interdisciplinary
Teaching programs and cross-disciplinary studies
Note: Availability of courses may vary by university. Please check individual university requirements before applying.

Eligibility Overview

  • Candidates must have completed a Bachelor's degree or equivalent in the relevant discipline from a recognized university
  • Minimum qualification requirements vary by course and institution
  • Some programs may require specific subject combinations at the undergraduate level
  • Final year students may also be eligible to apply, subject to completion of their degree before admission
  • Reserved category relaxations apply as per government norms

Exam Structure

  • Computer-Based Test (CBT) conducted online at designated test centers
  • Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) testing domain-specific knowledge
  • Subject-focused examination based on your chosen postgraduate discipline
  • Available in English and Hindi for most subjects
  • Test duration varies based on the subject and total number of questions
  • Negative marking policy depends on specific subject guidelines

Important Timeline

February – March
Online registration opens. Complete application form, upload documents, and pay fees.
April – May
Admit cards released. Download and verify all details for examination day.
May – June
Examination window. Tests conducted across multiple dates and shifts.
June – July
Results announced. Counselling and admission process begins at participating universities.
Important: All dates are indicative and subject to change. Please refer to the official NTA website for confirmed schedules and notifications.

Participating Universities & Admissions

CUET-PG serves as a gateway to numerous prestigious institutions across India. The exam provides a centralized score, but admission processes may vary by university. Most participating universities conduct their own counselling based on CUET-PG scores.

Central Universities — Including Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Banaras Hindu University, and other premier central institutions
State Universities — Selected state universities across various regions participating in the centralized examination
Deemed & Participating Institutions — Deemed-to-be universities and other institutions adopting CUET-PG for admissions

Admission Process: After the exam, qualified candidates participate in centralized or university-specific counselling rounds. Seat allocation depends on merit, category reservations, and availability. Each university publishes its own cut-offs and admission criteria.

Preparation Strategy

Understand the Syllabus Early — Review the complete syllabus and identify high-weightage topics in your chosen subject.

Strengthen Core Concepts — Focus on fundamental concepts from your undergraduate curriculum that form the exam foundation.

Practice Mock Tests — Regular practice builds speed, accuracy, and familiarity with the exam pattern.

Time Management Skills — Develop strategies to complete all sections within the allocated time effectively.

Structured Revision Plan — Create a systematic revision schedule covering all topics multiple times before the exam.

Analyze Previous Patterns — Study previous year questions to understand trends, difficulty levels, and question formats.

CUET-UG: Complete Overview

The Common University Entrance Test for Undergraduate (CUET-UG) is a national-level entrance examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to various undergraduate programs in Central Universities and other participating institutions across India.

CUET-UG provides a single-window opportunity for students to seek admission to undergraduate courses in participating universities/institutions. The exam is conducted in computer-based test (CBT) mode and covers various subjects across different domains.

Key Features:

  • Single entrance test for multiple universities
  • Computer-based test (CBT) mode
  • Multiple subject options available
  • Transparent and merit-based admission process
  • Wide acceptance across Central Universities

Eligibility:

  • Candidates must have completed or be appearing in their final year of Class 12 or equivalent examination from a recognized board/institution
  • Minimum qualification requirements vary by course and institution
  • Some programs may require specific subject combinations at the Class 12 level
  • Reserved category relaxations apply as per government norms

Important Dates for CUET-UG 2026:

January 2026
CUET UG 2026 Registration Starts: 3 January 2026
To be announced
CUET UG 2026 Registration End
May 2026
Admit Card Release: 1st week of May 2026 (Tentative)
May 2026
CUET UG 2026 Exam Window: 11 May – 31 May 2026

Exam Pattern:

  • Computer-Based Test (CBT) - Online mode
  • Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
  • Each correct answer: +4 marks
  • Each incorrect answer: -1 mark
  • Unanswered questions: 0 marks
  • Duration varies based on the subject/paper selected (typically 2-3 hours)
  • Questions available in English and Hindi (where applicable)
Note: CUET-UG registration for 2026 is now open. Students can register for the exam and use their scores to apply to multiple participating universities for undergraduate programs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is CUET-PG mandatory for all PG courses?
No, CUET-PG is mandatory only for participating universities that have adopted this examination. Some universities and institutions may still conduct their own entrance tests. Always check the admission requirements of your target university.
Can I apply to multiple universities through CUET-PG?
Yes, you can use your CUET-PG score to apply to multiple participating universities. However, each university has its own counselling and admission process, which you must follow separately after obtaining your score.
How should I prepare alongside my graduation?
Balance is key. Dedicate specific hours daily to CUET-PG preparation while staying focused on your undergraduate studies. Since CUET-PG tests your domain knowledge, performing well in your graduation subjects will naturally help your exam preparation. Create a timetable that accommodates both responsibilities.
Is there negative marking in CUET-PG?
The marking scheme, including negative marking, depends on the specific subject and exam pattern. It's important to carefully read the official information bulletin released by NTA for detailed marking guidelines for your chosen subject.