Nupur
Nupur Jain
Senior Executive - Editorial
Updated on Feb 23, 2026 15:03 IST
As per the CUET reservation policy released by NTA, 10% of seats are reserved for General Economically Weaker Sections while 27% of seats are reserved for Other Backward Classes. Read the CUET Reservation Criteria/Policy 2026 and reservation policy for Kashmiri Migrant and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) in detail.

As per the CUET reservation policy released by NTA, 10% of seats are reserved for General Economically Weaker Sections, while 27% of seats are reserved for Other Backward Classes. Read the CUET Reservation Criteria/Policy 2026 and reservation policy for Kashmiri Migrants and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) in detail.

CUET Reservation Criteria

CUET Reservation Criteria

CUET Reservation Criteria/Policy 2026: The National Testing Agency (NTA) will hold the CUET UG 2026 exams from May 11 to May 31, 2026 in CBT mode. NTA has released the official brochure for CUET 2026 on January 03, 2026. The official brochure of the CUET 2026 includes the CUET 2026 Reservation Criteria/Policy. The students will be offered seats in the CUET Participating Institutes based on reservation criteria. Before completing the CUET registrations 2026, the candidates must check the CUET Reservation Criteria 2026. The reservation policy prescribed by the NTA is crucial in providing equal opportunities to students from different backgrounds.

NTA conducts the CUET exam as a centralised admission test for granting admission to various UG-level and PG-level programs in participating universities in India. CUET aims to streamline the admission process in India and reduce the burden on students. It also aims to conduct a fair admission process through the CUET exam. Students who belong to any of the reservation categories, such as EWS, SC, S.T., OBC-NCL, and PwD must be well aware of the CUET reservation policy 2026. On this page, we have provided detailed information on the CUET Reservation Criteria 2026 and its significance in shaping higher education in India.

LATEST UPDATE: CUET UG 2026 Registrations Re-Opened at cuet.nta.nic.in; Apply till February 26

Table of contents
  • CUET Reservation Criteria/Policy 2026 for Central Universities
  • CUET Reservation Criteria 2026 for Kashmiri Migrant Candidates
  • CUET Reservation Criteria 2026 for Persons with Disabilities (PwD)
  • CUET Reservation Policy 2026: Provisions for Persons with Disability (PwD)
  • CUET Reservation Criteria 2026: Application Fee for UG/PG Programmes

CUET Reservation Criteria/Policy 2026 for Central Universities

As per the policy reservation prescribed by the board for CUET 2026, the seats in Central Universities are reserved as follows:

Categories

Seat Reservation (In Percentage)

General Economically Weaker Sections (GEN-EWS)

10%

Other Backward Classes (Non creamy layer)

27%

Scheduled Castes (SC)

15%

Scheduled Tribes (ST)

7.5%

Persons with Disabilities

5% in each category

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   How do I select the domain subjects for CUET UG?
A: 

Go on the official website of university/organaisation. Check the courses offered and eligibility test that they should appear in for admission to desired course. The choice of language/domain subject and General test will depend upon the course and university. Candidates will be able to opt for one or more tests as per the requirement of the course and university from the following sections:

  • Section I - 13 Languages
  • Section II - 23 Domain Specific Subjects
  • Section III - General Test
Q:   How many subjects can I choose for the CUET exam?
A: 

From CUET UG 2026 onwards, candidates can now choose for five CUET subjects. Earlier, the subject choices were six. With the rediuction in number of CUET subjects, the choices have been reduced. Candidates can opt for five subjects from 23 domain subjects of any stream irrespective of subjects studied in class 12th. 

Q:   When to apply for CUET exam 2026?
A: 

Candidates could re-apply for CUET exam 2026. NTA reopned the CUET application form 2026 online window. Candidates must have registered for CUET exam and selected appropriate CUET subjects to be eligible for admissions. CUET UG application form 2026 window has been closed.

