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The CUET Exam Pattern 2026 is expected to be the same as 2025. The CUET UG Exam includes 3 sections: Language Section (Section-1), Domain Subjects (Section-II), and the General Test (Section-III). You can select at least 5 subjects in the CUET Exam, and each subject paper is allotted 60 minutes.
- According to the CUET exam pattern, every subject will have 50 compulsory MCQ questions. Each correct answer will give +5 marks, and an incorrect answer will deduct -1 mark.
- The CUET Domain Subjects will follow the NCERT Class 12 format, the language section will include 13 languages, and you can select the paper according to your preference.
All the latest updates, including the official syllabus PDF, mock tests, and information brochure, will be released on the official website, cuet.nta.nic.in.
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In this video, you can get detailed information about the CUET Exam Pattern 2026, including the paper structure, marking scheme, and syllabus.
| Key Summary: In this Article, we have discussed the CUET Exam Pattern 2026, including the subject-wise exam pattern, marking scheme and syllabus.
|
What is the CUET exam pattern?
The CUET UG Exam will be held in a CBT mode, including 3 sections: Language Section, Domain Subjects, score normalisation and General Aptitude. The CUET UG Exam will be held in different shifts in different languages. Each subject will be given 60 minutes and 50 MCQ-based questions.
CUET Exam Pattern: Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Sections |
|
| Number of Choices | Maximum 5 subjects (including languages & General Test) |
| Questions per Subject | 50 MCQs (all compulsory) |
| Duration per Subject | 60 minutes |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Marking Scheme | +5 for correct, −1 for incorrect, 0 for unattempted, +5 for dropped questions |
| Syllabus Source | NCERT Class 12 for Domain Subjects; Language & General Test based on comprehension, aptitude, and reasoning |
| Medium of Exam | 13 Indian languages (including English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Urdu, etc.) |
| Exam Slots | Multiple shifts (Morning, Afternoon, Evening) |
| Normalization | NTA Score normalisation across shifts |
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CUET Mock TestCUET Exam Pattern 2026: Section-wise
The CUET UG Exam 2026 will be held in a CBT mode and will be divided into 3 sections: Languages, Domain Subjects, and General Test. Each exam will have 50 MCQ questions, carrying 5 marks each, making it 250 marks per subject.
Candidates can select a maximum of 5 subjects, which include languages and a general test.
CUET Exam Pattern: Structure
- Each section will carry an equal weightage of 50 questions, with an equal distribution in each section.
- Each section will be given 60 marks, which requires speed and accuracy.
- The domain-based subjects are based on NCERT Class 12, whereas the general test focuses on application-based reasoning.
| Section | Number of Questions | Duration | Question Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section IA: Language | 50 Questions | 60 minutes per language |
|
| Section II: Domain-Specific Subjects | 50 Questions (per subject) | 60 minutes per subject |
|
| Section III: General Test | 50 Questions | 60 minutes |
|
Source: cuet.nta.nic.in
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Do PYQs Repeat in CUET?CUET Exam Pattern 2026 Changes
The NTA, along with the Ministry of Education, is expected to change the CUET Exam Pattern 2026 and is going to conduct a meeting regarding the same.
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The CUET Exam pattern 2026 can change, with no change in the CUET Syllabus 2026.
- The way the CUET UG exam is conducted can be changed, as a lot of problems have been seen in previous year exams.
- The one-subject and one-paper rule can be followed, and there can be a change in the normalisation rule as well.
- There can be the same pattern for each subject and for all colleges.
Since in the previous year's CUET exams, the exam pattern and the question structure were not the same and changed, there should be some changes in the CUET Exam Pattern 2026.
CUET Exam Pattern 2026: Subject-wise Pattern
The CUET UG Exam 2026 is divided into 3 sections: Language, Domain-Specific Subjects, and General Test.
- In the CUET UG Exam, every section will carry a weightage of 200 marks and will test the skill set of students.
- Candidates can select 5 subjects depending on the course and the university requirements.
CUET Exam Pattern: Language Section (Section IA & IB)
| Exam Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Section | IA (13 Languages) & IB (20 Languages) |
| Number of Questions | 50 (All Compulsory) |
| Marks per Question | +5 for correct answer, –1 for incorrect |
| Total Marks | 250 |
| Duration | 60 minutes per language |
| Question Type | MCQs based on Reading Comprehension (Factual, Narrative, Literary), Literary Aptitude & Vocabulary |
CUET Exam Pattern: Domain-Specific Subjects (Section II)
| Exam Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Subjects Offered | 27 Domain Subjects (Science, Commerce, Humanities) |
| Number of Questions | 50 (All Compulsory) |
| Marks per Question | +5 for correct answer, –1 for incorrect |
| Total Marks | 250 per subject |
| Duration | 60 minutes per subject |
| Question Type | MCQs based on the NCERT Class 12 syllabus |
CUET Exam Pattern: General Test (Section III)
| Exam Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Section | General Test |
| Number of Questions | 50 (All Compulsory) |
| Marks per Question | +5 for correct answer, –1 for incorrect |
| Total Marks | 250 Marks |
| Duration | 60 minutes |
| Question Type | MCQs covering GK, Current Affairs, General Mental Ability, Numerical Ability, Logical & Analytical Reasoning |
Overall Subject-wise CUET UG Exam Structure
CUET Exam Total Marks
The CUET UG will follow similar and balanced questions for each subject and carry 250 marks for each subject.
