Is taking drop year for CUET PG worth?

Are you not satisfied with CUET PG result? Want to take a drop year for CUET PG? Check the article to know the various consequences of taking a drop year. In this article, we have provided information regarding a drop year for CUET PG, what factors to consider before taking a year off, the benefits of taking a drop year, and various alternatives. We don't promote taking a drop year; this is just information. The final decision must be made by the student.

Is taking drop year for CUET PG worth?

In 2025, approx. 5 lakh students appear for Common University Entrance Test PG. The total seat available in central universities, state universities, and other participating universities through CUET PG is around 40,000 to 50,000, which makes the competition high. To get admission in the top-tier central universities, students have to score 250+ marks.
High competition and limited seats lead to a major question: Is taking a drop year for CUET PG worth it? Wait for the exam result and the counselling process before making a decision. In this article, we break down the risks and rewards of taking a gap year to help you decide if a second attempt is your best path forward.

What is a Drop Year?

A period where a student chooses to take a break from formal education after completing graduation or completing an entrance exam. A drop is also taken because a student did not get admission to the desired college and course. This decision is taken in a planned way.

Also Read: Preparation tips for CUET PG without coaching

Is taking drop year for CUET PG worth?: Reason for taking drop year

As we know, the number of students taking the CUET PG exam is more than the combined seats in the participating institutes. To get admission to a top tier colleges like DU, JNU, BHU, etc., students have to score 250+ marks. The marks may vary for each course and student category. If a student fails to score above the CUET PG cutoff, they will not be admitted to the desired college and course. In this case, many students accept the offer and continue their studies, while others choose to take a drop year and prepare for the test.

Also Read: CUET PG previous year question paper

Benefit of taking a drop year for CUET PG

A drop year can benefit in many ways if it is utilized properly. A few benefits of taking a drop year for CUET PG are mentioned below.

• Enough time for CUET PG preparation:  Students can focus on CUET PG entrance exam preparation without any pressure for the academic exam.
• Manage time and study planning: Students have around 9 to 10 months for preparation. They can plan their preparation strategy and manage the time accordingly.
• Increase Confidence and Reduce Exam Stress: This time, students don't have to start their preparation from scratch. You already have a good grip on the topics. Now is the time for a complete revision and focusing on the weaker section. Also, there is no bound on time. You have nearly 9 to 10 months to dedicate to preparation without any other exam stress.

Is taking drop year for CUET PG worth?: Drawback

Every decision taken has pros and cons.

• Taking a drop year will create an academic gap, which might impact the student's career.
• A drop year does not guarantee improved results. We have noticed a drop year student has failed to score better than the first attempt. So be confident before taking this decision.

Also Read: CUET PG important topics 2026

Is taking drop year for CUET PG worth?: Alternates to a drop year

A drop year for CUET PG preparation might or might not end well. So the best option is partial admission. Students who are offered admission during the counselling process must grab the opportunity. Side by side, they can prepare for the CUET PG entrance exam. This process will reduce the stress and pressure. 

If you improve your results in the coming exam, then you can apply for admission to the top-tier universities. If not than no need to worry, continue your study without any drop year.

Also Read: CUET PG participating institutes

Factors to consider for a drop year for CUET PG

• Analyse your performance.
• Check the possibilities of result improvement. 
• Identify the resaon of poor or average performance.

Read More:

• What is a good score in CUET PG
• Central Universities accepting CUET PG scores