CUET 2026 Notification Released: Application & Exam Dates, Eligibility, Pattern

The wait is finally over!
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially released the CUET (UG) 2026 Notification, bringing clarity on important dates, CUET syllabus, exam pattern, eligibility, application process, and fees.

If you are a Class 12 student planning to take admission into Central Universities or participating universities in 2026-27, this exam will be a game-changer for you.

Let’s break down everything you need to know, clearly, simply, and step by step.

What is CUET (UG) 2026?

CUET (Common University Entrance Test) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by NTA for admission into UG programs of:

• All Central Universities (47)
• State Universities
• Deemed & Private Universities (participating institutions)

The goal is simple: one common exam. equal opportunity. fair admissions.

CUET UG 2026: Important Dates

Here are the confirmed and tentative CUET 2026 dates announced by NTA:

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How Many Subjects Can You Choose in CUET 2026?

Students can select up to 5 subjects (maximum) total. The subject choice won’t be limited to the subjects students are studying in class 12. This implies that students are free to choose any subject of their choice.

The subjects can include:

• Languages
• Domain subjects
• General Aptitude Test (GAT)

Students must choose their subjects carefully, depending on university & course-wise eligibility, not just their class 12 combination.

CUET UG 2026 Exam Pattern – Quick Overview

The following is a brief overview of the CUET 2026 Exam Pattern:

• Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
• Question Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
• Total Questions: 50 per subject
• Duration: 60 minutes per subject
• Shifts: Multiple shifts

Marking Scheme:

• Correct answer: +5 marks
• Wrong answer: -1 mark
• No attempt: 0 marks

Medium of Examination

• CUET UG 2026 will be conducted in 13 Indian languages
• English, Hindi, Bengali, Assamese, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.
• Once selected, the language medium cannot be changed later.

CUET UG 2026 Syllabus (Latest)

The following is a brief overview of the latest CUET syllabus for 2026 as announced by the NTA on its official website.

• Language Test:
  • Reading comprehension
  • Vocabulary
  • Literary aptitude
• Domain Subjects:
  • As per the NCERT syllabus
• General Aptitude Test:
  • General knowledge
  • Current affairs
  • Logical & analytical reasoning
  • Numerical ability

Students must check the detailed CUET syllabus available on the official CUET website.

CUET UG 2026 Eligibility Criteria

There is no change in the CUET eligibility criteria, and it remains the same.

• No age limit
• Candidates who:
  • Have passed Class 12, or
  • Are appearing in Class 12 in 2026
    can apply

The final admission eligibility will still depend on the specific university and course.

Application Fees for CUET UG 2026

Students must pay the CUET application fees and submit their CUET form to be eligible to sit in the exam. The exam fee depends on the category and the number of subjects selected. The same is mentioned in the table below.

Payment mode: Online only (UPI / Debit / Credit / Net Banking)

Step-by-Step Detailed CUET UG 2026 Application Process

Step 1: Registration

• Visit cuet.nta.nic.in
• Create login ID & password
• Get your application number

Step 2: Fill Application Form

• Personal details
• Academic details
• Subject & university selection
• Exam city preferences (up to 4)

Step 3: Upload Documents

• Live photograph + passport photo
• Signature
• PwD/UDID certificate (if applicable)

Step 4: Pay Fees & Download Confirmation Page

• The application is complete only after the fee payment
• Save the confirmation page for future use

CUET Admit Card & Exam Day Essentials

NTA has not yet announced the official dates for the exam city slip or the CUET admit card. However, it is expected to be announced shortly before the exam. Students must be careful of the following things about the CUET UG admit card:

• The admit card will be released online
• Carry:
  • Printed admit card
  • One valid photo ID
  • Passport-size photograph
  • Transparent ball pen

Students must note that the admit cards will not be sent by post.

Final Takeaway

The CUET UG 2026 notification marks the beginning of your college admission journey.
Understanding the rules early gives you a huge advantage.

• Start planning your subjects.
• Track deadlines carefully.
• Focus on smart preparation – not panic.

For any confusion and complaints, students must note the NTA official helpline details.

• Email: cuet-ug@nta.ac.in
• Helpline: 011-40759000 / 011-69227700

This is the right time to move from confusion to clarity. The exam opens doors to top Central and participating universities across India, but success depends on how early and smartly you plan. Keep a close eye on deadlines, choose your subjects wisely based on university eligibility, and build a focused preparation strategy from now on. Remember, CUET is not about studying more – it’s about studying right. Stay consistent, stay confident, and let CUET 2026 be your gateway to the college of your dreams.

All the best,

Team CL-CUET!