The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) declared the Class 12 results on Tuesday. Other education boards like the UP Board and ICSE have also announced their results. Now, students face the next step: the Common University Entrance Test (CUET).
CUET has become the main exam for admission to undergraduate courses in central universities across India. This exam started in 2021, replacing direct admission based on Class 12 results. It aims to create a common standard for admission to many universities.
What is CUET?
CUET stands for Common University Entrance Test. Students who clear this exam can apply for admission to undergraduate programs in 46 central universities and several other participating institutions. These include some state, private, and deemed universities, whose list changes every year.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) organises the exam. This year, the exam is scheduled from May 13 to May 31. The application window was open from March 1 to March 22. The exam is computer-based and available in 13 different languages.
The exam is held across 285 cities in India and 15 cities outside the country, including Washington, D.C., offering wide access to students.
Exam format and subjects
CUET tests students in 37 subjects. Candidates can choose up to five subjects, including languages and a general aptitude test, regardless of their Class 12 subjects.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Type | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Languages Available | 13 |
| Number of Subjects | 37 |
| Subject Selection | Choose up to 5 subjects (including language & general) |
| Syllabus | Class 12 NCERT |
| Questions per Paper | 50 |
| Duration per Paper | 60 minutes |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Marking Scheme | +5 for correct answer |
| -1 for wrong answer | |
| 0 for unanswered questions | |
| Partial Correct Answer | Full marks if one correct option selected in multiple correct answers |
| Final Score Calculation | NTA scores (not raw marks) |
| Re-evaluation | Not allowed |
Each subject paper contains 50 multiple-choice questions. The exam lasts 60 minutes per subject and follows the Class 12 NCERT syllabus to maintain a common academic standard.
The marking scheme awards five marks for every correct answer and deducts one mark for each wrong answer. No marks are given if a question is left unanswered. If multiple answers are correct and the student selects one correct option, full marks are awarded.
Who Can Apply for CUET?
CUET does not have an age limit. Any student who has completed Class 12 is eligible to appear.
General category students need at least 50 percent in their Class 12 exams, while SC/ST students need a minimum of 45 percent.
Students should carefully check eligibility requirements of their chosen universities, as some may have additional criteria.
Importance of class 12 marks
Class 12 results do not directly affect the CUET score, but they still play a role in the admission process. Many universities set minimum percentage cut-offs for applicants to qualify for admission.
In some cases, universities use Class 12 marks to prepare merit lists, especially when seats are limited. Also, for specialised courses like humanities or BA programs, good marks in specific subjects like English can be necessary.
How to prepare for CUET 2025
To prepare for CUET 2025, start by understanding the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly. Focus on the Class 12 NCERT textbooks, as the questions are based on this content. Choose up to five subjects wisely, including language and general tests, and make sure to cover all topics within the time limit. Practice multiple-choice questions regularly to get comfortable with the format and marking scheme.
Next, build your language and reasoning skills. Improve reading comprehension by practicing passages from newspapers and other quality sources. Strengthen your grammar and vocabulary using standard guides. For the general test, work on logical reasoning, quantitative aptitude, and current affairs. Solve puzzles and arithmetic problems to boost your speed and accuracy.
Finally, follow a study plan that includes learning concepts, practicing past papers, and taking mock tests. Start with basics and gradually increase the difficulty level. Regularly assess your progress by timing yourself during practice exams. Revise consistently, and focus on weak areas. Maintain a healthy routine to stay focused and energized throughout your preparation.
Admission process after CUET
Passing CUET alone does not guarantee admission. Candidates must also meet university-specific criteria such as:
Ranking high enough on the merit list
Medical fitness
Verification of original documents
Participation in counselling rounds
Each central university will release its own counselling and admission schedule after the exam results.
Why CUET matters?
CUET is now mandatory for admission into all central universities. Universities like Delhi University use CUET scores as the primary admission tool. While some seats may later be filled using Class 12 marks if vacancies remain, CUET is the first and main requirement.
This change aims to standardise the admission process, reducing dependence on varied board exam results and making admission more transparent.
For students, understanding CUET and preparing accordingly is crucial. You can check the full list of participating universities and other details on the official CUET website.
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