
CUET preparation is crucial given the competitive nature of the exam, which over 10 lakh candidates take. CUET UG 2026 exam will be held tentatively in May/June. Students must plan their CUET UG 2026 preparation accordingly. Students must prepare well and study to score well on the exam. Read on to learn how to schedule your time to prepare for the exam, major topics to prepare from and more!
CUET is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to over 210 universities, including 47 central universities, 27 State Universities, 22 Deemed Universities, 110 Private Universities, and seven others.
The difficulty level of the CUET exam ranges from moderate to tough. Since the CUET UG exam is held for multiple subjects and slots, the difficulty level of the exam varies from subject to subject. Sometimes, the difficulty level may also vary for different slots. The difficulty level of exam is also relative and the same exam's level of difficulty may vary for different candidates. While for the well prepared candidates, the difficulty level will be low, for the underprepared students, the level of difficulty will be on the higher side.
NTA has mentioned that CUET UG 2026 syllabus will adhere to NCERT syllabus. Hence, it can be safely assumed that the NCERT books are enough to cover the syllabus of the exam. Candidates must note that, CUET exam tests students' understanding of the concepts and ability to apply them in various situations.
Therefore, to prepare well and get a good score, it is advised that students refer to other study materials and books designed for national level competitive entrance exams. The CUET UG syllabus is in tune with the Class 12 Board exam syllabus. The chapters and topics are similar to Class 12 syllabus. Unlike other UG entrance exams, CUET UG syllabus does not include Class 11 syllabus.
Common University Entrance Test (CUET) result is released by National Testing Agency. CUET syllabus is divided into three sections viz., Languages, Domain Subject and General Test. CUET language section assesses candidate through reading comprehension (factual, literary, and narrative), literary aptitude and vocabulary. CUET syllabus second section- domain subject assesses the candidate's in depth knowledge on the subject he/she has opted for. CUET third section- general test includes general knowledge, current affairs, general mental ability, quantitative reasoning and logical and analytical reasoning. CUET syllabus is available now. Candidates can check the section wise detailed CUET syllabus here.
The CUET questions are objective and carries multiple choices (MCQs). Each question will have four answer options. Candidates will have to choose the correct answer option and click on it with the help of mouse. Since CUET UG 2026 exam will be conducted in a CBT mode, test-takers will be able to mark only one answer option. In case it is the correct option, they will get full marks and in case of wrong answer, negative marking scheme will be applied. Hence, candidates must ensure the accuracy of the answer before selecting the answer. Before the final submission, they can change the answer option in case they realise that they have entered a wrong answer option earlier.
As per the CUET exam pattern, the subjects are divided into three sections as:
Section I- Languages
Section II- Domain Subject
Section III- General Test
Candidates will get 60 minutes for each subject. Students now have the flexibility to choose any CUET UG subject irrespective of subjects studied in class 12th
- Step Wise CUET UG Preparation Tips
- How to prepare for CUET 2026?
- Books to read for CUET Preparation 2026
- CUET Topper Tips
- FAQs Regarding CUET Preparation
Step Wise CUET UG Preparation Tips
Wondering how to start with the preparation for CUET UG 2026? Follow the easy steps below to start with the UG admission journey:
Step 1: Go through the CUET syllabus 2026 thoroughly.
Step 2: Understand the CUET exam pattern and marking scheme and prepare accordingly.
Step 3: Get all the study material for CUET such as prep books and previous years' question papers to help better understand what to expect in the exam.
Step 4: Create a monthly timetable on how much material to cover daily.
Step 5: Solve question papers, sample papers and mock tests.
Also Read: CUET 2026 Last-Minute Preparation Strategy and Tips
Commonly asked questions
There are no prescribed passing marks for CUET UG. In order to know if a candidate has passed the CUET 2025 exam or not or is eligible for admission to desired course and university, they are required to check the passing marks released by the colleges/university seperately. After the declaration of CUET result, all the colleges or universities will release the course-wise passing marks or CUET UG cutoff, which will be used for shortlisting candidates for admission to UG courses.