CUET Reservation Criteria 2026 for Kashmiri Migrant Candidates

As per the released CUET reservation policy 2026, Kashmiri Migrant candidates are benefited from the following:

  • If the applicants meet the basic requirement as prescribed by the board, up to 10% of the cutoff percentage may be relaxed.
  • Kashmiri Migrant Candidates may get an extension of the entrance date by nearly 30 days.
  • Increase in course-wise intake capacity of up to 5%.
  • A minimum of one seat is reserved for Kashmiri Migrant candidates under a merit quota in technical or professional Colleges/Universities.
  • Kashmiri Migrant candidates are also exempted from the domicile requirement.
Staying updated about the latest educational events is just a click away
Enter Mobile Number

CUET Reservation Criteria 2026 for Persons with Disabilities (PwD)

NTA has also a reservation policy for Persons with Disabilities (PwD). If you are a student with a defined disability that is greater than 40%, as confirmed by the appropriate authority, you will fall within the PwD category. Such students can apply for admission under the PwD category and can also benefit in payment of the application fee. Candidates who have any of the following conditions will be regarded to fall under the Persons with Disabilities (PwD) category.

  • If the candidate is deaf or has hearing problems.
  • Whether the candidate is completely blind or has impaired eyesight.
  • Candidates with intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, mental illnesses, or Autism also fall within the PwD category.
  • If the candidates have problems with their bones, muscles, or joints significantly that restricts their ability to move their limbs. It includes applicants who have had leprosy treatment or have cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy, are acid attack survivors, or are dwarfs.
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Is Mathematics compulsory for CUET UG?
A: 

No, Mathematics is not a compulsory subject to appear for CUET UG exam. NTA conducts CUET UG exam for 13 languages, 23 domain subjects and general test. Candidates can choose any five subjects based on the course and college criteria. CUET Mathematics can be opted if the course criteria suggests.

Q:   How many subjects do I have to take to appear for CUET UG?
A: 

Candidates can select upto five CUET subjects to appear for CUET UG exam. CUET UG subject selection criteria depends upon the course and college candidate desire to take admission in. Candidates must follow the course criteria to select the CUET subjects and align with the subjects studied in class 12th.

Q:   When can I apply for the CUET exam 2026?
A: 

National Testing Agency (NTA) released the CUET UG 2026 application form at cuet.nta.nic.in. The registration window has been closed. CUET UG application process comprises registration, form filling, uploading documents, and payment of fees. Before applying, check the eligibility criteria for CUET UG exam.

Explore colleges based on CUET

Varanasi
Popular Specialisation
Agriculture,Nursing,B.Sc. (Hons.) Computer Science,Biology,B.Sc. (Hons.) Psychology,Nursing,B.Sc. (Hons.) Zoology,Mathematics,B.Sc. (Hons.) Statistics,B.Sc. (Hons.) Physics,B.Sc. (Hons.) Chemistry,Computer Science,B Sc (Hons) Agriculture,Earth Science,B.Sc. (Hons.) Geology,B.Sc. (Hons.) Botany,B.Sc. (Hons.) Geography,Biology,B.Sc. (Hons.) Mathematics,Psychology
₹600.00
Delhi
Popular Specialisation
Biotechnology,Bioscience,Aeronautics (Avionics),Life Sciences with Computer Applications,Chemistry,Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.),Physics,Mathematics,Applied Mathematics,Aeronautics (Mechanical),Geography
₹41.90 K
Aligarh
Popular Specialisation
Nursing,Medical Radiology & Imaging Technology,Physiotherapy,Agriculture,Computer Applications,Optometry,Statistics,Medical Laboratory Sciences,Zoology,Biochemistry,Community Science,Operation Theater Technology,Mathematics,Geology,Physics,Chemistry,Computer Science,Geography,Industrial Chemistry,Dialysis Therapy Technology
NA
Noida
Popular Specialisation
Biotechnology,Clinical Psychology,Agriculture,Forensic Science,Medical Imaging Technology (Honours / Research),Artificial Intelligence & Data Science with Research,Neuroscience,Information Technology,Agriculture (Honours / Research),Biotechnology (Dual Degree),Marine Science,Special Education,Actuarial Science,Biotechnology + MBA,Medical Physiology,Microbiology,Clinical Psychology (Honours / Research),Nutrition and Dietetics (Honours /Research),Physics,Chemistry
₹2.40 L

Want better recommendations?

