CUET UG 2026 Registration Begins: Check Application Dates, Eligibility, and How to Apply
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially commenced the registration process for the Common University Entrance Test Undergraduate (CUET UG) 2026 today, January 3, 2026. This national-level entrance exam serves as a single-window opportunity for students seeking admission to undergraduate programs across 47 Central Universities and over 300 participating state, private, and deemed universities.
Eligible candidates can now submit their applications through the official NTA CUET portal at cuet.nta.nic.in.
CUET UG 2026: Important Dates
Candidates are advised to adhere to the following timeline to ensure a smooth application process:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Starts | January 3, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | January 30, 2026 (up to 11:50 PM) |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | January 31, 2026 (up to 11:50 PM) |
| Correction Window | February 2 – 4, 2026 |
| Exam Dates (Tentative) | May 11 – May 31, 2026 |
| Result Declaration | June 2026 (Tentative) |
Eligibility Criteria for CUET UG 2026
To apply for the entrance test, candidates must meet the educational qualifications prescribed by the NTA. There is no upper age limit for appearing in CUET UG 2026, though specific universities may have their own age requirements.
Educational Qualifications:
- Passed Class 12th/Equivalent: Candidates must have cleared the Class 12/Intermediate/Pre-University examination from a recognized state or central board.
- Appearing Candidates: Students appearing for their Class 12 board exams in 2026 are also eligible to apply.
- Vocational & Diploma Holders: Those who have completed the Higher Secondary Certificate Vocational Examination or an AICTE-recognized 3-year Diploma are eligible.
- NIOS & Open Schooling: Candidates who have passed the Senior Secondary examination from NIOS with at least five subjects can apply.
- Joint Services Wing: Graduates of the two-year course of the Joint Services Wing of the NDA are also eligible.
Application Fee Structure
The fee for CUET UG 2026 depends on the number of subjects chosen. This year, candidates can select a maximum of five subjects.
| Category | Fee (Up to 3 Subjects) | Each Additional Subject |
|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | ₹1,000 | ₹400 |
| OBC (NCL) / EWS | ₹900 | ₹375 |
| SC / ST / PwD / Third Gender | ₹800 | ₹350 |
| Centres Outside India | ₹4,500 | ₹1,800 |
Exam Pattern & Syllabus
The CUET UG 2026 will be conducted in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode. The marking scheme follows +5 for correct answers and -1 for incorrect answers.
- Language Section: Focuses on reading comprehension, vocabulary, and literary aptitude.
- Domain Subjects: Covers 23 domain subjects based strictly on the NCERT Class 12 syllabus.
- General Test: Includes General Knowledge, Current Affairs, Numerical Ability, and Logical Reasoning.
How to Apply for CUET UG 2026
- Visit the official website: cuet.nta.nic.in.
- Click on “New Registration” to generate your Application Number.
- Fill out the application form and select your preferred universities and subjects.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and category certificate (if applicable).
- Pay the application fee online and download the Confirmation Page.
CUET UG 2026: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To help candidates navigate the application process, we have compiled the most common queries regarding the CUET UG 2026 entrance exam:
Q1: Is there an age limit to apply for CUET UG 2026?
Ans: No, the NTA has not prescribed any upper or lower age limit for candidates. As long as you have passed Class 12 or an equivalent exam, you are eligible to appear. However, candidates must check the specific age requirements of the university they are applying to.
Q2: Can I choose subjects in CUET that I did not study in Class 12?
Ans: Yes, NTA provides the flexibility to choose any of the 23 domain subjects. However, many universities (like Delhi University) require you to appear only in subjects you studied in Class 12 for admission. Always check the “University-Subject Mapping” on the official website before choosing.
Q3: What is the maximum number of subjects I can select?
Ans: For 2026, candidates can choose a maximum of five (05) subjects. This usually includes a combination of one or two languages, domain-specific subjects, and the General Test.
Q4: Is the General Test (Section III) mandatory for everyone?
Ans: No, the General Test is only mandatory if the specific course or university you are targeting requires it. It is highly recommended to take it, as it expands your eligibility for various vocational and management-based UG programs.
Q5: What happens if I make a mistake in my application form?
Ans: NTA will open a Correction Window from February 2 to February 4, 2026. During this period, you can edit certain fields like your name, educational details, or subject choices. However, some fields like mobile number and email ID cannot be changed.
Q6: Does CUET UG 2026 have negative marking?
Ans: Yes. For every correct answer, you get +5 marks. For every incorrect response, 1 mark is deducted (-1). No marks are deducted for unattempted questions.
Q7: Can I apply for more than one university?
Ans: Yes, you can apply to as many participating universities as you wish through a single application form, provided you meet the subject requirements for their specific courses.
For the latest updates and direct links to the registration portal, stay tuned to IndCareer.com.