On the basis of the cut off released by the CUET participating universities and candidates meeting the criteria will be offered amdission to UG courses.
CUET UG general test will cover the topics from the following:
- General Knowledge, Current Affairs
- General mental ability, Numerical ability
- Reasoning (Simple application of basic Mathematical concepts, quantitative arithmetic, algebra geometry, mensuration and statistics)
- Logical and analytical reasoning
Candidates preparing for the general test of CUET UG are advised to stay updated with the current affairs by reading the newspapers and magazines. Candidates must gather study materials to prepare for the syllabus of General test and practice ample questions to become familiar with the type of questions asked in this section. Download the CUET UG question paper now.
Candidates can download the CUET UG 2026 updated syllabus from official webiste of National Testing Agency (NTA) once released. NTA will release the CUET syllabus 2026 for all subjects at cuet.nta.nic.in. Candidates can download the CUET subject wise syllabus PDF online. The link to download the CUET UG syllabus will be activated soon.
CUET UG section I and section II, consisting of the language and domain-wise subjects are compulsory to attempt. On the other hand, the third section consisting of General Knowledge and aptitude questions is not compulsory to attempt unless it is the requirement of the programme the candidate has applied for. Candidates will have to choose the subjects while filling the CUET UG application form. In case candidates do not opt for the General Test, then they will be evaluated only based on their performance in Section 1 and Section 2 as per the requirement of the course and university that candidate has applied for. NTA will use the normalisation method to score candidates and universities will prepare the merit lists accordingly.
No, CUET UG exam duration will not vary for each subject. The exam duration will be unform for all CUET subjects that is 60 minutes. Candidates will be required to attempt 50 questions within the given time limit. The marking scheme of each question remains the same.
To complete the CUET UG syllabus in two months requires consistency and startegic approach if you have not prepared for the boards examination. Candidates who have prepared well for the class 12th boards can prepare easily for the CUET UG examination in two months. Check the plan below to prepare for CUET UG in two months:
Practice previous CUET question paper
Solving the CUET previous year question papers will help candidates understand the level of questions, pattern, and structure of the question paper. After each test analyse the weak areas and focus on the same.
Check the CUET syllabus and create schedule
Downlaod the CUET syllabus for the subjects chosen and set weekly or montly goals to complete the syllabus. Allocate more time to the subjects which requires more attention. Ensure to daily revise the topics studied.
How to prepare for CUET 2026?
CUET is an all-India entrance exam that is highly competitive and candidates appearing for the exam need to have a strategy and aim in order to score well and qualify. Aspirants can go through the following prep strategy methods while preparing for CUET.
Know exam pattern for CUET
CUET exam pattern is such that question papers for almost all the courses contain a total of 160 multiple-choice questions, out of which candidates have to attempt around 130 questions within three hours duration. The total number of questions has changed as compared to last year.
Candidates can refer to the table below for further clarification:
The table below brings the broad structure of the exam in terms of the number of questions in each section along with the duration.
Section |
Number of Questions |
Question Types |
---|---|---|
Section IA |
50 Questions |
Language to be tested through Reading Comprehension based on different types of passages–Factual, Literary and Narrative, (Literary Aptitude and Vocabulary) |
Section II |
50 Questions |
|
Section III |
50 Questions |
|
Marking scheme: Candidates will be awarded five marks for each correct answer. There will be a negative marking of -1 mark for each incorrect answer. No marks will be awarded or deducted for unattempted questions.
To perform well in the CUET test, candidates have to thoroughly go through the syllabus. Aspirants need to strategise their plans on a monthly, weekly and daily basis. There is no success without hard work and to qualify for the entrance exam, candidates can prepare better by knowing which topics to cover in-depth and which require superficial knowledge. The candidate can do so as per the below-mentioned pointers:
- Make a list of topics, subject-wise
- Segregate the subjects and topics into easy and difficult as per personal experience.