There is a 90% more chance of getting best college recommendations by sharing preferences.
Hyderabad
Popular Specialisation
Physics,Health Psychology,Chemistry,History,Nursing,Chemistry
₹14.90 K
BilasPur
Popular Specialisation
Biotechnology,Forensic Science,Forestry,Zoology,Mathematics,Computer Science,Chemistry,Physics,Rural Technology,Botany,Electronics,Anthropology
₹38.25 K
Jalandhar
Popular Specialisation
Agriculture,Biotechnology,Forensic Sciences,Hotel and Hospitality Management,B.Sc. B.Ed. (Secondary Stage) - Four Year Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP),Nutrition and Dietetics,Information Technology,Microbiology,Computer Science,Biotechnology,Economics,Fashion Design,Physics,Agriculture,Bachelor of Anaesthesia and Operation Theatre Technology,Food Technology,Zoology,Zoology,Computer Science (Cyber Security) in tie up with Comptia,Airlines, Tourism and Hospitality
₹4.80 L
Lucknow
Popular Specialisation
Life Sciences (Zoology, Botany, Biotechnology),Basic Sciences
₹1.20 L
Srinagar
Popular Specialisation
Nursing,Integrated B.Sc.M.Sc. In Biotechnology,Integrated B.Sc.M.Sc. In Zoology,Biotechnology,Physics,Physics,Integrated B.Sc.M.Sc. In Mathematics,Zoology,Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.),Mathematics,Medical Laboratoy Technology (Part -Time),Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.),Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.),Zoology,Home Science,Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.),Medical Science,Information Technology,Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.),Computer Application
NA
Patna
Popular Specialisation
Computer Science and Data Analytics,Economics + MBA (IIM Bodh Gaya)
₹2.40 L
Confused about which college or exam to opt for?assitentRcpRhsImage
  • Chat with our counselor
  • Get your personalised list of colleges & exams matching your preferences
View allCollections

CUET Reservation Policy 2026: Provisions for Persons with Disability (PwD)

There are guidelines for conducting written examinations for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities above 40%. Written Examination for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities who are also holding a Disability Certificate will be completed with the service of a Scribe. It is to be noted that the Scribe service will be provided by the National Testing Agency if requested. PwBD candidates who desire to avail the services of a scribe need to opt for a scribe during the online registration of CUET 2026.

Rules for a Service of Scribe:

The facility of a Scribe is provided to the candidates who have physical limitations. The PwD candidates who are visually impaired OR have a disability in the upper limbs OR have lost fingers/hands thereby preventing them from properly operating the computer-based test platform may avail the services of a scribe (amanuensis). The scribe will help the Candidate in reading the questions and/or keying in the answers as per the directions of the Candidate. A scribe will neither explain the questions nor suggest any solutions.

Explore more Science exams with upcoming dates

ISI Admssion Test 2026 Applica...

26 Mar '26

AIFSET 2026 Registration - Phase 4

26 Feb '26 - 27 Mar '26

CGCUET 2026 Registration

1 Nov '25 - 30 Mar '26

CUEE 2026 Exam Date

30 Mar '26

NEST 2026 Application Process

5 Jan '26 - 6 Apr '26

IISER Aptitude Test 2026 Regis...

5 Mar '26 - 13 Apr '26

Last date to apply for May Attempt

17 Apr '26

GBPUAT 2026 Application Form

18 Mar '26

CG PAT 2026 Application Process

24 Mar '26

BCECE 2026 Application Process

7 Apr '26 - 15 May '26

CUET Reservation Criteria 2026: Application Fee for UG/PG Programmes

While filling out the CUET 2026 application form, the students need to pay the application fee as per the fee criteria mentioned below:

Category

Application Fee

General

Rs. 650

SC/ ST / PwD

Rs. 550

OBC/ EWS

Rs. 600

Also Read: CUET Eligibility Criteria 2026

Videos you may like
About the Author
author-image
Nupur Jain
Senior Executive - Editorial

Nupur Jain started with a passion for educational content writing, which soon grew into a meaningful journey of helping students through reliable guidance. A commerce graduate from Delhi University, she has spent ov

Read Full Bio
Download Important Dates for Science Exams

News & Updates

Latest NewsPopular News

Explore Other Exams

5 Jan '26 -

6 Apr '26

NEST 2026 Application Process

5 Jan '26 -

12 Apr '26

NEST 2026 Application Process

5 Mar '26 -

13 Apr '26

IISER Aptitude Test 2026 Regis...

