What is CUET After 12th? Complete Guide 2026

📌 What is CUET?

CUET (Common University Entrance Test) is a national-level entrance examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).

It is held for admission into:

• Central Universities
• State Universities
• Deemed Universities
• Private Universities

Earlier, every university conducted its own entrance exam. Now, through CUET, students can apply to multiple universities with a single exam.

📝 Full Form of CUET

• C – Common
• U – University
• E – Entrance
• T – Test

3🎯 Why is CUET Important?

1. CUET was introduced to:
2. Provide equal opportunity to all students
3. Reduce dependence on Class 12 board marks
4. Create a transparent and fair admission system
5. Allow students to apply to multiple universities through one exam

👩‍🎓 Who Can Apply for CUET?

• Students who:
• Have passed Class 12 (any stream)
• Are appearing in Class 12
• Streams eligible:
  1. Arts
  2. Commerce
  3. Science

🧾 CUET Exam Pattern

CUET is divided into three main sections:

🔹 Section 1: Language Test

• English / Hindi / Regional Languages
• Reading comprehension
• Grammar
• Vocabulary

🔹 Section 2: Domain Subjects

These are subject-specific tests based on Class 12 syllabus.

• Examples:
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Mathematics
• Biology
• Accountancy
• Economics
• History
• Political Science
• Business Studies

Students choose subjects according to the course they want to pursue.

🔹 Section 3: General Test

• Includes:
• General Knowledge
• Current Affairs
• Logical Reasoning
• Quantitative Aptitude

💻 Mode of Examination

• Computer-Based Test (CBT)
• Online mode
• Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

📊 Marking Scheme

• +5 marks for each correct answer
• -1 mark for each incorrect answer (negative marking)

🏫 Courses Available Through CUET

Through CUET, students can get admission into:

• BA (Bachelor of Arts)
• BSc (Bachelor of Science)
• BCom (Bachelor of Commerce)
• BBA
• BCA
• BMS
• BJMC
• Integrated Courses

Some universities also offer LLB and other professional programs

🌟 Benefits of CUET

✅ 1. One Exam for Multiple Universities

No need to appear for separate entrance exams.

✅ 2. Fair Selection Process

Admission is based on performance in the entrance test, not just board marks.

✅ 3. Access to Top Universities

Through CUET, students can apply to:

• Delhi University (DU)
• BHU
• JNU
• AMU
• Jamia Millia Islamia
• And 200+ other universities

✅ 4. Transparency

Merit list is prepared based on exam score.

💰 Application Fee (Approximate)

The fee depends on:

Category (General/OBC/SC/ST)

Number of subjects selected

Generally ranges between ₹800 – ₹1500.

📅 When is CUET Conducted?

Usually:

Application Form: February–March

Exam: May–June

Result: July

Dates may vary each year.

📖 How to Prepare for CUET?

• ✔ Study NCERT books of Class 11 & 12
• ✔ Practice previous year question papers
• ✔ Take mock tests regularly
• ✔ Prepare current affairs for General Test
• ✔ Focus on your selected domain subjects

🎯 Who Should Take CUET?

Students who:

Want admission in **top government or central universities

Aim to study in DU, BHU, JNU, AMU, etc.**

Want better college exposure and opportunities after graduation

🔥 Final Conclusion

If you want admission into a reputed university after Class 12, CUET is one of the best options.

One exam → Multiple universities → Better career opportunities 🎓✨