- The candidates will have to answer 50 compulsory MCQs per subject; 5 marks will be carried for each correct answer and -1 for each incorrect answer.
- The Candidates can select a total of 5 subjects, which makes the total marks 1250.
| Subject/Section | No. of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Language Test (Section IA/IB) | 50 | 5 | 250 |
| Domain Subject (Each Subject in Section II) | 50 | 5 | 250 |
| General Test (Section III) | 50 | 5 | 250 |
CUET Exam Pattern: Marking Scheme
The CUET Marking Scheme 2026 includes fairness and accuracy in the evaluation of all subjects. Every correct response will give the candidate +5 marks, and for an incorrect answer, -1 mark will be deducted.
| Response Type | Marks Given/Deducted |
|---|---|
| Each Correct Answer | +5 marks |
| Each Incorrect Answer | -1 mark |
| Unanswered Question | 0 marks |
CUET Exam Pattern: Number of Questions & Duration
The CUET UG Exam has a proper structured pattern in all 3 sections: Languages, Domain Subjects and the General Test. In CUET UG, each section will carry equal weightage, and the time duration and total questions are also the same.
| Section | No. of Questions (Attempt) | Marks per Question | Total Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section IA & IB – Languages | 50 Questions per subject | +5 | 250 | 60 minutes per language |
| Section II – Domain Subjects | 50 Questions per subject | +5 | 250 | 60 minutes per subject |
| Section III – General Test | 50 Questions per subject | +5 | 250 | 60 minutes |
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CUET Exam Pattern: Choice of Subjects
The CUET UG Exam offers flexibility to each candidate, allowing them to choose subjects as per their course target and university requirements.
| Section | Choice of Subjects | Maximum Subjects Allowed | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section IA – Languages | 13 Languages | Up to 2 languages | Based on comprehension, grammar & vocabulary |
| Section IB – Languages | 20 Languages | Additional languages apart from Section IA | For candidates opting for regional/foreign languages |
| Section II – Domain Subjects | 27 Domain-specific subjects | Maximum 6 domain subjects | MCQs based on the NCERT Class 12 syllabus |
| Section III – General Test | 1 (Compulsory if required by course) | 1 | Covers GK, Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude |
CUET Exam Pattern: Mode & Medium of the Exam
The CUET UG Exam ensures accessibility for candidates across India and will be conducted in a CBT Mode with different language options.
- The CUET UG Exam will be an Objective-Type exam including MCQs.
- As the exam will be conducted across India, it will be held in 13 languages: English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu and Urdu.
- For each correct answer, candidates will be given +5 marks, and -1 mark will be deducted for an incorrect answer.
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CUET Preparation TipsCUET UG Syllabus PDF
The CUET UG Syllabus PDF will work as a guide for students to prepare for the CUET UG Exam.
The CUET UG Syllabus 2026 has not been released yet, but it is expected to be similar to 2025. Candidates can download the CUET Syllabus PDF to get subject-wise chapters, weightage and types of questions.
CUET UG Language Section Syllabus PDF
| Subject | Download PDF |
|---|---|
| CUET English Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Hindi Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Assamese Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Bengali Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Gujarati Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Kannada Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Malayalam Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Marathi Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Odia Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Punjabi Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Tamil Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Telugu Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Urdu Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
CUET UG Domain-Specific Subjects Syllabus PDF
| Subject | Download PDF |
|---|---|
| CUET Accountancy/Book Keeping Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Agriculture Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Anthropology Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Biology/Biotechnology/Biochemistry Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Business Studies Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Chemistry Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Environmental Science Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Computer Science/ Information Practices Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Economics Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Fine Arts/Visual Arts Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Geography/Geology Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET History Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Home Science Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Knowledge Tradition Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Mass Communication Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Mathematics Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Performing Arts Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Physical Education Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Physics Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Political Science Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Psychology Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Sanskrit Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
| CUET Sociology Syllabus | Check PDF Here |
CUET Previous Year Question Papers
| CUET Question Paper | Download Links |
|---|---|
| CUET Question Paper 2025 | Check Here |
| CUET Question Paper 2024 | Check Here |
| CUET Question Paper 2023 | Check Here |
| CUET Question Paper 2022 | Check Here |
| CUET Question Paper 2021 | Check Here |
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CUET Previous Year PapersCUET UG Topic-Wise Weightage 2026
As per the CUET UG Exam Pattern, 3 sections are covered: Language, Domain-specific subject and General Test. Each section will have different topic-wise weightage, helping students prioritise important topics and make a study plan.
