The National Testing Agency (NTA) is set to release the official information brochure and registration forms for the Common University Entrance Test Undergraduate (CUET UG) 2026. As the single-window gateway for undergraduate admissions into all Central Universities (including Delhi University, BHU, JNU, and Allahabad University) along with numerous state, deemed, and private universities, CUET is India's second-largest competitive entrance exam.
For class 12 students aiming to secure admission in Delhi University (DU), Banaras Hindu University (BHU), or Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) for the 2026-27 academic session, this comprehensive guide outlines the registration dates, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and application process.
CUET UG 2026 Tentative Schedule
Based on NTA patterns and recent announcements, here is the expected timeline for CUET UG 2026 registrations and exam cycles:
| Event | Expected Date (Tentative) |
|---|---|
| Release of Official Notification & Brochure | Last Week of February 2026 |
| Online Application Form Commencement | First Week of March 2026 |
| Last Date to Submit Application & Fee | Last Week of March 2026 |
| Correction Window Open | First Week of April 2026 |
| Release of City Intimation Slip | Last Week of April 2026 |
| CUET UG Admit Card Release | Second Week of May 2026 |
| CUET UG Exam Window | May 15 – May 31, 2026 |
| Declaration of Results | Last Week of June 2026 |
Eligibility Criteria & Subject Mapping
While NTA sets general eligibility guidelines for appearing in CUET, individual participating universities have distinct program-wise requirements (specifically regarding subject mapping).
General NTA Guidelines
- Academic Qualification: Candidates must have passed class 12 or equivalent board exams, or must be appearing in class 12 in 2026.
- Age Limit: There is no age limit for appearing in CUET UG. However, candidates must satisfy the specific age criteria of the university they are applying to.
University-Specific Subject Mapping (Critical)
To qualify for admissions in top colleges, you must choose the correct subject combination during registration. For example:
- Delhi University (DU) B.Com (Hons) / Eco (Hons): Requires Mathematics/Applied Mathematics or Accountancy as a mandatory Domain Subject, combined with Language and two other domain subjects.
- General Rule: You must select only those domain subjects in CUET that you have studied and passed in Class 12. Selecting subjects not studied in Class 12 will lead to rejection during DU's CSAS counseling.
CUET 2026 Exam Pattern & Selection Details
CUET UG is a hybrid exam (conducted in both Pen-and-Paper and Computer-Based Test modes depending on registration volume). The test consists of three main sections:
- Section IA & IB (Languages): 33 languages are offered. Candidates must choose at least one language. You must attempt 40 out of 50 questions in 45 minutes.
- Section II (Domain-Specific Subjects): 27 domain subjects are available. Candidates can choose up to 6 subjects (including languages and general test). You must attempt 40 out of 50 questions in 45 minutes (60 minutes for subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Economics, and Accountancy).
- Section III (General Test): For vocational, interdisciplinary, or specific courses (like BBA, BMS, or DU's BA Program). You must attempt 50 out of 60 questions in 60 minutes.
Participating Top Universities & Counseling Portals
Securing a high percentile in CUET is only the first step. After results are announced, you must register separately on individual university admission/counseling portals. Top universities include:
- University of Delhi (DU): Registers through the CSAS (Common Seat Allocation System) portal. DU has over 70,000 seats across colleges like SRCC, Hindu, St. Stephen's, and LSR.
- Banaras Hindu University (BHU): Offers popular BA, BSc, and BCom courses via its own counseling portal.
- Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU): Offers premium BA (Hons) in Foreign Languages and integrated MSc programs.
Step-by-Step CUET 2026 Registration Process
Follow these steps to register when the application portal goes live:
- Create Login ID: Visit the official website (exams.nta.ac.in) and register using your Active Email ID, Mobile Number, and Aadhaar Card/Identity details.
- Select Universities & Courses: Choose the participating universities and specific undergraduate courses you wish to target. (Select as many as possible to maximize your admission chances).
- Select Subject Combinations: Select the correct language papers, domain subjects, and the General Test according to the requirements of your target courses.
- Choose Exam Cities: Select four preferred exam city options in order of convenience.
- Upload Documents: Upload a scanned copy of your passport photo (with 80% face visible against a white background), signature, and category certificate (SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS if applicable).
- Pay Fee: Pay the registration fee online based on the number of subjects selected.
Warning: Ensure your Category Certificate (OBC-NCL, EWS, etc.) is issued after April 1, 2025 (or as specified by the 2026 guidelines) to prevent rejection during university document verification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I select subjects in CUET that I did not study in Class 12?
You can choose them in the exam, but top universities like Delhi University explicitly state that candidates must only appear in subjects they passed in Class 12. If you appear in a subject not studied in Class 12, DU will not count those marks, leading to admission rejection.
Is the General Test compulsory for all courses?
No, the General Test (Section III) is only required for specific programs (like BBA, BMS, BA Program in DU, or BA LLB in some universities). Check the target university’s eligibility criteria to confirm whether you need it.
How many subjects can a candidate choose in CUET 2026?
Candidates can select a maximum of 6 subjects (including languages, domain papers, and the General Test). This allows you to stay eligible for multiple course options across different universities.