16 Apr '26 -

18 Apr '26

IISER Aptitude Test 2026 Corre...

Jul '25

ITM NEST 2025 Result Date

Jun '25

ITM NEST 2025 Exam date

Mar '26

OUAT Entrance Exam 2026 Form A...

Apr '26

OUAT Entrance Exam 2026 Form A...

Dec '24

TISSNET 2024 Mock Test

Jun '24

TISS Online Assessment 2024

The list of exams are recommended based on what other exams do the students in your area show interest in
qna

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 23 hours ago

Yes, there is negative marking in CUET UG exam. For every wrong answer, the question will attract negative one mark. Candidates must be careful while answering the questions to avoid any negative marking.

N

Nishtha Arora

Contributor-Level 6

Answered 23 hours ago

No, candidates can raise objections after the CUET result has been declared. NTA calculates the final CUET score based on final answer key. CUET revised answer key is released after evaluating the objections raised by the candidates after the released of provisional answer key.

S

Satyendra Kaur

Contributor-Level 6

Answered 23 hours ago

Yes, Allahabad University acceptes the CUET scores for admissions to its UG programmes.  The accepted entrance examinations are CUET, JEE Main, and others. Allahabad University students who wish to get admission must first reach the official site of the university. Then, click on the Apply Now tab.

...Read more

A

Aishwarya Bhatnagar

Contributor-Level 10

Answered Yesterday

Candidates can calculate the CUET 2026 probable score soon after the release of CUET provisional answer key. NTA will issue the CUET provisional answer key 2026 and response sheet soon after the exam concludes. Following the marking scheme, candidates can calculate their probable scores.

Final scores

...Read more

N

Nishtha Kumar

Contributor-Level 6

Answered Yesterday

The maximum marks in CUET UG exam for each subject is 250 marks. The CUET total marks may vary depending upon the number of subjects opted by candidate. 

  • CUET maximum marks per subject: 250 marks
  • Maximum subjects that can be opted: five subjects
  • Total possible maximum marks: 1250

K

Kritika Malhotra

Contributor-Level 6

Answered 2 days ago

Yes, you can join the BSc programme at St. Xavier's College, Mumbai without CUET, as the college does not accept CUET scores. Admissions to BSc programme at St. Xavier's College is merit-based for both government-aided traditional BSc courses and professional courses like B.Sc. IT or Bsc Biotechnolo

...Read more

R

Rashmi Karan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 5 days ago

Yes, a majority of the top-ranking colleges for BBA in Hyderabad do not require CUET or any other entrance exam. You can get direct admissions to these top BBA colleges in Hyderabad:

Note: All info. is from official sites and c

...Read more

S

Syed Aquib Ur Rahman

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 5 days ago

For a lot of courses, Christ does not accept the CUET scores like the PG courses - MCom. Hence, joining the Christ without the CUET scores is quite easy. For admission, students must apply on the official site. The modes of Christ College, Bangalore course admissions are online and offline. Admissio

...Read more

M

Manpreet Sharma

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 5 days ago

No, CUET exam is not compulsory to take admission in different programmes at Lucknow Institute of Pharmacy. The college offers admission in the UG and PG courses based on merit in last qualifying exam. They just have to fulfil the eligibility criteria.

R

Raj Priya

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 5 days ago

If the students are done registering for the CUET UG exam, they should wait for the exam date to release. Then, appear for the entrance exam and register on the DU CSAS portal. Only then, students can apply for their preferred course and college. At the end, pay the fee and seal your admission.

S

Shruti Manchanda

Contributor-Level 9