The Real Beginner’s Guide to CUET: Everything You Gotta Know (Eligibility, Pattern & Strategy)

Confused about CUET? Here is a simple guide to the Common University Entrance Test. We explain the exam pattern, eligibility and how to pick subjects for 2026.

Introduction: The "New Normal" for College Admissions

Remember those days when you needed like 99% in your 12th boards just to get a look from a top college? Yeah, well, those days are pretty much gone. If you’re a student (or a worried parent) aiming for big names like Delhi University (DU), BHU, or JNU, your board marks aren't the main thing anymore – CUET is.

It can feel super confusing dealing with a new entrance exam. You might be thinking, "Is this exam even for me?" or "What subjects am I supposed to pick?" Don't worry, we got you. This guide breaks down everything about the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) in simple language, no complicated jargon.

1. What Is CUET? (A Quick Overview)

CUET stands for Common University Entrance Test. It’s a national-level exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) – these are the same guys who conduct tough exams like JEE and NEET.

Think of CUET as a "Single Window." Before this, students had to fill out separate forms and give different exams for every college. It was a mess. Now, CUET acts as one single gateway for all Central Universities, plus a lot of State, Private, and Deemed universities in India.

Why did they bring this in?

• To Make it Fair: It gives students from all boards (CBSE, ICSE, State Boards) an equal chance.

• Less Stress: Instead of preparing for 10 different exams, you just focus on one.

• One Score, Many Colleges: Your CUET score works for hundreds of universities.

Quick Update (Jan 2026): If you are planning for admission this year, keep checking the NTA website. Registration for 2026 usually starts in early January.

2. CUET UG Explained: The Paper Pattern

The biggest headache students have is understanding the pattern. Unlike boards where you write long answers, CUET is purely multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

The exam happens in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode or Hybrid.

The Three Sections

Section I (IA & IB) – Languages (33 options)
Pick at least one language (usually English or Hindi). It tests reading and vocabulary.

Section II – Domain Subjects (27 Subjects)
Main subjects like Physics, History, Accounts. Choose based on your Class 12 subjects and the course you want.

Section III – General Test
GK, Current Affairs, simple Maths, Logical Reasoning. Needed for courses like BBA or BMS.

Marking Scheme

• Correct Answer: +5 Marks

• Wrong Answer: -1 Mark (Negative Marking)

• Left Blank: 0 Marks

Pro Tip: Accuracy matters more than speed.

3. Who Should Give CUET? (Stream-Wise Guide)

Anyone who passed Class 12 (or is appearing) can give CUET. No age limit, but course rules vary by university.

A. Science Students

For B.Sc. (Hons) Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Biotechnology – CUET is required.

• Typical Combo: English + Physics + Chemistry + Maths/Bio

• For B.Tech, JEE Mains is still main, but some colleges accept CUET.

B. Commerce Students

For B.Com (Hons) or Economics (Hons):

• Typical Combo: English + Accounts + Business Studies + Economics + Maths

• General Test recommended for BBA / BMS.

C. Humanities / Arts Students

For History, Political Science, Sociology, Psychology:

• Typical Combo: English + History + Pol Science + Geography / Sociology

• Pick your strongest subjects.

4. Common Problems Students Face (And Solutions)

Boards vs CUET confusion
Fix: CUET syllabus is mostly NCERT Class 12. Boards prep covers 70% of CUET.

Choosing wrong subjects
Fix: Always check course eligibility on university websites (like du.ac.in).

Ignoring General Test
Fix: Taking General Test increases your course options.

Conclusion: Start Early, Don’t Stress

CUET has made admissions fairer. Understand the pattern early and choose subjects wisely.

Don’t wait till boards finish. A little planning now saves a lot of stress later.

Ready to start? Check the NTA website and list your dream colleges today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is CUET tough?
Moderately difficult (NCERT level), but competition is very high.

Q2: Can I pick subjects not studied in Class 12?
Usually no. Most universities require the same subjects.

Q3: Is General Test compulsory?
Not for all, but compulsory for BBA, BMS. Highly recommended.

Q4: How many colleges accept CUET?
Over 250 universities, including DU, JNU, BHU and many private ones.

Q5: Do Class 12 marks matter?
Only for eligibility or tie-breaker. Admission depends mainly on CUET score.