- Note down topics that will carry maximum weightage (as per previous year’s question papers).
Go through the Preparation books
In order to perform well in the CUET exam, candidates need to make a list of books from which they should study for the entrance exam. Candidates are advised to purchase at least two to three prep books for CUET, depending on the course applied for. The books can help aspirants determine which topics to cover and study along with what to expect for the entrance exam. For the programme applied for, candidates need only buy the books according to the course.
Prepare a TimeTable
Candidates need to make a timetable on what topics to cover when, which subjects require high priority and how much to cover on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. Aspirants are advised to create a daily plan and while preparing a timetable, special attention should be given to completing the CUET syllabus. Revise the syllabus and content, attempt as many question papers, mock papers and previous years' question papers to better help prepare. Through this, a candidate can have a fair idea of what to expect in the entrance exam.
Refer to Past Year’s Question Papers
Candidates appearing for the CUET 2026 exam are advised to solve the last five years question papers to help better understand the exam pattern and format of questions that will be asked in the entrance exam. Through the previous questions, candidates can understand which subjects are given high importance and topics which can help the aspirant score better in the exam.
Also Read:
CUET UG Commerce Previous Year Question Papers
CUET UG Science Previous Year Question Papers
Solve sample papers and Mock tests
The best way for a candidate to know their strengths and weaknesses is by solving question papers, sample papers and mock tests. Through this, candidates can also figure out the best approach to be followed when they head out to attempt the actual CUET question paper. From formulating time management to understanding the format of the paper, solving sample papers can help candidates prepare better for the entrance exam.
Commonly asked questions
The first step for any subject preparation is to comprehensively understand the syllabus. Hence, take a print out of the syllabuses for get and English from the official CUET website. For get: Make a realistic plan/timetable and try to stick to it. Divide your preparation in phases. In the 1st phase, prepare your entire syllabus, schedule your mock practice in the 2nd phase and keep revision + mock practice in the 3rd phase. Start your preparation by focusing on a subject that you find challenging. Keep the Current Affairs preparation parallel to Quants/LR. Solve Previous Year Papers. For English Establish a daily newspaper reading habit. Mark out words unknown to you and search out their meanings, synonym-antonyms. Practice a lot of Reading Comprehension. And lastly, appear for mocks.
No, the CUET 2025 syllabus does not include the chapters or topics from Class 11 syllabus. The exam, which is conducted for multiple subjects and languages, has to be prepared by completing the Class 12 syllabus only. NTA has also released the subject-wise syllabus of the CUET UG 2025 exam, which will be held in third week of May in hybrod mode.
However, students may refer to the Class 11 syllabus for better conceptual clarity and to make the base of the domain subjects stronger. But as far as the actual syllabus is concerned, it will only be based on Class 12 CBSE or NCERT syllabus.
The CUET questions are objective and carries multiple choices (MCQs). Each question will have four answer options. Candidates will have to choose the correct answer option and click on it with the help of mouse. Since CUET UG 2026 exam will be conducted in a CBT mode, test-takers will be able to mark only one answer option. In case it is the correct option, they will get full marks and in case of wrong answer, negative marking scheme will be applied. Hence, candidates must ensure the accuracy of the answer before selecting the answer. Before the final submission, they can change the answer option in case they realise that they have entered a wrong answer option earlier.
The syllabus for CUET UG domain subjects will be based on class 12th to reduce the stress of preparing for both the exams. To prepare for CUET UG and Board examination, here are few important tips:
- Start early preparation for CUET UG and board exams. This will give you enough time to cover the syllabus, practice the questions, and get familiar with the exam pattern.
- Create a study plan: Once you are familiar with the syllabus for both exams, create a study plan that will help you cover all the topics in a systematic manner. Make sure to allocate enough time for each subject and topic.
- Focus on the subjects that you are struggling with. Consider taking a few practice CUET UG tests to see where you stand.