CUET Exam Pattern: Section -1 Language Weightage
| Topic | Approx. Weightage (%) | Expected Question Range | Importance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | 35% | 15–18 | Very High – core scoring |
| Vocabulary (Synonyms/Antonyms, One-word, Idioms) | 25% | 10–12 | High |
| Grammar & Sentence Correction | 20% | 8–10 | Moderate |
| Literary Aptitude (Poetry/Prose) | 20% | 8–10 | Moderate |
CUET Exam Pattern: Section II Science Weightage
| Topic | Approx. Weightage (%) | Expected Question Range | Importance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanics & Laws of Motion | 20% | 9–10 | Very High |
| Electrodynamics (Current, EM Waves) | 25% | 11–13 | Very High |
| Optics & Modern Physics | 20% | 9–10 | High |
| Thermodynamics & Heat Transfer | 15% | 6–7 | Moderate |
| Waves & Oscillations | 10% | 4–5 | Moderate |
| Miscellaneous (Units, Errors) | 10% | 4–5 | Low |
CUET Exam Pattern: Section II Commerce Weightage
| Topic | Approx. Weightage (%) | Expected Question Range | Importance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accounting for Partnership Firms | 30% | 12–15 | Very High |
| Company Accounts | 25% | 10–12 | Very High |
| Financial Statement Analysis | 20% | 8–10 | High |
| Cash Flow Statement | 15% | 6–7 | Moderate |
| Miscellaneous Concepts | 10% | 4–5 | Low |
CUET Exam Pattern: Section III General Test Weightage
| Topic | Approx. Weightage (%) | Expected Question Range | Importance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Knowledge & Current Affairs | 30% | 15 | Very High |
| Quantitative Aptitude (Maths till Grade 8 level) | 25% | 12–13 | High |
| Logical & Analytical Reasoning | 20% | 10 | High |
| Numerical Ability | 15% | 7–8 | Moderate |
| Miscellaneous (Decision Making, Puzzles) | 10% | 5 | Low |
FAQs for CUET UG Exam Pattern
Ques. How many exams are there in the CUET exam?
Ans. CUET UG Exam is a single-national level exam, but it is divided into different sections and subject-wise papers according to the candidate's preference.
CUET UG consists of three sections:
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Section IA & IB | Language Papers (13 + 20 languages) |
| Section II | Domain-Specific Subjects (27 subjects available) |
| Section III | General Test (optional, but crucial for many courses) |
Ques. What are the total marks of the CUET UG Exam?
Ans. The CUET UG Total marks depend upon the number of subjects chosen by the candidates.
- Each subject paper: 250 marks.
- Students can attempt up to 6 subjects - maximum 1200 marks.
| Subjects Chosen | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|
| 3 Subjects | 750 |
| 4 Subjects | 1000 |
| 5 Subjects | 1250 |
Ques. Do we have to attempt 40 questions in CUET?
Ans. No, the CUET UG includes 50 MCQ Questions in each section. All the questions are compulsory.
The Internal choices are expected to be there in the exam to reduce candidates' stress levels.
Ques. What is the date of the CUET exam 2026?
Ans. The CUET UG Exam 2026 will be held in May 2026, as per the previous year's academic schedule.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Expected Date | May 15 – May 31, 2026 |
| Exam Mode | Multiple shifts due to high applicants (13+ lakh in 2025) |
| Admit Card Release | Two weeks before the exam |
Ques. Who is eligible for CUET 2026 for UG?
Ans. The CUET UG Eligibility is primarily based on the Class 12 qualification.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | Class 12 or equivalent from a recognised board |
| Minimum Marks | 45% (General), 40% (SC/ST), 35% (PwD) |
| Age Limit | No upper age limit; subject to university rules |
| Domain Specific | Depends on program (e.g., Maths required for B.Sc. Mathematics) |
Ques. How many subjects are compulsory in CUET for DU?
Ans. DU Admission by CUET follows subject-based requirements depending upon the course selected.
Candidates should select subjects strategically, as DU considers best of 3/4 domain subjects along with language for merit calculation.
| Course Type | Compulsory Subjects in CUET | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| B.A. (Hons.) Humanities & Social Sciences | 1 Language + 3 Domain Subjects | Best 4 considered for merit |
| B.Sc. (Hons.) Science Courses | Physics + Chemistry + 1 Domain (Math/Biology) | Language may also be considered |
| B.Com (Hons.) / B.A. (Hons.) Economics | 1 Language + Accountancy/Math + 2 Domain Subjects | Mathematics often compulsory |
| B.A. Program (General) | 1 Language + Any 2 Domain Subjects | Flexibility in choice |
Ques. How many marks are required for CUET for BHU?
Ans. BHU admission depends on CUET UG Scores, varying by course and category.
A score of 500-700 marks is considered competitive for General category candidates.
| Course | Expected Safe Score (CUET Marks) | Category-wise Variation |
|---|---|---|
| B.A. (Hons.) Arts | 480 – 600 | Relaxation for OBC/SC/ST |
| B.Sc. (Hons.) Science | 550 – 650 | Slightly lower for reserved categories |
| B.Com (Hons.) | 500 – 620 | Higher demand due to popularity |
| B.A. LL.B (5-year) | 600 – 700 | Competitive program |
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
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