CUET (Common University Entrance Test) was introduced in 2022 as a centralised entrance exam for undergraduate admissions to central universities in India. It quickly became one of the most important exam developments in Indian higher education — effectively replacing Class 12 board marks as the primary criterion for DU, BHU, JNU, and over 200 other universities.
What is CUET?
CUET is conducted by NTA (National Testing Agency) and tests students in three sections:
- Section IA: Language tests (one compulsory language from 13 options)
- Section IB: Additional language (optional)
- Section II: Domain-specific subjects (choose from 27 subjects — match your Class 12 subjects)
- Section III: General Test (Quantitative Reasoning, Logical and Analytical Reasoning, Current Affairs, GK)
CUET 2025 Exam Pattern
| Section | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Language (Section IA) | 50 (attempt 40) | 200 | 45 min |
| Domain Subjects (Section II) | 45-50 per subject | 200 per subject | 45 min per subject |
| General Test (Section III) | 75 (attempt 60) | 300 | 60 min |
Marking: +5 for correct, -1 for wrong.
Which Universities Accept CUET?
CUET is now the admission route for:
- All 44 Central Universities including Delhi University, BHU, JNU, JMI, AMU, Hyderabad Central University
- Over 150 state universities that have voluntarily joined the CUET consortium
- Many private universities including Manipal, LPU, and others
- NLUs for law admissions (some accept CUET for LLB 3-year)
How to Prepare for CUET
CUET domain subjects are based on NCERT Class 12 content. If you are preparing for CUET alongside boards, your board preparation is largely aligned. Key differences:
- CUET domain questions are MCQ-based (5 marks each) — different from the descriptive board format
- Section III (General Test) requires dedicated preparation in reasoning and current affairs — not covered by board prep alone
- Language sections test reading comprehension and verbal ability — similar to English board paper reasoning
CUET vs Class 12 Marks: Why CUET Changed Things
Before CUET, DU admissions used Class 12 board percentages. This created inequality — state board students who scored 98% competed with CBSE students who scored 99.8%, with board difficulty not normalised. CUET levels this playing field: a student from any board competes on the same exam, eliminating the board difficulty variable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CUET compulsory for Delhi University admissions?
Yes. DU completely shifted to CUET for all undergraduate admissions. Class 12 board marks are not considered for DU admissions since 2022.
How many CUET subjects should I appear for?
You must appear for at least the Language section. Domain subjects depend on what your target university requires. DU typically requires 1-2 domain subjects + General Test for most programmes.
When is CUET 2025?
CUET is typically conducted in May-June. Check the NTA website (cuet.samarth.ac.in) for the official 2025 schedule.
Find CUET-accepting colleges and compare admissions on Tyzmo.