- Manage your time effectively. Practice answering questions under timed conditions so that you can get used to the pressure of the exam.
- Use the right resources. There are many resources available to help you prepare for the CUET UG and board exams. These include NCERT textbooks, practice questions, and mock tests. Use the resources that work best for you and that will help you improve your knowledge and skills.
Books to read for CUET Preparation 2026
Candidates must prepare every topic from prep books as it will students clear doubts as well as understand the subjects thoroughly.
Books |
Author |
---|---|
A Problem Book in Mathematical Analysis |
GN Berman |
Concepts of Physics |
HC Verma |
A Textbook of Organic Chemistry |
RK Gupta |
Higher Algebra |
Hall & Knight |
Problems in Calculus of One Variable |
IA Maron |
Objective Biology |
Dinesh |
International Economics |
Bo Soderstien and Geoffrey Reed |
Indian Economy: Performance & Policies |
Uma, Kapila |
ABC Chemistry |
S.P. Jauhar |
Methodology and Perspectives of Social Science |
Abhijit Kundu |
Elementary Mathematics |
DoroFeev Patapov |
International Economics |
Dominick Salvatore |
A Class-book Botany |
AC Dutta |
Economics |
Lipsey R. and A Chrytal |
Fundamental Methods of Mathematical Economics |
Chiang A.C. and K. Wainwright |
Also Read: CUET UG 2026 Books and Study Materials
Commonly asked questions
CUET UG total marks is 250 Marks for each subject. Candidates can choose up to five CUET subjects. Each subject paper has 50 questions which will total to 250 marks for each subject. For every correct answer, candidate will get 5 marks. The CUET total marks will be uniform for all 37 subjects. The Total CUET subjects marks can vary depending on the number of subjects chosen by candidates.
- If three CUET subjects chosen: 750 total marks
- If four CUET subjects chosen: 1000 total marks
- If five CUET subjects chosen: 1250 total marks
NTA has mentioned that CUET UG 2026 syllabus will adhere to NCERT syllabus. Hence, it can be safely assumed that the NCERT books are enough to cover the syllabus of the exam. Candidates must note that, CUET exam tests students' understanding of the concepts and ability to apply them in various situations.
Therefore, to prepare well and get a good score, it is advised that students refer to other study materials and books designed for national level competitive entrance exams. The CUET UG syllabus is in tune with the Class 12 Board exam syllabus. The chapters and topics are similar to Class 12 syllabus. Unlike other UG entrance exams, CUET UG syllabus does not include Class 11 syllabus.
As per the latest CUET UG exam pattern, the CUET UG will now consist of 23 domain subjects, 13 langauges and General Test. The exam pattern for CUET UG is as follows:
Section | Number of Questions | Duration |
---|---|---|
Section I- Language | 50 | 60 Minutes |
Section II- Domain Specific | 50 | |
Section III- General Test | 50 |
CUET Topper Tips
According to last year's toppers, the best methods of CUET UG 2025 preparation include referring to the right books, taking regular mock tests and solving previous years' CUET question papers and following a disciplined and systematic approach. According to the toppers, NCERT is the best source of preparation. Once the syllabus is completed, students must go through revision. After this, they should take regular mock tests to understand their preparation level and also analyse to device a preparation strategy to improve their performance at the exam. Shiksha.com has interviewed the CUET UG 2023 toppers Read the interviews below to know their success mantras.
