CUET UG (Common University Entrance Test for Undergraduates) is a national-level computer-based test conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). It provides a single standardised platform for admission into undergraduate programmes at Central Universities and many State, Deemed and participating Private universities across India. Over 13 lakh candidates appeared in the 2025 cycle. The exam is modular - candidates pick subject papers based on the programmes they want to apply to - and scores are normalised across multiple shifts. CUET is a standardised input for many universities, but final admission depends on each university's cutoffs, weightage and counselling.
Exam Pattern
Mode:Computer Based Test (CBT)
Duration:60 minutes per test paper; total varies by number of subjects chosen
Total Marks:Varies based on the combination of subjects chosen
Marking Scheme:+5 for a correct answer, -1 for a wrong answer, 0 for unattempted
Sections
Section IA / IB - Language Tests (13 Indian + 20 foreign languages)
You can choose up to a maximum of 5-10 subjects depending on the year's notification, including languages, domain subjects and the general test. Most universities require 3-6 specific subject papers.
Is CUET UG accepted by all universities?
It is accepted by all Central Universities, many State and Deemed universities and a growing number of private universities. Each university decides cutoffs and weightage independently.
Does CUET UG produce a single national rank?
No. NTA releases raw scores, normalised scores and percentiles. Universities prepare their own merit lists from these scores per programme.
Is CUET UG valid for engineering admissions?
Some universities accept CUET UG for B.Tech/BE programmes (e.g., select Central Universities), but most engineering admissions still rely on JEE Main, state CETs or university-specific tests.
Is there negative marking in CUET UG?
Yes. +5 for a correct answer, -1 for an incorrect answer and 0 for unattempted. Smart attempt strategy matters more than blind guessing.