Read Success Stories below:
- CUET 2023 Topper Sufi Siddharth Kabir, 100%iler, aspires to study Political Science from Delhi University
- CUET 2023 Topper Interview- Prarthana Drolia, 100 percentiler says, “Be consistent in your studies”
- Know how CUET Topper 2023 Parinita Bisht secured 799.86 marks without any coaching
- Know how CUET Topper 2023 Diya Bhargava secure 100 percentile with 4-5 hours of self-study
- CUET Topper 2023 Kartikay Mendiratta with 794 marks says, "NCERT books are no doubt the best books to use"
- CUET Topper 2023 Irijaya Dash wants to join Miranda House; Know her CUET UG prep strategy
- CUET Topper 2023 Sejal Gupta Says, Strong Preparation for Class 12th Exams Leads to CUET Readiness
- CUET 2023 Topper Prabuddh Dubey, 100%iler, aims to study Economics from Delhi University
- CUET Topper 2023 Katyayini Madeti aims for Hindu College with 799.6 marks; Check out her CUET prep strategy
- CUET Topper 2023 Vanshika Gupta targets SRCC; Know her CUET UG prep strategy, tips & more
- CUET 2023 Topper Divija Bansal, 100%iler, wants to pursue BCom (Hons) from SRCC
Commonly asked questions
Common University Entrance Test (CUET) sample papers are released by the conducting body, National Testing Agency (NTA). To download the CUET sample papers and previous year question papers candidates can get the direct link on this website. To download the CUET question papers candidates must refer the steps mentioned below:
Step 1- Visit the link provided- CUET Question Paper
Step 2- Scroll down the page and look for the subject to download the question paper for
Step 3- Click on the tab download
Step 4- Create the login credentials for new registrations
Step 5- Link to download the CUET question paper will be sent on the registered email ID
Step 6- Click on the link provided and save the PDF.
Practicing with CUET UG (Common University Entrance Test) question papers from previous years offers several valuable benefits exam preparation:
Familiarity with Exam Pattern: CUET question papers from past years provide insight into the format, structure, and types of questions that commonly appear in the exam.
Understanding Question Types: By solving previous year's CUET question papers, candidates can identify recurring question types and patterns.
Assessment of Preparedness: Practicing with CUET question papers helps candidates assess their strengths and weaknesses.
Time Management: CUET is a time-bound exam with strict time limits. Solving CUET question papers within the allotted time helps candidates develop effective time management strategies.
Improvement in Speed and Accuracy: Regularly solving CUET question papers enhances problem-solving skills, speed, and accuracy.
- Reduced Stress: The more candidates practice, the more confident and relaxed one feels on the actual exam day, reducing test anxiety and improving your overall performance.
FAQs Regarding CUET Preparation
Check frequently asked questions on CUET preparation below:
Commonly asked questions
Common University Entrance Test (CUET) UG is conducted Assamese, Bengali, English, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Punjabi, Odia, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu languages. Candidates must note that the selection of medium will be restricted to state/UTs. Refer the table below to know the mediums restricte to respective state/UTs:
Language | Examination Centres |
---|---|
English | All examination centres |
English and Hindi | All examination centres |
English and Assamese | Examination centres in Assam |
English and Bengali | Examination centres in West Bengal, Tripura, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands |
English and Gujarati | Examination centres in Gujarat, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu |
English and Kannada | Examination centres in Karnataka |
English and Malayalam | Examination centres in Kerala and Lakshadweep |
English and Marathi | Examination centres in Maharashtra |
English and Odia | Examination centres in Odisha |
English and Punjabi | Examination centres in Punjab, Chandigarh and Delhi/New Delhi (Including Faridabad, Gurugram, Ghaziabad, Meerut, Noida/Greater Noida) |
English and Tamil | Examination centres in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Andaman and Nicobar Islands |
English and Telugu | Examination centres in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana |
English and Urdu | All examination centres in India |
Candidates are advised to strongly go through the syllabus and should understand the exam pattern and marking scheme carefully. Candidates should also solve various sample papers, mock tests and previous years' question papers. Accor to a CUET Topper, here are some simple way to prepare for the exam. According to last year's toppers, the best methods of CUET UG 2026 preparation include referring to the right books, taking regular mock tests and solving previous years' CUET question papers and following a disciplined and systematic approach. According to the toppers, NCERT is the best source of preparation. Once the syllabus is completed, students must go through revision. After this, they should take regular mock tests to understand their preparation level and also analyse to device a preparation strategy to improve their performance at the exam.
Preparing for an exam like CUET requires a strategic approach. Here are a few tips that can help you prepare effectively in these last days of preparation:
- Revise the syllabus: Make sure you have covered all the topics that are part of the syllabus. Go through each topic once again to ensure that you have a good understanding of all the concepts.
- Practice previous years' question papers: Solving previous years' question papers can give you an idea about the type of questions that can be asked in the exam. It can also help you identify your weak areas and work on them.
- Take mock tests: Mock tests can help you simulate the exam environment and give you an idea of your preparation level. You can also use them to practice time management.
- Focus on your weak areas: Identify your weak areas and work on them. Spend more time on topics that you find difficult to understand.
- Stay calm and confident: It's important to stay calm and confident during the exam. Avoid last-minute cramming and trust your preparation.
- Take breaks: Taking regular breaks can help you stay fresh and focused. Take short breaks after every hour or so of study.
- Get enough rest: Make sure you get enough sleep in the last few days before the exam. A good night's sleep can help you stay alert and focused during the exam.
Get prep tips, practice papers, exam details and important updates
CUET Exam
Student Forum
Answered 21 hours ago
Yes, you still may be offered admission at certain colleges even with a compartment in biology, particularly if you plan to resolve it quickly. Many private universities as well as some state colleges offer admission, without CUET-UG, based on your overall performance or by their own internal entran
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered Yesterday
For BSc admission at NGBU, CUET plays a key role in the selection process. The application process was held from March 1 to March 24, 2025. The exam took place between May 13 and June 3, 2025, and results are tentatively expected in July 2025. Applicants should regularly check the official site fo
H
Contributor-Level 10
Answered Yesterday
For BCom admission at NGBU, CUET plays a key role in the selection process. The application process was held from March 1 to March 24, 2025. The exam took place between May 13 and June 3, 2025, and results are tentatively expected in July 2025. Applicants should regularly check the official site f
H
Contributor-Level 10
Answered Yesterday
For BA admission at NGBU, CUET plays a key role in the selection process. The application process was held from March 1 to March 24, 2025. The exam took place between May 13 and June 3, 2025, and results are tentatively expected in July 2025. Applicants should regularly check the official site for
H
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 3 days ago
Visva Bharati University does accept CUET to provide admission in UG and CUET-PG/ICAR AIEEA to pursue a PG course. The CUET score is a determinant to admission to courses such as BA, BSc, and UG Diploma. In the case of PG and MSc, CUET PG is applied. All the eligible candidates must register at CUET
a
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 3 days ago
Lady Shri Ram College grant BA/ BA (H) admission based on CUET scores. Candidates get desired course specialisation and college as per the preferences filled during the registration. LSR CUET BA cutoff is not released in the public domain. It is behind the student login. Students can check below 202
A
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 4 days ago
Hi!
Most of the CS colleges in India admit students based on merit; however, some colleges also accept CUET scores. Here are some details about CUET:
Exam Name | Exam Schedule | Exam Syllabus |
---|---|---|
Disclaimer: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 4 days ago
Y
Beginner-Level 1
Answered 4 days ago
CUET result 2025 will be declared soon in last week of June 2025. Candidates who appeared for the exam can download their CUET scorecard online when released. The link to download the CUET scorecard will be available at CUET results 2025. Candidates will be required to enter the login credentials to
N
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 5 days ago
Yes, there are more than 90 colleges in India that offer admission to the BTech Mechanical Engg. course via the CUET exam scores, including LPU, GGSIPU, Galgotias University, and Shoolini University. While not many students are aware, CUET can actually turn out to be an excellent alternative to JEE
V
Contributor-Level 10
39 Institutes accepting CUET
Noida • Private
Panvel, Mumbai • Private
Jaipur • Private
Jaipur • Private
I have a compartment on my bio can I get a admission without giving any exams like cuet-ug but I'm ready for compartment exam?